Growing up in the Commonwealth of Dominica, I witnessed how limited access to healthcare affected families in my community. Many people struggled to receive timely medical care, and financial hardship often forced them to delay or go without treatment. Watching these challenges unfold at such a young age sparked a desire in me to become part of the solution. I realized that improving healthcare requires not only compassionate providers but also strong leaders who can create systems that serve everyone fairly. That realization inspired me to pursue a degree in Public Health. My journey to higher education has not been easy. As an international student studying in the United States, I have faced financial hardship, homesickness, and the challenge of adapting to a new country while maintaining excellent academic performance. There were moments when I questioned whether I would be able to continue my education, but I refused to let my circumstances determine my future. Every obstacle has strengthened my resilience and reinforced my commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. After earning my bachelor's degree, I plan to pursue a Master of Health Administration and build a career in healthcare leadership. My goal is to improve healthcare systems by expanding access to quality care, strengthening disease prevention initiatives, and helping healthcare organizations provide compassionate, efficient, and equitable services. I want to advocate for underserved communities and develop programs that address health disparities, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to live a healthy life. The people who inspire me most are my parents. Despite limited financial resources, they worked tirelessly and made countless sacrifices to provide opportunities for our family. Their perseverance, humility, and unwavering belief in the value of education continue to motivate me every day. My Christian faith also shapes my purpose by reminding me that leadership is rooted in service and that we are called to love and care for others with compassion and integrity. Beyond my professional career, I hope to mentor students from disadvantaged backgrounds, particularly first-generation and international students who may feel overwhelmed by the challenges of pursuing higher education. I want them to know that their circumstances do not define their future. My education is more than a personal achievement—it is a tool that will allow me to serve others, improve communities, and leave a lasting legacy of hope. Through healthcare leadership, advocacy, and service, I am committed to shaping a future where quality healthcare is accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or income.

Joe Gilroy’s motto, "Plan Your Work, Work Your Plan," resonates deeply with how I approach my education and career. As a first-generation college student maintaining a 4.0 GPA while competing as a student-athlete, I don’t leave my goals to chance. Success requires strategy, a meticulous breakdown of resources, and a clear timeline. My ultimate goal is to become a healthcare executive—specifically a Chief Operating Officer or Hospital Manager—where I can optimize hospital operations, improve healthcare compliance, and directly impact community health outcomes. My immediate plan to achieve this is structured around completing my Bachelor’s Degree in Public Health, followed by earning a Master of Health Administration (MHA) at UNC Charlotte. To ensure I am fully prepared for the operational demands of this field, I have already aggressively pursued hands-on experience, completing a comprehensive health administration internship at Atrium Health Cabarrus. There, I conducted multi-unit operational audits and shadowed clinical procedures, gaining a frontline understanding of healthcare delivery. To transition from my undergraduate studies to my graduate goals, my strategic plan accounts for three critical angles: academic preparation, professional networking, and financial budgeting. 1. Timeline and Academic Benchmarks My immediate timeline focuses on completing my undergraduate requirements while stepping into an upcoming summer healthcare administration internship, which I secured through a formal return offer. This will bridge the gap between my theoretical knowledge and real-world executive leadership. By early 2027, I will submit my applications to graduate MHA programs, targeting a Fall 2027 enrollment. 2. Resource Allocation Executing this plan requires leveraging specific institutional and professional resources. I actively consult with my academic mentors to align my coursework with graduate prerequisites, ensuring zero downtime or wasted tuition dollars. Furthermore, I lean on the mentorship of my internship preceptors and healthcare administrators to understand the evolving landscape of healthcare compliance and epidemiology. 3. Financial Budget and Contingency Planning A realistic plan demands a strict budget. Graduate school requires a significant financial investment, encompassing tuition, fees, textbooks, and professional attire for executive networking. Estimated MHA Tuition & Fees (2 Years): $26,000 (In-State) Books, Software, and Materials: $2,500 Living Expenses & Professional Development: $15,000 To fund this without accumulating overwhelming debt, I am leveraging a multi-tiered financial strategy: utilizing stipends from internship roles, applying for targeted scholarships like this one, and maintaining institutional employment. If a financial gap remains, my contingency plan is to secure a graduate assistantship or an administrative residency that offers tuition remission, allowing me to work within the university network while cutting costs. Like Joe Gilroy keeping his daily index note close at hand, I keep my long-term roadmap locked in. I have the ambition to lead, the drive to outwork the competition on the track and in the classroom, and a concrete, audited plan to make a lasting impact in healthcare administration. This scholarship would serve as a vital financial resource, allowing me to execute the next phase of my plan with maximum focus.

For many years, I never imagined that I would say I love math. In high school, math was one of my greatest struggles. No matter how hard I studied, I often felt frustrated and doubted my ability to succeed. I began to believe that I simply was not a "math person." Everything changed when I met a college instructor who saw potential in me before I saw it in myself. Instead of making me feel discouraged by my mistakes, they patiently explained concepts in ways that made sense and encouraged me to keep trying. Their belief in me transformed not only my understanding of math but also my confidence. For the first time, I realized that math is not about being naturally gifted—it is about persistence, practice, and learning to think differently. Today, I am proud to be an A student in college mathematics. Looking back, I never would have believed that the subject I once feared would become one of my favorites. What I love most about math is that there is always a logical path to a solution. It challenges me to think critically, solve problems creatively, and remain patient when faced with difficult situations. These are skills that extend far beyond the classroom and are valuable in everyday life. As a Public Health student, I also appreciate how essential math is in analyzing health data, understanding statistics, managing budgets, and making informed decisions that can improve communities. Math is the foundation of innovation in healthcare, technology, business, and countless other fields. My journey with math has taught me that our greatest weaknesses can become our greatest strengths when we have the right support and refuse to give up. That is why I now genuinely love math—it has given me confidence, resilience, and the courage to believe that I can overcome any challenge with determination.

### The Gravity of the Invisible: "My Tears Ricochet" at the Eras Tour While Taylor Swift’s career is defined by stadium-sized spectacles, the performance that moves me most is the quietest, most haunting sequence of the Eras Tour: "My Tears Ricochet" during the *folklore* set. In a stadium filled with over seventy thousand screaming fans, this performance strips away the traditional pop-star armor, replacing it with raw, devastating theatricality. Dressed in a flowing, ethereal gown, Swift leads a somber, funeral-like procession across the stage. The staging feels deeply communal yet intensely isolated. What makes this performance so magnetic is how she handles the song’s emotional paradox: it is an elegy for a dead relationship, sung from the perspective of a ghost looking down at their own wake. When the production swells and she drops to her knees, singing, *“I can go anywhere I want, anywhere I want, just not home,”* the physicalized grief is palpable. This specific moment perfectly bridges the introspective, cabin-in-the-woods folklore era with the core theme of her twelfth album, *The Life of A Showgirl*. It exposes the ultimate paradox of her career—the showgirl who must turn her deepest, most private heartbreaks into a dazzling, public commodity for a packed arena. Watching her command the entire stadium while embodying absolute vulnerability taught me that true power doesn't always come from a triumphant pop anthem. Sometimes, it comes from having the courage to stand in the middle of a massive stage, face your ghosts completely unsheltered, and turn your deepest vulnerabilities into a shared masterpiece.

My encounter with substance use began in a season of trying to support my ex-best friend. She was drowning in the grief of a painful breakup with her ex-girlfriend, turning to drugs to numb her emotional pain. In my desire to be a supportive companion and stay connected to her, I allowed myself to be led down a path I never intended to walk. I began using high-dose cannabis edibles alongside her, mistakenly believing it was a harmless way to help her cope—and to cope myself. The turning point came during an episode that was as terrifying as it was transformative. After consuming a high dose, my body and mind completely fractured. I spiraled into intense, vivid hallucinations and became severely dehydrated, feeling my grip on reality slipping away entirely. Yet, in the deepest depths of that frightening episode, as I closed my eyes in absolute surrender, I experienced a profound vision of peace—a vision of heaven that broke through the chaos. In that exact moment of vulnerability, a powerful wave of clarity washed over me. It was the moment I realized, with absolute certainty, that God is real. He had preserved my life, and I was being given a second chance. Emerging from that night, I knew I had to make a radical change. The hallucination and the physical toll of that episode were a severe wake-up call. I chose to step away from the toxic dynamics of that friendship and make a firm commitment to absolute sobriety. Leaving a close friendship behind was incredibly difficult, but choosing my health, my mind, and my relationship with God was the first step toward reclaiming my future. Moving forward, my goal is to channel this experience into a lifetime of service. As a student pursuing a degree in Public Health, I see firsthand how systemic and personal crises intersect. This journey has given me a deep, firsthand empathy for those struggling with substance use and the mental health challenges that fuel it. I plan to use my education to work within community health administration, designing preventative programs and support systems that catch young people before they fall into the cycle of addiction. Max Bungard’s legacy is a beautiful reminder that our struggles do not define our character. Like Max, I want to be defined by the love, joy, and resilience I bring into the room, rather than the dark chapters I have survived. Sobriety has restored my focus, my faith, and my drive. With this scholarship, I hope to continue my academic journey, ultimately using my voice and my career to guide others out of the darkness and into the light of recovery.

