To me, selflessness is not about sacrificing every part of yourself for someone else. It is about recognizing when you have something another person needs—time, knowledge, resources, connections, or encouragement—and choosing to share it. I try to embody selflessness by making room for other people's success while I am still working toward my own. One of the most meaningful ways I have done this is through my involvement with Bottomless Closet, a nonprofit that helps women achieve economic independence. I have supported professional clothing drives, fundraising efforts, events, and career mentorship. Most importantly, I have worked with women rebuilding their lives after homelessness, domestic violence, incarceration, and other circumstances that created barriers to employment. My role went beyond telling someone that things would get better. I helped women navigate job searches, shared professional resources, offered career guidance, reviewed opportunities with them, made connections when I could, and helped several women find employment. Sometimes what a woman needed was practical—a professional outfit, a job lead, or advice about navigating the workplace. Other times, she needed someone to remind her that the hardest chapter of her life did not have to become the rest of her story. I understand that feeling personally. I have experienced homelessness and periods when my mental health made imagining a future difficult. My educational journey has taken longer than I once expected, and there were times when simply managing my own responsibilities required perseverance. Those experiences could have made me focus exclusively on myself. Instead, they made me more aware of what another person might be carrying silently. Because I know what instability feels like, I refuse to define someone by where she is when I meet her. When I mentor a woman who has experienced homelessness, I see more than her housing situation. When someone is rebuilding after incarceration, I see more than her past. When a survivor of domestic violence is pursuing financial independence, I see her courage, ambition, and potential. My belief is simple: people deserve the opportunity to become more than the circumstances they have survived. I try to practice that belief outside of formal volunteering as well. If I learn about a job opening, scholarship, professional resource, or educational opportunity that could help someone, I share it. If someone needs guidance I can provide, I make time. I do not believe keeping information to myself makes my own success more valuable. Today, I work full-time in corporate events while pursuing my education in Hospitality and Tourism Management and maintaining a 3.9 GPA. My ambition is to become a senior leader producing large-scale and global events. But the higher I climb, the more people I want to be able to help. Eventually, I hope to mentor more women, create professional-development opportunities, and fund scholarships for students whose paths have not been traditional. Receiving this scholarship would help ease the financial responsibility of continuing my education while working full-time, but its meaning would extend beyond $500 toward my education. It would support someone who intends to continue paying opportunity forward. I am proud of my academic and professional accomplishments, but I do not want a GPA, degree, or job title to be the most meaningful thing I leave behind. I want people to remember that when I had something that could help, I shared it; when I could open a door, I did; and when someone needed to be reminded that there was more ahead for her, I made time to remind her.

Women's empowerment, to me, is not simply telling women that they are capable. It is helping create the conditions that allow them to act on that capability. It means sharing knowledge, providing resources, opening doors, and reminding another woman that the circumstances she has experienced do not determine what she deserves next. That belief is personal to me. As a first-generation Haitian American, a nontraditional college student, and a woman who has experienced homelessness and other difficult periods in my own life, I understand how powerful it can be when someone sees your potential beyond your present circumstances. Today, while working full-time and maintaining a 3.9 GPA in Hospitality and Tourism Management, I try to be that source of encouragement and opportunity for other women. My most meaningful contribution to women's empowerment has been through my involvement with **Bottomless Closet**, a nonprofit dedicated to helping women achieve economic independence. My involvement has included professional clothing donations and drives, fundraising, event support, and, most importantly to me, mentorship. I have had the opportunity to mentor women working to rebuild their professional lives after experiencing significant barriers, including homelessness, domestic violence, and incarceration. I have supported women through job searches, provided career guidance, shared professional resources, helped them prepare to pursue opportunities, and connected several women with employment opportunities. I learned quickly that empowerment is not about doing something *for* another woman that she cannot do herself. It is about making sure she has access to the tools, information, encouragement, and opportunities that allow her to move forward on her own terms. Seeing a woman begin to recognize herself for her abilities and potential rather than the most difficult chapter of her life has been one of the most meaningful parts of serving my community. I also practice women's empowerment outside of formal volunteer service. In my professional and educational communities, I intentionally share job openings, resources, advice, and opportunities with other women. I encourage women to apply for positions they may initially believe are beyond their reach, offer guidance based on lessons I have learned in my own career, and make myself available as a resource. As a Black woman building a career in corporate events, I am aware of what it feels like to enter professional spaces and notice how few people who look like me are represented in leadership. My response has not been simply to focus on securing my own seat at the table. I want to make it easier for another woman to find hers. I believe information loses nothing when it is shared, and success becomes more meaningful when it creates access for someone else. As I continue my education and advance in the hospitality and events industry, I want my impact on women's empowerment to grow alongside my career. My long-term vision is to mentor women entering the industry—particularly Black women, first-generation professionals, and women whose educational or career paths have not been traditional—and eventually develop professional-development and scholarship opportunities that connect women with mentors, industry certifications, internships, employment, and financial support for education. Education has transformed what I believe is possible for my own life, and I want other women to experience that same expansion of possibility. I do not want my greatest professional accomplishment to simply be how high I rise. I want it to be how many women have greater access to opportunity because I made the decision to reach back as I climbed.

My name is Ricardine Leveille, and I am a first-generation Haitian American, a nontraditional college student, and a full-time corporate events professional pursuing my education in Hospitality and Tourism Management. My journey has not followed a traditional path, but it has taught me that excellence is not about having perfect circumstances. It is about continuing to give your best despite them. There were periods of my life when simply imagining a future for myself was difficult. I experienced homelessness, struggled with my mental health, and faced circumstances that interrupted the educational timeline I originally envisioned. There were moments when walking away from school would have been easier than returning. Instead, I kept choosing to move forward. Today, I work full-time while maintaining a **3.9 GPA**. Returning to school was never simply about finishing a degree. I made a commitment to myself that if I returned, I would give my education my very best. In 2025, I also earned my Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation while building my career in corporate events. These accomplishments mean so much to me because they represent perseverance, discipline, and my belief in lifelong learning. My parents helped instill those values in me. My mother is a nurse and my father is a pastor. As the daughter of Haitian immigrants, I grew up understanding that the opportunities available to me were made possible by sacrifices that began before me. They taught me to work hard, remain grounded in faith, and understand that achievement means more when it allows you to serve others. I carry that lesson into my community involvement with **Bottomless Closet**, an organization that helps women achieve economic independence. I have supported clothing drives, fundraising efforts, events, and professional mentorship. I have mentored women rebuilding their lives after homelessness, domestic violence, and incarceration, helping with job searches, providing career guidance, sharing resources, and connecting women with employment opportunities. That work is personal to me. Having experienced instability myself, I understand that someone's hardest chapter does not determine the rest of her story. Sometimes people need resources, sometimes they need an opportunity, and sometimes they need someone who believes in their potential while they are learning to believe in themselves again. My long-term goal is to become a senior leader in the global events industry, producing large-scale experiences that connect people across cultures and backgrounds. As I advance, I want to mentor more women entering the industry and eventually create scholarships and professional-development opportunities for students whose paths have not been traditional. Receiving the **Kalia D. Davis Scholarship** would reduce the financial burden of completing my education while working full-time and help me minimize additional educational debt. What resonates with me about Kalia's legacy is that she pursued excellence while still making room for service, leadership, relationships, and joy. I want to build my life the same way. I want to accomplish extraordinary things, but I also want the people I encounter along the way to be better because I was there. This scholarship would be an investment in my education, but its impact would not end with me. I intend to carry that investment forward by continuing to learn, serve, lead, and create opportunities for others as I build the future I once struggled to imagine.

