The are copious black leaders that I admire, however, my mentor and friend, DeMarkco Butler (nickname D-Train) has been one of the largest sources of inspiration throughout my life. He has motivated and pushed me to reach goals that seemed unobtainable. With his mentorship, I have shifted my mindset to pursue the goals that I was once intimidated by. I do not have an older brother, but “D-Train” is a part of my family because he has supported me when I was not sure what my next steps in life were. He taught me through his example that paying it forward in our community, building connections, and mentoring the younger generation is vital to the progression of our culture. Moreover, he is an advocate for building your team and having a supporting corner that will acknowledge what you are doing well, and when you need to pivot to make changes. He encapsulates what it means to inspire someone and does not quit after facing adversity which is why he is my inspirational Black leader. We were introduced to each other during a fraternity event in 2015, and have consistently checked in with each other while progressing through our careers. As an undergraduate, I was unfamiliar with what a mentor was or how to interact with someone whom I saw as a potential mentor, so I was not sure where to start. I only knew that it could positively impact my future to have someone in my life who inspired me. The opportunity came organically, and I was excited to learn from DeMarkco as our relationship grew because I also wanted to add value to his life in some way. His leadership, consistency, and attitude are contagious but since day one he taught me the importance of relationship-building in my collegiate career. As young professional black men, we always spend time discussing the importance of education and being a leader in our community, so DeMarkco did a great job in ensuring that I am involved within my community while upholding a high academic standard while in school. DeMarkco works in football operations at the collegiate level, and I majored in exercise science, so we have several things in common that contributed to us being able to connect. I knew after we first talked, and he mentioned his experiences that this was someone that I wanted to have in my corner for advice. He was faced with making major career and life changes but through it all, he still managed to connect with me, which highlighted his character. DeMarkco has a phrase that he loves to say to me or anyone that he knows well, and it is "Attitude is altitude" which means your mindset each day will dictate how far you will travel in life. A mentor is there to help build and support your goals, but the inspiration that DeMarkco has given me has exceeded that standard, which I am grateful for. DeMarkco has faced adversity, persevered, and kept his faith throughout the process, which I have admired and applied to my journey. After obtaining my master’s degree, he encouraged me to stay on task, and get experience working in different healthcare settings, but still focus on applying for Doctorate programs. Navigating through life is overwhelming at times and we lose track of where we want to go but I am a firm believer in having a "family" that inspires you to achieve greatness each day. DeMarkco has been a key member of my own family, and I hope to emulate his example to become a mentor to others.

In today's rapidly evolving world, the significance of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields cannot be overstated. As a person of color, my decision to pursue a degree in STEM is deeply rooted in my personal experiences, aspirations, and the broader societal context. This essay explores the reasons behind my choice and how I envision making a meaningful impact in the STEM field as a person of color. Growing up, I witnessed disparities in access to quality education and opportunities among communities of color. Despite facing numerous challenges, I harbored a profound curiosity about the world and a passion for problem-solving. My early exposure to science and technology ignited a spark within me, propelling me towards the path of STEM. One of the driving forces behind my decision to pursue a degree in STEM is the desire to challenge stereotypes and break barriers. Historically, people of color have been underrepresented in STEM fields, facing systemic barriers such as lack of access to resources, discrimination, and implicit biases. By venturing into STEM, I aim to defy stereotypes and inspire future generations of underrepresented minorities to pursue their passions relentlessly. As a person of color in the STEM field, I aspire to leverage my unique perspective and experiences to drive positive change. Firstly, I aim to contribute to groundbreaking research and innovation that addresses pressing global challenges, ranging from climate change to healthcare disparities. By collaborating with diverse teams and embracing different viewpoints, I believe we can devise more inclusive and impactful solutions. Furthermore, I am committed to advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion within STEM spaces. Representation matters, and I endeavor to serve as a role model and mentor for aspiring scientists and engineers from underrepresented backgrounds. Through outreach programs, workshops, and community initiatives, I hope to empower marginalized individuals to pursue their passions fearlessly and thrive in STEM careers. Moreover, I recognize the importance of dismantling systemic barriers and fostering an inclusive culture within academic and industry settings. By advocating for equitable hiring practices, promoting diversity in leadership roles, and fostering supportive environments, we can create pathways for underrepresented individuals to excel in STEM fields. In conclusion, my decision to pursue a degree in STEM as a person of color is driven by a deep-seated passion for knowledge, a commitment to challenging stereotypes, and a desire to make a positive impact on society. Through my journey, I aspire to contribute to cutting-edge research, advocate for diversity and inclusion, and inspire future generations of underrepresented minorities to pursue their dreams in STEM. Embracing diversity is not only a moral imperative but also essential for driving innovation and advancing scientific progress. Together, we can build a more inclusive and equitable future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive in STEM.

