Financial peace is important to me because it creates stability, clarity, and the freedom to focus on purpose rather than survival. Growing up in a lower-middle-class household, I learned early that financial stress can affect every part of life, including mental health, academic focus, family relationships, and long-term opportunities. I watched my family work hard, budget carefully, and make sacrifices to keep us afloat. While those lessons taught me responsibility and resilience, they also showed me how constant financial pressure can limit choices and create anxiety about the future. For me, financial peace is not about wealth or luxury. It is about security, opportunity, and the ability to serve others without fear of falling behind. My desire to achieve financial peace is closely connected to my goal of becoming a social worker. I am passionate about helping individuals and families who face systemic barriers, emotional struggles, and financial instability because I have seen firsthand how deeply those challenges can impact a person’s well-being. I also understand that in order to truly give my best to others, I must first build a stable foundation for myself. Without financial peace, stress becomes a constant distraction that pulls attention away from academics, personal growth, and meaningful service. If I had no financial stressors, the decisions I would make today would look very different. First, I would fully immerse myself in my education without worrying about balancing excessive work hours just to cover basic expenses. Although I value hard work and have learned a great deal from working part-time, financial peace would allow me to dedicate more time to my studies, internships, and volunteer opportunities that directly align with my future career in social work. I would seek out unpaid or low-paid internships in community organizations, knowing that the experience gained would strengthen my ability to create lasting change. In addition, I would invest more intentionally in my long-term goals. Financial peace would give me the confidence to plan for graduate school, professional certifications, and community-based projects without fear of overwhelming debt. I would also focus on building savings early, expanding my financial literacy, and creating a future where I am not only stable but prepared to support my family if needed. With less financial pressure, I could make decisions based on growth and impact rather than necessity. Looking ahead, financial peace would allow me to live a life rooted in service rather than survival. I envision a future where I can work in under-resourced communities, advocate for those without a voice, and mentor young people facing the same challenges I once did. Without the weight of financial stress, I would be able to lead with empathy, patience, and purpose, which are qualities essential in social work. This scholarship represents more than financial assistance. It represents peace of mind, opportunity, and the chance to fully commit to a future dedicated to helping others.

Being a first-generation college student means stepping into a world that no one in my family has ever navigated before. It means carrying the hopes of the people who raised me, the sacrifices they made, and the legacy they want me to build. For me, being first-generation is not just about being the first to go to college. It’s about breaking cycles, opening doors for the ones who come after me, and proving that where you start does not determine where you finish. Coming from a lower middle-class background, I’ve learned the value of hard work, saving, and planning at a young age. My parents taught me that success doesn’t happen overnight—it happens through consistency, perseverance, and believing in yourself even when things are difficult. I’ve faced challenges that have tested my confidence and my determination, but each one has shaped me into who I am. One of those moments was when I failed my driver’s permit test the first time by one question. It might seem small, but for me it represented something bigger. I had to learn how to manage disappointment, regroup, and come back stronger. I studied harder, focused more, and passed the next time. That experience reminded me that setbacks aren’t signs to stop—they’re chances to grow. I carried that lesson into school, sports, and life. Balancing academics with football, wrestling, community service, and work taught me discipline and resilience. Whether I was tutoring younger students, working shifts at the zoo and Chick-fil-A, or collecting over 150 duffle bags for foster children through my “Duffels for Dignity” project, I learned how to manage responsibilities while still giving back. My dream is to become a social worker. Growing up, I saw how many people in my community struggled because they lacked support, guidance, or resources. I want to be the person who stands in that gap and helps people feel seen, heard, and valued. I want to create positive change, especially for people who come from backgrounds like mine. The Student LIFT program helped open my eyes to what social work truly means—advocacy, compassion, and showing up for people during some of the hardest moments of their lives. I know this is my purpose. This scholarship would bring me one step closer to achieving that purpose. With both my brother and me entering college at the same time, my family will face financial strain, especially with the costs of tuition, dorms, food, and transportation. Receiving this scholarship would ease that pressure and allow me to focus fully on my education. It would give me the chance to live on campus, stay involved, and make the most of opportunities that will prepare me for becoming the social worker I’ve committed myself to becoming. I am driven by my community, my family, and my desire to create lasting change. This scholarship would not only support my goals—it would help me continue my journey with the same determination, heart, and purpose that have guided me this far.

Mental health is important to me as a student because it affects everything I do. When I feel stressed or overwhelmed, it becomes harder to focus in class, stay organized, or keep up with all my responsibilities. I have always been someone who tries to balance a lot at once, including schoolwork, sports, clubs, and working part time. There were times when I pushed myself too hard and tried to act like I could handle anything on my own. As I grew older, I realized that mental health is not something you can ignore. It plays a major role in your ability to stay motivated, make good decisions, and be confident in who you are. Taking care of my mental health helps me stay grounded and focused on my goals, especially my dream of becoming a social worker. Being a student means facing pressure from all directions. There is pressure to do well academically, to think about college and the future, and to balance personal life and family expectations. Coming from a lower middle class background, I often feel the need to work harder and plan for everything. I know that my success can help take pressure off my family, especially with both me and my brother going to college. This motivates me, but it can also be a lot to carry. Because of this, I learned the importance of talking about mental health and not pretending that everything is fine all the time. It is okay to ask for support, and it is okay to take time to recharge. I advocate for mental health in my community by being someone people can trust and talk to. Whether it is a teammate, a classmate, or someone I tutor, I try to be supportive and understanding. I listen without judging them, and I encourage them to take breaks, talk to someone they trust, or reach out for help when they need it. I have seen how much difference it makes when someone simply feels heard. Many young people, especially young men, believe they have to stay quiet about their feelings. I try to show them that being honest about your emotions is not a weakness. My community service project, Duffels for Dignity, also showed me how mental health connects to everyday life. Foster children often go through trauma and instability. Something as simple as having their own duffel bag helps them feel cared for and valued during a difficult transition. This project helped me understand how small acts of kindness can support someone’s emotional well-being. It also pushed me to want to do more for people who feel unseen or unheard. Mental health matters to me because it shapes the kind of person I am and the future social worker I want to become. I want to continue advocating for mental health by encouraging open conversations, offering support, and helping people understand that they are not alone. Taking care of your mind is just as important as taking care of your body, and I hope to bring that message into every community I serve.

During my junior year of high school, I was honored to be selected for Student LIFT (Leadership Information for Tomorrow), a program through the Asheboro Chamber of Commerce. Of the many students interviewed from surrounding schools, only 20 were chosen, and I was fortunate to be among them. This opportunity transformed my perspective on leadership, community, and the importance of empathy. Student LIFT changed my life in countless ways. Through this experience, I first came to understand the profound impact even small acts of kindness can have on individuals and communities. One of the most significant contributions I made was organizing and running a community service project called “Duffels for Dignity.” While researching potential causes to support, I learned that many foster children in our area were forced to carry their belongings in garbage bags. That image stayed with me, and I knew immediately that I wanted to make a difference in their lives. My goal was to collect at least 100 duffel bags for Randolph County Social Services. By the end of my project, I had doubled my goal, raising over $2,000 worth of duffel bags. The project was not only a way to give back but also a testament to the power of community and the importance of restoring dignity to those often overlooked. Another pivotal experience during my time with Student LIFT was volunteering at the Asheboro Boys and Girls Club. I saw firsthand how the organization provided vital resources to children—meals, tutoring, and specialized care for those in need. I spent time engaging with the kids, whether by discussing their school day or playing outside, and I realized how much these interactions meant to them. It was in these moments, seeing the innocence and potential in their eyes, that I knew I wanted to dedicate my life to the well-being of children. One of the most eye-opening moments came when I visited our local jail and had the opportunity to speak with inmates. What I once saw as a collection of criminals, I came to understand as individuals—human beings shaped by difficult circumstances and trauma. Many had turned to crime as a way to cope with their struggles, often feeling trapped in a cycle they couldn’t break. This experience reshaped my understanding of the justice system and the importance of rehabilitation, compassion, and second chances. Through Student LIFT, I gained a deeper understanding of leadership as not just the ability to take charge, but the responsibility to uplift others. This program ignited my passion for social justice and advocacy. It helped me realize that my true calling lies in helping those who are vulnerable—whether children in foster care, at-risk youth, or individuals trying to rebuild their lives. This journey has inspired me to pursue a degree in Social Work, where I can continue to make a difference on a larger scale. I am excited to take the skills I’ve learned—empathy, leadership, and a commitment to service—into the next chapter of my education and, ultimately, my career. I am grateful for Student LIFT and the opportunity it gave me to see the world through a lens of kindness and purpose.