If this is **not** going to be submitted for the scholarship that prohibits AI-written essays, I can certainly help draft an essay. If you submit it anywhere, you should make sure doing so complies with that application's rules. Here's a sample essay based on your background that you can adapt: --- **Why should we consider you for this scholarship?** Education has always represented hope, opportunity, and the chance to create lasting change. As an international student from the Commonwealth of Dominica pursuing a degree in Public Health in the United States, I have learned that success is not determined by where you begin but by your determination to overcome obstacles. Every achievement I have earned has been the result of perseverance, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to improving both my own future and the lives of others. Moving to the United States to attend Johnson C. Smith University was one of the biggest decisions I have ever made. I left behind my family and everything familiar because I believed education could open doors that would otherwise remain closed. While studying abroad has been an incredible opportunity, it has also brought significant financial challenges. As an international student, I have limited access to financial aid programs that many domestic students can rely on. There have been times when I questioned how I would pay tuition, housing, meals, and other educational expenses. Instead of allowing these obstacles to discourage me, they motivated me to work harder and seek every opportunity available. Academically, I have remained committed to excellence despite these challenges. I have maintained a strong GPA while balancing demanding coursework with internships, leadership responsibilities, and campus involvement. My studies in Public Health have strengthened my passion for improving healthcare systems and ensuring that individuals receive quality care regardless of their background. I understand that healthcare extends beyond treating illness; it also involves leadership, prevention, education, and advocacy. Outside the classroom, I have sought opportunities to grow as a leader and serve others. I have served in leadership roles within student organizations, participated in campus initiatives, and represented my peers in ways that have strengthened my communication and teamwork skills. These experiences have taught me the importance of listening to others, working collaboratively, and leading with integrity. Leadership, to me, is about creating opportunities for others and contributing to something greater than yourself. One of the most meaningful experiences during my college career has been completing an internship with Atrium Health. Through this experience, I gained firsthand exposure to the healthcare environment and learned how collaboration among healthcare professionals directly impacts patient outcomes. I participated in projects focused on improving healthcare processes, observed various hospital departments, and developed a greater appreciation for healthcare administration. This internship confirmed my desire to pursue a career in healthcare leadership, where I can help improve organizational efficiency while ensuring patients receive compassionate, high-quality care. Community service has also played an important role in my personal growth. Whether volunteering at campus events, participating in service projects, or supporting initiatives that benefit local communities, I have learned that even small acts of service can create meaningful change. Giving back reminds me why I chose a career centered on helping others and reinforces my commitment to making a positive impact wherever I go. Looking ahead, I plan to earn a Master of Health Administration after completing my bachelor's degree. My long-term goal is to work in healthcare administration, helping hospitals and healthcare organizations improve patient care, increase access to quality services, and reduce health disparities. I hope to use my education not only to build a successful career but also to inspire other students from small communities and limited financial backgrounds to pursue their own educational dreams. My Christian faith has been the foundation that has carried me through every challenge I have faced. Moving to a new country, navigating financial uncertainty, and balancing the demands of college have often tested my strength, but my relationship with God has given me hope, perseverance, and peace during difficult seasons. My faith reminds me to approach every opportunity with humility, serve others with compassion, and remain grateful even when circumstances are challenging. It has shaped my character, strengthened my resilience, and inspired my desire to pursue a career in healthcare where I can care for others with integrity, empathy, and a heart for service. I believe that the talents and opportunities I have been given are meant to be used to make a positive difference in the lives of those around me. Receiving this scholarship would ease the financial burden of continuing my education and allow me to devote even more time to my studies, leadership, and professional development. Currently I am lacking funds to continue this fall semester . More importantly, receiving this scholarship it would represent an investment in someone who is committed to using education as a tool for service and positive change. I believe my journey demonstrates resilience, determination, and a genuine desire to make a difference. Although my path has not always been easy, every challenge has strengthened my resolve to succeed. If selected for this scholarship, I will continue striving for academic excellence, serving my community, and pursuing a career dedicated to improving the health and well-being of others. I hope to honor this opportunity by making a lasting impact on the communities I will serve throughout my career.

## The Alchemy of the Midnight Oil The digital clock on the microwave blinked a harsh, neon 2:43 AM. To the rest of the sleeping world, this was the dead of night. To Leo, it was prime time. Leo didn’t look like a traditional genius. There was no pristine white lab coat, no neatly organized spreadsheets, and certainly no respect for standard boundaries. Instead, he wore a flour-dusted apron over a vintage graphic tee, his hair a localized weather event of static electricity and hyper-focus. His laboratory was a cramped apartment kitchen, and his current experiment was nothing short of culinary heresy. On the counter sat three distinct, seemingly incompatible elements: a cast-iron skillet sizzling with thick-cut, maple-glazed bacon; a bubbling pot of sharp cheddar artisanal mac and cheese; and a stack of fresh, unused egg roll wrappers. Standard logic dictated these items remain in their respective lanes. Breakfast, comfort food dinner, and Asian-fusion appetizers. They were three separate solar systems. But Leo wasn’t interested in standard logic. He was hunting for a flavor supernova. > "They call it chaos," Leo muttered to his cat, who was watching safely from atop the refrigerator. "But it’s just harmony they haven’t learned to hear yet." He moved with a frantic, rhythmic energy. He wasn't just cooking; he was composing. With the precision of a surgeon and the reckless abandon of a street artist, he chopped the crispy bacon into smoky confetti, folding it directly into the rich, velvety mac and cheese. The steam rose in a fragrant cloud—a heavy, savory perfume of dairy and smoke. But a Mad Genius knows that flavor is only half the battle. Genius requires structure. It requires portability. It requires that satisfying, earth-shattering *crunch*. He laid out an egg roll wrapper on the cutting board. With a spoon, he deposited a generous, molten core of the bacon-mac fusion directly into the center. This was the critical juncture. The moment of maximum volatility. If the wrapper tore, the cheese would escape into the hot oil, causing a catastrophic grease fire. If he underfilled it, it would be a hollow disappointment. A Mad Genius doesn't play it safe; they walk the knife's edge between disaster and masterpiece. With lightning-fast fingers, he rolled, tucked, and sealed the edges with a dab of water. One by one, he created a fleet of sleek, beige cylinders—tightly wrapped packages of pure comfort. He checked the temperature of the oil in his deep skillet. It shimmered, humming with latent thermal energy. *“Now or never,”* he whispered. He dropped the rolls into the oil. Instantly, the kitchen erupted into a violent, beautiful hiss. Leo watched, unblinking, as the pale wrappers blistered and bubbled, shifting from stark white to a rich, golden mahogany. The scent changed, transforming into something aggressively craveable, the kind of aroma that sneaks under bedroom doors and wakes people from a deep sleep. Using metal tongs, he retrieved the rolls and set them on a paper towel. They crackled softly, cooling down from cosmic temperatures to something humanly consumable. Leo didn’t wait for a plate. He grabbed one barehanded, ignoring the sting of heat on his fingertips. He split it open. A perfectly timed pocket of steam escaped. Inside, the cheddar was a molten, stringy web, suspending the crispy bits of bacon in a perfect, gooey stasis. The outer shell was shattered into a thousand flaky shards. He took a bite. The crunch was loud enough to echo in the quiet apartment. Then came the rush: the sharp, salty punch of the cheddar, the sweet smoky undertone of the maple bacon, and the comforting, carb-heavy embrace of the pasta, all held together by a perfectly fried casing. It was loud. It was chaotic. It felt entirely wrong according to every culinary textbook ever written—and it was absolutely, undeniably brilliant. Leo leaned back against the counter, a manic, exhausted smile spreading across his face. The kitchen was an absolute disaster zone—flour on the floor, cheese on the cabinet handles, pots stacked precariously in the sink. To an outsider, it looked like madness. But looking at the plate of golden, rule-breaking snack rolls, Leo knew exactly what it really was. It was genius.

My background has always been defined by a relentless drive to excel and a deep commitment to serving others. Balancing the intense physical and mental demands of being a competitive track and field student athlete while maintaining a 4.0 GPA in public health has shaped my work ethic and resilience. Running the 400 meter and 800 meter events teaches you everything you need to know about endurance, strategy, and pushing past perceived limits. I carry that exact same discipline into my academic and professional life, viewing every challenge as an opportunity to optimize performance and create meaningful change. My experience extends far beyond the track and into community leadership and technological innovation. Serving as a Resident Advisor has allowed me to cultivate supportive, structured environments for my peers, while volunteering at regional food banks has kept me grounded in the real world challenges facing our communities. One of my most defining experiences was managing a team to develop SmartCLT, a closed large language model AI tool designed to help city stakeholders synthesize municipal and healthcare data. Winning second place in an innovation pitch competition for this project solidified my belief that modern healthcare and public health solutions require a blend of data driven efficiency, civic collaboration, and forward thinking leadership. This administrative focus is not just academic; I have actively tested it on the ground through hands-on healthcare internships. During my time at Atrium Health Cabarrus, I worked directly on operational projects like conducting hand hygiene audits, managing oxygen tank inventories, and coordinating training programs. This experience gave me a front-row seat to the daily logistical challenges of running a major clinical facility and showed me how small operational efficiencies directly protect patient safety. Moving forward into my administrative internship with Advocate Health, I plan to leverage these real-world insights to further streamline operations. Having this hands-on foundation ensures that my future leadership as an administrator is always rooted in the practical realities of frontline patient care. Looking ahead, my career goals are firmly set on transforming the landscape of healthcare administration. Following the completion of my undergraduate degree, I plan to pursue a Master of Health Administration to deepen my understanding of organizational management and healthcare systems. My ultimate ambition is to serve as a Chief Operating Officer or board director of a healthcare facility, where I can directly influence systemic efficiency, manage large scale resource allocation, and champion cutting edge patient care models. By combining my background in public health, my experience in civic technology, and the unstoppable drive of a student athlete, I am fully prepared to lead healthcare organizations that prioritize both operational excellence and compassionate, high impact community care.

True empowerment begins when we lift others as we climb, creating pathways for those who come after us. My commitment to women’s empowerment is rooted in the belief that leadership is defined by service and mentorship. As a student athlete, I have consistently used my platform to challenge the boundaries of what young women can achieve. Balancing a rigorous academic schedule with the intense physical demands of track and field requires a deep level of discipline, but my true fulfillment comes from using that experience to guide others. By stepping into leadership roles such as a Resident Advisor on campus, I have dedicated myself to fostering environments where young women feel safe, supported, and motivated to pursue their highest ambitions. Mentorship is not just about giving advice; it is about standing as a visible example of resilience and showing other young women that their voices and goals matter. This dedication to service extends beyond the campus and into the community, where I actively volunteer to address systemic inequities that disproportionately affect women and families. Working with regional organizations like local food banks has given me a direct look at the socioeconomic challenges within our communities. Women are so often the cornerstones of their households, bearing the brunt of resource insecurity while trying to provide a stable future for their children. By dedicating my time to these non profit and volunteer initiatives, I work to provide immediate relief and restore a sense of security to these families. True empowerment cannot happen in a vacuum; it requires us to meet people where they are and ensure their basic needs are met so they can focus on their growth, education, and long term success. Looking forward, my ultimate goal is to drive long term empowerment by reshaping the structural systems that govern community well being. My studies in public health and my ambition to enter healthcare administration are directly fueled by a desire to advocate for women on a systemic level. Whether by optimizing hospital operations, improving community wellness initiatives, or advancing into executive leadership as a Chief Operating Officer, I plan to be a voice for equity in spaces where major decisions are made. To honor the legacy of educational leaders like Charlene K. Howard, we must remain fiercely committed to breaking down barriers and opening doors for the next generation. By combining academic excellence, athletic discipline, and a heart for community service, I am determined to build a career that continuously champions, elevates, and empowers women to reach their full potential.