When I imagine the life of my dreams, I do not immediately picture a house, a salary, or a job title. I picture **peace**. I picture waking up without feeling like I am constantly trying to catch up with life. I picture stability, purpose, meaningful work, financial freedom, and the ability to care for the people I love. Most importantly, I picture becoming the kind of woman an earlier version of me needed to know existed. There were periods of my life when dreaming about the future felt like a luxury. I experienced homelessness, struggled with my mental health, and followed an educational path that has taken longer than I originally imagined. At times, my focus was not on creating an extraordinary future but simply making it through the present. That history is why dreaming today means so much to me. Professionally, I see myself as a senior leader in the hospitality and events industry, producing large-scale and global experiences that bring people together across cultures and backgrounds. I want to walk into rooms where important decisions are being made and know that I earned my seat through education, experience, persistence, and excellence. But I also want to look around those rooms and see more women who look like me. As a Black woman and first-generation Haitian American, my dream is not simply to succeed individually. I want to reach a level where I can influence who receives opportunities, who gets mentored, whose ideas are heard, and who is considered capable of leading. I envision creating a mentorship and professional-development program for women entering hospitality and events, particularly Black women, first-generation professionals, and women whose paths have not been traditional. I want to connect them with mentors, internships, employment opportunities, industry certifications, and eventually scholarships of their own. In the life of my dreams, **I am not the only person whose life changes.** Education is central to that vision. Working full-time while continuing my education is not easy, but I view my degree as an investment in the woman I am becoming. Education gives me the knowledge to lead more effectively and the confidence to pursue opportunities that once felt beyond my reach. I also want to remain a lifelong learner—continuing to learn from my industry, my community, the people I lead, and even my mistakes. My dream life also includes quieter forms of success. I want financial freedom and a home that feels safe and permanent. I want to travel because I am curious about the world. I want to support my family without destabilizing myself financially. I want to give generously, fund scholarships, mentor women, and have enough time to actually enjoy the life I worked so hard to create. For me, a graduate degree is not the dream itself. **Education is one of the tools giving me the freedom to build that dream.** There was once a version of me who struggled to imagine what her future could become. Today, I am actively building it. And when I eventually look around at the life I created, I hope my greatest accomplishment will not be my title or salary, but knowing that my success created opportunities for other women to dream bigger, too.

Growing up as the daughter of Haitian immigrants, I understood early that my life in the United States began with a decision I did not make. Before I could dream about college, build a career, or imagine the woman I wanted to become, my parents made the difficult decision to leave what was familiar and create something new for their family. My mother became a nurse, and my father became a pastor. Their careers were different, but their purpose was remarkably similar: both chose lives centered on serving others. I watched my mother care for people during vulnerable moments and my father dedicate himself to supporting families through some of life's most difficult seasons. From them, I learned that success is not simply measured by what you accomplish for yourself. It is also measured by what your accomplishments allow you to do for others. Being a first-generation Haitian American also taught me to view opportunity differently. Education was never presented to me as simply earning a piece of paper. It represented possibility, stability, and the continuation of sacrifices that began before me. My parents came to this country believing that their children could have opportunities they did not have, and that knowledge has stayed with me throughout my educational journey. My own path has not been linear. I am a nontraditional student who has balanced higher education with building a full-time career. There have been moments when finishing my education felt much farther away than I imagined it would when I first started. But my parents' story taught me that taking a longer road does not mean you have lost your destination. Their example also influenced my decision to build a career in hospitality and events. At first glance, nursing, ministry, and event management may seem unrelated. To me, however, they share something fundamental: **they are all about people.** Hospitality means noticing what people need, creating environments where they feel welcomed, and bringing individuals together who might otherwise never meet. Today, I work professionally in corporate events while pursuing my education in Hospitality and Tourism Management with a focus on Mega Events. My goal is to become a senior leader producing large-scale and global experiences that connect people across cultures, industries, and backgrounds. But I want my career to accomplish more than producing impressive events. I want to use the access and relationships I develop to create opportunities for others, particularly women and people from immigrant, underrepresented, and nontraditional backgrounds. Through my community involvement, I have already seen what can happen when someone receives mentorship, professional resources, or simply an introduction to the right opportunity. As my career grows, I want my ability to provide those things to others to grow with it. My parents crossed borders to create possibilities for their children. Their story taught me resilience, but more importantly, it taught me responsibility. I cannot control every obstacle I encounter, but I can decide what I build from the opportunities their sacrifices helped make possible. One day, I hope my career tells the next chapter of their story: **that the daughter they came to America to give opportunities to used those opportunities to create them for others.**

As a Haitian American, my faith and my church community have always been an important part of how I understand service, responsibility, and community. My father is a pastor, so I grew up seeing firsthand what it means to dedicate your life to supporting and serving others. From a young age, I learned that church is not only a place to worship; it is also a place where people come together to care for one another, provide support, and respond to the needs of their community. Growing up in a Haitian church community taught me the importance of family and collective responsibility. I was surrounded by people who understood that when one person is struggling, the community should not simply stand by. Whether someone needed encouragement, practical assistance, prayer, or simply someone willing to listen, there was an expectation that we would show up for one another. Watching my father serve as a pastor reinforced that lesson for me. I saw the time, patience, and compassion required to support people through both their celebrations and their most difficult moments. Those experiences shaped the way I approach service outside of church as well. I have learned that service does not always have to be something formal or highly visible. Sometimes it is helping someone who needs an extra hand, making someone feel welcomed, sharing knowledge, or simply being present when someone needs support. My faith has encouraged me to pay attention to the needs of the people around me and consider how I can use my own skills and opportunities to help others. My professional experience in events has reinforced these values. Events are ultimately about people. Creating a successful experience requires anticipating needs, solving problems, remaining calm under pressure, and making sure people feel welcomed and valued. I see those responsibilities as another form of service because the goal is to create an environment where others can connect, celebrate, learn, or feel supported. As I pursue my degree in Hospitality and Marketing, I want to continue building on the values my church and family instilled in me. My long-term goal is to grow into a leadership role in hospitality and events while creating opportunities for others. I especially hope to mentor young people who are interested in the industry and may not have the professional connections or financial resources to easily enter the field. My father taught me through his example that leadership is not about recognition; it is about responsibility. My Haitian American upbringing and church community taught me that when you are given an opportunity, you should look for ways to extend that opportunity to someone else. Those lessons continue to guide me, and I hope that as I grow personally, academically, and professionally, I can use what I have learned to serve my community and create a positive impact for others.