Ever since I was a child, I’ve always been drawn to helping others. Whether it was assisting a teacher with classroom tasks or mowing a neighbor’s lawn, I found satisfaction in contributing to the well-being of those around me. These early experiences, though small, sparked a desire to make a real difference in people’s lives. Over time, I realized that this desire to help others was more than just a passing interest—it was something that shaped my career aspirations. This is why I have chosen to major in social work: I want to pursue a career where I can make a tangible, positive impact on individuals and communities. I’ve always been interested in working with people who are facing difficult life situations, and social work offers the perfect path to do that. My goal is to specialize in clinical social work, particularly within healthcare settings, where I can support individuals who are dealing with illness, trauma, or other major life challenges. In these environments, social workers do much more than offer emotional support—they advocate for patients, help them access necessary resources, and guide them through the complexities of the healthcare system. I want to be someone who not only listens to patients’ concerns but also helps them find solutions that improve their overall well-being. To achieve this, my first step will be to earn a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW). The BSW will provide me with the foundational knowledge and skills needed to begin working with individuals and communities in meaningful ways. After completing my degree, I plan to gain hands-on experience by working in a healthcare setting, where I can apply what I’ve learned in a real-world environment. I will also continue my education by pursuing a Master of Social Work (MSW), which will allow me to specialize in clinical social work and provide therapeutic support to patients in need. Ultimately, my end goal is to use my degree to empower individuals to overcome life’s obstacles and improve their mental, emotional, and physical well-being. I am driven by a deep belief that helping people through their toughest moments is one of the most rewarding and meaningful ways I can contribute to society. In addition to helping people at their lowest, I can help them be the best versions of themselves. By pursuing a degree in social work, I will be equipped with the tools and knowledge necessary to make a lasting, positive impact on people’s lives, whether in healthcare or other community-based settings.

Loss does not always mean death—a great many times it is deafness in your own mind beating you, or the weight of expectation pounding you to death bit by bit. The first semester of senior year was when I felt the loss that I had never truly experienced before: loss of spirit, of joy, and of self. What began as burnout was something deeper—mental problems that caused me to pull away, to ruminate about things, and become emotionally drained. For someone who had always been labeled as tough—a football player, a wrestler, working a part-time job after school, and taking college-level courses—it was the first time that I'd hit a wall that I couldn't get past on my own. I was ultimately compelled to make the tough decision to leave behind sports—a ginormous part of who I am. It was cutting off an arm so that I would have to leave behind something that I loved so much, but I knew that I needed to. That decision put me on a different kind of strength. I went for therapy, and from there, I realized that asking for help is not weakness—strength. I learned from therapy that my feelings were not imaginary but true and real as they were and that healing does not happen overnight but could be done with right guidance. It helped me regain control of my emotions, restore my confidence, and most importantly, my sense of direction. That woke me up. I already had the thought in my head that I would be a social worker, but going through what I went through with my own mental health issues made me want to do the job even more—specifically working with mental health. I discovered how many young people, particularly young Black men like myself, were quietly suffering because of stigma, fear, or otherwise exclusion from mental health care. I knew at that point that I would be part of the solution. I would like to be a social worker who provides a judgment-free, safe space in which people feel that they are able to tell their pain, heal, and remember that their life is worth living. Loss has taught me compassion. My own mental illness issues gave me empathy and more knowledge of what kind of difference I would like to make in the world. I would like to be a suicide prevention worker because I am aware of the desperation that arises when you are alone. I believe that I could make a difference by sharing my own experience, by listening without judgment, and by presenting a consistent message of hope to those who feel they cannot live. I want to engage them through school education, volunteerism, or individual counseling and make them understand that they are not invisible by informing them that there is hope. My own life has not only made me what I am professionally—given definition to it. I have learned what it means to break and the strength it takes to mend. That is why I am dedicated to being a social worker who leads others to light when all they can see is darkness.

Loss does not always mean death—a great many times it is deafness in your own mind beating you, or the weight of expectation pounding you to death bit by bit. The first semester of senior year was when I felt the loss that I had never truly experienced before: loss of spirit, of joy, and of self. What began as burnout was something deeper—mental problems that caused me to pull away, to ruminate about things, and become emotionally drained. For someone who had always been labeled as tough—a football player, a wrestler, working a part-time job after school, and taking college-level courses—it was the first time that I'd hit a wall that I couldn't get past on my own. I was ultimately compelled to make the tough decision to leave behind sports—a ginormous part of who I am. It was cutting off an arm so that I would have to leave behind something that I loved so much, but I knew that I needed to. That decision put me on a different kind of strength. I went for therapy, and from there, I realized that asking for help is not weakness—strength. I learned from therapy that my feelings were not imaginary but true and real as they were and that healing does not happen overnight but could be done with right guidance. It helped me regain control of my emotions, restore my confidence, and most importantly, my sense of direction. That woke me up. I already had the thought in my head that I would be a social worker, but going through what I went through with my own mental health issues made me want to do the job even more—specifically working with mental health. I discovered how many young people, particularly young Black men like myself, were quietly suffering because of stigma, fear, or otherwise exclusion from mental health care. I knew at that point that I would be part of the solution. I would like to be a social worker who provides a judgment-free, safe space in which people feel that they are able to tell their pain, heal, and remember that their life is worth living. Loss has taught me compassion. My own mental illness issues gave me empathy and more knowledge of what kind of difference I would like to make in the world. I would like to be a suicide prevention worker because I am aware of the desperation that arises when you are alone. I believe that I could make a difference by sharing my own experience, by listening without judgment, and by presenting a consistent message of hope to those who feel they cannot live. I want to engage them through school education, volunteerism, or individual counseling and make them understand that they are not invisible by informing them that there is hope. My own life has not only made me what I am professionally—given definition to it. I have learned what it means to break and the strength it takes to mend. That is why I am dedicated to being a social worker who leads others to light when all they can see is darkness.

Ever since I was a child, I’ve always been drawn to helping others. Whether it was assisting a teacher with classroom tasks or mowing a neighbor’s lawn, I found satisfaction in contributing to the well-being of those around me. These early experiences, though small, sparked a desire to make a real difference in people’s lives. Over time, I realized that this desire to help others was more than just a passing interest it was something that shaped my career aspirations. This is why I have chosen to attend college and major in social work: I want to pursue a career where I can make a tangible, positive impact on individuals and communities. Going to college is much more than just attending the classes and getting the degree, its about the community you create and the connection you have after college. I know that me attending college will open so many doors for me to give back to the community the raised my and made me into the person I am today. I’ve always been interested in working with people who are facing difficult life situations, and social work offers the perfect path to do that. My goal is to specialize in clinical social work, particularly within healthcare settings, where I can support individuals who are dealing with illness, trauma, or other major life challenges. In these environments, social workers do much more than offer emotional support—they advocate for patients, help them access necessary resources, and guide them through the complexities of the healthcare system. I want to be someone who not only listens to patients’ concerns but also helps them find solutions that improve their overall well-being. To achieve this, my first step will be to earn a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW). The BSW will provide me with the foundational knowledge and skills needed to begin working with individuals and communities in meaningful ways. After completing my degree, I plan to gain hands-on experience by working in a healthcare setting, where I can apply what I’ve learned in a real-world environment. I will also continue my education by pursuing a Master of Social Work (MSW), which will allow me to specialize in clinical social work and provide therapeutic support to patients in need. Ultimately, my end goal is to use my degree to empower individuals to overcome life’s obstacles and improve their mental, emotional, and physical well-being. I am driven by a deep belief that helping people through their toughest moments is one of the most rewarding and meaningful ways I can contribute to society. In addition to helping people at their lowest, I can help them be the best versions of themselves. By pursuing a degree in social work, I will be equipped with the tools and knowledge necessary to make a lasting, positive impact on people’s lives, whether in healthcare or other community-based settings.

Serving others has always been at the center of who I am, and becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) has strengthened that purpose in meaningful ways. My CNA license allows me to care for people during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives, and I see that work as a true act of service. Whether I am assisting someone with daily tasks, offering comfort during a difficult medical moment, or simply being present to listen, I understand that every small action can make a major difference in someone’s day. To me, humanitarian service is not always a huge gesture—it is the commitment to show compassion, dignity, and respect to every person I encounter. Outside of my CNA work, I stay active in community service because helping others has always given me direction. I created a service project called “Duffels for Dignity,” which collected over 150 duffel bags for foster children in my county. Many children enter foster care with nothing but a trash bag to carry their belongings, so I wanted to provide them with something that showed they were valued. I also volunteer in my community through school clubs, church activities, and mentorship opportunities with younger students. These experiences have helped me develop patience, responsibility, leadership, and the ability to connect with people from all backgrounds—skills that I use every day as a CNA and will continue using throughout my career. My long-term educational goal is to earn my Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and eventually become a licensed social worker. I want to dedicate my life to supporting individuals and families who are facing challenges such as poverty, mental health struggles, and unstable living situations. My CNA experience has already given me a strong foundation in empathy, communication, and hands-on care. It has also shown me how many people fall through the cracks and how important it is to have trained professionals who truly care about the well-being of others. Higher education will not only open doors for me but will also allow me to expand the ways I serve my community. As a social worker, I will be able to advocate for vulnerable people, connect families to resources, and help create long-term solutions that improve their quality of life. My goal is to return to communities like the one I grew up in—places where people work hard but often lack support—and be a source of hope, guidance, and stability. Receiving this scholarship would help relieve financial stress as I pursue my degree, especially with both me and my brother entering college at the same time. It would allow me to stay focused on my studies, continue serving my community, and build the foundation I need to become the kind of social worker who makes a lasting impact. My journey as a CNA has shown me the power of caring for others, and my education will give me the tools to extend that care even further.