There is a profound, quiet weight that settles over a home when cognitive decline begins to take hold. Watching someone who was once an anchor of strength and wisdom gradually lose their grip on the present is a deeply altering experience. It is not a sudden, singular event, but rather a slow progression of small losses. You notice it in the repeated questions, the momentary confusion in a familiar room, and the quiet frustration of trying to grasp a word that remains just out of reach. Witnessing this journey firsthand completely reshaped how I view medicine, caregiving, and my own purpose in the world. It moved my understanding of healthcare from the pages of a textbook into the raw reality of human vulnerability, showing me that the true measure of our medical systems lies in how we protect the dignity of those who can no longer advocate for themselves. As a student athlete, my life has always been defined by action, physical discipline, and the pursuit of excellence. I was taught to believe that dedication and hard work could overcome almost any obstacle. However, witnessing the progression of dementia taught me a humbling lesson about the limits of human will. It showed me a different kind of strength, one defined by the resilience of family members who step into caregiving roles without hesitation. I watched the emotional and physical toll this takes on a household. The daily routine becomes a delicate balance of patience, safety management, and emotional endurance. You learn to celebrate the brief moments of clarity and find peace in simply being present, even when the person you love does not fully recognize the face looking back at them. This experience stripped away any abstract ideas I had about healthcare and replaced them with a stark truth. Medicine is not just about finding a cure; it is about sustaining the human spirit through the most challenging transitions of life. This close exposure to the realities of cognitive decline naturally guided my academic focus toward public health. When you watch a family navigate dementia, you quickly realize that the disease does not exist in a vacuum. It exposes the massive systemic gaps that many families face every single day. I saw how difficult it can be to coordinate care, find reliable resources, and access specialized neurological support. The burden on family caregivers is immense, often leading to their own physical and mental health challenges. This is not just an individual family struggle; it is a widespread public health crisis that demands structural solutions. My studies in public health allowed me to analyze these challenges through a broader lens. I began to look at how social determinants of health, community support networks, and policy decisions impact the quality of life for aging populations. This academic framework validated what I had seen in my personal life, confirming that we need a comprehensive, proactive approach to address the rising tide of Alzheimer disease and related dementias. These experiences ultimately forged my ambition to become a healthcare administrator. I do not just want to study public health; I want to actively build and manage the organizations that deliver care. My long term goal is to serve as a Chief Operating Officer or a board director of a healthcare facility. In these leadership roles, I want to bridge the gap between clinical research and daily patient operations. To truly honor the legacy of people like Henry Respert, who dedicated their lives to serving and mentoring others, we must design healthcare environments that prioritize both scientific innovation and human empathy. This means managing resources efficiently so that we can fund cutting edge research into aging and cognitive diseases, while simultaneously ensuring that our front line staff have the training and support they need to provide compassionate, dignified care. The story of Henry Respert, a man who served his community as a police officer and stood as a mentor to so many in Detroit, deeply resonates with my own values. Leadership is not about personal accolades; it is about the positive impact you leave on the lives of others. When dementia touches a leader, it can feel like their legacy is being threatened by the loss of memory. But a person’s impact lives on in the people they inspired. By pursuing a career dedicated to transforming healthcare systems, I hope to carry forward that same spirit of mentorship and community service. I want to use my education and my drive to ensure that future generations do not have to watch their loved ones slip away without hope. We must invest heavily in understanding the root causes of Alzheimer disease, and we must train the next generation of healthcare professionals to approach dementia care with the urgency and respect it deserves. The lessons I have learned from witnessing the impact of dementia are permanently etched into my character. They have given me a clear, unwavering vision for my professional journey. I want to be a leader who does not shy away from complex, systemic challenges. Whether through optimizing institutional operations, advocating for community wellness initiatives, or supporting pioneering research, my commitment to this field is personal. This scholarship represents more than just financial assistance; it is an opportunity to align my dedication to healthcare administration with a legacy of service, moving us closer to a world where dementia is met with unparalleled care, deep understanding, and ultimately, a cure.

One of the most meaningful lessons I have learned is that leadership is not about holding a title. It is about recognizing a need and choosing to serve. As a Public Health student, I believe that improving health begins long before a patient enters a hospital. It starts with ensuring that people have access to basic necessities, including nutritious food. This belief became even stronger through my volunteer experience at Second Harvest Food Bank with my internship organization, Atrium Health. During my internship at Atrium Health, I had the opportunity to participate in a volunteer event at Second Harvest Food Bank. Alongside fellow interns and Atrium Health staff, I helped sort and pack food that would be distributed to individuals and families experiencing food insecurity throughout our community. Every box we packed represented more than a meal. It represented hope for parents struggling to provide for their children, older adults living on fixed incomes, and individuals facing unexpected financial hardships. Although I was not the sole organizer of the event, I actively supported the effort by helping coordinate tasks within my volunteer group, encouraging teamwork, and ensuring we worked efficiently to prepare as many food packages as possible. Working together taught me that leadership often means motivating others, communicating effectively, and contributing wherever you are needed. By serving alongside healthcare professionals, I also saw how organizations like Atrium Health recognize that addressing social needs such as hunger is essential to improving overall health. As an immigrant from Dominica and a first-generation college student, I understand how financial hardship can affect a person's well-being. My own journey has shown me the importance of community support during difficult times. Volunteering at Second Harvest reminded me that even a few hours of service can make a meaningful difference in someone's life. It strengthened my commitment to using my education to address the social factors that influence health, including food insecurity, access to healthcare, and health education. Leadership through service is important because it creates lasting change by putting people before personal recognition. A true leader listens, serves with compassion, and inspires others to take action. When leaders work alongside their communities rather than above them, they build trust and create solutions that have a lasting impact. Service also teaches humility, empathy, and responsibility, qualities that every public health professional should possess. My experiences have inspired my long-term goal of building a career in healthcare administration. I hope to develop community partnerships between healthcare organizations and food assistance programs so that patients experiencing food insecurity can be connected with resources that support their health beyond the hospital walls. I also plan to continue volunteering throughout my career because I believe service should never end after graduation. The day I spent volunteering at Second Harvest Food Bank reminded me that improving public health begins with caring for people as whole individuals. Whether I am packing food, serving my community, or leading future public health initiatives, I will continue to lead through service, compassion, and a genuine commitment to improving the lives of others.

When I left my home in Dominica to pursue a degree in Public Health in the United States, I carried more than a suitcase. I carried the hope that my education would allow me to improve the lives of people who often go unseen. That purpose has guided every opportunity I have accepted and every act of service I have chosen. Compassion is not just something I believe in. It is the foundation of the person I strive to become. One experience that reflects these values was my internship at Atrium Health. I worked on projects focused on infection prevention and patient safety, including auditing hand sanitizer dispensers to improve compliance throughout the hospital. While the work seemed simple, I realized that every dispenser checked and every improvement made could help protect vulnerable patients from preventable infections. Knowing that small actions could have a direct impact on someone's health reminded me that meaningful service often happens behind the scenes through consistency, responsibility, and genuine care for others. Beyond the hospital, I have remained committed to serving my community. At Johnson C. Smith University, I volunteered in the campus sustainable garden, helping plant crops and maintain the garden to support healthy food initiatives. I also volunteered with Recovery Logistics, where I helped prepare and distribute supplies for communities affected by severe storms. During the holiday season, I joined a service project creating handmade Christmas cards and ornaments for hundreds of nursing home residents to remind them they were valued and remembered. These experiences taught me that kindness does not always require grand gestures. Sometimes, simply giving your time, showing respect, and helping meet another person's needs can leave a lasting impact. These experiences have shaped both my academic and personal goals. As a Public Health major, I want to improve healthcare systems so that quality care is accessible to everyone, especially underserved communities that continue to face health disparities. My education has shown me that lasting change requires not only knowledge but also empathy. Listening to people, understanding their challenges, and advocating for equitable healthcare are essential parts of becoming an effective public health leader. India Terrell's life inspires me because she combined ambition with genuine compassion for others. Like India, I want my career to be measured not only by professional success but by the lives I help improve. After earning my bachelor's degree, I plan to build a career in healthcare administration, where I can develop programs that improve patient outcomes, reduce health disparities, and expand access to quality healthcare. I also hope to mentor future students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, encouraging them to pursue careers dedicated to service. Carrying forward India Terrell's legacy means choosing compassion every day, whether through serving patients, supporting communities, or advocating for healthier systems. My journey has taught me that leadership begins with a willingness to serve. I am committed to using my education, experiences, and passion for public health to create healthier communities and ensure that every person is treated with dignity, respect, and care.

One of the most impactful books I have read is *The Speed of Trust* by Stephen M. R. Covey. The book taught me that trust is not just a personal value but a powerful factor that influences relationships, leadership, and success. Covey explains that when people trust one another, communication improves, collaboration becomes easier, and opportunities grow. This lesson changed the way I view leadership and my interactions with others. One of the most influential books I have read is *The Speed of Trust* by Stephen M. R. Covey. Before reading it, I viewed trust as simply an important quality in relationships. The book showed me that trust is much more than that. It is the foundation of effective leadership, teamwork, and long-term success. Covey explains that trust is built through integrity, honesty, accountability, and consistently following through on commitments. This message changed the way I think about leadership and the impact one person can have on others. As an immigrant from Dominica and a first-generation college student studying Public Health in the United States, I have had to build new relationships in an unfamiliar environment. Adapting to a new country and educational system was not easy, but I realized that people are more willing to support you when they know they can rely on you. Whether working on group projects, serving in student leadership, or completing my internship, I strive to communicate honestly, keep my promises, and treat others with respect. *The Speed of Trust* reinforced the importance of these habits and encouraged me to practice them every day. The book also reshaped my understanding of leadership. I learned that leadership is not defined by a title but by the confidence others have in your character. A trustworthy leader creates an environment where people feel valued, respected, and motivated to do their best. This lesson has inspired me to become a leader who serves others with humility, transparency, and compassion. The principles in *The Speed of Trust* have also influenced my career goals. After earning my bachelor's degree, I plan to pursue a career in healthcare administration. Trust is essential in healthcare because patients depend on healthcare professionals during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. I want to help build healthcare organizations where integrity, accountability, and compassion guide every decision. By creating a culture of trust, I believe healthcare leaders can improve teamwork, strengthen patient care, and make a lasting difference in their communities. More than anything, this book taught me that success is not measured only by achievements but also by the character you demonstrate every day. Trust is earned through consistent actions, not just words. As I continue my education and prepare for my future career, I want to be known as someone who leads with integrity, builds meaningful relationships, and uses the trust of others to create positive change.