My long-term goal is to build a successful career in hospitality, marketing, and event management while earning my degree and creating greater financial stability for myself and my family. I have already established a foundation in the events industry, and I want to use my education and professional experience to move into roles with greater responsibility, leadership, and earning potential. My plan is not simply to hope that these opportunities happen. I am intentionally building the education, experience, professional relationships, and financial resources necessary to reach them. My first priority is completing my degree in Hospitality and Marketing. I am currently balancing work and school, which allows me to continue gaining professional experience while progressing toward graduation. I plan to maintain my employment throughout school when possible and use my income to contribute toward tuition and living expenses. I am also pursuing scholarships and grants to reduce the amount I need to borrow. My goal is to minimize student loan debt while still completing my education on schedule. The second part of my plan is professional development. I want to continue expanding my knowledge of event strategy, hospitality operations, marketing, budgeting, and leadership. I am also pursuing professional development opportunities and industry connections that can strengthen my qualifications. As I progress through my degree, I plan to identify positions that provide greater responsibility and opportunities for advancement rather than simply focusing on obtaining a job after graduation. My goal is to continue building toward leadership within the events and hospitality industry. Financial planning is another important part of my strategy. My budget needs to account for tuition, books, transportation, housing, daily expenses, and student loan repayment. I plan to use scholarships and grants first, employment income second, and student loans only when necessary. After graduation, I intend to prioritize repayment of any remaining student debt while also building emergency savings and avoiding unnecessary additional debt. As my income increases through career advancement, I plan to increase the amount I put toward savings and debt repayment. I also understand that plans sometimes have to change. If my ideal career opportunity is not immediately available, I will continue gaining relevant experience through related event, hospitality, or marketing positions. If financial circumstances make it difficult to maintain my current educational path, I will seek additional scholarships, employer assistance, payment plans, and other resources before considering taking a break from school. My goal is to have multiple paths available rather than allowing one setback to stop my progress. The motto “Plan Your Work, Work Your Plan” resonates with me because it reflects how I want to approach my future. I know where I want to go, but I also understand that ambition requires consistent action. My plan is to finish my degree, continue developing professionally, manage my finances responsibly, and pursue opportunities that move me closer to leadership and long-term stability. With discipline, adaptability, and continued investment in myself, I believe I can turn my goals into a sustainable future.

The impact I want to make begins with something I have always believed: access to opportunity can change the direction of someone's life. My education is not only about building a successful career for myself. It is also about gaining the knowledge, confidence, and resources to create opportunities for others who may not have always believed those opportunities were available to them. I am pursuing a degree in Hospitality and Marketing while continuing to work in the events industry. My career has shown me how powerful experiences can be. Events bring people together, create connections, celebrate accomplishments, and give people opportunities to feel seen and valued. In the future, I want to use my education and professional experience to become a leader in the hospitality and events industry while creating experiences that have a meaningful impact beyond the event itself. My desire to give back is also connected to my own experiences. Growing up with limited financial resources, I understood from an early age that money can determine what opportunities feel attainable. Books, for example, were one of the most affordable ways for me to learn and explore the world. They introduced me to different people, places, and possibilities when many other resources were outside of my reach. That experience taught me how powerful access to education can be. Because of that, I want to help create opportunities for young people who may face similar barriers. As my career develops, I hope to mentor students and young professionals who are interested in hospitality, marketing, and events, particularly those who may not have personal connections or financial resources within the industry. I want to share what I learn, help others navigate professional spaces, and show them that their circumstances do not have to determine their potential. The people who inspire me most are those who use their success to create opportunities for others. Sloane Stephens' commitment to education, sports, and underserved youth resonates with me because it reflects the idea that success becomes even more meaningful when it is used to lift someone else. Her grandparents' belief in education and the values of resilience, kindness, and self-belief also reflect the qualities I want to carry into my own life. Ultimately, I want my impact to be measured not only by the career I build, but by the people I help along the way. I want to use my education to create a future where I can support my family, achieve financial stability, mentor others, and contribute to my community. I know what it feels like to have limited resources, and I know how powerful it can be when someone or something provides a door to opportunity. My goal is to become someone who helps hold that door open for others.

My plans for the future are centered around education, professional growth, and creating opportunities that allow me to make a meaningful impact on the people and communities around me. I am pursuing a degree in Hospitality and Marketing because I want to continue building my career in events and hospitality while developing the skills necessary to take on greater leadership responsibilities. My goal is not simply to earn a degree, but to use my education to create a career that provides stability, allows me to grow, and gives me the opportunity to create memorable experiences for others. My journey toward higher education has not always felt easy or guaranteed. Growing up with limited financial resources shaped the way I viewed opportunity. College can feel like an unrealistic goal when the cost is difficult to imagine managing. I learned early that financial circumstances can influence the opportunities people believe are available to them, regardless of their potential or ambition. That is one of the reasons earning my degree is so meaningful to me. I want to prove to myself that my circumstances do not have to determine the limits of my future. I am currently balancing work while pursuing my degree, which has taught me responsibility, discipline, and perseverance. Managing employment, school, and personal responsibilities can be challenging, but I am committed to continuing my education because I know how valuable this investment will be for my future. My professional experience has also helped me understand what I want from my career. I enjoy creating experiences, bringing people together, solving problems, and making sure that the details behind an event come together successfully. I want to continue developing those skills and eventually take on positions with greater responsibility and leadership. This scholarship would help me get there by reducing the financial burden of completing my education. The cost of college can make it difficult to focus entirely on academics and professional development when you are also thinking about tuition, expenses, and student loan debt. Financial assistance would allow me to reduce how much I need to borrow and give me greater flexibility to focus on completing my degree successfully. More importantly, this scholarship would represent an investment in someone who is determined to create a better future through education. I want my degree to open doors that may not have been available to me otherwise. I also want my success to demonstrate to others who come from limited financial circumstances that higher education can be attainable. My future goal is to build a successful career, achieve financial stability, and use my experiences to create opportunities for others. This scholarship would help me take another step toward that future by making my education more accessible and allowing me to continue building the life and career I have worked hard to achieve.

Growing up, books were one of the most accessible forms of learning and escape for me. My family did not have a lot of money, so books were an affordable way to explore places, ideas, and experiences that were otherwise outside of my reach. While other forms of entertainment could be expensive, a library book, a used book, or a book passed down from someone else could provide hours of discovery. Because books were inexpensive and accessible, they became an important part of how I learned about the world. The books I read taught me much more than facts or vocabulary. They introduced me to people with different backgrounds, perspectives, struggles, and ambitions. Through reading, I learned that there was rarely only one way to experience life or define success. Books allowed me to see possibilities beyond my immediate circumstances and helped me understand that where you start does not have to determine where you end up. Reading also taught me the value of curiosity. I became interested in learning about different places, cultures, careers, and ways of life. Books encouraged me to ask questions and imagine futures that I may not have otherwise considered. They helped me develop a belief that education could be a pathway to opportunity, even when financial resources were limited. That belief continues to shape my goals today. I am pursuing my degree in Hospitality and Marketing because I want to continue learning while building a career that allows me to create experiences and bring people together. My interest in events and hospitality comes from my appreciation for the way experiences can introduce people to something new, create memories, and connect communities. In many ways, reading prepared me for that work by teaching me to be curious about people and their stories. Books also taught me resilience. Many of the characters I encountered faced circumstances they could not control, but their stories showed me that difficult beginnings do not have to determine the ending. That lesson has stayed with me as I have navigated my own challenges, including balancing work and school and pursuing my education while managing financial responsibilities. Today, I see education as an investment that can change the trajectory of my life. Books were one of my earliest reminders that knowledge could open doors, even when money could not. They helped me dream beyond my circumstances, and now I am working to turn those dreams into reality through my education, career, and continued personal growth.