Dr. Steve Aldana’s belief that powerful, lasting wellness comes from small, sustainable habits is a message that deeply resonates with me, not only because of the kind of leader he was, but because it reflects the way I have approached my own life. Coming from a lower middle-class background, I learned early that progress is built step by step—through hard work, discipline, and consistency. Those same values have guided me through school, sports, community service, and my dream of becoming a social worker. As I continue my education, I plan to use the knowledge and experience I gain to extend Dr. Aldana’s mission by helping individuals and communities build healthier, more stable futures through daily, achievable actions. My commitment to promoting wellness began long before I knew the term for it. Whether it was balancing AP classes, college courses, football, wrestling, work, and volunteering, or pushing myself to retake my driver’s permit test after missing it by one question, I have always relied on small habits—practicing, preparing, staying focused, and believing in myself. Even my biggest community project, Duffels for Dignity, grew from a single idea: making foster children feel seen and respected. By walking in parades, posting on social media, handing out flyers at football games, and contacting people one by one, I was able to help collect more than 150 duffle bags for children in need. This experience showed me how simple, consistent actions can build into something powerful and life-changing. As a future social worker, I want to bring this same philosophy into the lives of the people I serve. During my time in the Student LIFT program, I learned that wellness is not only physical but also emotional, mental, and social. Many individuals struggle not because they lack potential, but because they lack support, encouragement, and tools to build healthy habits. My goal is to guide people through barriers by helping them develop small routines—whether that means practicing mindfulness, organizing tasks, creating coping strategies, strengthening communication, or finding ways to take care of their mental health. These may seem like minor steps, but they create momentum that leads to stability, confidence, and hope. I also plan to use my education to uplift entire communities. Like Dr. Aldana improved workplaces, I want to help create healthier environments for young people and families. Having grown up with limited resources and knowing the financial pressure my own family faces as both my brother and I enter college, I understand how critical it is for communities to have strong support systems. I want to work with schools, youth organizations, and local agencies to promote wellness programs and teach young people habits that will empower them for life. Ultimately, my passion for social work is rooted in the belief that real change comes from patience, compassion, and daily effort. By continuing my education, I will be able to turn this belief into a career that strengthens individuals and communities one small habit at a time. With the support of this scholarship, I can focus fully on becoming the type of social worker who not only helps others, but helps them help themselves—just as Dr. Aldana envisioned.

Ever since I was a child, I’ve always been drawn to helping others. Whether it was assisting a teacher with classroom tasks or mowing a neighbor’s lawn, I found satisfaction in contributing to the well-being of those around me. These early experiences, though small, sparked a desire to make a real difference in people’s lives. Over time, I realized that this desire to help others was more than just a passing interest—it was something that shaped my career aspirations. This is why I have chosen to major in social work: I want to pursue a career where I can make a tangible, positive impact on individuals and communities. I’ve always been interested in working with people who are facing difficult life situations, and social work offers the perfect path to do that. My goal is to specialize in clinical social work, particularly within healthcare settings, where I can support individuals who are dealing with illness, trauma, or other major life challenges. In these environments, social workers do much more than offer emotional support—they advocate for patients, help them access necessary resources, and guide them through the complexities of the healthcare system. I want to be someone who not only listens to patients’ concerns but also helps them find solutions that improve their overall well-being. To achieve this, my first step will be to earn a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW). The BSW will provide me with the foundational knowledge and skills needed to begin working with individuals and communities in meaningful ways. After completing my degree, I plan to gain hands-on experience by working in a healthcare setting, where I can apply what I’ve learned in a real-world environment. I will also continue my education by pursuing a Master of Social Work (MSW), which will allow me to specialize in clinical social work and provide therapeutic support to patients in need. Ultimately, my end goal is to use my degree to empower individuals to overcome life’s obstacles and improve their mental, emotional, and physical well-being. I am driven by a deep belief that helping people through their toughest moments is one of the most rewarding and meaningful ways I can contribute to society. In addition to helping people at their lowest, I can help them be the best versions of themselves. By pursuing a degree in social work, I will be equipped with the tools and knowledge necessary to make a lasting, positive impact on people’s lives, whether in healthcare or other community-based settings.

I am an 18 year old student who has learned the value of perseverance, compassion, and balance through both achievements and challenges. Growing up in a lower middle class family, I was taught early on the importance of hard work, saving, and planning. My experiences as a football player and wrestler shaped my discipline and resilience, while my involvement in community service, like founding Duffels for Dignity to support foster children, deepened my commitment to helping others in meaningful ways. One of the most transformative experiences I’ve had came during my senior year, when I faced burnout from juggling school, work, and sports. For the first time, I stepped away from some commitments and entered therapy. This taught me that health and wellness are not just physical but also mental and emotional. I realized that true strength comes not from pushing through silently, but from finding balance, setting boundaries, and seeking help when needed. These experiences have shaped my values of resilience, empathy, and service. They are also why I want to become a social worker—to dedicate my life to promoting human health and wellness, ensuring that people in my community feel supported, seen, and capable of thriving. To me, empathy is more than just understanding someone else’s feelings. It is being able to step into their shoes, feel their struggles, and respond with compassion and care. Empathy is about truly listening, without judgment, and recognizing the human being behind the challenges they face. It is not just an emotion but a connection that allows people to feel seen and valued. This quality is especially important in the career I want to pursue: social work. The people I hope to serve, such as children in foster care, individuals struggling with mental health, or families going through difficult transitions, are often carrying heavy burdens. They do not just need solutions. They need someone who will listen, understand, and walk beside them. I know this because of my own experience. During my senior year of high school, I faced burnout from balancing sports, school, and work. For the first time, I stepped away from everything and started therapy. That experience reminded me how powerful it is to have someone sit across from you, listen without judgment, and remind you that you are not alone. It is one of the reasons I am so passionate about becoming a social worker. To ensure my work is done through a human-centered lens, I will always approach people with respect and humility. I believe that those I serve are the experts in their own lives, and my role is not to take over but to walk alongside them. That means listening to their stories, learning from their perspectives, and shaping solutions that fit their unique needs. It also means seeing them as more than their challenges. Every person has strengths, hopes, and potential that deserve to be nurtured. Empathy is what makes social work meaningful to me. It transforms the job into something deeper than a career. It allows me to see people as individuals with stories that matter, not just cases to be managed. By practicing empathy and keeping a human-centered approach, I hope to build trust, encourage resilience, and make a lasting difference in the lives of those I serve.

Mental health has been one of the most defining parts of my story, shaping not only the way I view myself but also how I see the world and my place in it. Growing up as a young African American man in a lower middle-class household, I faced challenges that were both personal and systemic. At times, I felt the weight of expectations on my shoulders expectations to succeed, to work hard, to be resilient no matter what life threw at me. For a long time, I pushed myself relentlessly, convinced that constant achievement was the only way to rise above. Yet, as I reached my senior year of high school, that drive eventually caught up with me. Burnout became my reality, and for the first time, I was forced to slow down, step away from sports and work, and prioritize something I had often overlooked: my mental health. That decision to seek therapy and step away from overextending myself was not easy. I had spent years building my identity around being the hardworking student-athlete and dependable worker, balancing football, wrestling, AP and college-level classes, and jobs at the zoo and Chick-fil-A. I prided myself on resilience, but my determination often came at the cost of rest. By my senior year, my body was tired, and my mind felt overwhelmed. Taking a step back was painful, because it felt like giving up on parts of myself. But in truth, it was the first time I gave myself permission to heal. Therapy became a turning point. I had always believed in perseverance, but therapy taught me that resilience is not just about pushing forward; it is also about knowing when to pause and care for yourself. It gave me a safe space to confront exhaustion, pressure, and doubt. I began to realize that mental health is just as vital as physical health, and that seeking help is strength, not weakness. This changed my beliefs: true success comes not only from hard work but also from balance the ability to set boundaries and honor well-being. This journey also shaped my relationships. For a long time, I carried the mindset that I had to handle everything on my own. But as I opened up about my struggles, I noticed how people responded. My stepmother, a social worker, showed me how compassion can create safety in difficult moments. Friends and teammates reminded me that I was valued not just for what I did, but for who I was. My father, though quiet and thoughtful, encouraged me in his own way. These interactions taught me vulnerability the courage to admit when I was struggling and to let others in. My relationships grew stronger because they were now built on honesty rather than performance. At the same time, I also became more aware of how mental health is stigmatized, especially for young Black men. Too often, we are taught to suppress emotions, to “tough it out,” and to see asking for help as weakness. I lived by that belief for years, until I realized how damaging it could be. By challenging this stigma in my own life, I freed myself from its weight and committed to helping others do the same. I want to be an example for my community that it is okay to step away, to rest, to seek therapy, and to heal. These lessons solidified my career aspirations. My experiences with mental health are the main reason I want to become a social worker. I know firsthand what it feels like to carry invisible burdens, to fear being judged for needing help, and to feel pressure to always be strong. I also know how powerful it can be to have someone who listens and guides you. Social work, for me, is not just a career it is a calling. I want to dedicate my life to helping others, especially those who face similar struggles with identity, pressure, and lack of resources. My project, “Duffels for Dignity,” where I collected over 150 duffle bags for foster children, was one step in living out this calling. That project showed me how small acts of care can restore dignity during vulnerable times. But my personal experience with burnout and therapy gave me a deeper understanding of the kind of social worker I want to be. I want to specialize in mental health and therapy, offering young people the support they need to overcome invisible challenges. Whether helping foster children adjust to new homes, supporting families in transition, or guiding teenagers through the same exhaustion I once faced, I want to be the person who shows them they are not alone. Stepping away from sports and work during my senior year was not the end of my journey it was the beginning of a new one. Football and wrestling taught me discipline and perseverance, but therapy taught me balance, self-care, and compassion. Both sets of lessons make me who I am today. The pause I took gave me time to reflect, heal, and realign with my true purpose. It reminded me that strength is not about carrying everything on your own, but about knowing when to ask for help and when to extend that same help to others. Looking forward, my mental health journey continues to influence my aspirations. In college, I plan to study social work with a focus on mental health services, preparing to become a therapist who can guide others through their struggles. I want to create spaces where young people, especially those from marginalized communities, can feel seen, heard, and supported. I want to challenge stigma by sharing my story and showing that vulnerability is not weakness it is the foundation of growth. Ultimately, my experience with burnout, therapy, and healing has taught me that mental health is central to life. It shapes how we believe in ourselves, how we connect with others, and how we pursue dreams. My journey has given me clarity, purpose, and strength. These lessons will guide me in my personal life and in my future as a social worker, where I hope to bring healing, dignity, and hope to others walking their own paths of struggle and resilience.