If I had to describe the thing that makes me stand out, I would say it is my persistence. Some people might call it stubbornness, but I see it as refusing to let my circumstances decide my future. No matter how many obstacles I face, I keep believing there is another way forward. That mindset has shaped every part of my life and brought me opportunities I once thought were impossible. I grew up in the Commonwealth of Dominica in a family that struggled financially. Higher education in the United States felt like an impossible dream because my family simply could not afford it. Still, I refused to stop believing. I prayed constantly, worked hard in school, and searched for every opportunity that could bring me closer to my goal. Many people told me how difficult it would be, but I chose to focus on what was possible instead of what seemed impossible. One experience that defines me happened when I applied to a university in the United States. After waiting anxiously for a decision, I received a rejection. I was heartbroken because I had worked so hard and believed this was the opportunity that would change my life. For a moment, I questioned everything. Instead of giving up, however, I leaned on my faith. I spent a day fasting with only water, praying that if this dream was truly meant for me, God would make a way. The following week, I received a phone call that I will never forget. The very same university that had rejected me called back to tell me I had been accepted. That moment taught me that rejection is not always the end of the story. Sometimes it is simply a detour to something greater. Ever since then, I have carried that lesson with me through every challenge I face. That same determination is why I have applied for dozens of scholarships. As an international student, I do not qualify for federal financial aid, so every semester requires faith, persistence, and hard work. While many people would stop after receiving several rejections, I continue applying because I know that one opportunity can change everything. Every application is another step toward achieving my dream of earning a degree and building a meaningful career. Another thing that makes me different is my desire to serve others. As a Public Health major, I have had the opportunity to intern at Atrium Health, volunteer in my community, and take on leadership roles at my university. I enjoy working behind the scenes to improve people’s lives rather than seeking recognition. Helping others brings me genuine fulfillment, and it reminds me why I chose this career path. Above all, my faith keeps me grounded. It has carried me through financial hardship, homesickness, disappointment, heartbreak, and uncertainty. It has taught me resilience, gratitude, humility, and compassion. I believe success is not measured only by achievements but also by the way we treat others and the character we build along the way.

Growing up, I watched my parents pour every ounce of their energy into giving me a future they could only dream of. As a first generation Black woman, stepping onto a college campus was never just about earning a degree. It was the culmination of their sacrifices, prayers, and absolute refusal to let my potential be limited by our circumstances. Being first generation means carrying the weight of a family’s hope. It means entering spaces where nobody looks like you or understands your background, and realizing you must build your roadmap from scratch. My background is rooted in an absolute refusal to break. I come from Dominica, an island near Saint Lucia, where the economy is incredibly tough and opportunities are scarce. Back home, my mother works as a hospital janitor, spending exhausting days doing heavy cleaning to keep healthcare spaces safe. My father works grueling hours as a low income taxi driver just to make ends meet. Watching them work themselves to the bone in an economy that gives so little back breaks my heart, but it also lights a fire inside my chest. That inherited grit has defined my college journey. Balancing the relentless physical demands of running the four hundred and eight hundred meter events on the track while maintaining a perfect four point zero GPA has tested me to my core. There are nights when my body is exhausted and my mind is completely overwhelmed, but I push through because I know I am running for something much bigger than a medal. I am running for my family. My true calling came alive when I managed a team to develop an AI tool called SmartCLT. We built a closed data system to help city stakeholders track and fight local health inequities. Standing before those judges, defending a project that could save lives in marginalized neighborhoods, my heart was racing. Taking home second place was incredible, but the real victory was realizing that my education has the power to heal communities left behind for generations. That experience solidified my ultimate dream. Inspired by the hospital hallways my mother cleans every day, I am going to become a healthcare executive, working my way up to hospital Chief Operating Officer or a seat on the board of directors. It breaks my heart to see how difficult the healthcare system is to navigate, and it infuriates me that vulnerable families routinely slip through the cracks of a broken operational structure. Receiving this five hundred dollar scholarship is a hand on my shoulder telling me that my fight matters. It validates that young women of color belong in executive boardrooms, shaping a more inclusive world. By investing in me, you are investing in a future healthcare leader who will spend her life breaking down systemic barriers and pulling up the next generation so that no dream is ever out of reach.

My future is driven by one goal: to improve the health and well-being of people who often lack access to quality healthcare. As a first generation college student and an international student from the Commonwealth of Dominica, earning a college degree is about much more than personal success. It is about creating opportunities that my family never had and using my education to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Public Health at Johnson C. Smith University. Throughout my education, I have discovered a passion for healthcare administration because I believe strong leadership can improve patient care, increase access to healthcare, and create healthier communities. My long term goal is to work in healthcare administration, where I can help develop programs and policies that address health disparities and improve the quality of care for underserved populations. I want to ensure that people receive compassionate care regardless of their income, background, or circumstances. My journey has not been easy. Leaving my home in Dominica to study in the United States required tremendous faith and sacrifice. I left behind my family, my friends, and everything familiar because I believed education would provide a better future. As an international student, I am not eligible for federal financial aid, making every semester a financial challenge. I constantly worry about tuition, books, transportation, and other educational expenses. While many students can rely on financial aid, I must depend on scholarships and my determination to continue pursuing my degree. Despite these challenges, I have remained committed to my education and have maintained a strong academic record. I have also gained valuable experience through an internship with Atrium Health, where I worked on projects that focused on patient safety and healthcare quality improvement. That experience confirmed that I have chosen the right career path. It showed me how dedicated healthcare professionals can improve lives through leadership, innovation, and compassion. Beyond the classroom, I believe in giving back to my community. I have volunteered in community service projects, including maintaining a community garden that provided fresh produce, assisting with disaster relief efforts, and creating holiday cards for nursing home residents. These experiences have strengthened my belief that leadership is measured by service to others. They have also reinforced my desire to build a career that combines healthcare, community engagement, and advocacy. Receiving this scholarship would relieve a significant financial burden and allow me to focus more fully on my education and professional development. It would help cover tuition, textbooks, transportation, and other essential expenses that are often difficult for me to afford. More importantly, it would allow me to spend less time worrying about finances and more time preparing to become the healthcare leader I aspire to be. I know that earning my degree will not only change my own life but also create opportunities for my family and the communities I hope to serve. As the first in my family to attend college, I want to show others that their circumstances do not determine their future. With perseverance, faith, and the support of scholarships like this one, I can continue pursuing my dream of improving healthcare and making a lasting impact on the lives of those who need it most. I am deeply grateful for your consideration and for investing in students whose education has the power to create positive change for generations to come.

Watching a close friend struggle with drug addiction changed the way I see the world and shaped the purpose behind my education. Before addiction entered my friend's life, they were full of dreams, laughter, and potential. Over time, I watched drugs slowly take away the person I knew. They became withdrawn, isolated from family and friends, and made choices that put their health and future at risk. It was heartbreaking to witness someone I cared about lose hope and believe that their life could never get better. I often felt helpless because no matter how much I wanted to fix the situation, I realized that recovery had to begin with their own decision to accept help. The turning point came when my friend made the courageous choice to enter recovery. It was not an easy journey, and there were setbacks along the way, but every small step forward reminded me that healing is possible. Recovery required honesty, faith, support, and an incredible amount of determination. Watching them choose courage over despair taught me that people should never be defined by their lowest moments. Everyone deserves compassion, encouragement, and the opportunity to rebuild their lives. This experience deeply influenced my decision to study Public Health at Johnson C. Smith University. I realized that addiction is not simply an individual struggle. It affects families, friendships, and entire communities. I became interested in understanding the social, emotional, and environmental factors that contribute to substance use and the barriers many people face when trying to access treatment and recovery services. I want to be part of creating healthier communities where people receive support instead of judgment and where prevention, education, and treatment are available to everyone who needs them. As a Christian, my faith has also shaped the way I view recovery. I believe every person is created with dignity and purpose, regardless of the mistakes they have made. My faith reminds me to extend grace rather than condemnation and to believe that transformation is possible. Seeing my friend fight for a better life strengthened my own belief that hope can exist even in the darkest circumstances. In addition to my studies, I have sought opportunities to serve my community through volunteer work because I believe leadership begins with serving others. These experiences have shown me that meaningful change happens when people are willing to listen, care, and take action. In the future, I hope to work in healthcare administration, where I can help improve access to healthcare programs and community resources that support individuals and families affected by addiction and other public health challenges. Although watching my friend struggle was painful, it gave me a clearer sense of purpose. It taught me resilience, compassion, and the importance of meeting people with understanding rather than judgment. Their journey reminded me that recovery is possible when people are surrounded by hope, support, and opportunity. As I continue my education, I hope to honor that lesson by dedicating my career to improving the health and well-being of others and helping create communities where people are given the chance to heal, recover, and thrive.

The day I left the Commonwealth of Dominica to pursue my education in the United States, I carried more than a suitcase. I carried the hopes of my family. As a first generation immigrant and the first person in my family to attend college, I knew the road ahead would not be easy, but I also knew it was worth every sacrifice. Adjusting to a new country while balancing the demands of college has been one of the greatest challenges of my life. I had to adapt to a different culture, build a support system from the ground up, and navigate higher education without the guidance of parents who had experienced college themselves. As an international student from a low income family, I am not eligible for federal financial aid, making scholarships essential to my ability to remain in school. There have been moments when financial stress and homesickness felt overwhelming, but those experiences have strengthened my resilience rather than diminished it. These challenges have shaped my sense of purpose. As a Public Health major, I am determined to improve access to healthcare for underserved communities and advocate for those whose voices are often overlooked. My journey has taught me that adversity can become a source of compassion and strength. I hope my story inspires other first generation students to believe that their circumstances do not define their future. Instead, perseverance, faith, and a commitment to serving others can create opportunities that change lives.

I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Public Health at Johnson C. Smith University, a Baptist institution that has strengthened both my education and my faith. I chose Public Health because I believe everyone deserves access to quality healthcare, regardless of their background or financial circumstances. My goal is to build a career in healthcare administration where I can improve healthcare systems and advocate for underserved communities. I want to help create a future where people receive compassionate, equitable care and where no one is overlooked because of their circumstances. Coming to the United States from the Commonwealth of Dominica to pursue my education has been one of the greatest blessings and one of the hardest experiences of my life. I left behind my parents, my siblings, and everything that was familiar because I believed education would give me the opportunity to create a better future. Being thousands of miles away from my family has been incredibly difficult. There are moments when I wish I could simply go home for comfort, but I remind myself that every sacrifice is bringing me closer to achieving my dream. As an international student, I face financial challenges that often feel overwhelming. I am not eligible for federal financial aid, so scholarships are my primary source of support. Every semester, I worry about how I will afford tuition, textbooks, housing, and transportation. There have been times when I questioned whether I would be able to remain in school because the financial burden seemed too great. Instead of focusing only on my classes, I often spend hours searching for scholarships and praying that God will provide a way for me to continue my education. Despite these struggles, I have remained committed to my studies and have maintained a GPA above 3.0. I have also been blessed with the opportunity to complete an internship with Atrium Health, where I have worked on projects that improve patient safety and healthcare quality. That experience strengthened my passion for healthcare and confirmed that serving others is the path God has called me to follow. My Baptist faith has been my greatest source of strength throughout this journey. Whenever I feel discouraged, I remember the words of Esther 4:14, "For such a time as this." That verse reminds me that God has a purpose for my life, even when I face obstacles that seem impossible to overcome. My faith has taught me to persevere through difficult seasons, trust God's timing, and continue working toward the future He has planned for me. Receiving this scholarship would relieve a significant financial burden and allow me to focus more fully on my education instead of constantly worrying about how I will pay for the next semester. It would help cover essential educational expenses and allow me to continue pursuing the career God has placed on my heart. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to be considered for this scholarship. Your support would not only help me complete my degree but also empower me to serve others through healthcare with compassion, integrity, and faith. I hope to honor this investment by using my education to improve the lives of those in need and by living out the values that my Baptist faith has instilled in me every step of the way.