The loss of a family member is an experience that reverberates through the very core of one's being, leaving an indelible mark on the tapestry of one's life. For me, the departure of a cherished family member was a turning point that reshaped my understanding of loss, resilience, and the profound impact individuals have on the lives of those around them. My grandmother, a pillar of strength and a beacon of unconditional love, left this world, leaving a void that could not be filled. She gave birth to 11 children (my aunts & uncles) and my father was the youngest so when we lost her, it was a significant loss that we were not expecting. Her presence had been a constant source of warmth and guidance, and her absence marked the beginning of a journey through grief and self-discovery. The grieving process, though painful, became a crucible for personal growth and reflection. One of the most significant ways in which this loss shaped my life was in the appreciation of the transient nature of time and the importance of cherishing moments with loved ones. The sudden departure of my grandmother taught me that life is a fleeting gift, and every interaction, every shared laugh, and every expression of love holds immeasurable value. This awareness fueled a shift in my priorities, prompting me to invest time and energy in nurturing relationships, savoring shared experiences, and expressing gratitude for the people who enrich my life. Moreover, my grandmother challenged me to strive for greatness each day which is why I applied for graduate school. Grief is a complex and personal journey, and navigating its ebbs and flows became a profound lesson in resilience. Coping with the loss of a loved one required an emotional fortitude I never knew I possessed. The experience taught me that resilience is not about suppressing emotions but acknowledging them, allowing the pain to coexist with gratitude for the beautiful memories shared. This newfound resilience became a guiding force in facing subsequent challenges, reminding me that even in the face of adversity, one can find strength and growth. Moreover, the loss prompted a deeper introspection into the legacy we leave behind and the impact we have on others. My grandmother's life was characterized by selflessness, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to family. In honoring her memory, I became more conscious of the legacy I want to create in my own life. This realization fueled a commitment to kindness, empathy, and making a positive impact on the lives of those around me. The absence of my grandmother also heightened my awareness of the significance of mental health and the importance of seeking support when navigating the complexities of grief. The experience underscored the importance of open communication, vulnerability, and acknowledging the emotional toll that loss can take. This understanding fostered a sense of empathy not only for my grieving process but for others facing similar challenges, encouraging a more compassionate approach to supporting those in need. In conclusion, the loss of a family member, particularly my grandmother, was a transformative experience that shaped my life in profound ways. From a heightened appreciation for the fleeting nature of time to the cultivation of resilience and the recognition of the impact we have on others, each facet of this journey left an enduring imprint on my character. While the pain of loss never fully dissipates, the lessons learned, and the growth experienced in the aftermath become a testament to the enduring power of love, resilience, and the spirit of the human heart.