Pursuing higher education has not always been an easy path for me. Growing up as a Black teenager in a small town presented unique challenges, from limited access to resources to confronting societal expectations and stereotypes. There were times when I doubted whether I could achieve my goals, not because of a lack of ability, but because of the systemic barriers that often make opportunities feel out of reach. Alongside these external challenges, I have also navigated struggles with my mental health, learning to manage stress, anxiety, and self-doubt while balancing academics, work, sports, and community responsibilities. These experiences tested my resilience, but they also taught me the importance of perseverance, self-awareness, and asking for support when I needed it. Despite these obstacles, I have remained focused on my goals. I have worked hard in school, taken college-level courses, participated in sports, and dedicated time to community service. One of my proudest achievements was creating the “Duffels for Dignity” project, which provided foster children with duffle bags to carry their belongings during difficult transitions. Through this project, I realized how meaningful it is to support others who face challenges similar to those I have experienced. This sense of purpose has fueled my determination to pursue higher education and a career in social work. My goal is to become a social worker and provide therapy to individuals in my community who are struggling with mental health challenges. I want to be a resource for young people, especially Black youth, who may feel overlooked, misunderstood, or unsupported. I believe my education will equip me with the knowledge and skills to help others navigate trauma, build resilience, and reach their potential. I also hope to advocate for mental health awareness, ensuring that resources are accessible to those who need them most. Education, for me, is more than a personal achievement—it is a tool to create positive change. By overcoming the obstacles in my life, I have gained empathy, insight, and a deep commitment to service. I plan to use my education to give back by offering support, guidance, and therapy to individuals in my community, empowering them to overcome their challenges and pursue brighter futures. My journey has taught me that obstacles can become opportunities to grow, and I am determined to turn my education into a pathway for change, hope, and healing for others.

Football has been much more than a sport in my life; it has been a teacher, a challenge, and a lens through which I have learned the value of perseverance, teamwork, and resilience. From the first time I stepped onto the field, I realized that success in football—or in life—is not just about individual talent. It is about dedication, commitment, and the willingness to push through obstacles even when the odds feel stacked against you. Playing football for four years taught me the importance of discipline. Practices were often long and grueling, and balancing them with school, work, and community responsibilities required careful time management and focus. Learning how to prioritize and remain consistent in my efforts translated directly to other areas of my life, especially academics and volunteer work. I discovered that discipline is not just about following rules—it is about showing up for yourself and for others, even when it’s uncomfortable or challenging. The sport also instilled in me resilience. On the field, mistakes are immediate and visible, and losses are unavoidable. Early on, I struggled with setbacks, whether it was missing a key play or losing a close game. But football forced me to confront these challenges and learn from them rather than letting them define me. Each failure became an opportunity to improve, to work harder, and to develop mental toughness. This resilience carried over into my personal and academic life, shaping how I respond to setbacks, whether it’s a challenging project, a difficult exam, or navigating obstacles in my community service initiatives. Football taught me the power of teamwork and leadership. No matter how talented one player may be, football requires communication, trust, and cooperation. I learned how to motivate my teammates, listen actively, and adapt to different roles depending on what the team needed. These lessons directly influenced how I approach leadership in other areas of my life, including my work on the “Duffels for Dignity” project. Just like on the field, making a positive impact in the community requires collaboration, empathy, and a willingness to put the group’s needs above your own. Finally, football reinforced my understanding of perseverance and hard work. Success rarely comes easily, and the rewards are earned through consistent effort and dedication. The drive to push beyond my limits on the field shaped my mindset off the field, encouraging me to excel academically, engage in community service, and pursue my goal of becoming a social worker. It taught me that commitment and resilience are not just sports skills—they are life skills that define character. In conclusion, football shaped my character by teaching me discipline, resilience, teamwork, and perseverance. It showed me how to face challenges, support others, and strive toward goals bigger than myself. These lessons continue to influence every aspect of my life, from academics to community service, and will guide me as I pursue a career in social work, dedicated to helping others overcome obstacles and reach their potential. Football didn’t just make me a better athlete—it made me a stronger, more compassionate, and determined person.

When I dream of the future, I don't dream of a career—I dream of a legacy. I dream of people recalling me as having made a difference in their lives, as having given them hope when all hope seemed lost. My goal is to own my own therapy clinic, a place of protection and comfort where individuals—especially young people and in under-served populations—can heal, receive support, and the tools to be resilient. Though I do not yet know the clinical term for such an institution, I do know that I wish it to be an environment where intention and love intersect and brokenness meets healing. I've grown up watching what it's like when people are not provided with the emotional support they need. I've watched classmates and friends bear burdens with nobody around to listen to them and wrap their arms around them. I've never been a type of person who is going to listen, who is going to urge others to continue when things look bleak. Being a social worker isn't something that I do for a living—it's something I am called to do. I believe that this journey will enable me to be the light in the dark to others, to remind them of their value, and guide them towards healing. My future clinic would be community-oriented. I would want it to heal not only individuals but families in general. I would like to offer children's programs, support groups for difficult parents, and outreach services for the transportationless or financially challenged to receive help on their own. I have learned that when you inform people that you care, you allow them to think of themselves again through my life and through my service project, Duffels for Dignity. That's the kind of legacy I want to leave behind—one based on empathy, determination, and action. Having my own clinic is also about building something that will endure for my people. I come from a lower-middle-class background, and I understand what it is like to need much with less. That is why I plan to keep my services at low prices and within reach, and to employ a skilled but diverse staff who are attuned to the specific problems many of our clients face. I want Black girls and boys to visit my clinic and see a person like them, a person they can identify with, and a person who made it—and for them to know they can as well. I share my light by serving, by inspiring, and by showing up regularly with others. Regardless of whether I'm tutoring, part of a sports team, working a part-time job, or just being an active listening buddy, my desire is to bring where I am positivity. I believe that light need not be a noise—it simply needs to be true. And in a world that so frequently feels unkind and uncertain, being true, being present, and being kind can change everything. Ultimately, my legacy will not lie in wealth or renown, but in the people whose lives I help heal. Through my future therapy clinic, I hope to leave the world a bit more complete, a bit more optimistic, and a bit more loved.

During my junior year of high school, I was honored to be selected for Student LIFT (Leadership Information for Tomorrow), a program through the Asheboro Chamber of Commerce. Of the many students interviewed from surrounding schools, only 20 were chosen, and I was fortunate to be among them. This opportunity transformed my perspective on leadership, community, and the importance of empathy. Student LIFT changed my life in countless ways. Through this experience, I first came to understand the profound impact even small acts of kindness can have on individuals and communities. One of the most significant contributions I made was organizing and running a community service project called “Duffels for Dignity.” While researching potential causes to support, I learned that many foster children in our area were forced to carry their belongings in garbage bags. That image stayed with me, and I knew immediately that I wanted to make a difference in their lives. My goal was to collect at least 100 duffel bags for Randolph County Social Services. By the end of my project, I had doubled my goal, raising over $2,000 worth of duffel bags. The project was not only a way to give back but also a testament to the power of community and the importance of restoring dignity to those often overlooked. Another pivotal experience during my time with Student LIFT was volunteering at the Asheboro Boys and Girls Club. I saw firsthand how the organization provided vital resources to children—meals, tutoring, and specialized care for those in need. I spent time engaging with the kids, whether by discussing their school day or playing outside, and I realized how much these interactions meant to them. It was in these moments, seeing the innocence and potential in their eyes, that I knew I wanted to dedicate my life to the well-being of children. One of the most eye-opening moments came when I visited our local jail and had the opportunity to speak with inmates. What I once saw as a collection of criminals, I came to understand as individuals—human beings shaped by difficult circumstances and trauma. Many had turned to crime as a way to cope with their struggles, often feeling trapped in a cycle they couldn’t break. This experience reshaped my understanding of the justice system and the importance of rehabilitation, compassion, and second chances. Through Student LIFT, I gained a deeper understanding of leadership as not just the ability to take charge, but the responsibility to uplift others. This program ignited my passion for social justice and advocacy. It helped me realize that my true calling lies in helping those who are vulnerable—whether children in foster care, at-risk youth, or individuals trying to rebuild their lives. This journey has inspired me to pursue a degree in Social Work, where I can continue to make a difference on a larger scale. I am excited to take the skills I’ve learned—empathy, leadership, and a commitment to service—into the next chapter of my education and, ultimately, my career. I am grateful for Student LIFT and the opportunity it gave me to see the world through a lens of kindness and purpose.

