Yes, society must change its way of responding to the problems of the disadvantaged. The current approach is not working and it is not sustainable. The reasons why society must change its approach are numerous and complex, but some of the key issues include: Firstly, the current approach tends to focus on short-term fixes rather than long-term solutions. This is particularly true when it comes to issues of poverty, homelessness, and access to healthcare. While emergency shelters and food banks are important in the short term, they do not solve the underlying problems that lead to poverty and homelessness. Similarly, while free clinics and community health centers can provide necessary medical care, they do not address the underlying issues that create disparities in access to healthcare. Instead, society needs to focus on creating systemic change that addresses the root causes of these issues. Secondly, the current approach often fails to take into account the systemic issues that contribute to poverty and marginalization. Discriminatory lending practices, redlining, and lack of access to quality education and job opportunities have all contributed to the creation of disadvantaged communities. Focusing solely on the individual-level issues faced by these communities ignores the broader systemic issues that need to be addressed in order to create real change. Finally, changing the way society responds to the problems of the disadvantaged is a moral imperative. Every person deserves to live with dignity and respect, and to have access to the resources they need to live a fulfilling life. Failing to address the root causes of poverty and marginalization perpetuates a cycle of disadvantage that is difficult to break. So, what can be done to change society's approach to these issues? There is no easy answer, but some potential strategies include: Addressing systemic issues, such as discrimination and lack of access to resources, that contribute to poverty and marginalization. Investing in education and job training programs to provide individuals with the skills they need to succeed in the workforce. Increasing funding for affordable housing and healthcare to ensure that everyone has access to necessities. Encouraging community involvement and empowering individuals to take control of their own lives and communities. In conclusion, changing society's approach to the problems of the disadvantaged is necessary. Focusing on systemic change and addressing the root causes of poverty and marginalization is essential if we want to create a more just and equitable society. By working together to create real change, we can help ensure that everyone has the opportunity to live a fulfilling and meaningful life.

Incarceration has had a profound impact on my life, shaping my perspectives, experiences, and ambitions in significant ways. Growing up in Chicago, I witnessed the harsh realities of the criminal justice system as my father was incarcerated for a significant period of time. Losing my father to incarceration and witnessing the consequences of his absence in my life has been a deeply challenging experience, but it has also taught me invaluable life lessons. First and foremost, incarceration has highlighted the systemic issues and inequalities within the criminal justice system. It has made me keenly aware of the disparities in the treatment and outcomes faced by individuals from marginalized communities, including those in low-income neighborhoods like the one I grew up in. This awareness has fueled my passion for advocating for criminal justice reform and addressing the root causes of incarceration, such as poverty, inequality, and lack of access to education and opportunities. Furthermore, experiencing the impact of incarceration on my father's life and our family has inspired me to strive for academic and career success. I have recognized the importance of education as a pathway to breaking the cycle of incarceration and creating a better future for myself and my community. It has motivated me to pursue my academic ambitions with determination and focus, knowing that education can be a powerful tool for social mobility and empowerment. In addition, my father's incarceration has shaped my career aspirations. It has inspired me to pursue a career that involves advocating for marginalized communities, addressing social injustices, and creating positive change. I am committed to working towards a career that allows me to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those affected by incarceration, whether it be through policy advocacy, community engagement, or direct service. Despite the challenges and hardships that incarceration has brought into my life, I have learned resilience, perseverance, and the importance of using my experiences to create positive change. It has motivated me to work towards creating a more just and equitable society, where individuals are not defined by their past mistakes but are given opportunities for rehabilitation, growth, and success. In conclusion, the impact of incarceration on my life has been profound. It has shaped my perspectives, experiences, and ambitions, and has fueled my determination to work towards creating a more just and equitable society. Through my academic and career aspirations, I strive to advocate for criminal justice reform, address social injustices, and make a positive impact on the lives of those affected by incarceration, including my father and my community in Chicago.