Travel, more than a mere exploration of physical landscapes, holds the potential to become a profound journey of self-discovery and personal transformation. As individuals step outside the familiar confines of their routine, the exposure to diverse cultures, perspectives, and environments becomes a catalyst for unparalleled personal growth and development. In this essay, I will discuss how important travel is to creating transformative experiences, expanding horizons, and shaping individuals into more open-minded, empathetic, and culturally enriched beings. One of the most remarkable aspects of travel lies in its ability to expose individuals to a tapestry of cultures that differ from their own. Immersing oneself in the traditions, customs, and daily lives of people from diverse backgrounds offers a firsthand education that surpasses any classroom setting. I have traveled more within the United States, however, this has challenged me to embrace different communities that I was not exposed to before traveling. Through this cultural exchange, I gained a broader understanding of the world, challenging preconceived notions and fostering an appreciation for the rich tapestry of human existence. Beyond the acquisition of knowledge, exposure to different cultures cultivates empathy and a heightened sense of interconnectedness. Engaging with people whose life experiences vary significantly from one's fosters a deepened understanding of the shared human experience. This newfound empathy transcends geographical boundaries, instilling a sense of global citizenship that is essential in an increasingly interconnected world. As travelers, we navigate the streets of foreign cities, converse with locals, and participate in cultural rituals, they forge connections that bridge gaps and cultivate a sense of shared humanity. Perspective broadening is a central tenet of the transformative power of travel. Stepping into unfamiliar environments challenges individuals to reassess their perspectives and question long-held assumptions. This shift in viewpoint is not merely about understanding others; it is equally about gaining insight into oneself. The exposure to diverse perspectives prompts introspection, prompting travelers to question their values, priorities, and beliefs. This reflective process is a crucible for personal growth, allowing individuals to shed the limitations of a narrow worldview and embrace a more nuanced understanding of themselves and the world around them. Environments play a crucial role in shaping experiences, and travel exposes individuals to a spectrum of landscapes that evoke awe, inspiration, and introspection. Whether standing before the grandeur of natural wonders, wandering through historic landmarks, or navigating bustling urban centers, the environments encountered during travel provide a canvas for self-reflection and personal development. These moments of immersion in different landscapes serve as a reminder of the vastness and diversity of the world, prompting a reevaluation of one's place within it. In conclusion, travel is more than a series of destinations; it is a journey of self-discovery, personal growth, and transformative experiences. Through exposure to different cultures, perspectives, and environments, individuals undergo a metamorphosis that transcends the boundaries of the physical journey. Cultural immersion, perspective broadening, and environmental exploration collectively contribute to the development of open-minded, empathetic, and globally conscious individuals. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the transformative power of travel remains an invaluable tool for shaping individuals into citizens of the world, fostering a deeper understanding of themselves and the diverse tapestry of humanity.

The heartbeat of our family has always been the resilient spirit passed down through generations, but my family's landscape took an unexpected turn when my grandparent was diagnosed with cardiac disease. The news casts a shadow over our lives, bringing with it uncertainty, fear, and a collective determination to navigate the challenges that lay ahead. Witnessing a beloved grandparent grapple with the complexities of cardiac disease was a difficult experience that left a harsh mark on my life. The initial shock and apprehension gave way to a shared commitment among our family members to support and uplift one another. It became clear that overcoming this obstacle would require not only medical interventions but also a profound shift in our lifestyle, mindset, and approach to health. I have several family members who work in the healthcare field, and they encouraged us to be proactive about our health. Moreover, I wanted to pursue a career that focused on health and movement because it is important to maintain or improve our independence as we age. The first step in overcoming the challenges posed by cardiac disease was education. I immersed myself in understanding the layers of the condition, its triggers, and the lifestyle modifications that could make a meaningful impact. During graduate school, I was a part of research studies that observed the impact of cardiovascular exercises and saw the correlation between exercising and living longer. Coupled with that, I was a leader in our department lab and studied the importance of cholesterol for our heart's health. Armed with knowledge, I embraced a heart-healthy lifestyle that involved dietary changes, regular exercise, and stress management. These changes were not just for my grandparents but became a shared commitment to fostering overall family well-being. Another significant aspect of my journey was the emotional toll that cardiac disease took on my family's psyche. The fear of the unknown, coupled with the emotional strain of witnessing a loved one battle a life-altering condition, could have easily led to despair. However, our family chose a different path. We became a source of strength for one another, offering unwavering support, empathy, and encouragement. Open communication allowed us to share our fears and vulnerabilities, fostering a sense of unity that proved instrumental in overcoming the emotional hurdles associated with cardiac disease. The journey wasn't without its setbacks, and each hospital visit, medication adjustment, and recovery period brought its own set of challenges. However, we approached these obstacles with resilience and a collective determination to triumph over adversity. My grandparent's courage became a guiding light, inspiring us to face the uncertainties with grace and fortitude. The experience also deepened my appreciation for the healthcare professionals involved in my grandparent's care. Their expertise, compassion, and dedication played a pivotal role in the recovery process. Witnessing their commitment to patient well-being inspired gratitude and a newfound respect for the healthcare industry. In conclusion, the journey through a grandparent's cardiac disease was a challenging yet transformative experience that required a holistic approach encompassing education, lifestyle changes, emotional support, and a resilient mindset. Through unity, shared commitment, and the inspiration drawn from my grandparent's strength, we emerged from the shadows of cardiac disease with a deeper understanding of the importance of health, family, and the unyielding human spirit.