My experience with mental health has had a significant impact on the way I understand myself, my relationships, and my future. Living with depression, anxiety, and ADHD has taught me that mental health challenges can affect many parts of a person’s life, including their confidence, motivation, focus, relationships, and ability to see their own potential. There have been periods when depression made it difficult to feel motivated or hopeful, anxiety caused me to overthink decisions and worry about the future, and ADHD made it challenging to stay organized and focused while balancing multiple responsibilities. As someone who is working while pursuing a degree, these challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming. There have been moments when I questioned whether I could manage everything I had taken on or whether I was capable of reaching the goals I had set for myself. Over time, however, I have learned that struggling with my mental health does not mean that I am incapable of succeeding. It has required me to become more intentional about how I manage my time, responsibilities, and expectations of myself. I have learned to break large goals into smaller steps, create structure when I need it, recognize when I need support, and give myself grace when things do not go exactly as planned. My experiences have also changed the way I interact with other people. Mental illness is not always visible, and I have learned that someone can appear successful and confident while privately struggling. Because I understand what it feels like to have challenges that other people cannot see, I try to approach others with greater patience and empathy. I am less likely to judge someone based on what I see on the surface because I understand that there may be a much deeper story that I do not know. Most importantly, my mental health experiences have changed how I define strength. I used to associate strength with being able to handle everything independently. Now, I understand that strength can mean acknowledging that you are struggling, asking for help, taking a break, and still choosing to move forward. Continuing my education while managing my mental health is something I am proud of because it demonstrates my commitment to my future even when the process is not always easy. My experiences with depression, anxiety, and ADHD are part of my story, but they do not define the limits of my future. They have given me resilience, self-awareness, compassion, and a deeper understanding of the importance of mental health. I hope to carry those lessons into my career, my relationships, and my community, while also using my experiences to remind others that having a mental health challenge does not make them weak or incapable of achieving their goals.

Pursuing my degree is an important investment in my future, but I also recognize that it comes with financial responsibilities. I am committed to being intentional about how I manage my current and future student loan debt so that I can complete my education while also working toward long-term financial stability. One of the primary ways I am addressing my student loan debt is by continuing to work while I pursue my degree. Balancing work and school is challenging, but maintaining employment allows me to contribute toward my educational expenses and reduce the amount I need to borrow. It also gives me the opportunity to continue developing professionally while I complete my education. I am learning how to manage my time, prioritize responsibilities, and make thoughtful financial decisions while working toward my degree. I am also actively pursuing scholarships and other forms of financial assistance. I understand that every dollar I receive in scholarships or grants is a dollar that I may not have to borrow and repay later. Because of this, I am committed to applying for opportunities that can help reduce the overall cost of my education. Receiving this scholarship would directly support that goal by reducing the financial burden associated with completing my degree. After graduation, I plan to continue advancing my career in hospitality, marketing, and events. I am already gaining professional experience in the events industry, and completing my degree will help me strengthen my qualifications and create opportunities for career advancement. My long-term goal is to build a career that provides financial stability and allows me to increase my earning potential over time. I plan to use that increased income strategically, with student loan repayment being one of my financial priorities. I also plan to approach repayment with a structured budget. Once I graduate, I intend to evaluate my income, expenses, savings goals, and outstanding debt and establish a consistent repayment strategy. I want to avoid allowing student loan payments to become something I postpone or ignore. Instead, I want to treat repayment as a regular financial obligation while still building an emergency fund and saving for my future. I also plan to avoid taking on unnecessary additional debt and to make financial decisions based on what I can realistically afford. Managing student loan debt is especially important to me because I want my education to create opportunities rather than become a long-term financial burden. My goal is to graduate with the knowledge and experience necessary to advance professionally while also having a clear plan for managing my financial responsibilities. Ultimately, I see my education as an investment in my future. I am willing to work for that investment, both professionally and financially. With continued employment, scholarships, responsible budgeting, and a commitment to repayment after graduation, I believe I can manage my student loan debt while building the stable and successful future I am working toward.

If I could choose one thing to build, it would be a future that is meaningful, stable, and creates opportunities for both myself and the people around me. I am not simply working toward a degree or a career; I am building a life that reflects my values, allows me to grow, and gives me the ability to make a positive impact on my community. One of the most important parts of building that future is completing my degree. I am pursuing studies in Hospitality and Marketing because I want to continue developing a career in events and hospitality. I have always enjoyed creating experiences that bring people together, and I want to build the knowledge and skills necessary to turn that passion into a long-term career. Education is an important foundation for that future because it will give me opportunities to grow professionally, take on greater responsibilities, and eventually create opportunities for others. I also want to build resilience and confidence in myself. Living with depression, anxiety, and ADHD has taught me that building a future is not always a straight path. There are days when staying focused, motivated, or confident can be difficult. Instead of allowing those challenges to determine what I am capable of achieving, I am learning to develop systems that work for me, ask for help when I need it, and give myself grace while continuing to move forward. I want the future I build to extend beyond my own success. Through my career, I hope to create environments where people feel welcomed, valued, and connected. Whether I am planning a corporate event, creating an experience for a community, or mentoring someone entering the hospitality industry, I want my work to have a purpose beyond simply executing an event. Ultimately, I am building a future where success and impact exist together. I want to be proud of the career I create, but I also want to be proud of the person I become along the way. By investing in my education, prioritizing my personal growth, and using my experiences to better understand and support others, I hope to build a future that positively impacts not only my life, but the people and communities I have the opportunity to serve.

Living with depression, anxiety, and ADHD has shaped nearly every part of how I understand myself and the world around me. While these experiences have presented challenges, they have also taught me resilience, self-awareness, patience, and compassion. They have shown me that struggles are not always visible and that someone can be ambitious, hardworking, and successful while still navigating challenges internally. My mental health has significantly influenced the way I approach my goals. There have been times when depression made it difficult to find motivation, anxiety made me question whether I was capable of accomplishing what I set out to do, and ADHD made it challenging to stay focused and organized when I had multiple responsibilities competing for my attention. Balancing work, school, and my personal life has required me to learn how to work with myself rather than constantly criticize myself for not functioning the way I thought I should. I have learned to break larger goals into smaller steps, create structure, give myself grace when I struggle, and recognize that needing additional support does not make me less capable. These experiences have also strengthened my determination. Returning to school and pursuing my degree is important to me because I know how much effort it takes for me to continue moving forward when my mental health makes things more difficult. Every semester, assignment, and accomplishment represents more than simply checking a box. It is evidence that I can continue pursuing my goals even when my mind sometimes tells me otherwise. My goal is to build a successful career in hospitality, marketing, and events, and my experiences have taught me that achieving that goal will require both ambition and taking care of myself along the way. Depression, anxiety, and ADHD have also changed the way I approach relationships. I have become more understanding of the fact that everyone experiences life differently. I know firsthand that someone may seem completely fine on the outside while struggling internally. Because of that, I try to lead with empathy instead of judgment. I have also learned the importance of communicating my needs, establishing boundaries, and surrounding myself with people who allow me to be honest about when I am struggling. Most importantly, my experiences have changed my understanding of the world. They have taught me that mental illness is not a reflection of someone's intelligence, potential, work ethic, or character. Having depression, anxiety, or ADHD does not mean that a person is incapable of achieving their dreams. It simply means that their path may look different and may require different tools and support. My mental health challenges are a part of my story, but they do not define my future. They have helped me become more resilient, compassionate, and determined. I am learning that success is not about pretending that challenges do not exist; it is about learning how to navigate them while continuing to believe that your goals are worth pursuing.