Two individuals who have had a profound impact on my educational journey and continue to inspire me are my dad and brother. They have been my pillars of support, motivators, and role models throughout my academic pursuits. My dad, a hardworking and dedicated individual, has always emphasized the importance of education in our family. He has instilled in me the value of lifelong learning and has been my biggest cheerleader, providing unwavering support and encouragement in every step of my educational journey. His sacrifices and unwavering belief in my potential have been a driving force behind my determination to excel academically. My brother, who is older and has always been ahead of me in his educational pursuits, has also been a source of inspiration for me. He has been a guiding light, leading by example and showing me the possibilities and opportunities that education can bring. He has been a mentor, helping me navigate through challenges and providing valuable advice on academic and career choices. The impact of my dad and brother on my educational journey extends beyond their support and guidance. They have also inspired me to give back to my community in the future. I am committed to using my education and skills to make a positive impact in my community, just as they have done for me. I aspire to be a role model for others, especially for younger students who may face similar challenges and obstacles in their educational journey. In the future, I plan to contribute to my community by using my education and skills to address societal challenges, promote education and opportunities, and make a positive difference in the lives of others. This could involve volunteering in educational programs, mentoring younger students, and advocating for equal access to education for all. I also plan to use my knowledge and expertise in computer science to develop innovative solutions that can benefit my community and beyond, such as creating educational software or technologies that can improve access to education. Moreover, I believe that giving back to the community goes beyond academic and professional contributions. It also involves fostering a sense of empathy, compassion, and inclusivity towards others. I plan to promote a culture of inclusivity and diversity in my community, advocating for social justice, and supporting marginalized groups. In conclusion, my dad and brother have been instrumental in shaping my educational journey, and I am grateful for their unwavering support and inspiration. Their impact has instilled in me a strong sense of responsibility to give back to my community in the future. I am committed to using my education and skills to make a positive impact, promote education and opportunities, and contribute to creating a better and more inclusive community.

As a computer science major who has always been fascinated by the world of technology and video games, I am pursuing my degree with a deep passion and determination to turn my passion into a rewarding career. Ever since I was a child, I have been drawn to video games as a source of inspiration, creativity, and entertainment. I have spent countless hours playing games, analyzing their mechanics, and exploring their virtual worlds. This love for video games has fueled my curiosity about how they are created and the underlying technology that powers them. As I grew older, I realized that computer science is the perfect field to blend my passion for video games with my aptitude for problem-solving and logical reasoning. Choosing to major in computer science has been a natural and exciting choice for me. I am enthusiastic about learning programming languages, software development, and game design principles. I am constantly pushing myself to learn new skills, explore cutting-edge technologies, and stay updated with the latest trends in the gaming industry. I believe that computer science provides me with a strong foundation to pursue my passion for video games and make a meaningful impact in the field. Furthermore, I am driven by the potential that computer science offers in terms of career opportunities and growth. I am aware of the rapid advancements in the tech industry and how it continues to shape various sectors, including gaming, entertainment, and beyond. Pursuing a degree in computer science equips me with the knowledge and skills to be at the forefront of this ever-evolving field, and I am eager to contribute my expertise and creativity to shape the future of gaming. Apart from my personal passion, I am also motivated by the desire to make a positive impact in the world through technology. I believe that video games have the power to entertain, educate, and inspire people, and I want to be a part of creating games that bring joy and meaning to people's lives. Additionally, as a computer science professional, I aspire to contribute to the development of innovative technologies that address real-world challenges and make a positive difference in society. In conclusion, as a computer science major with a love for video games, I am pursuing my degree with a deep passion and determination. I am excited about the opportunities that computer science offers in the gaming industry and beyond, and I am committed to continuously learning, growing, and contributing to the field. I believe that with my dedication, skills, and passion, I can turn my love for video games into a fulfilling and successful career that makes a positive impact in the world.

As a young individual with big dreams, I am fueled by a strong sense of purpose and a desire to make a meaningful impact in my life and the lives of those I care about. One of my greatest aspirations is to retire my mother and provide for my young daughter, as they are both central to my motivation and passion for fulfilling my dreams. Growing up, my mother worked tirelessly to provide for our family, often working multiple jobs and sacrificing her own needs to ensure that my siblings and I had the best possible opportunities. Her unwavering love and selflessness have inspired me to strive for success and make a positive difference in her life. I am deeply grateful for her sacrifices and want to repay her by giving her the retirement she deserves, where she can enjoy her golden years without financial stress. Additionally, becoming a parent at a young age has instilled in me a profound sense of responsibility and determination to provide for my daughter. I want to be a role model for her and show her the power of hard work, perseverance, and dedication in achieving one's goals. I want to ensure that she has every opportunity to thrive and succeed in life and that she never has to face the financial hardships that I witnessed growing up. My dreams also go beyond just taking care of my immediate family. I aspire to make a positive impact in my community and contribute to society in meaningful ways. I am passionate about giving back and helping those in need, whether it's through volunteering, advocating for social justice issues, or supporting local initiatives. I believe in the power of education and want to use my success to create opportunities for others, especially those who may face financial barriers. The drive to fulfill my dreams is not only rooted in personal fulfillment but also a deep sense of responsibility and love for my family and community. I am determined to work hard, overcome obstacles, and pursue my passions with unwavering determination. I am motivated by the vision of a brighter future for my family, and the opportunity to make a positive impact in the lives of others. In conclusion, my story is one of resilience, determination, and a deep sense of responsibility toward my family and community. I am passionate about fulfilling my dreams to retire my mother and provide for my young daughter, as well as making a positive impact in my community. I believe that with hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to my values, I can achieve my dreams and create a better future for myself and those I care about.