Physical Therapy (PT) is a rewarding and dynamic field that involves helping individuals recover from injuries, manage chronic conditions, and improve their overall physical well-being. Pursuing a career in Physical Therapy will have a significant impact on my life trajectory in several ways. For example, here are three common topics that I have noticed about the life of a PT that contribute to the enjoyment of their job. This career encourages you to be a continuous learner by implementing continued education courses and research opportunities. As a PT you have a positive impact on the health of the public by educating and encouraging the community that you work in. Moreover, as the healthcare field continues to progress, there are more opportunities for PTs to pursue entrepreneurship. I am excited about the future of healthcare and the ability to change my communities overall health. The field of Physical Therapy is continuously evolving with advancements in research and technology. Pursuing this career means that I will have opportunities for continuous learning and professional development, to keep my skills up-to-date. I enjoy reading updated research on injuries, and new protocols because this is how we as a profession stay current with the best practices. I have a goal to become a clinical instructor (CI) and in this role, you are responsible for mentoring a student physical therapist (SPT) while they complete their clinical rotation at your clinic and (or) hospital. This is unique about the career path because it encourages networking and building a relationship with the University where the student attends. CI's play a role in the future of the SPT and how much they (students) learn is important to the progression of the PT industry. As a PT, I will have the chance to positively impact the health and well-being of individuals. My interventions can contribute to preventing disabilities, reducing pain, and improving the overall physical function of each client. In both rural and urban areas, a large percentage of people have not been exposed to or experienced physical therapy; for several decades, PT was not as recognized as other healthcare professions. I aim to increase awareness of how influential PT is to an individual's health, regardless of age or background. Furthermore, I am committed to fostering inclusivity within the physical therapy field. As a future practitioner, I intend to advocate for and create accessible rehabilitation programs for individuals from diverse backgrounds and communities. I believe that everyone, regardless of their socioeconomic status or cultural background, deserves access to quality healthcare. I am determined to be a driving force in making this vision a reality to positively impact the health of my community. With experience, some PTs choose to start their private practice, offering them the chance to be entrepreneurs and have more control over their work environment. I want to work on building my practice because it will allow me to have the schedule flexibility that I want plus I will be able to build relationships with local orthopedic surgeons or PTs. This is what attracts me to the life of a PT, you can connect with other great healthcare leaders. In conclusion, my passion for healthcare is not just a career choice but a calling rooted in empathy, personal experiences, and a commitment to serving others. Balancing work and academic pursuits has been challenging but has equipped me with invaluable skills and insights. As I embark on this journey, I am driven by the belief that healthcare is not just a service but a means to empower individuals and communities, fostering a healthier and more equitable society.

My fascination with healthcare has been deeply rooted in a genuine desire to make a positive impact on people's lives. This passion has evolved, driven by personal experiences and a commitment to addressing the unique healthcare needs of the community that I am serving. I am currently in physical therapy school because after overcoming injuries and watching how PT transformed my aunt's life after her stroke, I knew that I wanted to have that same level of impact on the lives of others. As I embark on this journey, I find myself drawn towards working in different settings and specializing in pelvic health or working with clients who have suffered from a neurological injury (i.e., spinal cord, multiple sclerosis). Recognizing the significance of providing comprehensive and compassionate care to all clients is my mission while working as a PT. My interest in healthcare began to take shape during my adolescent years when I witnessed firsthand the transformative power of healthcare professionals in my family's life. My father, a pillar of strength in our household, has worked as an adolescent psychiatric nurse for 20 years. He encouraged me to seek a career that I would love and something that would challenge me to be a lifetime learner. After talking with him and other healthcare professionals, I was excited to become an advocate for others' health. Balancing academic pursuits with employment has been a defining aspect of my journey. Working while attending school has been both challenging and rewarding, demanding a meticulous approach to time management and prioritization. Juggling responsibilities has not only honed my organizational skills but has also provided valuable insights into the practical aspects of healthcare delivery. Undoubtedly, this balancing act has presented its fair share of obstacles. There have been moments of exhaustion and times when the