I am an international student pursuing my education in the United States because I believe education has the power to transform lives. Moving to a new country has been one of the most rewarding and challenging experiences of my life. It required me to leave behind my family, adapt to a new culture, and become independent much sooner than I expected. Although the transition was difficult, it strengthened my resilience and reinforced my commitment to achieving my goals. My family has always been my greatest source of motivation. They taught me the importance of hard work, honesty, and perseverance, even when circumstances are difficult. While we are separated by distance, their encouragement inspires me to keep moving forward every day. My parents have made countless sacrifices to provide me with educational opportunities, and I want to honor those sacrifices by making the most of every opportunity I receive. Their belief in me reminds me that success is not only a personal achievement but also a way to give back to the people who have supported me throughout my journey. Academically, I enjoy challenging myself and continuously expanding my knowledge. I believe learning goes beyond the classroom, so I actively seek opportunities to develop new skills, collaborate with others, and apply what I learn to real-world situations. Whether through coursework, student organizations, volunteer work, or professional experiences, I strive to become a well-rounded individual who is prepared to make a meaningful contribution in my field. I value curiosity, discipline, and lifelong learning because they are qualities that will continue to guide me long after graduation. Looking ahead, I plan to build a career where I can use my education to solve meaningful problems and improve the lives of others. I hope to become a leader who combines technical expertise with compassion and integrity. In addition to achieving professional success, I want to mentor future international students and young women pursuing higher education, helping them overcome the challenges of studying far from home. I also hope to support my family, achieve financial independence, and contribute to projects that create lasting positive change in my community. Every challenge I have faced has strengthened my determination to succeed. My journey as an international student has taught me resilience, adaptability, and gratitude. As I continue pursuing my education, I remain committed to working hard, embracing new opportunities, and using my experiences to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Moving to the United States as an international student meant leaving behind the familiarity of home, my support system, and everything that once felt certain. While my journey is different from Malgorzata "Maggie" Kwiecien's, I deeply relate to the courage it takes to start over in a new country with nothing but determination and hope. Like Maggie, I have learned that growth often begins where comfort ends. Adapting to a new culture, education system, and way of life has been both exciting and challenging. There have been moments of loneliness, uncertainty, and self-doubt, especially when I had to navigate unfamiliar situations without family nearby. Yet these experiences have taught me resilience. Instead of allowing obstacles to discourage me, I have treated them as opportunities to become stronger, more independent, and more confident in my abilities. One quality I admire most about Maggie is her intellectual curiosity. She was committed to mastering whatever she pursued, and that is a mindset I strive to embody every day. I believe education is more than earning good grades—it is about developing the skills and knowledge to solve meaningful problems. Whether I am studying challenging subjects, seeking out new opportunities to learn, or asking questions that push my understanding further, I am motivated by the desire to grow into someone who can make a positive impact. I also relate to Maggie's boldness. Moving across the world required me to step far outside my comfort zone, and every milestone since then has demanded persistence. Building new friendships, adapting to a different academic environment, and planning for my future have required courage that I did not know I possessed before this journey. Each challenge has reinforced my belief that success is not determined by where you begin but by your willingness to keep moving forward. As a woman pursuing higher education in the United States, I hope to contribute to a future where more women are empowered to lead, innovate, and inspire others. I want to use my education to create opportunities not only for myself but also for those who may face similar barriers. Maggie's story reminds me that determination, curiosity, and bravery can leave a lasting legacy, and I aspire to honor those values in my own life. Receiving this scholarship would ease the financial burden of pursuing my education while allowing me to focus on achieving my academic and professional goals. More importantly, it would be a meaningful reminder that the courage to pursue one's dreams, even far from home, is recognized and valued. I hope to carry forward Maggie's legacy by embracing challenges with resilience, approaching every opportunity with curiosity, and using my education to make a lasting difference in the lives of others.

Living with a physical disability has influenced who I am in ways that are both deeply personal and often painful, especially in how it has affected my education and daily life. It has not only shaped how I move through the world physically, but also how I see myself, how I plan my future, and how I fight to stay committed to my goals even when my body does not always cooperate. In school, my disability has made what seems simple for others much more complicated for me. There are days when pain, fatigue, or physical limitations make it difficult to focus in class, complete assignments, or participate fully in campus life. While others may be able to push through without thinking twice, I often have to carefully plan my energy just to get through a normal day. This has made my academic journey feel heavier and more exhausting, because I am constantly balancing my health with my responsibilities as a student. It has also affected my sense of belonging. There are moments when I feel like I am watching from the outside as others move freely through experiences that are harder for me to access. Whether it is walking long distances across campus, participating in activities, or simply keeping up with the physical demands of student life, I am often reminded that my body sets limits that I cannot ignore. That realization can be emotionally draining, especially when I want to be fully involved but cannot always do what others take for granted. Emotionally, living with a physical disability has brought feelings of frustration, sadness, and sometimes isolation. There are times when I feel misunderstood because people do not always see the effort it takes for me to do what I do every day. I may appear fine on the outside, but internally I am often managing discomfort or pushing through pain silently. That can make me feel alone, especially when I feel like I have to explain or justify my limitations. Despite these challenges, my disability has also shaped my strength and determination. It has forced me to become more disciplined, more patient with myself, and more intentional about my goals. I have learned how to advocate for myself, how to adapt when things do not go as planned, and how to keep going even when my body makes it difficult. These lessons have not been easy, but they have shaped my resilience in ways I would not have developed otherwise. My hope for the future is to succeed in school and build a career in public health where I can help improve systems for people who face barriers like mine. I want to work in spaces where disability, health, and access are taken seriously, and where people are not overlooked because of what they are going through physically. My experience has given me a deep understanding of what it feels like to struggle silently, and I want to use that understanding to make healthcare and support systems more compassionate and accessible. Even though my physical disability has made my journey more difficult and emotionally heavy at times, it has also given me purpose. It reminds me every day why I cannot give up and why my education matters, not just for me, but for others who feel unseen or limited by their circumstances.

My immigrant experience has deeply affected my ability to attain my educational goals, shaping both the opportunities I have and the obstacles I face every day. Coming from Dominica to the United States, I arrived with big dreams for my future, especially in public health, but I also came with limited financial resources, limited understanding of the system, and the emotional weight of leaving my family behind. I knew education would be my pathway to a better life, but I did not fully understand how many barriers I would have to overcome just to stay in school. As an international student, one of the biggest challenges I face is financial inaccessibility. I do not qualify for FAFSA, which immediately limits the types of aid and support available to me compared to many of my peers. This has meant that every semester comes with uncertainty about how tuition, housing, and basic living expenses will be covered. Instead of focusing only on my academics, I often find myself worrying about financial holds, balances, and whether I will be able to remain enrolled. There have been moments where I felt like my education was hanging by a thread, not because of my effort or ability, but because of financial limitations outside of my control. These financial pressures have created emotional stress that is difficult to explain. Even when I am performing well academically and staying involved on campus, there is a constant background anxiety that I could lose access to school at any time. I have had to navigate systems that were not designed for students like me, often feeling confused, overlooked, or stuck in processes that take time I do not always have. While other students may focus fully on their studies, I often find myself balancing academics with survival decisions and administrative challenges that are mentally exhausting. Being far from my family has also been one of the hardest parts of my immigrant experience. I left behind a support system that I depended on emotionally, and now I have to handle challenges on my own in a completely different environment. There are times when I feel isolated, especially during difficult academic or financial moments when I cannot physically be with my family. I have learned how to be independent in ways I never expected, but that independence has come with loneliness and emotional strain. Despite these challenges, I have continued to push forward because I know the purpose behind my journey. I am studying public health because I want to create change and serve communities like the one I come from. My education is not just personal, it is tied to my family’s hopes and the future I want to build for myself and others. Even when I feel overwhelmed, I remind myself that giving up is not an option because so much is depending on my success. My immigrant experience has made my educational path more difficult, but it has also shaped my resilience, discipline, and determination. It has taught me how to keep going even when things feel uncertain and how to stay focused on long-term goals despite short-term struggles. Every challenge has strengthened my commitment to education and reminded me why I started this journey in the first place.

I want to pursue a career in the nonprofit sector because I am drawn to work that prioritizes people over profit, especially in communities where access to care, resources, and opportunity is not always equal. As a public health major, I have seen how deeply social and economic conditions affect health outcomes, and I want to be part of systems that actively work to close those gaps rather than ignore them. My current internship with Atrium Health, a nonprofit healthcare system, has strengthened this interest. Being in that environment has shown me that nonprofit work is not just about providing services, but about mission driven leadership that focuses on community wellbeing. I have seen how decisions made within a healthcare system can directly impact patient experience, access to care, and long term health outcomes for entire communities. That experience has made me more intentional about the kind of leader I want to become. Working in a nonprofit healthcare setting has also helped me understand the importance of compassion combined with structure. It is not enough to care about people, systems must also be organized, sustainable, and responsive to real needs. Seeing that balance in action has inspired me to continue building my career in spaces where impact is measured not only by numbers, but by lives improved. My goal is to grow into an executive leadership role within public health or a nonprofit healthcare organization. I want to be in a position where I can help shape policies, programs, and strategies that improve access to care, especially for underserved populations. I am interested in leadership not for status, but because I want to have a voice in decisions that affect community health at a larger scale. I care deeply about communities like the ones I come from, where financial hardship often limits access to quality healthcare and health education. I have experienced how overwhelming it can be to navigate systems when resources are limited, and that experience motivates me to work toward change. I want my work to help make healthcare more equitable, more accessible, and more responsive to real community needs. Ultimately, I see nonprofit work as a way to align my education in public health with purpose driven leadership. Through my internship and academic journey, I am learning that meaningful impact comes from combining service, strategy, and empathy. I hope to carry those lessons forward and use my career to strengthen communities, improve health outcomes, and create opportunities for people who are often overlooked or underserved.