In the next five years, my aspiration is to make a healthy difference in my home and global communities in the realm of wellness. By "environmental difference," what most individuals refer to is climate change or recycling. But I've realized now that our environment isn't just nature—it's also where we spend day in and day out, day in and day out, in our homes, in our schools, in our communities, and even in our emotional and mental environments. As a future social worker, I really do believe wellness begins when people feel safe, fed, and emotionally healthy in the environments they live in.". At the local level, I would strive to promote emotional well-being by ensuring that the needy—foster children, low-income families, and mentally ill persons—are given the help and support that they require. I have already begun to do this type of work with my project "Duffels for Dignity," where I gathered more than 150 duffel bags for the foster children in my county so that they would no longer have to tote their possessions around in garbage bags. It may be nothing to the world, but it was something to those kids. It helped them to be able to have some sort of dignity in this awful situation. I hope to still have opportunities to do that sort of thing wherever I go. By furthering my education and pursuing social work, I will know how to create healthier emotional environments for people. That is to bring mental health awareness in schools, give the family in crisis a voice and a helping hand, and educate people so they know that they can seek help. In so doing, I am adding to the emotional environment of my society—a place where one feels well-being that is not only physical but also psychological and emotional. I would love to use my voice and education to raise awareness all over the world, especially to marginalized or underrepresented groups, to emotional well-being. With technology, it has never been easier to reach people through social media, podcasts, and online forums. I would like to use those channels to discuss topics of interest such as depression, trauma, and recovery. I believe that if people are emotionally healthy, they're healthier decision-makers for themselves and the world in general—how they act towards other humans, their world, and their future. Wellness is not the absence of disease—it's creating the conditions under which people can thrive. In five years' time, I would rather be a licensed social worker or in a program that has a direct influence on youth or families to be more than what they are. I'd like to be the one creating the good change in somebody's life—be it helping a wayward youth, a poverty-stricken parent, or a hard-scrabble community. By improving the wellness of individuals, they begin to take care of themselves, their loved ones, and their world. My hope is to create a ripple effect—where one act of wellness leads to another, and another. That's how I feel I can make an imprint for good in the world, not by saving the trees, but by attempting to save those who have been lost or forgotten.

I had always wanted to assist others when I was a little child. It might be to assist a teacher during after-school hours, open the door for someone, or mow a neighbor's lawn without being asked to, but I was glad to be doing something for another person. Those small things helped me realize that I was doing something positive, and then helping people wasn't something I wished to do—it was something I ought to do. That is why I pursued social work. Social work is actually the most suited career for me because I would want to assist poor individuals. I am most drawn to health care environments, where patients are often faced with trauma, illness, or life-changing diagnoses. Hospital and clinic social workers don't listen, however. They're heroes. They walk patients and families through paperwork, link them up with services, and provide emotional nourishment. That's the type of impact I'd like to have. I want to be someone who not only hears what people are going through but also helps them find real solutions. To do that, I’m beginning with a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW). That degree will teach me the basics of human behavior, communication, and how social systems affect people’s lives. Once I complete my BSW, I will be employed in a health or community environment where I am able to apply all that I have acquired and continue to grow even more. I wish to earn a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree so that my partner and I can become licensed clinical social workers and help the most vulnerable who need therapy. The Sean Kelly Memorial Scholarship would help me take these important steps. As an African American male from a lower-middle-class background, I’ve learned how to work hard and stay focused despite financial obstacles. There have been times when money was tight, but I’ve kept going—balancing school, sports, work, and volunteering. A scholarship like this would help relieve the financial stress and allow me to focus more on my education and career goals. This grant would also enable me to apply for unpaid internships or volunteer work, which is priceless experience. These are hard to find when you must make a living, but they are all the mark of being a good social worker. With grants, I would be able to do and learn by doing—something that I believe is as good as learning in school. Lastly, to receive this scholarship would be confirmation that someone believes in me. That would be the world. I've been blessed to have had people who have invested in me and believed in me, and had family members in between, and I'd like to be able to give back. One day I'd like to advise people, and Black males in particular like me, who would be able to know someone believing in them. Thank you so, so much. The Sean Kelly Memorial Scholarship will assist me in becoming the kind of person who does make a difference—life by life, story by story, and community by community.

Since I became a teenager, it has always been in my heart that I was meant to do something good with my life. The older I get, the more I feel this. At the age of 17, I already know that I would love to become a social worker because I want to change the lives of individuals who need it most, the poor and those who have poor support systems. I believe a college education will give me the skill, experience, and capacity to literally make a positive impact on this world and in the communities where I most identify. College will be the genesis along that journey. I would like to know how to be there for another human being emotionally, mentally, and physically if they are in some sort of desperate need. There are just so many people out there—foster kids, mentally ill patients, poor families—who just need somebody to love them, to listen to them, and to point them in the right direction again. I would love to be able to do that, but I know that I need to get trained and educated properly so that I can do it right. In college, I plan to study psychology, sociology, and social work so that I can learn about what people are going through and how I can assist them in meaningful, lasting ways. One of the best things about education is that it will put me in contact with other people who have already been doing this type of work—professors, mentors, and practitioners in the field. I would like to learn from their real lives and be able to ask questions that one cannot ask in a book. College would also allow me to intern and volunteer, where I would be able to gain experience as a future social worker. I do not just wish to study within a classroom setting—I wish to go out there and experience for myself what it is really like to be out on the front lines helping others. Education will also help me gain more confidence. Throughout high school, I’ve worked hard by taking AP and college-level classes, playing sports, joining clubs, and doing volunteer work. One of my proudest achievements is starting a community project, Duffels for Dignity, during my junior year. I collected over 150 duffel bag's worth of items for foster children in my county so that they would never have to come with trash bags of belongings again. What I learned from that project is that the little things are big and that with training and equipment one can do so much more. I also would like to be an inspiration to other children who are coming from lower middle-class families like mine. I have had firsthand experience of how hard it is to be able to afford college and how easily one gets trapped. I would like to be the one to break that cycle—not only for me, but for others too. As a social worker, I want my clients to be able to look at me and realize that I've been there also, and I don't give up. Ultimately, what I seek to do is simple: I seek to leave the world a little better than when I came into it. Education will enable me to do that. It will enable me to listen, to lead, and to lift up others—and I'm ready for the challenge of doing just that.

The largest project and where I was most involved was "Duffels for Dignity," which I launched my junior year through the Student LIFT program. We had the mission of taking assistance to foster children of Randolph County by gathering duffle bags so that they no longer would have to transport their belongings home to home in trash bags. While it started as a simple service project, it grew into something much greater—it became a symbol of hope, dignity, and compassion in our community. As a future social worker, I've always been drawn to helping others, especially children in need. I was appalled to learn that the foster children were being shuttled from home to home with their belongings crammed into trash bags. I knew something had to be done. I had an idea and enlisted my community by way of the phone, social media, emails, and public forums like football games and our Christmas parade. With the support of my school and friends, we were able to collect over 150 duffle bags like a proud kid with his/her stuff. What was incredible was to see how once people were told that they were needed to serve, they would more than gladly do it. Strangers were courteous. Families gave in abundance. Students gave their time. The experience showed me what human beings are capable of when they all unite and support something and what can be accomplished. It showed me that things truly do make a difference and can change a person's life in a very real sense. By experiencing it, I hope that there's greater awareness and understanding of the foster system in our community. There are simply too many folks who have absolutely no idea what a tough life foster kids live—how often they're being taken back and forth, how lonely they become, or how frequently their short-term needs are not being filled. I would like to hope that "Duffels for Dignity" will inspire others to join the bandwagon in donation, mentoring, or even as a foster care adoptive family. I do hope that schools and youth organizations will come forward and volunteer in groups to serve those deserving kids. If we are able to condition the language of wanting to serve and to be responsive in the life of a child in a positive manner, then I think we can raise a generation of socially aware, caring leaders. In hindsight, "Duffels for Dignity" was not merely about serving. It empowered me as a leader, reminded me of why I initially wanted to do social work in the first place, and showed evidence of just how strong a group can be when they unite. It taught me that at the teenage age, I was actually able to make a difference. I would like to see the event remain as successful and create more buzz, projects, and transformation that enhances the lives of the children and families in our community. And finally, what I wish is encapsulated in two words: making people heard, worth something, and worth something. If in doing it I've ever persuaded one child that it is so, then it was worth it—and the beginning of the positive effect that I have on my community.