My journey with mental illness has taught me that strength does not always look like having everything together. Sometimes, strength is acknowledging when you are struggling, asking for help, and continuing to move forward even when the path feels uncertain. Mental illness has affected my life both personally and through the experiences of people I love. I have seen how anxiety, depression, and emotional struggles can affect a person’s confidence, relationships, ability to work, and overall quality of life. These experiences have helped me understand that mental health is just as important as physical health, yet it is often harder to recognize and discuss. There can be a great deal of stigma surrounding mental illness, which can make people feel as though they have to suffer quietly or handle everything on their own. My own experiences have taught me the importance of giving myself grace and recognizing that seeking support is not a sign of weakness. Balancing work, school, personal responsibilities, and major life changes has sometimes been overwhelming. There have been moments when I have questioned whether I could continue pursuing my goals while managing everything happening around me. Learning to acknowledge those feelings rather than ignore them has helped me become more self-aware, resilient, and compassionate toward myself and others. Returning to school has been an important part of my personal and professional growth. I am pursuing my degree because I want to continue building a career in hospitality, marketing, and events, but I also want to prove to myself that difficult seasons do not have to determine my future. Education represents opportunity and independence for me, and completing my degree is a goal I am committed to achieving. Mental illness has also shaped the way I view success. I no longer believe success means never struggling. Instead, I believe success means continuing to pursue the life you want while learning how to care for yourself along the way. I hope to use my experiences to be more understanding of others, especially those who may be quietly dealing with challenges that are not visible to the people around them. Receiving this scholarship would support me not only financially, but personally. It would reduce some of the pressure that comes with balancing work, education, and everyday responsibilities and allow me to focus more fully on completing my degree. Most importantly, it would remind me that my goals are worth investing in and that my experiences, including the difficult ones, can become part of the strength I bring to my future career and the people I serve.

My story is rooted in the belief that education is more than earning a degree; it is a pathway to creating opportunities and building a future that extends beyond yourself. As a first-generation Haitian American, I was raised by parents who taught me the importance of hard work, service, integrity, and perseverance. Watching my parents dedicate themselves to serving others shaped the way I approach my own career and inspired my desire to create experiences where people feel welcomed, connected, and valued. That passion led me to build a career in the events industry, where I have developed experience creating and managing corporate events. My career has shown me that successful events require much more than logistics. They require leadership, creativity, communication, adaptability, and the ability to bring people together around a shared experience. In 2025, I earned my Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation, an accomplishment that reinforced my belief that professional growth and education should continue throughout my career. I am now pursuing a graduate degree in Hospitality & Tourism Management with a concentration in Mega Events because I want to take my career to the next level. I chose this path because I want to develop the knowledge and leadership skills necessary to manage large-scale and global events. My goal is not simply to advance professionally, but to become a leader who can mentor emerging professionals and create opportunities for people from backgrounds that have historically been underrepresented in the industry. Balancing graduate school with a full-time career has been challenging, but it has also taught me resilience, discipline, and the importance of investing in my future. Receiving this scholarship would help ease the financial demands of pursuing my degree while allowing me to focus more fully on my education and professional development. It would give me the opportunity to take advantage of experiences, resources, and opportunities that will strengthen my preparation for a career leading global events. Ultimately, this scholarship would be an investment not only in my education, but in the impact I hope to make after earning my degree. I want to use what I learn to lead extraordinary events, mentor the next generation of hospitality professionals, and help create an industry where people from every background have the opportunity to succeed. My story is still being written, and this scholarship would help me take an important step toward becoming the leader I aspire to be.

I am currently pursuing a graduate degree in Hospitality & Tourism Management with a concentration in Mega Events while working full-time in corporate events. Although my experience is beyond part-time employment, balancing a demanding career with graduate school has required the same level of time management, discipline, and commitment. My professional role requires me to coordinate events, manage multiple priorities, collaborate with different stakeholders, and solve problems under tight deadlines. At the same time, graduate school requires me to stay focused on coursework, assignments, projects, and long-term academic goals. There are periods when work becomes especially demanding, particularly around major events, and I have to transition from a full day of professional responsibilities into my responsibilities as a student. Balancing both has taught me to be intentional with my time. I plan my weeks in advance, prioritize deadlines, and break larger responsibilities into smaller, manageable tasks. Rather than waiting for large amounts of free time, I have learned to make productive use of the time available to me. I also value the way my career and education complement one another. My professional experiences give me real-world examples that I can bring into the classroom, while my education provides knowledge and perspectives that I can apply directly to my career. Every event teaches me something about leadership, communication, problem-solving, and creating meaningful experiences for others. Ultimately, pursuing my degree while continuing my career is an investment in the leader I hope to become. My goal is to lead global events, mentor young professionals, and help create opportunities for others in an industry where representation matters to me. 2. Describe a time in the past when balancing work and school life was particularly challenging, and how you overcame that challenge. One of the most challenging periods for me was returning to school while maintaining my professional career. After becoming established in the events industry, returning to an academic environment required me to adjust to being both a working professional and a student. I had to manage work deadlines, academic assignments, and personal responsibilities without allowing one area to negatively affect another. There were times when work was particularly demanding and I would finish a long day knowing that I still had coursework to complete. It was easy to feel overwhelmed when professional and academic deadlines occurred at the same time. I overcame this by becoming more intentional and disciplined with my time. I began planning my weeks in advance, identifying deadlines early, and prioritizing responsibilities based on urgency and importance. I also learned to break larger assignments into smaller tasks so that I could continue making progress even during busy periods. Most importantly, I reminded myself why I returned to school. I am pursuing higher education because I want to continue growing professionally and prepare myself for a leadership role in the global events industry. That purpose helped me stay focused when balancing work and school became difficult. This experience taught me that achieving ambitious goals does not always require having an easy path. It requires resilience, adaptability, and the willingness to keep moving forward even when circumstances are challenging. Balancing my education with my career has strengthened my confidence in my ability to handle demanding responsibilities and has reinforced my commitment to lifelong learning.

My experience with anxiety and depression has significantly shaped my goals, relationships, and understanding of the world. While these challenges have not always been visible to others, they have influenced many aspects of my life and have taught me valuable lessons about resilience, self-awareness, empathy, and perseverance. As a first-generation Haitian American, I grew up in an environment where strength, hard work, and perseverance were highly valued. While those qualities have helped me achieve many of my goals, they also made it difficult at times to acknowledge when I was struggling. Like many people, I often felt pressure to keep moving forward regardless of how I felt internally. Balancing school, work, family responsibilities, and personal expectations sometimes led to overwhelming stress, anxiety, and periods of depression. There were moments when self-doubt, worry, and emotional exhaustion made it difficult to see my own accomplishments or feel confident about the future. Over time, however, I learned that mental health is not a sign of weakness. Instead, I came to understand that recognizing when I need support and taking steps to care for my well-being are acts of strength. Learning how to manage anxiety and depression has required me to develop healthy coping strategies, set boundaries, prioritize self-care, and seek support when needed. These experiences have helped me become more resilient and have taught me how to continue pursuing my goals even during difficult periods. My mental health journey has also shaped my relationships. It has made me more compassionate and understanding toward others who may be facing struggles that are not immediately visible. I have learned that everyone is carrying challenges we may not know about, and that kindness, patience, and empathy can have a profound impact. As a result, I make a conscious effort to be supportive of friends, family members, classmates, and colleagues. I believe that creating spaces where people feel heard and understood is incredibly important, especially in a world where mental health challenges are often misunderstood or stigmatized. Perhaps most importantly, my experiences with anxiety and depression have influenced my goals and the way I view success. While I remain ambitious and committed to my education and career, I no longer define success solely by achievements or productivity. I have learned that true success also includes maintaining balance, protecting my well-being, and building meaningful relationships. These lessons have helped me become a more thoughtful leader and have reinforced my desire to make a positive impact on others. As I pursue my educational and professional goals, I hope to continue advocating for mental health awareness and helping reduce the stigma surrounding these challenges. My experiences have taught me that struggles do not diminish a person's potential; they can strengthen character, increase empathy, and inspire growth. Although anxiety and depression have been difficult parts of my journey, they have ultimately helped shape me into a stronger, more compassionate, and more resilient person.

