My name is Nyquisha, and I am an African American first-generation college student at the University of Southern Mississippi. Growing up, I faced a myriad of stereotypes and challenges. Many people in my community believed that every little African American girl would either become pregnant before graduating high school or drop out altogether. I am proud to say that I have beaten those odds and am determined to continue defying expectations. Being the first person in my family to attend college in three generations has been both a privilege and a challenge. My journey to higher education has not been easy, but it has been fueled by a deep-seated determination to break the cycle of poverty and limited opportunities that have plagued my family for years. As a low-income student, I have had to navigate financial hardships, balancing part-time jobs with my academic responsibilities to make ends meet. Despite these obstacles, I have remained steadfast in my pursuit of a college education. At the University of Southern Mississippi, I have not only focused on my academic growth but also on becoming a role model for other young African American girls in my community. I want them to see that it is possible to defy negative stereotypes and achieve their dreams. My experiences have taught me the importance of resilience, hard work, and the power of education to transform lives. I have actively participated in campus organizations and community service projects, aiming to give back and support others who face similar challenges. Receiving this scholarship would not only alleviate some of the financial burdens I face but also allow me to concentrate more fully on my studies and community involvement. I am committed to using my education to make a positive impact, both within my family and in the broader community. By earning my degree, I hope to inspire others to pursue their own educational goals and to show that with determination and support, anything is possible. This scholarship would enable me to focus on my long-term goals, such as pursuing a career that allows me to advocate for and support underrepresented communities. In conclusion, my journey as a first-generation, low-income student has been filled with challenges, but it has also been a testament to my resilience and determination. I am dedicated to breaking barriers and creating a better future for myself and those who come after me. This scholarship would be an invaluable support in helping me achieve my dreams and continue to defy the odds. I am determined to make the most of the opportunities I have been given and to pave the way for future generations of students who, like me, are striving to overcome adversity and achieve their full potential.

I want to talk about how the police can use less force and be more cautious, especially when dealing with African Americans. It's heartbreaking to see the number of innocent African Americans who have lost their lives due to police actions. For instance, names like George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Tamir Rice come to mind. These are just a few of the many tragic cases where things went horribly wrong. One major way to improve the relationship between the police and the African American community is through better training. Police officers need to be trained extensively in de-escalation techniques. Instead of reaching for their weapons right away, they should be taught to use words and non-violent tactics to calm situations down. This can prevent a lot of unnecessary violence and save lives. Another important step is to implement body cameras for all police officers. These cameras can provide a clear record of what happens during police interactions. This transparency can help hold officers accountable for their actions and also protect them if they are falsely accused of misconduct. When both the police and the community know that everything is being recorded, it can lead to more cautious and respectful behavior on both sides. Community policing is another great approach. This means officers spend more time getting to know the people in the neighborhoods they patrol. When officers build relationships with community members, it can reduce fear and mistrust. People are more likely to cooperate with the police if they see them as allies rather than threats. It's also crucial for police departments to diversify their ranks. When the police force looks more like the community it serves, it can improve understanding and trust. Recruitment efforts should focus on bringing in officers from different backgrounds, including more African Americans. Lastly, there needs to be a clear and fair system for holding officers accountable when they use excessive force. If an officer is found to have acted inappropriately, there should be consequences. This helps build trust in the system and shows that no one is above the law. In summary, to reduce the use of force and improve relationships with the African American community, police need better training, body cameras, community policing, more diversity in their ranks, and a fair accountability system. By taking these steps, we can work towards a future where everyone feels safe and respected. With my degree I plan on help making a change even if it is a small change.

As an African American college student majoring in criminal justice with a minor in business, my aspiration to become a lawyer is deeply rooted in a commitment to serve and uplift my community. The criminal justice system, while intended to uphold fairness and justice, often disproportionately affects marginalized communities. My goal is to use my degree to address these disparities and advocate for those who are in need, ensuring that justice is accessible to all, regardless of their background. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by individuals in my community when navigating the legal system. These experiences ignited my passion for justice and motivated me to pursue a career in law. I believe that with a solid foundation in criminal justice, coupled with a business acumen, I can bring a unique perspective to the legal field. My education will equip me with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand the complexities of the law, as well as the socio-economic factors that often influence legal outcomes. One of my primary goals as a lawyer will be to provide pro bono services to those who cannot afford legal representation. Many individuals in underserved communities are denied justice simply because they lack the financial resources to hire a lawyer. By offering my services free of charge, I hope to bridge this gap and ensure that everyone has a fair chance in the legal system. Additionally, I plan to work with non-profit organizations that focus on criminal justice reform, advocating for policies that promote fairness and equity. Another important aspect of my career will be to mentor and educate young people in my community about their rights and the legal system. Knowledge is power, and by empowering the next generation with information, I hope to inspire them to advocate for themselves and others. Through workshops, seminars, and community outreach programs, I will work to demystify the legal process and encourage young people to pursue careers in law and criminal justice. Furthermore, my minor in business will enable me to understand the economic factors that often contribute to criminal behavior. By addressing issues such as poverty, lack of education, and unemployment, I can work towards creating holistic solutions that not only address criminal behavior but also its root causes. This comprehensive approach will help in reducing recidivism rates and promoting long-term community well-being. In conclusion, my degree in criminal justice is not just a stepping stone to a career as a lawyer; it is a tool that I intend to use to make a tangible difference in my community. By providing legal representation to those in need, advocating for systemic change, and educating the next generation, I hope to contribute to a more just and equitable society. My journey is driven by a passion for justice and a commitment to serve, and I am dedicated to using my education and skills to help those who need it the most.