weight of responsibilities seemed overwhelming. However, these challenges have served as opportunities for personal and professional growth. Through perseverance and a steadfast commitment to my goals, I have navigated these challenges, emerging more resilient and determined to succeed. Financial constraints have also presented obstacles, requiring creative solutions such as seeking scholarships, part-time work with flexible hours, and exploring financial aid options. Overcoming these challenges has strengthened my resilience and resourcefulness, qualities that I believe will contribute to my future success in the healthcare field. Attending an accelerated PT doctorate program is challenging but you learn quickly that time management is key. In addition to my academic pursuits, I have taken on the challenge of working while attending school. This decision is driven by a desire for practical experience, financial independence, and a deeper understanding of the real-world challenges within the healthcare system. Balancing these dual responsibilities has been a demanding yet enriching aspect of my journey. One of the primary strategies I employ to manage this balance is effective time management. Creating a realistic schedule that allocates dedicated time for both work and academics helps me stay organized and focused. Additionally, setting clear priorities and deadlines enables me to navigate the demands of both realms without compromising on the quality of my work or studies. In conclusion, my passion for healthcare is not just a career choice but a calling rooted in empathy, personal experiences, and a commitment to serving others. Balancing work and academic pursuits has been challenging but has equipped me with invaluable skills and insights. As I embark on this journey, I am driven by the belief that healthcare is not just a service but a means to empower individuals and communities, fostering a healthier and more equitable society.

In an era defined by environmental challenges, the intentional choices we make in our daily lives carry significant weight in shaping the future of our planet. Living sustainably has become a personal commitment for me, guided by a conscientious effort to reduce my carbon footprint and contribute to a more environmentally conscious world. My essay explores the intentional choices I make in my daily life to live sustainably and the underlying reasons driving this commitment. At the heart of my sustainable lifestyle is a dedication to minimizing waste. Embracing the principles of reduce, reuse, and recycle, I have consciously adopted practices such as reducing single-use plastic consumption, embracing reusable alternatives, and diligently sorting and recycling household waste. The decision to prioritize reusable items, from water bottles to shopping bags, is not merely a matter of convenience but a deliberate choice to mitigate the impact of plastic pollution on our oceans and ecosystems. Another key aspect of my sustainable lifestyle involves mindful energy consumption. Implementing energy-efficient practices, such as using LED light bulbs, turning off electronic devices when not in use, and optimizing heating and cooling systems, contributes not only to lower utility bills but also to the reduction of carbon emissions. Recognizing the finite nature of our natural resources, I believe it is incumbent upon each individual to adopt energy-conscious habits that collectively alleviate the strain on the planet's ecosystems. The conscious decision to support local and sustainable products is another cornerstone of my sustainable lifestyle. By choosing locally sourced and ethically produced goods, I aim to reduce the environmental impact associated with transportation and promote businesses that prioritize environmentally friendly practices. This intentional choice extends to my dietary habits, where I strive to incorporate plant-based and sustainably sourced options, acknowledging the significant role of the food industry in climate change. Reducing my carbon footprint is not merely an individual pursuit; it is a collective responsibility with far-reaching implications. The urgency to address climate change, habitat destruction, and resource depletion necessitates a paradigm shift in our daily choices. By intentionally adopting sustainable practices, we contribute to a broader movement that advocates for systemic changes and holds corporations and policymakers accountable for their environmental impact. Climate change poses a grave threat to ecosystems, biodiversity, and human well-being. Rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and the loss of biodiversity are just a few consequences of unchecked carbon emissions. Recognizing the interconnectedness of our world, I believe that individual actions, no matter how small, collectively shape the trajectory of our planet's future. Living sustainably is not a choice; it is imperative if we are to ensure a habitable and vibrant world for future generations. In conclusion, my intentional choices to live sustainably encompass a spectrum of practices aimed at minimizing waste, conserving energy, and supporting local and sustainable products. The commitment to reducing my carbon footprint is grounded in a profound understanding of the environmental challenges we face and a belief in the transformative power of collective action. By making intentional choices in our daily lives, we contribute to a sustainable future where the delicate balance of our ecosystems is preserved, and the impact of human activities on the planet is minimized.