As a first-generation Haitian American and first-generation college student, I have always viewed education as more than a personal achievement—it is an opportunity to honor my family's sacrifices, create a better future, and inspire others to pursue their goals. I believe I am uniquely deserving of this award because I have demonstrated resilience, leadership, and a commitment to excellence while balancing the demands of full-time work and higher education. My parents immigrated to the United States seeking greater opportunities for our family. My mother, a nurse, and my father, a pastor, taught me the importance of hard work, faith, and service. Growing up, I watched them dedicate themselves to helping others while making sacrifices to ensure I had opportunities they never had. Their example inspired me to pursue higher education and remain committed to my goals, even when the path was challenging. Throughout my educational journey, I have balanced full-time employment with pursuing my degrees. Currently, I work as an Events Specialist, managing corporate events, large budgets, and complex logistics while continuing my education. One of my proudest accomplishments has been earning the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation, one of the most respected certifications in the global meetings and events industry. Achieving this credential while working and attending school required discipline, perseverance, and a strong commitment to personal and professional growth. One of the most difficult challenges I faced occurred in 2022 when I lost both of my grandparents within eight months of each other. My grandmother passed away following a stroke, and my grandfather later lost his battle with melanoma. They were among my greatest supporters and always encouraged me to pursue my education. Before they passed away, I promised them that I would earn my degree. During moments when balancing grief, work, and school felt overwhelming, that promise motivated me to keep moving forward. Completing my education became a way to honor their memory and the belief they had in my potential. My “why” for pursuing higher education extends beyond career advancement. While I aspire to become a senior leader in the global events industry, education represents opportunity, empowerment, and the ability to create meaningful change. Through my studies, I am gaining the knowledge and leadership skills necessary to create impactful experiences that bring people together and strengthen communities. I am also motivated by the desire to increase representation and create opportunities for others. As a Black woman and daughter of Haitian immigrants, I understand the importance of seeing diverse voices represented in leadership positions. I hope to use my education and professional success to mentor future professionals, particularly women and students from underrepresented backgrounds, and help them recognize their own potential. Receiving this award would not only support my educational goals but also invest in someone who is committed to using her education to make a positive impact. I am determined to honor my family's sacrifices, fulfill the promise I made to my grandparents, and use my success to create opportunities for others. That purpose is what drives me every day and is the reason I continue pursuing higher education with passion and determination.

Going to college means much more to me than earning a degree. As a first-generation Haitian American and first-generation college student, higher education represents opportunity, growth, and the fulfillment of dreams that generations before me worked hard to make possible. It is a chance to honor the sacrifices my parents made when they immigrated to the United States in search of a better future for our family. Their dedication, resilience, and belief in the value of education have inspired me to pursue my goals with determination and purpose. For me, college is a pathway to both personal and professional development. It has challenged me to think critically, expand my knowledge, and develop the skills necessary to succeed in a competitive and constantly evolving world. While earning a degree is an important accomplishment, the experience has also taught me discipline, perseverance, leadership, and the importance of lifelong learning. As someone who balances full-time work with pursuing higher education, I understand that success requires commitment, sacrifice, and the willingness to continue moving forward even when challenges arise. I am currently pursuing a degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management because I am passionate about creating experiences that bring people together and leave a lasting impact. My goal is to become a senior leader in the global events industry, specializing in large-scale and high-profile events that foster meaningful connections and create memorable experiences. Through my education, I am gaining the knowledge and expertise needed to lead complex projects, manage diverse teams, and contribute to the future of the hospitality and events profession. Beyond career advancement, I am also trying to create opportunities for others. As a Black woman and daughter of Haitian immigrants, I understand the importance of representation and mentorship. I hope to use my education and professional success to inspire and support future generations, particularly students from immigrant and underrepresented backgrounds. I want others to see that their circumstances do not define their potential and that education can be a powerful tool for creating change. Ultimately, going to college means investing in a future where I can make a meaningful impact. It represents the opportunity to achieve my goals, honor my family's sacrifices, fulfill the promise I made to my grandparents to earn my degree, and create opportunities for others along the way. My education is not only about improving my own life but also about using my knowledge, skills, and experiences to positively influence my community and the people around me.

Growing up in Miami, one of the things that made me feel different was my appearance. While many people think of Miami as a diverse city, I learned at a young age that diversity does not automatically eliminate beauty standards or discrimination. As a dark-skinned Black girl, I often experienced colorism, featurism, and texturism, which shaped how I viewed myself and how others treated me. One of the earliest challenges I faced was colorism. Throughout my childhood, I heard comments about my skin tone that made me feel like I did not fit the standard of beauty that many people around me seemed to value. I was often compared to lighter-skinned girls and heard comments suggesting that lighter skin was somehow more attractive or desirable. Even when those comments were made as jokes, they had a lasting impact. They made me question my appearance and wonder why something as natural as my skin tone could make me feel different from others. In addition to colorism, I also experienced featurism. I have naturally full lips and a gap between my teeth, both of which became targets for teasing when I was younger. Classmates would make comments about my lips being too big or ask why I had not fixed my gap. At an age when most children simply want to fit in, those remarks made me feel self-conscious. I became hyperaware of features that I had never considered flaws until other people pointed them out. Looking back now, it is interesting to see how beauty standards have changed. Features that were once criticized are now often celebrated and even imitated, but that does not erase the insecurities those comments created during my childhood. Another source of teasing and unwanted attention was my hair. As someone with natural textured hair, I often experienced texturism. I heard comments suggesting that my hair was too curly, too kinky, too big, or somehow less acceptable than straighter hair textures. There were times when I felt pressure to change my hair in order to fit in or appear more professional. These experiences taught me that beauty standards often extend beyond skin color and facial features to include hair texture as well. Although these experiences were painful at times, they ultimately taught me valuable lessons about confidence and self-acceptance. Over time, I realized that the qualities people criticized were not flaws at all. My dark skin, full lips, gap, and natural hair are all part of my identity and heritage. They connect me to my culture, my family, and the generations that came before me. Learning to embrace those features helped me develop a stronger sense of self-worth and confidence. Today, I see those experiences as an important part of my personal growth. They taught me not to define myself by other people's opinions and helped me understand the importance of representation. When young people see individuals who look like them being celebrated and successful, it reinforces the idea that they do not need to change who they are to be valued. Because of my own experiences, I make an effort to encourage others to embrace their uniqueness and challenge harmful beauty standards. What once made me feel awkward growing up has become a source of pride. My experiences with colorism, featurism, and texturism taught me resilience, self-confidence, and the importance of embracing authenticity. They reminded me that true beauty is not about fitting into someone else's definition of perfection but about accepting yourself fully and unapologetically.