During my sophomore year of high school, I faced a significant setback when I did not make the cut for the varsity basketball team, despite my earnest efforts and dedication to the sport. As a passionate basketball player, this failure hit me hard and initially left me feeling discouraged and disheartened. However, instead of letting it define me, I decided to "turn it up to 11" and use it as an opportunity for growth and self-improvement. In response to this setback, I took several proactive steps to overcome the challenge. Firstly, I sought feedback from the coach and senior players to understand areas where I could improve. I used their feedback as a roadmap for my training, spending extra hours in the gym, working on my shooting, dribbling, and conditioning. I also sought additional coaching and participated in off-season leagues to sharpen my skills and gain more experience. Moreover, I didn't let the setback dampen my spirits or affect my work ethic. I remained committed to my studies, maintaining my high grades, and balancing my time between school, basketball, and other extracurricular activities. I also focused on being a supportive teammate and contributing positively to the junior varsity team, where I continued to play with passion and determination. As I persevered through this challenge, I learned valuable life lessons. I realized that setbacks are inevitable, but it is our response to them that matters the most. I learned the importance of resilience, perseverance, and a growth mindset in overcoming challenges. I also learned that failure does not define our worth or potential, but rather serves as a stepping stone for personal growth and improvement. In the end, my hard work and perseverance paid off. In my junior year, I made the varsity basketball team, and my dedication and improvement were recognized by the coach and my teammates. This experience taught me the value of resilience, determination, and a positive attitude in the face of challenges. It also reinforced my belief in the power of perseverance and hard work in achieving success. Overall, facing the setback of not making the varsity basketball team was a challenging experience that taught me valuable life lessons and helped me grow as an individual. It pushed me to "turn it up to 11" by going above and beyond in my efforts to improve and overcome the setback. I am grateful for this experience as it has shaped my character, strengthened my resolve, and instilled in me the importance of resilience and perseverance in the face of obstacles.

One unique aspect of myself is my background as a first-generation college student. As the first in my family to pursue higher education, I am motivated to break barriers and create a positive impact not only for myself but also for my family and community. Growing up, I witnessed my mother's sacrifices and unwavering support for my education, despite facing financial constraints. Especially after losing my father, she did her best to make sure anything I needed was done and that if you succumb to failure you will never be able to reach your goals. This has instilled in me a deep sense of gratitude and determination to make the most of the opportunities available to me. I believe that my unique perspective as a first-generation black college student sets me apart from other applicants. Not coming from the typical background, overachieving and overcoming an enormous amount of setbacks has not only molded me but has fueled my drive to excel academically and make a meaningful contribution to my community. I am committed to using my education as a stepping stone toward creating positive change and giving back to those who have supported me along the way. Furthermore, I have been actively involved in various community service projects, volunteering my time and skills to help those in need. I have also taken leadership roles in school clubs and organizations, where I have honed my interpersonal and organizational skills. Through these experiences, I have developed a deep sense of empathy, compassion, and a desire to make a difference in the lives of others. In addition, I am highly motivated and dedicated to my academic pursuits. I have maintained a strong academic record, consistently achieving high grades and receiving recognition for my achievements. I have also been proactive in seeking out opportunities for personal and professional growth, such as internships, research projects, and professional development workshops. As a recipient of a scholarship, I would utilize the financial support to further my education, pursue my passions, and contribute to my community which is priority number one when it comes to my dreams. I am committed to academic excellence, community service, and leadership, and I believe that my unique background, motivations, and accomplishments make me a deserving candidate for this scholarship. I am determined to make a positive impact in my academic and personal endeavors and will continue to work diligently toward achieving my goals.