Growing up in a low-income household has shaped my character, instilling in me resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to overcome the challenges that life presents. My journey has been marked by financial constraints and limited resources, but it has also been a crucible of personal growth. Through my experiences, I have developed a strong desire to make a positive impact on my community and the world at large. My parents raised my younger brother and me with limited financial resources, as my mother worked to finish her degree, and my father worked on a single income. Despite the challenges, my parents never complained or gave up, knowing that their hard work and perseverance would pay off in the end. Seeing their focus and effort at a young age taught me that we are in control of our future, but that it takes daily commitment and hard work to achieve our goals. In the crucible of financial hardship, every obstacle becomes an opportunity to learn, adapt, and persevere. From an early age, I witnessed the sacrifices my parents made to provide for our family's basic needs. Despite the scarcity of resources, they instilled in me the values of hard work, tenacity, and the importance of education to break the cycle of poverty. For example, my brother and I are currently pursuing our graduate degrees and I give full credit to our parents for the lessons and principles that they instilled in us. Navigating the educational landscape as a student from a low-income background presented its unique set of challenges. I had limited resources but through networking, mentorships, and asking questions, I was able to find scholarships that assisted me with tuition costs. With the support from others, I managed to excel academically, defying the statistical odds that often accompany financial hardship. My journey has equipped me with a profound understanding of the systemic barriers that individuals from low-income households face. Armed with this awareness, my mission is to use my life experience as a catalyst for positive change within my community and beyond. One of my primary goals is to establish mentorship programs that connect students from low-income backgrounds with successful individuals who have overcome similar challenges. I have looked for ways to positively influence my community in Nashville, TN and Murfreesboro, TN by volunteering as a “Big Brother” for Big Brother Big Sister Inc., teaching group exercise classes that are open to the public and being a member of the local NAACP chapter. I believe that personal narratives and mentorship can inspire resilience, ignite ambition, and provide tangible guidance for navigating the complexities of education and career development. In addition to local initiatives, I am passionate about contributing to global efforts aimed at alleviating poverty and promoting education. Recognizing the interconnectedness of our world, I plan to collaborate with international organizations that share my vision for creating sustainable solutions to global issues. By leveraging my experiences and insights, I aim to contribute to initiatives that uplift marginalized communities, providing them with the tools and resources needed to build a brighter future. In conclusion, my journey from a low-income household has been a crucible that forged resilience, determination, and a commitment to positive change. I plan to use my life experience to empower individuals facing similar challenges, fostering mentorship programs and advocating for systemic changes at both local and global levels. By doing so, I aspire to be a beacon of hope, breaking down barriers and creating opportunities that transcend the limitations imposed by financial constraints.

A structural or body injury can affect your day-to-day life; the role of a physical therapist is to create the appropriate intervention that helps you regain your strength and mobility. Physical therapy (PT) has played an invaluable role in my life because I have been a client who struggled while rehabbing an injury. The therapist who worked with me provided unwavering support, encouragement, and a roadmap to recovery. This experience illuminated the profound impact physical therapists have on individuals beyond the realm of physical rehabilitation. Moreover, physical therapy has provided me with opportunities to meet and work with great clinicians whom I consider my mentors today. The mentors both involved me in their research projects and wrote letters of recommendation on my behalf. After working as a PT technician in an acute setting and aiding in the progression of patients, I realized that a PT is not only a movement specialist but can wear multiple hats to create the best environment for their clients. I embrace my role as an advocate for change in my community because I have noticed the impact that healthcare has had on my family, and I will pay it forward by helping clients in the future. As I progress through my academic journey, I eagerly embrace courses in anatomy, physiology, and rehabilitation sciences. The more I learn and job shadow in different settings, the more I realize that physical therapy is not just about treating injuries; it allows us to empower individuals to regain control of their lives. This realization ignites my sense of purpose, prompting me to envision the impactful contributions I could make to this profession. My contribution to the physical therapy profession will involve advocating for my community and educating others on the importance of PT for all ages. Growing up, I was exposed early on to the commitment required to be an impactful healthcare provider. I have several family members who currently work in healthcare, and they led through example with their dedication to their field and contribution to their community. Their inspiration motivated me to impact my communities in Nashville and Murfreesboro, TN. I have volunteered as a “Big Brother” for Big Brother Big Sister Inc. to teach group exercise classes that are open to the public. From educating my mentees to helping friends/family lose weight, it starts with those working in the healthcare field stepping up to help build a healthier future. In both rural and urban areas, a large percentage of people have not been exposed to or experienced physical therapy; for several decades, PT was not as recognized as other healthcare professions. I aim to increase awareness of just how influential PT is to an individual's health, regardless of age or background. Furthermore, I am committed to fostering inclusivity within the physical therapy field. As a future practitioner, I intend to advocate for and create accessible rehabilitation programs for individuals from diverse backgrounds and communities. I believe that everyone, regardless of their socioeconomic status or cultural background, deserves access to quality healthcare. I am determined to be a driving force in making this vision a reality. In conclusion, physical therapy is not just a profession to me; it is a calling that aligns with my personal experiences, values, and aspirations. From my journey as a patient to my aspiration to become a physical therapist, my path has been one with characteristics of resilience, empathy, and a deep appreciation for the transformative power of rehabilitation.