I believe I am a strong candidate for this scholarship because my educational journey reflects perseverance, leadership, academic dedication, and a commitment to making a positive impact on others. As a first-generation Haitian American and first-generation college student, I have pursued higher education while balancing full-time employment, professional development, and personal responsibilities. Every milestone I have achieved has required determination, resilience, and a willingness to overcome obstacles. My parents immigrated to the United States seeking greater opportunities for our family. Growing up, I watched my mother, a nurse, and my father, a pastor, dedicate their lives to serving others while working hard to provide for our family. Their sacrifices taught me the importance of education, perseverance, and giving back to the community. As a first-generation college student, I often had to navigate higher education independently, learning how to access resources, manage financial responsibilities, and advocate for myself. These experiences strengthened my confidence, independence, and determination to succeed. Academically, I have remained committed to continuous growth and learning. I earned my Associate of Arts degree in Business Administration and am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management at Florida International University with a concentration in Mega Events. One of my proudest accomplishments has been earning the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation, one of the most respected certifications in the global meetings and events industry. Achieving this credential while working full-time and pursuing my education demonstrates my commitment to professional excellence and lifelong learning. Professionally, I currently work as an Events Specialist, where I manage the planning and execution of corporate events ranging from executive meetings to large-scale programs with thousands of attendees. I oversee budgets, coordinate logistics, collaborate with senior leaders, and ensure successful event outcomes. These responsibilities have helped me develop leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills that complement my academic studies. Working in a fast-paced environment has also taught me how to remain adaptable under pressure and how to lead with confidence when unexpected challenges arise. Beyond academics and work, I am passionate about mentorship, diversity, and representation. As a Black woman and daughter of Haitian immigrants, I understand the importance of seeing diverse voices represented in leadership positions. Throughout my career, I have often found myself in spaces where few people share my background. Rather than viewing this as a limitation, I have used it as motivation to excel and to help create opportunities for others. My long-term goal is to become a senior leader in the global events industry while mentoring future professionals, particularly women and students from underrepresented backgrounds. I hope to create opportunities for others and contribute to a more inclusive and innovative industry. One of the greatest challenges I have faced during school was balancing full-time employment with pursuing higher education while coping with significant personal loss. In 2022, I lost both of my grandparents within eight months of one another. My grandmother passed away after suffering a stroke, and my grandfather later passed away after battling melanoma. Their deaths were devastating because they were two of my biggest supporters and strongest advocates for education. Before they passed away, I promised both of them that I would earn my degree. During moments when balancing work, school, and grief felt overwhelming, I often thought about that promise. There were days when it would have been easier to take a step back from my educational goals, but I knew that doing so would mean walking away from something that was important not only to me but also to them. Rather than allowing those challenges to stop me, I used them as motivation to continue moving forward. Their belief in me reminded me why I started this journey and strengthened my commitment to completing my education. The experience of losing my grandparents changed my perspective on life and success. It taught me to appreciate every opportunity, to remain grateful for the support of loved ones, and to never take time for granted. It also reinforced my belief that education is one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves. Every class I complete and every milestone I achieve is a way of honoring their memory and fulfilling the promise I made to them. Through these experiences, I learned that resilience is not the absence of hardship but the ability to continue pursuing your goals despite it. I learned the importance of perseverance, time management, and maintaining a strong support system. Most importantly, I learned that challenges do not define us; our response to them does. Those lessons have shaped the person I am today and continue to guide me both academically and professionally. Receiving this scholarship would help ease the financial burden of pursuing higher education while allowing me to focus on continuing my academic and professional growth. It would provide additional opportunities to invest in my education, professional development, and leadership training. More importantly, it would be an investment in someone who is committed to using education, leadership, and service to make a positive impact on her community and profession. As I continue my academic journey, I remain committed to excellence, lifelong learning, and creating meaningful opportunities for others. My goal is not simply to earn a degree or advance in my career, but to use the knowledge, experiences, and opportunities I gain to make a lasting difference. I am determined to honor the sacrifices of my family, fulfill the promise I made to my grandparents, and use my success to inspire and uplift future generations. I believe that education has the power to transform lives, and I am committed to using mine to create positive change wherever I can.

Faith has always been one of the most important foundations in my life. As the daughter of a pastor and a nurse, I was raised in a home where faith, service, compassion, and perseverance were core values. From a young age, I learned that faith is not only about believing during good times but also about trusting God during life's challenges and uncertainties. Throughout my personal, academic, and professional journey, my faith has provided me with strength, guidance, and a sense of purpose. As a first-generation Haitian American and first-generation college student, there have been many moments when pursuing higher education felt overwhelming. Balancing full-time work, academic responsibilities, financial obligations, and personal challenges has required discipline and resilience. During difficult times, my faith has helped me remain focused on my goals and reminded me that setbacks are temporary and that perseverance is often rewarded. Faith has given me the confidence to continue moving forward even when the path ahead was unclear. It has taught me to trust the process, remain patient, and believe in my ability to overcome obstacles. My faith has also influenced my future goals by shaping the type of leader and professional I hope to become. I believe that success should be measured not only by personal accomplishments but also by the positive impact we have on others. As I pursue a career in hospitality and event management, I want to lead with integrity, humility, and a commitment to service. My goal is to create meaningful experiences that bring people together while also using my position to mentor and support others, particularly individuals from underrepresented backgrounds. Faith reminds me that leadership is ultimately about serving others and creating opportunities that benefit entire communities. In addition to my faith, my family has been one of my greatest sources of motivation. My parents sacrificed so much to create opportunities for me and my siblings. Watching them work tirelessly while maintaining their commitment to helping others inspired me to pursue higher education and strive for excellence. Their example taught me the importance of hard work, resilience, and lifelong learning. Another major source of motivation was my grandparents. Before they passed away in 2022, they consistently encouraged me to continue my education and pursue my dreams. One of the last promises I made to them was that I would earn my degree. That promise continues to motivate me every day. Whenever I face challenges or moments of doubt, I think about their belief in me and the sacrifices my family made to help me reach this point. Ultimately, faith, family, and the desire to create opportunities for others have all played significant roles in my pursuit of higher education. They continue to inspire me to work hard, remain focused on my goals, and use my education to make a positive impact on my profession, my community, and future generations.