1. My current experience working part-time while pursuing a degree Right now, working part-time while pursuing my degree in public health is not just about gaining experience, it is a financial necessity. My parents are currently going through financial hardship, so I have to work to support myself while staying in school. As an international student at an HBCU in Charlotte, I do not have the same financial safety net that many students rely on, so I have had to become very independent quickly. Balancing work and school means I am constantly managing competing responsibilities. I schedule my shifts around my classes, assignments, and exams, but there are still times when everything overlaps. Some days I go from class straight to work, and by the time I get home, I still have coursework waiting for me. It can be physically and mentally exhausting, but I remind myself that both my education and my job are necessary for me to continue moving forward. Even though it is difficult, working while in school has made me more disciplined and responsible. It has also made me more focused on my goals because I understand that every shift I work and every assignment I complete is part of building a more stable future for myself. 2. A time when balancing work and school was especially challenging One of the hardest times balancing work and school was when my financial responsibilities increased at the same time that my academic workload became heavier. During that period, I was working more hours to help support myself while also dealing with multiple deadlines, exams, and group projects. It felt overwhelming because I did not have much time to rest. I would attend classes during the day, work shifts in the evening, and then try to complete assignments late at night. There were moments when I felt exhausted and stressed, and it seemed like I was constantly trying to catch up. What made it even more challenging was knowing that I did not have the option to stop working. My family’s financial situation meant I had to keep going, even when I felt drained. I had to learn how to push through fatigue and still stay committed to my education. I overcame that period by becoming more structured and intentional with my time. I started breaking assignments into smaller steps so I could make progress even on busy days. I also learned to communicate when I needed clarity or extensions, instead of struggling silently. Most importantly, I reminded myself why I am doing all of this. I am working toward a degree in public health so I can create opportunities for myself and eventually help others who are facing similar struggles. That experience taught me that resilience is not about having an easy path, but about continuing even when circumstances are difficult.

The American Dream, to me, is often described as the idea that if you work hard enough, you will find stability, opportunity, and a better life than the one you started with. Before I came to the United States, I believed that fully. I thought effort alone would be enough to build a future. But my experience has shown me it is more complicated. It is endurance, sacrifice, and continuing forward when life is uncertain. I came from Dominica to the United States to pursue higher education with hope and uncertainty. Education was supposed to be my bridge forward. But moving here meant learning a new system while trying to survive inside it. Everything costs something, and even basic opportunities often depend on money I do not always have. As a low income international student, I quickly learned ambition does not remove financial pressure. I think carefully about every decision, academically and financially. While others experience college as freedom, I often experience it as calculation. I think about what I can afford, what I must delay, and what I may have to let go of even if it could change my future. Still, I continue forward as a public health student at an HBCU in Charlotte. Education has given me knowledge, but also revealed inequality I cannot ignore. I study public health because I want to understand why health outcomes differ based on where someone lives or how much they earn. These questions are personal because I know what it feels like to stand close to opportunity but not fully inside it. The American Dream, in my experience, is not always arrival. It is persistence in struggle. I think about my family back home and the responsibility I carry to make their sacrifices meaningful. That responsibility gives me strength but also weight. There is a quiet sadness in chasing something that feels both near and far. I see opportunities, but also barriers that make them harder to reach. Sometimes it feels like I am working twice as hard just to stay in place. Still, I keep going, because progress is not always visible. To me, the American Dream is not perfect or equal for everyone. It is the belief that my story does not end with struggle. It is the hope that education can still open doors. If I ever reach it, I want it to mean I can help others like me. For me, it is survival, growth, and the strength to keep believing something better is ahead. Even when the path feels heavy, I remind myself that my journey has purpose beyond myself. I carry the hope that my experiences will one day allow me to support students who feel unseen or limited by their circumstances, just as I have at times felt. I want to use my education to serve communities that are often overlooked and to prove that background does not define potential, even when systems try to suggest otherwise. I continue moving forward despite everything.

The first time I understood that learning could exist beyond a classroom I was standing in a new country with a suitcase that held more questions than answers. I came from Dominica to the United States to pursue higher education. That move was not just a change in location. It felt like I was stepping into a world where I had to relearn how to understand everything around me. Accents were different. Systems were different. Even the way people carried themselves felt unfamiliar. I quickly realized that learning was not only happening in lectures but in the quiet moments where I tried to make sense of a life that suddenly felt bigger than me. Coming from a low income background, I learned early that opportunities are not always easily reached even when the desire is strong. There are moments when I have to choose between what I need now and what could help me grow in the future. That reality has followed me into college and shaped the way I think about everything I pursue. Even as I sit in classrooms at my HBCU in Charlotte, I often think about how many doors are still closed simply because of finances, not ability or ambition. It is a quiet kind of pressure that does not always show on the outside, but it is always there. Still I keep asking myself deeper questions about the world. I study public health, and I often wonder why health outcomes look so different depending on where someone is born. Why some communities expect prevention while others only experience care when it is too late. I want to understand how culture, policy, and geography decide who gets help and who is left behind. There is also a personal question I carry that I cannot fully answer where I am right now. I want to know who I become when I am completely removed from everything familiar. I have already crossed one border when I left home, but I feel like there is still more of the world I need to see to understand myself fully. I want to learn how to listen without comparing, how to observe without judging, and how to understand people whose experiences are nothing like mine. Financially, studying abroad feels like something I have to admire from a distance rather than participate in. The cost alone makes it feel out of reach, even when the desire is real. That is the part that is hard to explain sometimes. If I were given this scholarship, it would mean more than travel. It would mean access to a version of learning that I have only been able to imagine. It would allow me to step into spaces that would stretch my thinking and challenge my understanding of health and community. I would carry those experiences back into my studies and into every space I serve, especially in public health where understanding people beyond your own environment is essential. I would not just return with knowledge. I would return with a deeper sense of responsibility. I would carry Tia Lukeya Woods’ belief that learning is something you chase and choose, even when life makes it difficult. For me, crossing borders would not just be about seeing the world. It would be about learning how to live in it more fully and with more care for others and for myself.

As a first generation college student from Dominica, pursuing higher education has been both an incredible opportunity and a journey filled with challenges. When I decided to leave my home to study in the United States, I knew I was stepping into unfamiliar territory. I had to adjust to a new culture, navigate the college system on my own, and overcome financial obstacles while staying focused on my education. Although the journey has not always been easy, every challenge has strengthened my determination and reminded me why earning a college degree is so important. I am currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in Public Health at Johnson C. Smith University with the goal of building a career in healthcare administration. My passion is to improve access to quality healthcare and help create systems that better serve patients and their families. I believe education is one of the most powerful tools for creating opportunities, not only for ourselves but also for the communities we serve. As a first generation student, I understand how overwhelming college can feel when you are figuring everything out for the first time. There are moments of uncertainty, setbacks, and questions about whether you truly belong. I have experienced those moments myself, but I have learned that asking for help, staying determined, and believing in yourself can make all the difference. Those lessons have motivated me to encourage other students who may be facing similar challenges. I plan to inspire and motivate other first generation students by sharing my story honestly. I want them to know that their background does not determine their future. Coming from a small Caribbean island or a family with limited financial resources does not mean your dreams are out of reach. Through mentorship, volunteering, and simply being available to encourage others, I hope to remind students that success is possible with hard work, perseverance, and faith. I also want to continue serving as a positive example on campus and in my community. Whether through leadership opportunities, community service, or my future career, I want others to see that education can open doors that once seemed impossible. My goal is not only to earn a degree but also to create opportunities for others by encouraging them to pursue higher education and believe in their own potential. Being a first generation college student is something I carry with pride because it represents resilience, sacrifice, and hope. I hope my journey encourages other students to take that first step toward higher education, knowing that while the path may be challenging, it is also rewarding. If my story inspires even one student to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams, then I will know I have made a meaningful impact.

Sports have been one of the greatest teachers in my life. As a student athlete from Dominica, running has shaped my character in ways that extend far beyond the track. It has taught me discipline, resilience, patience, and the importance of never giving up, even when the journey becomes difficult. Every race, every practice, and every setback has helped me become a stronger person, both academically and personally. Moving to the United States to attend Johnson C. Smith University was a life changing opportunity. I left my family and everything I knew to pursue a college education while competing as a student athlete. Balancing classes, practices, competitions, and leadership responsibilities has not always been easy, but it has taught me how to manage my time, stay focused, and remain committed to my goals. Being a student athlete has shown me that success is built through consistency and hard work, not overnight results. One of the biggest lessons sports have taught me is how to respond to adversity. Throughout my athletic journey, I have faced injuries and setbacks that challenged both my physical and mental strength. There were moments when I questioned whether I would be able to compete at the level I wanted, but those experiences taught me that setbacks do not define a person. They simply reveal your determination to keep going. Instead of allowing those obstacles to discourage me, I used them as motivation to become stronger and more resilient. Sports have also taught me the value of teamwork and leadership. Although track and field is often viewed as an individual sport, I have learned that success depends on the support of coaches, teammates, trainers, and everyone working toward a common goal. Being surrounded by people who encourage one another has shown me the importance of lifting others up, celebrating their successes, and offering support during difficult moments. Those lessons have influenced the way I approach leadership in every area of my life. Beyond athletics, sports have inspired my future goals. As a Public Health student, I hope to build a career in healthcare administration where I can improve patient experiences and make healthcare more accessible for underserved communities. The discipline, accountability, and perseverance I developed through sports will continue to guide me as I pursue that career. I understand that meaningful change takes time, just like improvement in athletics, and I am prepared to put in the work necessary to make a positive impact. Most importantly, sports have taught me to believe in myself. Every finish line reminds me that growth comes from persistence, and every challenge reminds me that I am capable of overcoming more than I once thought possible. The lessons I have learned through athletics will stay with me long after my competitive career ends. They have prepared me to face life's challenges with confidence, serve others with humility, and continue striving for excellence in everything I do.