I have wrestled since I was in the 6th grade has been a huge part of my life.It has progressed with the years to be more than just give me a sport where it has developed me into a leader, discipline, and tough-headed. From my first practice in a local wrestling club to helping coach younger kids today, wrestling has shaped me into the person I am today and given me a sense of direction that I aim to follow throughout my life. I started wrestling when I was around 11 years old. I was nervous at first. I didn't know if I was tough enough or if I'd ever catch up with the older kids. But I came to enjoy the sport soon enough. Wrestling isn't like most sports—it's not quickness or strength. It's heart. You have to be willing to give it every ounce of energy when your body is begging you to quit. You had to be smart, too, always thinking and adjusting. That is what kept me going. I started going to wrestling clubs after school in hopes of getting better, and every year I got better—body and mind. High school wrestling was a large portion of my life. I wrestled all four years and practiced every month. Not always smooth sailing. There were brutal losses, long practices, and times when I thought it was all not worth the trouble. But just as I was ready to quit, I recalled why I started. I became more confident, more driven, and learn to persevere no matter how hard it got. That same attitude crossed over to school, the work place, and life in general. That helped me take college and AP classes and part-time work and football, too. One of the things that I'm most proud of is the manner in which I've been able to give back to the sport which gave me so much. I've volunteered to work at youth wrestling clubs and assisted younger kids who are starting out, similar to how I started. Telling them the fundamentals, getting them caught up if they are behind, seeing them get better—those've been some of the positives being a wrestler.". It gave me that I don't hate wrestling because it's something which allows me to be myself, I like seeing what it does for them too. I believe that is one of the reasons why I'd probably be a social worker. I have seen the difference with my own eyes that sport like wrestling has the ability to bring into one's life. It makes children disciplined, motivated, and gives them something in which to believe. As a future professional social worker, I'd like to be able to provide children with that opportunity who don't necessarily have a lot of things going for them. I would love to help them build their self-esteem, their personality, and their future. Whether it's sports, mentorship, or just someone to listen to. Wrestling didn't only show me how to win a match—it showed me how to lose, how to recover from it, and how to lead. It gave me a platform to grow up and a means to give back. I'm not going to be wrestling for the rest of my life, but I'll be a wrestler for the rest of my life. And I'm going to take everything that I've learned from the sport and make a positive difference in people's lives.

I have always thought as a child that I wished to assist people. I did not know how but knew I wanted to be a person who made the world a little brighter for others. The older and more involved I have become, the more I have realized that it is caring for those who are most frequently forgotten or in need—namely, children—that motivates me. It is this reason that I will be a social worker, and I have no doubt that I will leave a lasting positive mark on the world through my employment and education that will be seen long after my passing. The one thing that has been most expensive to date has been an experience constructing a project, Duffels for Dignity. I did it through the Student LIFT program during my junior year. The project was to collect duffel bags for foster children in Randolph County who like to tote their items around in trash bags. I could not even attempt to imagine what they must be going through, and I wanted to provide them with something else—something that would make them feel special and loved. I posted on social media, created flyers, and even rode in the Christmas parade in the hometown so that I could inform people. At the end of it all, we had more than 150 duffel bags, and I was glad that we had made a difference in a child's life—no matter how small. Duffels for Dignity showed me the power of one thought and one heart. It showed me how much there is out there. It motivated me to do more. And since then, I've volunteered and assisted children in whatever manner I can. I've tutored younger kids, helped youth organizations, and volunteered for causes benefiting underprivileged children. Whenever I help children, I learn something new. I observe how much potential they hold and how at certain times all they require is someone to believe in them. Which is why I'm searching for a major in social work. I wish to be the one who arrives, who hears, and who voices for children and families when they most need it. My education will enable me to do so at a higher level—whether with foster care children, with crisis families, or in schools or shelters. I want to bring hope and assistance where people are hopeless and forgotten. I've seen firsthand the impact a social worker can have. My stepmother is a social worker, and I've watched her work patiently and tirelessly with others. She's shown me in person just how fulfilling the work can be. I know it's not always simple, but it's desperately required. I'd like to work the same way she does, using the education I have to serve, not on individuals, but on populations. In my later years, I would return to my hometown and give back to the same type of individuals who nurtured me. I would want to be a source, a guide, and a leader. I would want to make sure children like me growing up—fighting and questioning—are made to feel that they are not alone and that they matter. My plan is simple: to serve, to empower, and to make positive, meaningful change. I believe firmly that with my education and experience, I can do it all.

I was taught to always do the right thing, whether or not anyone is watching. That is what my parents instilled in me, and that is something which I have taken with me to this day. When I learned about the Michael Pride, Jr. Memorial Scholarship and the tradition which it represents, I saw a reflection of what I am striving to live in my own life—serving others humbly, from the heart, and with purpose. One of the strongest acts of service that I've organized to date is an event that I myself came up with named Duffels for Dignity. I did it during junior year with Student LIFT. What we were trying to do was collect duffel bags and then distribute them to Randolph County foster children. These kids have to carry their clothing in trash bags, and that strips them of their dignity when they are already lost to begin with. I just couldn't stand to let it happen, so I did something about it. I organized online, distributed flyers at football games, sent letters to city government, and even participated in the Christmas parade in town to make people aware of the situation. By the time we were done, we had collected over 150 duffel bags. One thing I learned from this is that one heart and one mind are that powerful. What I also learned, though, is that my job is definitely not finished yet. Due to this, I would prefer to be a social worker. My calling in life is to be present for others—first and foremost children, families, and children—at the worst time of their life. My stepmother is a social worker, and I have seen how she brings hope to hopeless situations. I wish that I could do the same for other people too, someone to speak with, help, and speak up for people. I'm doing everything that I can right now to get myself ready for that fate. I've taken three AP courses and seven college credits, four years lettered in football, three in wrestling, and worked part-time at the North Carolina Zoo and Chick-fil-A. It hasn't been easy balancing school, work, and sports, especially with my family being more working-class these days and with the added stress of two kids attending college at the same time. But I've persevered because I know what's at stake—not just for me, but for those whom I will eventually represent. Education is the way to becoming a community leader. With a social work degree, I will be able to be the voice of the voiceless, a helping hand to struggling families, and be able to make a difference. I would like to return to my community after graduation and be an ever-present support system—someone you can count on, especially children who are experiencing troubled times. The Michael Pride, Jr. Memorial Scholarship would make a huge difference in helping me reach that goal. It would allow me to focus on my education and worry less about how my family will afford college. More importantly, it would be a reminder that I’m not walking this path alone—that others believe in my vision and my heart for service. I would like to continue this scholarship's legacy of good, caring, and active life—just like Michael Pride, Jr. did. I am ready to do some good, and if you provide your support, I am sure that I will.

I have seen it up close as a child how harassment and bullying erode one's self-esteem, confidence, and career. A Black man from a small American town, I have witnessed first-hand and seen for myself the psychological cost of being misunderstood, labeled, or excluded for who you are. It is for this reason that I have made it my own personal mission to be a voice for social change and progress in K-12 education, specifically on bullying and mental health concerns. I believe change starts with empathy, education, and the courage to tell the truth—and I'm going to be a voice for the ones who all too often are not. Because I am a high school student, I have done my best to get people informed and assist others officially and unofficially. I have also taught younger students, listened when someone needed to be heard out, and defended my classmates who were bullied. Through the Student LIFT program, I spearheaded a project called Duffels for Dignity, in which I collected over 150 duffle bags for foster youth. This has also reminded me to value even more what so many young people already know—powerlessness, invisibility, shame at their status. Bullying and trauma occur together, and I do not want to be a part of this cycle. I will continue to be a voice for students by becoming a mental health practitioner as a social worker who works with youth and families. I'm concerned with mental health because I understand the significance of emotional support when times get tough. I've seen children struggle quietly—acting out, withdrawing, or breaking apart—because they're not receiving the right kind of intervention or don't have enough safety nets to ask. Too many schools are under-staffed or over-extended to meet the mental health concerns of their students. Long wait lists, a lack of counselors, and weak school-to-school and school-to-home communication make it even harder to get help when you need it most. I look forward to a future where I give students greater access to mental health care. That starts through advocacy at the district- and school-level. I believe that all schools would require in-school mental health workers, proper reporting systems on bullying, and regular mental health screenings with kids—not only in the aftermath of a tragedy. I would promise to allow schools to have working relationships with community non-profits and agencies to allow schools to expand services and deliver mental health care directly to kids, especially where there are the least amounts of resources like where I grew up. Another of my goals is to teach students, teachers, and parents in workshops, peer groups, and open discussion about bullying and mental health. When people are taught and empowered, they're more likely to intervene earlier, be more compassionate, and care for one another. Creating safe, inclusive spaces where students feel seen and cared for is the beginning of healing and learning. Eventually, I hope to be the type of person that I needed then—someone who listens without fear, speaks without judgment, and believes in all children regardless of what they have had to suffer. My hope is to see children walk through not only the pain of bullying and mental illness but also learn to believe in their own strength and value. With the right support, they can succeed—and I am determined to be a part of it.