I thought success was how much money a person invested in a community however, success involves more than just finances. Building relationships by mentoring and being engaged in your community are a few things that have defined what success means to me. My definition of success has changed over the years because I realized that I can positively impact my community by educating and mentoring the younger generation while I complete my graduate degree. Success to me means uplifting my community by helping them achieve their goals and motivating others to reach for success. There are a few factors that have influenced my success, but the main influence has been my community. My parents, friends, and mentors have encouraged me to strive for all that I want in life but have challenged me to stay the course when I feel discouraged. I am grateful for my parents because my dad has been a nurse for 20-plus years and my mom has worked as a special education teacher for 15 years. Both of their careers brought different experiences that helped me learn more about myself and the career path that I wanted to pursue. The healthcare field encompasses copious avenues or career paths and I wanted to focus on becoming a physical therapist (PT) however, I did not know any PT's while I was growing up. With my dad being a nurse, he knew what a PT did but did not know any personally. However, he helped me by reaching out to his friends and they showed me which PT clinics I should contact! That is when I learned the importance of having a community around that could educate you on different career paths. I reached out to friends and mentors which also helped connect me to a physical therapist that allowed me to job shadow them for a day. I was excited and ready to learn as much as I could as a student observer because up until that point, the only time I was in a PT clinic was when I was rehabbing an injury from sports. After observing for a few hours, I knew that this was the career path for me because I enjoyed interacting with the clients and learning medical terminology from the PT. From that day, I continued to stay in contact with the PT that I observed, and she also wrote a letter of recommendation for me when I applied for PT school. I would not be where I am in life without the help from my parents and staying focused on my goals. As a graduate student there are limited opportunities for scholarships and grants, but the "Redefining Victory Scholarship" is helping students like me achieve greatness. I applied for Physical Therapy school this year because it has been a long-term goal of mine and once, I found out that I was accepted I knew I was one step closer to becoming a licensed PT. After having several injuries from sports and having to rehab those injuries, perseverance became a part of my identity at a young age. I have several family members who currently work as healthcare professionals, and I understand the commitment that it requires to be a successful provider in healthcare. The healthcare field has had an everlasting impact on my life but has also challenged me to be active in my community. I have looked for ways to positively influence my community in Nashville and Murfreesboro by volunteering as a “Big Brother” for Big Brother Big Sister Inc., teaching group exercise classes that are open to the public and being a member of the local NAACP chapter. From educating my mentee to helping friends/family lose weight, it starts with those working in the healthcare field stepping up to play their role in building a healthier future. This scholarship will not only assist with tuition costs, but I will also use it as a tool to help with my clinical placement and residency/fellowship costs in the future. I continue to make my dream a reality by pursuing a career that has not only helped me recover from injuries but also helped members of my family recover. I have a role to play in my community and it starts by being intentional with the goals that I set.