As a young individual who has experienced loss and adversity, I believe that my unique attributes include resilience, empathy, and determination. These qualities have shaped my outlook on life and inspired me to give back to my community in meaningful ways. One attribute that sets me apart is my resilience. Losing my father at a young age was a challenging experience, but it has taught me how to persevere in the face of adversity. I have developed a strong sense of resilience, which allows me to bounce back from setbacks, stay focused on my goals, and maintain a positive attitude even during difficult times. This resilience gives me the strength and determination to overcome obstacles and continue working towards making a positive impact in my community. Another attribute that makes me unique is my empathy. Going through the process of grieving and healing has given me a deep understanding of the importance of compassion and empathy towards others who are facing challenges. I am able to connect with individuals on a personal level, listen to their stories, and offer support and understanding without judgment. This empathy enables me to relate to others, build meaningful relationships, and create a positive impact by uplifting those in need in my community. Furthermore, my determination is a key attribute that sets me apart. I am highly motivated and committed to making a difference in my community. I set clear goals, work hard to achieve them, and remain persistent even when faced with obstacles. I believe that my determination to create positive change, combined with my resilience and empathy, allows me to approach community service with passion and dedication, making a meaningful impact on those around me. In terms of giving back to my community, I plan to continue my efforts in organizing basketball camps for underprivileged kids, providing them with access to sports opportunities, mentorship, and guidance. I aim to expand the reach of these camps to more communities, particularly those that are marginalized or underserved, to promote inclusivity and provide a platform for youth to develop their skills and character through sports. Additionally, I will continue advocating for mental health awareness and social justice issues, using my voice to raise awareness, educate others, and advocate for policy changes that promote equality and justice for all. I plan to volunteer at local shelters, participate in community engagement initiatives, and collaborate with local organizations to address pressing social issues in my community. Overall, my unique attributes of resilience, empathy, and determination will continue to drive me in my efforts to give back to my community. I am committed to making a positive impact, honoring my father's memory, and creating a better, more equitable world for all.

As a young kid who has always been passionate about basketball, losing my father was a profound experience that shaped my outlook on life and inspired me to make a positive impact on the world. The sudden loss of my father left a deep void in my heart, and I had to face the challenges of grief and loss at a young age. However, instead of succumbing to the pain and sorrow, I channeled my emotions into a drive to make a difference in the world, addressing an important social issue. Basketball has always been my solace, a place where I could escape and find comfort during difficult times. It became a source of motivation for me to turn my pain into purpose and make a positive impact in my community. I realized that many young kids faced similar challenges and lacked access to opportunities to participate in sports due to financial or social barriers. This ignited a passion in me to create change and promote inclusivity in the world of sports. I started by organizing local basketball camps for underprivileged kids in my community. I reached out to local schools and community centers, and with the help of volunteers and sponsors, we provided free basketball coaching, equipment, and mentorship to kids who otherwise would not have had the opportunity to play the sport. It was heartwarming to see the smiles on the kids' faces as they dribbled, shot, and learned new skills on the court. Through these camps, I aimed to instill in them the values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and perseverance, just like my father had taught me. In addition to organizing basketball camps, I also advocated for the importance of sports and physical activity in improving mental health and well-being. I spoke at local schools and community events, sharing my story and spreading awareness about the positive impact of sports on mental health, especially for kids who have experienced loss or adversity. I also raised funds to support organizations that promote sports programs for underprivileged youth and collaborated with local businesses to provide sponsorship opportunities for kids who demonstrated talent and passion for basketball. Beyond basketball, I realized that my journey of healing and making a positive impact on the world was not limited to just one social issue. I became passionate about addressing other important issues such as mental health awareness, community engagement, and social justice. I volunteered at local shelters, participated in awareness campaigns, and advocated for policies that promote equality and justice for all. In the future, I plan to continue my efforts in making a positive impact on the world by combining my passion for basketball with my dedication to social issues. I aspire to expand my basketball camps to reach more communities, particularly those that are marginalized or underserved. I aim to create a platform that promotes inclusivity, diversity, and equality in sports, providing opportunities for kids of all backgrounds to thrive and succeed. In conclusion, my journey of loss and grief has ignited a passion in me to make a positive impact on the world by addressing important social issues. Through my love for basketball and my commitment to inclusivity, mental health awareness, and social justice, I am working towards creating a better, more equitable world for all. I am determined to continue my efforts in making a positive impact and leaving a lasting legacy in honor of my father's memory.