Wrestling has caused me to rethink adversity—not as something that stands in the way of it, but as something that defines it. I used to view challenges as obstacles threatening success before I joined the wrestling team. But somewhere between the sweat, losses, and endless drill exercises, I have come to understand that adversity is not the issue. It's the process. Wrestling has also shown me that it's not how you respond when things get tough that defines you as a person. That in itself has affected not only my outlook on the sport, but the future as a social worker and community organizer. Wrestling is the toughest sport I have ever been involved in. Unlike football, where you have an entire team behind you, wrestling puts all of the workload on your back. There is no hiding, no finger to point anywhere else. Each match exposes your weaknesses and your strengths. I've had matches where I'd give everything that I have and still walk off the mat having lost. At first, that was hard to swallow. I'd be embarrassed or disillusioned. But as the years went by, I realized that were the times I could learn. Wrestling also showed me an appreciation for learning from my losses, along with my wins—to learn, to adjust, and to come back stronger. I applied the same philosophy to the rest of my life as well. I didn't pass my driver's permit test the first time. I fell short by one question. It frustrated me, but I was not going to be defined by it. So I used the same philosophy I had gained from wrestling: take a step back, learn some more, and try some more. And I made it through. In the classroom, on the mat, or in life, I now consider failure a setup for a comeback—rather than an outcome. Wrestling also instilled toughness and discipline in me. Practice was tough, and losing weight required some serious commitment. There were points where my body ached, and quitting was a more viable option than continuing. But I kept my objectives in mind. That discipline allowed me to succeed at school while working part-time jobs and taking AP and college-level classes. Wrestling taught me how to work hard, be tough-minded, and just keep going when it gets tough. Those are ingrained in me now. As a future social worker, my personal experience with hardship gives me an insider's view. I know how it is to struggle, be the underdog, and continue to fight regardless of anything. I would like to help others do the very same thing. Regardless of who they are, whether they are foster children, low-income families, or underachieving students, I would want to be the one to demonstrate to them that hardship can be a motivation. As wrestling has done for me, I would want to demonstrate to others that pain does have a purpose, and defeat can be the precursor to something greater. Wrestling not only made me stronger—it placed me in a position to make others stronger too. That's how it transformed me. And that's how it affected my future.

My birth name is Omarrius Little, and I am a high school senior at age 17 from Ramseur, North Carolina. I was brought up by a committed lower-middle-class family, who taught me values of hard work, saving, and being myself. My mother and father, Omarr Little and Tanya Little, taught me that I can do anything that life presents to me as long as I possess willpower and heart. That is the reason why I have always attempted my best at school, in sports, in the workplace, and in the community. I've achieved a lot at school throughout high school. I've wrestled for three years and played football for four years. I've also worked part-time at the North Carolina Zoo and Chick-fil-A and worked through challenging courses such as seven college classes and three AP. I also participated in clubs and programs such as Student LIFT, leadership development and education. My biggest achievement was that I championed a project called Duffels for Dignity and raised over 150 duffle bags for the foster youth in Randolph County. I didn't want them to haul around their belongings in trash bags anymore. It was just the best to be able to give and have my community rally behind something that I am passionate about. But even in the midst of all those successes, I struggled through one of the most difficult times of my life my first semester my last year. I started to struggle with problems with my mental health. I was stressed, lost, and overwhelmed, and I didn't know what to do about it. I had to quit sports, and that was the hardest thing that I ever had to do. It felt as if I had a part of me stolen. But as soon as I started therapy, everything changed. It made me realize that it is okay to seek help and that it was an act of strength, not weakness. I had managed to rationalize my emotions, feel confident, and get rooted again. This made me stronger at what I know in life. I always wanted to be a social worker, but watching my own mental state made me understand how vital it actually is. I want to help others, especially teenagers and children who are lonely or lack someone to whom they can talk. I want to be the one they can talk to, help them, and inform them that they are special and their existence matters. I will discuss suicide prevention and mental illness because I am aware of the reality of such circumstances. This scholarship would be a tremendous assistance to my family and me. With both of us, my brother and I, in college simultaneously, funds are limited. Such aid would take some of that burden off our shoulders and enable me to concentrate more on my studies and professional goals. I want to make a real impact—not just in my own life, but in the lives of others. I’m ready to put in the work to become a social worker who brings hope and healing to people who need it most.

Loss does not always mean death—a great many times it is deafness in your own mind beating you, or the weight of expectation pounding you to death bit by bit. The first semester of senior year was when I felt the loss that I had never truly experienced before: loss of spirit, of joy, and of self. What began as burnout was something deeper—mental problems that caused me to pull away, to ruminate about things, and become emotionally drained. For someone who had always been labeled as tough—a football player, a wrestler, working a part-time job after school, and taking college-level courses—it was the first time that I'd hit a wall that I couldn't get past on my own. I was ultimately compelled to make the tough decision to leave behind sports—a ginormous part of who I am. It was cutting off an arm so that I would have to leave behind something that I loved so much, but I knew that I needed to. That decision put me on a different kind of strength. I went for therapy, and from there, I realized that asking for help is not weakness—strength. I learned from therapy that my feelings were not imaginary but true and real as they were and that healing does not happen overnight but could be done with right guidance. It helped me regain control of my emotions, restore my confidence, and most importantly, my sense of direction. That woke me up. I already had the thought in my head that I would be a social worker, but going through what I went through with my own mental health issues made me want to do the job even more—specifically working with mental health. I discovered how many young people, particularly young Black men like myself, were quietly suffering because of stigma, fear, or otherwise exclusion from mental health care. I knew at that point that I would be part of the solution. I would like to be a social worker who provides a judgment-free, safe space in which people feel that they are able to tell their pain, heal, and remember that their life is worth living. Loss has taught me compassion. My own mental illness issues gave me empathy and more knowledge of what kind of difference I would like to make in the world. I would like to be a suicide prevention worker because I am aware of the desperation that arises when you are alone. I believe that I could make a difference by sharing my own experience, by listening without judgment, and by presenting a consistent message of hope to those who feel they cannot live. I want to engage them through school education, volunteerism, or individual counseling and make them understand that they are not invisible by informing them that there is hope. My own life has not only made me what I am professionally—given definition to it. I have learned what it means to break and the strength it takes to mend. That is why I am dedicated to being a social worker who leads others to light when all they can see is darkness.

Books have never failed to disappoint me when it comes to explaining the world and I. Reading Invisible Man, Their Eyes Were Watching God, and Leave the World Behind made me realize how survival, race, and identity determine the lives of people. They spoke to me because they reminded me of my own story—growing up as a black man in an African American lower-middle-class household, searching for my purpose and voice in a world that at times does not appear to be built for me. With Their Eyes Were Watching God, I was able to see how Janie's search for becoming self and independent is something we all go through, especially when we are younger and are trying to understand who we are. It revealed how even when other people may try to make us into what they want us to be, we can still choose who we are. Invisible Man spoke to me. It sensitized me to the way that society overlooks people based on color or where they come from. I found myself asking: "How do I get noticed—not the way that I look, but who I am?" It further motivated me to become a social worker. I want to be one of them who notices people as they are and gives them value. Leave the World Behind made me realize how people behave in a crisis and race and have faith. It made me remember that people behave like themselves in fear—and that compassion, and not panic, is what is going to bring people together. One small failure that I learned was that I failed my driving test on the first try. I had obtained it through one question, and it was disappointing at that time. But instead of losing hope, I kept pushing and endured the subsequent week. It taught me that failure is just nearer to achieving success. It taught me that I am capable of overcoming anything as long as I work hard enough. Mentorship has also contributed significantly to my life. Programs such as Student LIFT introduced me to people who believed in me and challenged me to dream big. Through the mentorship, I initiated a community service project, Duffels for Dignity, which collected over 150 duffle bags for foster children in my county. I also worked as a lead fundraiser at my school in a vice presidential capacity with the Student Government when two students were killed in a car accident. Our silent auction raised over $1,500 for the families. What I've gained from these experiences is that leadership is indeed all about service, and that I can get people to do something for the better. I was raised in a situation where there was never money enough but always plenty of love and commitment. My parents taught me humility, hard work, and keeping my feet on the ground. What sets me apart from anyone else is that I learned how to juggle school, work, sports, and service—because I did not have to, but because I wanted to be someone that people looked up to. Whether wrestling practice, football games, or helping a classmate with a problem, I always attempted to leave people better than when I found them. I plan to take that energy with me as a social worker—to help people find their strength, even when things in their lives feel difficult. I would want to speak for the voiceless, and I would want to take all that I have learned—through reading, through mentors, and through my experiences—and apply it to help make a long-lasting impact within my community.

My name is Omarrius Little, and Im a proud young African American from Ramseur, North Carolina. My life has always seemed to be moving in the direction of a greater purpose than my own self. My background is from the lower class, where my two working-class parents instilled in me the importance of saving, planning, and what is right for others. Life hasn't been easy, but it has also taught me how to become the individual who wants to leave a lasting legacy. At high school, I've tried my hand at a little bit of everything—leadership, volunteering, sports, and clubs. I wrestled for three years, football for four years, and were on the track team. Teamwork taught me discipline, patience, and helping others. I also worked part-time at Chick-fil-A and the North Carolina Zoo and learned time management and the need for focus. But where I most felt my calling was in the Student LIFT program, which was funded by the Randolph County Chamber of Commerce. This was a leadership opportunity to visit some of the many community organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club, our local hospital, and even political offices. It was from this that I developed a service project titled "Duffels for Dignity." What I learned from this is that the majority of the foster children have to place their possessions in garbage bags when they move. That did not sit well with me at all. I knew that something had to be done. So I reached out to the community—via fliers, social media, phone calls, and even a Christmas parade march—and collected over 150 duffle bags. I just wanted to be able to provide those kids with a little bit of dignity in a time of need, and I'm so glad that I did. Leadership has been a big part of my life. When I was vice president of the Student Government Association, I organized a silent auction to raise money for the families after two students passed away at our school. I was responsible for organizing the student donations, reminding them, and communicating with my peers. We raised over $1,500 for the families, and I got to see firsthand the strength of teamwork and compassion. All of that experience has only caused me to do one thing: become a social worker. I want to be there for the children and families who are, like, "No one notices us. No one knows." I have watched people fight—not because they are lazy, but because they lack resources. I want to be that. I want to listen, facilitate, and give people hope again. My professional life is not about worrying about finding work—it is living for a reason. I am going to use all that I have learned, and all that I have witnessed, to contribute to the positive change in my society and to the world. It is not that I simply want to make a difference—I want to leave a lasting legacy of kindness, of bravery, of hope.