Growing up in the black community, you would hear statements such as "You are fine", "You do not need help", or "Black people don't need help with mental health, that's for weak people." All of these statements are false, but they have created damaging ideologies that we have carried for generations. My utopian vision for optimal mental health within the black community involves better representation in mental healthcare providers, improved health equity as a result of social justice advocacy, and strengthened mental health education, starting at home. I am an advocate for improving mental health in my community because I have noticed the impact that healthcare has had on my family when we have the support and proper resources. My father is an adolescent psychiatric nurse and he always instilled the importance of being an advocate for your mental health and asking your healthcare provider questions. This has encouraged me to help others who come to me with questions and to be an aid to those who are nervous about speaking to a psychologist or medical doctor. Issues surrounding mental health in the black community have become more known over the past few years due to increased resources and awareness. However, there is still room for improvement and support from the healthcare industry. Representation is important in all careers, and it was reported by the American Psychology Association that Black/African Americans make up less than 5% of all therapists in the workplace. Historically, there has been a lack of trust within the black community about the healthcare system and to improve that trust we need to increase representation and (or) improve education on how build trust. Trust is important when dealing with the lives of others, and when there is a lack of trust, it can negatively impact healthcare outcomes. Alternately, by creating a more equitable workforce, this trust can be established by providing access to therapists who understand the challenges we face. Encouraging more people to seek careers as a psychologist or mental health professional would be a great start, but how do we reach our community to raise awareness about mental health? We reach our community by starting programs such as the "Social Change Fund", which focuses on unity, creating urgency, and challenging the community to be proactive as it pertains to our health. Furthermore, social justice advocates have fought for our community to have better access to healthcare, including mental health, but it is a continuous fight where we cannot quit. As we continue to push for better mental health access and social justice, our community will gain better resources and knowledge about how beneficial healthcare can be when it is implemented correctly. The lack of support for several years has affected how we take care of ourselves and our confidence when we go into a medical facility. I am optimistic about the future of my community because we are resilient and support organizations that care about our well-being. We know that the black community faces unique health and social challenges. By breaking down the disparities that negatively affect our health and well-being will create a better future for the younger generation. A career objective of mine is to improve confidence and healthcare access in my community by being a voice for those who are not heard. Early exposure to health and wellness is crucial to the mental development of young adults who want to seek a career in the healthcare field. I will continue to encourage mental health education because this is an area that is important to the improvement of my community.

Growing up in the black community, you would hear statements such as "You are fine", "You do not need help", or "Black people don't need help with mental health, that's for the weak." All of these statements are false, but they have created damaging ideologies that we have carried for generations. My utopian vision for optimal mental health within the black community involves better representation in mental healthcare providers, improved health equity as a result of social justice advocacy, and strengthened mental health education, starting at home. Issues surrounding mental health in the black community have become more acknowledged over the past few years due to resources and awareness. However, there is still room for improvement and support from the healthcare industry. Representation is important in all careers, and it was reported by the American Psychology Association that Black/African Americans make up less than 5% of all therapists in the workplace. Historically, there has been a lack of trust in the healthcare system within the black community. Trust is important when dealing with the lives of others, and when there is a lack of trust, it can negatively impact healthcare outcomes. Alternately, by creating a more equitable workforce, this trust can be established by providing access to therapists who understand the challenges we face. Encouraging more people to seek careers as a psychologist would be a great start, but how do we reach our community to raise awareness about mental health? We reach our community by starting programs such as the "Social Change Fund", which focuses on unity, creating urgency, and challenging the community to be proactive as it pertains to our health. Furthermore, social justice advocates have fought for our community to have better access to healthcare, including mental health, but it is a continuous fight where we cannot quit. As we continue to push for better mental health access and social justice, our community will gain resources and knowledge about how beneficial healthcare can be when it is implemented correctly. The lack of resources for several years has affected how we take care of ourselves and our confidence when we go into a medical facility. I am optimistic about the future of my community because we are resilient and support organizations that care about our well-being. I am an advocate for change in my community because I have noticed the impact that healthcare has had on my family when they have the support and proper resources. My father is an adolescent psychiatric nurse and he always instilled the importance of being an advocate for your health and asking your healthcare provider questions. This has equipped me to help others who come to me with questions and to be an aid to those who are nervous about speaking to a psychologist or medical doctor. I am currently a physical therapy student at Bowling Green State University pursuing my graduate degree because, at a young age, my parents introduced me to the importance of exercise. A career objective of mine is to improve confidence and health access in my community by being a voice for those who are not heard. Early exposure to health and wellness is crucial to the development of young adults who want to seek a career in the healthcare field. We know that the black community faces unique health and social challenges. By breaking down the disparities that negatively affect our health and well-being, we can ensure a prosperous future that will drive social change for generations to come.