When I left my home in Dominica to pursue my education in the United States, I knew I was taking a leap of faith. I left behind my family and everything familiar because I believed that education would give me the opportunity to create a better future, not only for myself but also for the communities I hope to serve. Every challenge I have faced along the way has strengthened my determination to make a meaningful difference through healthcare and public service. I am currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in Public Health at Johnson C. Smith University. My educational goal is to build a strong foundation in healthcare systems, leadership, and public health while continuing to gain hands on experience through internships and professional development opportunities. One of the most meaningful experiences during my college journey has been interning at Atrium Health. During my internship, I worked on projects that focused on improving hospital operations and patient care while learning from professionals across multiple departments. That experience showed me that quality healthcare depends not only on doctors and nurses but also on effective leadership and efficient systems that allow patients to receive the best possible care. After earning my bachelor's degree, I plan to continue growing professionally by pursuing opportunities in healthcare administration. My long term goal is to become a healthcare administrator where I can help improve patient experiences, support healthcare professionals, and create systems that make healthcare more accessible and efficient. I want to lead with compassion, integrity, and a commitment to serving people from all backgrounds. I also hope to continue my education in the future by earning a master's degree that will prepare me for leadership positions within healthcare organizations. Beyond my professional goals, I have always believed that success should be measured by the positive impact we have on others. Throughout my time in college, I have sought opportunities to serve my community through volunteer work. I have participated in community garden projects, helped with outreach efforts that provided resources to local families, and created cards for nursing home residents to bring encouragement to older adults. These experiences have reminded me that service does not always require extraordinary actions. Small acts of kindness and consistency can change lives and strengthen communities. My commitment to public service extends beyond volunteering. I want my career to be centered on improving health outcomes for underserved populations. Too many individuals face barriers to receiving quality healthcare because of financial limitations, lack of access, or limited health education. I want to help develop programs and policies that improve access to care while creating healthcare environments where every patient feels respected, heard, and valued. As an international student, I also hope to use my education to give back to my home country of Dominica. I want to share the knowledge and experience I gain in the United States by contributing to efforts that strengthen healthcare systems, promote preventive care, and improve access to healthcare services. I believe that investing in healthier communities creates opportunities for future generations to thrive. My faith has also shaped my commitment to service. It reminds me that leadership is not about recognition but about serving others with humility and compassion. Whether I am volunteering, mentoring students, or working in a hospital, I want people to know me as someone who genuinely cares about improving the lives of others. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to continue pursuing my education while remaining focused on my goal of becoming a healthcare leader who serves with excellence and integrity. I understand that education is both a privilege and a responsibility. I am committed to using the knowledge, skills, and opportunities I receive to improve healthcare, give back to my community, and inspire others to believe that no matter where they come from, they can create meaningful change. My goal is not simply to build a successful career but to leave a lasting impact through service, leadership, and compassion.

Leaving my home in Dominica to study in the United States has been one of the biggest decisions of my life. While many people see studying abroad as an exciting opportunity, they do not always see the sacrifices behind it. I left my family, my friends, and everything that was familiar to pursue an education that would allow me to create a better future for myself and give back to others. The challenges I have faced, including financial hardship, homesickness, and adapting to a new country, have taught me resilience, strengthened my faith, and shaped the person I am today. Growing up, my family did not always have many resources, but my parents taught me the value of hard work, education, and perseverance. They encouraged me to dream beyond my circumstances and reminded me that success comes from determination and consistency. Their sacrifices inspired me to take every opportunity seriously and to never allow obstacles to define my future. One of the experiences that has had the greatest impact on me was interning at Atrium Health. During my internship, I learned how different departments work together to improve patient care and hospital operations. Seeing healthcare from behind the scenes confirmed that I want to pursue a career in healthcare administration. My goal is to help create systems that make healthcare more efficient, compassionate, and accessible, especially for underserved communities. I want every patient to feel respected, valued, and cared for. Serving others has always been important to me. Throughout college, I have volunteered in community service projects, including maintaining community gardens, participating in outreach efforts, and creating cards for nursing home residents. These experiences taught me that making a difference does not always require a grand gesture. Sometimes the smallest acts of kindness leave the greatest impact. I plan to continue volunteering throughout my career because I believe strong communities are built by people who are willing to serve one another. Outside of school, my greatest passion is my faith. My relationship with God guides my decisions and reminds me to serve others with compassion and humility. I enjoy reading the Bible, praying, participating in church activities, and encouraging others in their faith. I also enjoy running as a student athlete because it has taught me discipline, resilience, and the importance of staying committed even when the journey becomes difficult. The person who motivates me the most is my mother. She has worked tirelessly and sacrificed so much to provide opportunities for me. Even during difficult seasons, she never stopped believing in me or encouraging me to keep going. Her strength, faith, and determination inspire me every day to work hard, remain humble, and never give up on my goals. Looking ahead, I want to use my education to improve healthcare and give back to both my community and my home country of Dominica. I hope to continue serving through volunteer work, mentoring young people, and advocating for better access to healthcare. I believe true success is measured not by personal achievements but by the lives we positively impact. Every experience I have had has prepared me to become a compassionate leader who is committed to serving others, and I am excited to use my education to create meaningful change wherever I have the opportunity to serve.

Growing up in Dominica, I saw firsthand how access to healthcare could make a huge difference in people's lives. Many families, including my own, had to overcome financial challenges, and I learned early that not everyone has the same opportunities when it comes to receiving quality healthcare or health education. Those experiences shaped my passion for serving others and inspired me to pursue a degree in Public Health. I believe that education is one of the greatest tools we can use to create change, and I want to use my degree to improve the lives of people in both my home country and the communities I will serve in the United States. My goal is to work in hospital administration where I can help improve the way healthcare is delivered. While doctors and nurses care for patients directly, there are many people behind the scenes who make sure hospitals run efficiently and that patients receive the best possible care. I want to be part of creating systems that reduce barriers to healthcare, improve patient experiences, and ensure that every person is treated with dignity and compassion. I especially want to advocate for underserved communities that often struggle to access quality healthcare because of financial, geographic, or social barriers. Beyond my career, I want to be actively involved in my community. I believe that helping others goes far beyond having a job. I hope to organize community health fairs, volunteer with local organizations, and educate families about disease prevention, nutrition, mental health, and healthy lifestyles. Many illnesses can be prevented when people have access to the right information and resources. If I can help even one family make healthier choices or encourage someone to seek medical care before a condition becomes serious, then I know I am making a meaningful difference. As an international student, I understand what it feels like to leave home, adapt to a new culture, and work hard to achieve my dreams despite challenges. My journey has taught me resilience, gratitude, and the importance of giving back. I have learned that every opportunity I receive comes with a responsibility to help someone else. That mindset has guided me throughout my education, and it will continue to guide me throughout my career. One of my long term goals is to return to Dominica and use the knowledge and experience I gain to strengthen the healthcare system there. I want to work with healthcare leaders and community organizations to improve access to healthcare services, promote preventive care, and support programs that address the health needs of vulnerable populations. I know that meaningful change takes time, but I believe that every effort, no matter how small, has the power to improve someone's life. Receiving this scholarship would not only help me continue my education but would also bring me one step closer to achieving these goals. My degree is not simply a path to a career or financial stability. It is a way for me to serve others, give back to the communities that have shaped me, and create opportunities for people who may not always have a voice. I want my work to leave a lasting impact by making healthcare more accessible, improving the health of communities, and inspiring others to believe that no matter where they come from or what obstacles they face, they can make a difference. That is the legacy I hope to build with my education, and I am committed to using every opportunity I receive to serve others with compassion, integrity, and purpose.

My name is Precious Durand, and my journey has been shaped by perseverance, sacrifice, and the belief that education is a pathway to a better life. I was raised in Dominica in a single-parent, low-income household. My parents worked tirelessly to provide for me, often putting their own needs aside, and I grew up seeing what it means to sacrifice for the ones you love. From an early age, I understood that opportunities would not be handed to me, and that I would need to work hard, stay disciplined, and remain focused to achieve my dreams. Their sacrifices inspired me to aim higher and to never allow financial challenges to limit my ambition. I came to the United States through a track scholarship, which was both a dream and a huge responsibility. Track gave me the opportunity to attend college and begin building a future that I could have never imagined on my own. Receiving the scholarship was a proud moment, not just for me but for my family, because it represented hope, determination, and the possibility of breaking cycles of poverty. However, while the scholarship covers part of my education, it does not eliminate the financial challenges I face. As an international student, I do not qualify for federal financial aid, and the support available to me is extremely limited. I struggle every month to cover tuition, housing, and basic living expenses. This month, if I am unable to clear my outstanding school balance, I risk being unenrolled from school. The thought of losing this opportunity is overwhelming, yet it motivates me to work even harder and remain focused on my goal: graduating. I believe that poverty should never prevent a student from pursuing a proper education. Financial hardship should not determine a student’s potential or limit the impact they can have on their community and the world. Despite the obstacles I face, I am committed to graduating and using my education to make a difference. I am pursuing a degree in Public Health because I want to build a career in health administration. My goal is to improve healthcare systems, ensure equitable access to services, and remove barriers that prevent underserved communities from receiving quality care. Education has been my path out of poverty, and I am determined to complete my degree no matter the obstacles. I want to inspire others from similar backgrounds, proving that determination, discipline, and hard work can overcome financial challenges. My journey has been difficult, but it has shaped my purpose, my vision, and my drive to make a lasting, positive impact on my family and community.

My name is Precious Durand, and my journey has been shaped by resilience, sacrifice, and a deep belief in the power of education to create change. I was raised in Dominica in a single-parent, low-income household where perseverance was part of everyday life. Growing up, I learned early what it meant to work hard, remain disciplined, and keep going even when resources were limited. My family and community taught me the value of faith, responsibility, and supporting others, lessons that continue to guide me today. Coming to the United States was a life-changing opportunity made possible through a track scholarship. As a student-athlete, I dedicated years to training, discipline, and self-belief. Receiving that scholarship was a proud moment for my family and me, as it represented hope and possibility beyond my circumstances. However, despite this opportunity, I continue to face significant financial hardship. As a first-generation and international student, my access to financial support is limited, and I often worry about tuition balances, housing, and basic living expenses. Balancing these financial pressures alongside academics and athletics has been one of the greatest challenges I have had to overcome. Another obstacle has been navigating higher education without a guide. As a first-generation student, I am learning systems my family has never experienced, while carrying the responsibility of being someone others look up to. There have been moments of doubt and exhaustion, but these experiences have taught me resilience, time management, and self-advocacy. I have learned how to push forward during uncertainty and remain focused on my goals even when the path feels overwhelming. I plan to make a positive impact on the world through my studies in Public Health, with the goal of building a career in health administration. My life experiences exposed me to the realities of healthcare inequities, economic barriers, and limited access to essential services, both in Dominica and in underserved communities in the United States. Through my education, I want to help improve healthcare systems, advocate for equity, and ensure that services are accessible, efficient, and compassionate. I am especially passionate about working behind the scenes to remove barriers that prevent individuals and families from receiving quality care. Ultimately, my goal is to use my education to uplift my family, serve my community, and create opportunities for others who come from similar backgrounds. My journey has not been easy, but it has given me purpose. I am committed to turning my challenges into impact and using my education in the United States to contribute to a healthier, more equitable world.