From the time that I was a child I have had this feeling of calling to help others. Whether staying late to complete an additional assignment for a teacher, or opening the door for someone else, or mowing a neighbor's grass, I liked to do something that improved some other people's lives. I did not realize then that all of these little things were building up to something much bigger a calling to serve my community for my lifetime. As I became older, that natural urge to assist others became a strong resolve to make a difference, i.e., for those who do not necessarily have the ability or means available to voice out. That's why I am a social worker. I want to advocate for the voiceless. I want to be present for others in their darkest moments and let them know that they are not alone. Social work to me is not merely short-term intervention it's long-term, sustained transformation that has the power to change lives, to assist people and families to live more stable, richer lives. I would rather specialize in clinical social work in health care settings, where I will work with people who are ill, traumatized, or have other acute life crises. My intention is not only to offer emotional support, but to help patients gain access to the resources and advice they need in order to move forward. One of those experiences that truly stoked this passion was helping out with my school's special education class for the Special Olympics. I assisted the students throughout competition, supported them, and filled in where I could. It was there, in that moment, that I saw how much power is in encouragement and in advocacy. Seeing the look on their faces when they were cheered when someone believed in them made me remember why this career is so important to me. That only made me more dedicated to being someone that can bring out the best in people and make them stronger, especially those which would usually get overlooked. I am a work in progress, just like everyone these days. One of my weaknesses is that it's hard for me to say "no." I have to help too much, and sometimes I over commit because of it. I've come to realize boundaries are not only necessary for my own good, but so that I can be present and serve in ways that really matter. One of the things I'm still struggling to get the hang of is judgment. I would love to give everyone the benefit of doubt, but I've learned through tough experience that not everyone has altruistic motives. These courses haven't daunted me they've awakened me, wiser, more vigilant, and better equipped to deal with the harsh realities of social services work. Education is where it starts in realizing my dream. I plan on having a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and then pursuing further studies to the Master of Social Work (MSW) level so that I may become a licensed clinical social worker. I hope to be at the forefront of change, being in a position to enable people not merely to survive but heal and thrive. With appropriate training and equipment, I think that I might be an ongoing, positive force for those suffering with the worst moments of their own lives. The scholarship would make such a reality possible. Growing up in a family that was under middle class, money was always something that would have to be kept very tightly in check. My parents did the best they could, but paying for college for me and my brother at the same time really puts heavy financial pressure on them. This scholarship would alleviate some of that pressure and allow me to be able to focus solely on my studies. Most importantly, it would bring me closer to reaching my life's ambition: becoming a social worker who motivates others and starts real, true change in my community.

When I was younger, I wanted to be a doctor. I thought it was the best way to help people, and honestly, I liked the idea of being someone others looked up to. I would watch medical shows and imagine myself saving lives, thinking that was the only way to make a real difference. For years, I told myself that was the path I would take, but as I got older, I started to realize something—maybe being a doctor wasn’t the only way to help people. As I went through high school, I got more involved in my community. I tutored younger students, joined clubs, and took part in service projects, and over time, I realized what truly made me happy—helping people in a way that went beyond just their physical health. I started paying more attention to the emotional and mental struggles people around me were facing, and I saw how much of a difference it made when someone simply took the time to listen and care. The biggest moment that shifted my mindset was when I created Duffels for Dignity, a project to collect duffel bags for foster kids who often have to carry their belongings in trash bags. Learning about their situation really opened my eyes, and I felt this deep need to do something about it. Organizing the project, reaching out to the community, and seeing how many people came together to help made me realize that my calling wasn’t in medicine—it was in social work. I wanted to be the person who helped others feel seen, valued, and supported when they had no one else to turn to. Even though I’m not pursuing my childhood dream of becoming a doctor, I don’t feel like I’ve lost anything. If anything, I feel like I’ve gained a clearer understanding of who I am and what I’m meant to do. I’ve always wanted to help people, and now I know that social work is the way I’m meant to do it. I want to be there for people during their hardest moments, helping them find hope and stability. Looking back, I’m grateful for the journey that led me here. My childhood dream got me thinking about helping others, but my experiences showed me there are so many ways to do that. Now, I know I’m on the right path, and I can’t wait to make a real lasting impact.

One of the biggest times I put Jesus first, others second, and myself third was when I created my community service project, Duffels for Dignity. I started the project to collect duffel bags for foster kids in Randolph County because I learned that many of them have to carry their belongings in trash bags when they move from home to home. That just didn’t sit right with me. I felt called to do something about it, not for recognition, but because I wanted these kids to feel valued and loved—just like Jesus teaches us to care for others. At first, I wasn’t sure if I could actually pull it off. I didn’t know if people would donate or if I was even reaching enough people. But instead of letting doubt get in the way, I prayed about it and trusted that God would take care of the rest. I spent hours reaching out to businesses, organizations, and people in my community, asking for donations and spreading the word. I posted about it on social media, passed out flyers at football games, and even walked in my town’s Christmas parade to promote the cause. It wasn’t easy, but I reminded myself that this was bigger than me—it was about making sure these kids felt seen and cared for. In the end, we collected over 150 duffel bags, and I was honestly blown away by how much support we got. Seeing how willing people were to help reminded me that God really does work through us when we put others first. More than anything, this experience deepened my faith and showed me that small acts of kindness can go a long way. Going forward, I want to keep living by these principles, especially as I work toward becoming a social worker. I know there will be times when the job gets hard, but I’ll always remind myself why I chose this path—to help people who feel unseen, just like Jesus did. Whether it’s advocating for kids, mentoring, or just being there to listen, I’ll keep putting others first and trusting that God will guide me. This project showed me that when we serve with the right heart, the impact is greater than we ever imagine.

Learning from our small failures is key to personal growth. Life throws challenges at us all the time, big and small, and how we deal with them can really shape who we are. One challenge I faced was when I took the test for my driver’s permit. I had spent weeks studying, doing everything I thought I needed to pass. But when I found out I didn’t pass, I was crushed—especially since I missed it by just one question. In that moment, I felt like a failure, and I even started doubting myself. At first, it felt like a huge setback, like I was never going to get my permit or move forward. But after I calmed down and took a step back, I realized that it was just a small setback. It wasn’t the end of the world, and it definitely wasn’t the end of my goal to get my permit. It became a chance to learn and grow. What I took away from it was that setbacks don’t last forever; they’re just opportunities to come back stronger. Instead of staying disappointed, I decided to double down on my studying. I went back to the material, reviewing the sections where I struggled the most, and made sure I fully understood everything. I realized that success in anything—whether it’s sports, school, or relationships—depends on how much effort you put in. You can’t expect results if you’re not willing to put in the time and energy. This helped me develop a mindset where failure isn’t something to fear, but something to learn from. I had a week to prepare for the retest, and I used that time to study every day. I refined what I knew and made sure I was ready. When the retest finally came around, I felt confident. I had put in the work, stayed focused, and stayed positive even after my first setback. This time, I passed and got my driver’s permit. That moment wasn’t just about getting my permit—it was about how much I had grown during the process. This experience taught me the value of perseverance, resilience, and having a growth mindset. Now, when I face challenges, I see them as opportunities to push myself harder and learn more. I don’t fear failure anymore because I know it’s just part of the process. Staying focused and positive, even when things don’t go the way I want, has become something I carry with me everywhere. This lesson has definitely changed how I think about education. I now see learning as more than just getting the right answers or avoiding mistakes. It’s about the process itself—growing, learning from experiences, and developing skills that help me make a difference. As I continue my education, I plan to use what I learn to help my community, especially as I work toward becoming a social worker. I want to use my knowledge and experiences to help others overcome their struggles, just like I learned to overcome mine. Education has the power to shape lives, and I hope to use mine to help others rise above their challenges. The lessons I’ve learned from my small failures will guide me as I work to create positive change and build a community where everyone has a chance to succeed.

Learning from our small failures is crucial for personal growth. Life throws a lot of challenges our way, and it’s up to us to turn those moments into something positive. One small failure I faced was when I took the test for my driver's permit. When I found out I didn’t pass, I was totally crushed—especially since I missed it by just one question. At first, it felt like a huge setback, but I realized it was just a minor bump on the road to getting my permit. After I calmed down, I took a step back and decided to hit the books even harder. I learned that what I get out of anything—whether it’s sports, friendships, or school—depends on how much I’m willing to put in. You can’t expect great results if you’re not ready to invest your time and effort. I had a week before I could retake the test, so I dedicated that time to studying, and when the day of the retest came, I was ready. I finally passed and got my driver's permit! This small failure taught me several important lessons. First, I learned that perseverance is key—setbacks are just chances to bounce back. I also realized that having a growth mindset is huge; it’s all about looking at challenges as learning experiences instead of failures. Lastly, I realized how important it is to stay focused and keep a positive energy, even when things do not go as planned. Every experience shapes who I am striving to become.