My background is deeply rooted in resilience, community, and sacrifice. I was raised in Dominica in a single-parent, low-income household where family and community played a central role in everyday life. Growing up, I was surrounded by people who looked out for one another, shared resources, and found strength in unity even during difficult times. My parent worked tirelessly to provide for me, often sacrificing personal comfort to ensure I had access to education and opportunities. From a young age, I learned the value of hard work, responsibility, and perseverance. Education was always emphasized in my household as the pathway to a better future, even when resources were limited. My desire to pursue higher education in the United States was inspired by the belief that education could change the trajectory of my life and my family’s future. I understood early on that opportunities were limited at home, and I wanted to challenge myself beyond what was familiar. Through years of dedication and discipline, I earned a track scholarship that allowed me to come to the U.S. This opportunity represented hope—not just for me, but for my family. It symbolized the possibility that hard work and faith could open doors beyond my circumstances. Although the journey was intimidating, I knew that stepping outside of my comfort zone was necessary for growth. One of the greatest challenges I have faced is navigating college as a first-generation, international student while experiencing ongoing financial hardship. While my athletic scholarship helped me begin my education, it did not eliminate the financial burden. I have struggled with tuition balances, housing costs, and basic living expenses, all while balancing academics and athletics. There have been moments when the fear of being unenrolled due to unpaid balances felt overwhelming. At the same time, being a first-generation student meant learning how to navigate higher education without guidance from family who had been through the process before. This experience taught me resilience, time management, and self-advocacy. I learned how to push forward even when things felt uncertain and how to remain focused despite pressure. Most importantly, I learned that perseverance is not about avoiding hardship but continuing despite it. The person who has inspired me most is my parent. Watching them raise me with limited resources but unlimited love shaped who I am today. They taught me that strength is shown through consistency, humility, and faith. Despite financial struggles, they never allowed circumstances to limit their belief in my potential. Their sacrifices motivate me to work harder, aim higher, and never take opportunities for granted. Whenever I feel discouraged, I remind myself of everything they endured so that I could be where I am today. After graduation, my goal is to pursue a career in health administration. As a Public Health major, I am passionate about improving healthcare systems and ensuring that underserved communities receive quality, accessible care. I want to work behind the scenes to improve efficiency, advocate for equity, and help remove barriers that prevent individuals from receiving proper healthcare. Long-term, I hope to give back to both my family and my community by creating stability, breaking cycles of hardship, and serving as an example for others who come from similar backgrounds. My journey has been challenging, but it has strengthened my purpose. I am determined to turn my experiences into impact and use my education to create meaningful change.

My journey to this point has been shaped by sacrifice, resilience, and an unwavering belief that education is my pathway to change. I was raised in Dominica in a single-parent, low-income household where perseverance was not optional but necessary. Growing up, I watched my parent work tirelessly to provide for me, often placing their own needs and dreams aside so I could have a better future. From a young age, I learned responsibility, discipline, and faith. I understood that nothing would come easily and that if I wanted more out of life, I would have to work for it with consistency and courage. Coming to the United States was one of the most defining moments of my life. I earned the opportunity to study here through a track scholarship, something I worked relentlessly for. Track was more than a sport for me; it was my way out, my opportunity to change the direction of my life. Early mornings, exhausting practices, injuries, and self-doubt all became part of my journey. Receiving that scholarship was one of the proudest moments of my life, not only for me but for my family. It represented hope, sacrifice, and the belief that my hard work could open doors beyond my circumstances. However, while my scholarship allowed me to begin my education in the United States, it did not remove the financial hardships I continue to face. As an international and first-generation college student, my access to financial aid is extremely limited. I still struggle to cover tuition balances, housing, and basic living expenses. There are moments when the fear of being unenrolled due to unpaid balances feels heavier than the academic workload itself. Balancing academics, athletics, and constant financial stress has tested my strength in ways I never imagined, yet I continue to push forward because giving up has never been an option for me. Being a first-generation student carries its own weight. I am navigating higher education without a guide, learning systems my family has never experienced, and carrying the pressure of being the one others are counting on. At times, the journey feels lonely and overwhelming. Still, I remind myself that every challenge I face is preparing me for the future I am working toward. I carry my family’s sacrifices with me into every classroom, every practice, and every late night spent studying. Attending an HBCU holds deep meaning for me. An HBCU is not just a school; it is a place of belonging, affirmation, and empowerment. As a member of the African diaspora, being at an HBCU has allowed me to feel seen, valued, and supported in ways I had never experienced before. It connects me to a powerful legacy of Black excellence, resilience, and leadership. Being surrounded by students and faculty who understand my struggles and celebrate my potential motivates me to strive for greatness despite the obstacles I face. I have chosen to make a difference through my studies by committing myself fully to academic excellence, with the goal of becoming the valedictorian of my class. This goal is deeply personal. For me, becoming valedictorian is not about recognition alone; it is about honoring my sacrifices, my family’s struggles, and the opportunity I was given. It represents discipline, perseverance, and the belief that my background does not define my limits. Academic excellence is my way of proving that despite financial hardship, fear, and uncertainty, I belong in these spaces. I chose to study Public Health because my life experiences exposed me to the realities of inequality, limited access to healthcare, and broken systems that affect marginalized communities. Growing up, I saw how lack of resources can determine the quality of life for entire families. My goal is to build a career in health administration so I can help improve healthcare systems, advocate for underserved populations, and ensure that care is delivered with dignity, efficiency, and compassion. I want to work behind the scenes to remove barriers, improve access, and create systems that truly serve people. Through my education and future career, I plan to make a difference for my family by creating stability and breaking cycles of hardship. For my community, I want to be a voice for access, representation, and change. I want young people who come from backgrounds like mine to see that perseverance can lead to opportunity. My journey has been difficult, but it has been purposeful. I carry my island roots, my family’s sacrifices, and my dreams with me every step of the way. Education is not just my opportunity—it is my responsibility to uplift others and create lasting impact.

Sgt. Albert Dono Ware’s legacy of service, sacrifice, and bravery reflects values that have shaped my life long before I fully understood their meaning. Growing up in Dominica, I was raised in a close-knit community where people relied on one another to survive and succeed. Service was not something you talked about—it was something you lived. Families shared resources, neighbors helped raise children, and sacrifice was often necessary just to make it through each day. Those early experiences taught me resilience, humility, and responsibility, values that continue to guide me as a member of the African diaspora now living in the United States. Sgt. Albert Dono Ware’s legacy of service, sacrifice, and bravery reflects values that have shaped my personal journey. Growing up in Dominica, I was raised in a close knit community where people depended on one another for survival. Service was not an idea but a way of life. Neighbors supported each other, families shared what little they had, and sacrifice was often required just to move forward. These early experiences taught me resilience, responsibility, and the importance of showing up for others, values that continue to guide me as a member of the African diaspora living in the United States. Coming to the United States as an international student from a low income, single parent household required courage in ways I never imagined. I had to leave my home, adjust to a new culture, and navigate unfamiliar systems with limited support. Financial hardship, academic pressure, and uncertainty about my future tested my strength daily. Still, I chose to persevere. Like Sgt. Ware’s legacy, my journey has demanded sacrifice and bravery, especially when continuing felt difficult. These challenges strengthened my determination to succeed not only for myself but for those who come from similar backgrounds. These values shape my vision for addressing challenges faced by the African diaspora in the United States. I have seen how health disparities, economic inequality, and limited access to resources affect Black and immigrant communities both in Dominica and in America. As a Public Health major with aspirations of becoming a health administrative worker, I want to help improve healthcare systems so they serve underserved communities with dignity and efficiency. I believe equitable healthcare access is essential for reducing long term disparities. The most critical reforms include expanding affordable healthcare, strengthening community health centers, and improving patient navigation services. Many individuals struggle to understand healthcare systems or access preventative care. Policies that support culturally competent care, language access, and workforce development are necessary to create lasting change. Education and economic reforms that support low income students are also vital. Driving change requires collaboration among policymakers, healthcare administrators, educators, nonprofit organizations, faith based leaders, and community members. Including voices from the African diaspora ensures solutions reflect lived experiences. Sgt. Albert Dono Ware’s legacy inspires me to serve with courage, sacrifice with purpose, and work toward equity for the communities that shaped me and the future I hope to build. My lived experience motivates me to advocate for policies that center prevention, access, and accountability. I want to work within healthcare systems to reduce barriers that prevent families from receiving timely care. By combining policy reform with community engagement, I believe meaningful progress is possible. Service means using my education to uplift others, sacrifice means committing to long term solutions, and bravery means challenging inequitable systems even when it is uncomfortable. These principles guide my commitment to improving outcomes for future generations. I carry these values daily as I strive to honor my roots, strengthen communities, and build pathways toward justice, health equity, and opportunity for all globally.

Financial peace is important to me because it represents stability, security, and the ability to focus on growth rather than survival. As a student from a low-income background, financial stress has been a constant part of my life. It affects my education, mental well-being, and the choices I make every day. When finances are uncertain, it becomes difficult to fully concentrate on academics or plan confidently for the future. Financial peace would allow me to focus on learning, personal development, and long-term goals without constant fear or anxiety. Right now, financial stress plays a major role in my decisions. I often have to prioritize immediate needs over opportunities that could benefit my future. Tuition deadlines, living expenses, and the risk of being unenrolled from school create ongoing pressure. Even though I remain motivated and determined, this stress limits my ability to explore internships, leadership opportunities, and professional experiences related to my career goals. Instead of making decisions based on growth, I am often forced to make decisions based on urgency. If I had no financial stressors, I would make choices that better support my academic and professional development. I would invest more time in internships, networking opportunities, and skill-building experiences connected to public health and health administration. I would also seek mentorship, attend conferences, and participate in programs that prepare me for leadership roles in healthcare settings. Without financial pressure, I could focus fully on building a strong foundation for my future career as a health administrative worker. Financial peace would also allow me to take better care of my health and well-being. Managing constant stress can be exhausting, and having stability would give me the space to focus on balance and self-care. Looking ahead, financial stability would empower me to give back to my community. I want to use my education and lived experience to help improve healthcare access, support underserved populations, and contribute to systems that create equity and efficiency. For me, financial peace means freedom, purpose, and the ability to build a future that creates positive impact for others. It would also allow me to support my family, reduce generational hardship, and serve as an example for others facing similar struggles. With stability, I could lead with confidence, plan responsibly, and make decisions rooted in purpose rather than fear, creating lasting change in both my personal life and the communities I hope to serve in the future.

Coming from a single-parent, low-income household has shaped who I am and how I handle challenges. Growing up, I learned early what it meant to struggle financially and to push forward even when resources were limited. I watched my parent work hard to provide for our family, often sacrificing their own needs so I could continue my education. That experience taught me resilience, responsibility, and the importance of perseverance. There were times when financial stress made school feel uncertain, but giving up was never an option for me. Instead, those challenges motivated me to work harder and stay focused on my goals. These life experiences have given me a deep understanding of the barriers many people face, especially in healthcare and education. I plan to use this perspective to make a positive impact by pursuing a career as a health administrative worker. I want to help improve healthcare systems, support patients, and ensure that services are accessible to individuals from underserved and low-income communities. I am actively working toward my goals by majoring in Public Health and gaining leadership experience through programs like the HBCU Smart Cities Program, where I served as a Business Analyst and Project Manager. I also balance academics with athletics as a member of my school’s track team, which has strengthened my discipline and time management skills. Despite financial hardship, I remain committed to my education because I know it is the foundation for creating meaningful change in my community and beyond.