Cancer has had a profound impact on my family and has shaped the way I view life, perseverance, and the importance of honoring the people we love. In 2022, my grandfather passed away from melanoma just eight months after my grandmother passed away following a stroke. Losing both of my grandparents within such a short period of time was one of the most difficult experiences my family has ever faced. Not only was I grieving the loss of two people who played a significant role in my life, but I was also watching my family navigate unimaginable heartbreak while trying to remain strong for one another. My grandparents were more than family members; they were role models, sources of wisdom, and some of my biggest supporters. They always emphasized the importance of education, hard work, and faith. Throughout my academic journey, they encouraged me to pursue my goals and reminded me that education was something that could never be taken away from me. As a first-generation Haitian American and first-generation college student, their encouragement meant everything. They were proud of every milestone I achieved, and they constantly reminded me to keep moving forward even when challenges arose. When my grandfather was diagnosed with melanoma, I saw firsthand how devastating cancer can be for both the individual and the family. The disease impacted not only his physical health but also the emotional well-being of everyone who loved him. Watching someone so strong battle cancer was heartbreaking. It made me realize how fragile life can be and how important it is to appreciate every moment we have with the people we care about. It also taught me the importance of early detection, healthcare access, and the support systems that help families through difficult times. One of the last promises I made to my grandparents was that I would earn my degree. At the time, I was balancing work, school, and personal responsibilities, and they knew how important education was to me. After they passed away, there were moments when grief made it difficult to stay focused. However, whenever I felt discouraged, I thought about that promise. Remembering their belief in me gave me the motivation to continue pursuing my education even when the journey felt overwhelming. Today, as I work toward completing both my bachelor's and master's degrees, that promise continues to inspire me every day. I am determined to finish what I started, not only for myself but also in honor of them. Through this experience, I learned that resilience does not mean avoiding grief or pretending everything is okay. Instead, resilience means finding the strength to keep moving forward while carrying the lessons and memories of those we have lost. I learned the importance of family, the value of perseverance, and the power of honoring loved ones through action. Losing my grandparents reminded me that life is precious and that our time with those we love is never guaranteed. Their passing has motivated me to approach every opportunity with gratitude and purpose. It has strengthened my commitment to education, professional growth, and making a positive impact in my community. Most importantly, it has taught me that success is about more than personal achievement—it is about honoring the sacrifices, love, and encouragement of those who helped shape who we are. Every step I take toward earning my degree is a step toward fulfilling the promise I made to my grandparents and carrying their legacy forward.

Mental health is extremely important to me as a student because it affects every aspect of academic success, personal growth, and overall well-being. As someone who balances graduate studies, a full-time career, professional development, and family responsibilities, I understand firsthand how stress and pressure can impact a person's ability to perform at their best. While academic achievement is often measured by grades, degrees, and accomplishments, I have learned that success is not sustainable without prioritizing mental and emotional health. Maintaining positive mental health allows me to stay focused, motivated, productive, and resilient when facing challenges. As a first-generation Haitian American and first-generation college student, I have also experienced unique pressures throughout my educational journey. Many first-generation students carry the responsibility of not only pursuing their own goals but also honoring the sacrifices made by their families. There is often an unspoken expectation to succeed, provide support, and serve as a role model for future generations. While these expectations can be motivating, they can also create stress and feelings of pressure if not managed in healthy ways. Over time, I have learned the importance of recognizing when I need support, setting realistic expectations, and understanding that taking care of my mental health is just as important as achieving academic and professional milestones. One of the most valuable lessons I have learned is that mental health should not be treated as a secondary priority. There have been periods in my life when balancing work, school, and personal commitments felt overwhelming. During those times, I realized that self-care, rest, and emotional well-being are not distractions from success—they are essential components of it. By prioritizing healthy habits, maintaining a support system, and practicing self-awareness, I have been able to navigate challenges more effectively and continue progressing toward my goals. I advocate for mental health within my community by encouraging open conversations about stress, burnout, and emotional well-being. In many communities, including immigrant and minority communities, mental health can sometimes be viewed as a topic that is not openly discussed. I believe it is important to help reduce that stigma by creating spaces where people feel comfortable sharing their experiences and seeking support when needed. Whether speaking with classmates, colleagues, friends, or family members, I try to encourage honest discussions about mental health and remind others that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. In my professional environment, I also advocate for mental wellness by supporting a culture of collaboration, communication, and empathy. Event management is a fast-paced and demanding industry that often involves long hours, high expectations, and tight deadlines. Because of this, I make an effort to check in on colleagues, offer support when someone is overwhelmed, and encourage healthy work-life balance whenever possible. Small acts of kindness, active listening, and encouragement can make a meaningful difference in someone's mental and emotional well-being. As I continue my education and career, I hope to remain a strong advocate for mental health awareness. I want to use my experiences to encourage others to prioritize their well-being and to help create environments where individuals feel supported both personally and professionally. I believe that when people have access to the resources, support, and understanding they need, they are better equipped to succeed, contribute to their communities, and reach their full potential. Mental health is important not only because it affects individual success but because it strengthens families, communities, and society as a whole.

I believe I deserve this scholarship because I have demonstrated a consistent commitment to academic achievement, professional excellence, leadership, and service despite the challenges that often accompany being a first-generation student from an immigrant family. While many applicants may have strong academic records or professional accomplishments, what sets me apart is my ability to successfully balance multiple responsibilities while remaining focused on long-term goals and creating opportunities for others. As a first-generation Haitian American, I have navigated much of my educational journey independently. I did not have a roadmap for higher education, yet I remained determined to pursue my goals while working full-time and continuing my education. Today, I am pursuing a Master of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management while working as an Events Specialist, where I manage complex corporate events, multimillion-dollar budgets, and relationships with senior executives. At the same time, I earned my Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation, a globally recognized certification that reflects my dedication to excellence and lifelong learning. What gives me an advantage is not simply my accomplishments, but the persistence, discipline, and resilience behind them. Every achievement represents years of balancing work, school, financial responsibilities, and personal growth. Rather than allowing challenges to limit me, I have used them as motivation to continue advancing. These experiences have strengthened my leadership abilities, problem-solving skills, and determination to succeed. I also believe I bring a unique perspective to the hospitality and events industry. As a Black woman and daughter of Haitian immigrants, I understand the importance of representation and creating opportunities for others. My long-term vision extends beyond personal success. I aspire to become a leader in the global events industry while mentoring future professionals, particularly women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds. I want to help create a more inclusive industry where diverse voices are valued and where future generations can see themselves represented in leadership positions. This scholarship would not simply support my education; it would be an investment in someone who is committed to using her education, professional experience, and leadership skills to make a meaningful impact. I have already demonstrated my ability to turn opportunities into results, and I am committed to continuing that trajectory throughout my career. Given the opportunity, I will continue to work hard, lead with purpose, and use my success to create opportunities for others. That commitment to excellence, service, and community impact is what I believe distinguishes me from other applicants and makes me deserving of this scholarship.

Higher education is an essential part of achieving my personal, academic, and professional goals. As a first-generation Haitian American and the daughter of immigrant parents, I have always viewed education as a powerful tool for creating opportunities, overcoming barriers, and making a meaningful impact on the lives of others. Attending graduate school will allow me to expand my knowledge, strengthen my leadership abilities, and gain the expertise necessary to advance within the hospitality and events industry while creating positive change in my community and profession. Currently, I am pursuing a Master of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management with a concentration in Mega Events at Florida International University. Throughout my career, I have developed a passion for creating experiences that bring people together, foster meaningful connections, and create lasting memories. As an Events Specialist, I have had the opportunity to manage corporate events ranging from executive meetings to large-scale programs with thousands of attendees. These experiences have shown me the power of events to unite people, strengthen organizations, and inspire collaboration. However, I also recognize that the hospitality and events industry is constantly evolving and requires leaders who can think strategically, adapt to change, and innovate in a global environment. Higher education will help me develop these skills and prepare me for greater leadership responsibilities in the future. My long-term goal is to become a senior leader in the global events industry, specializing in large-scale and high-profile events that create meaningful impact. Through advanced education, I hope to deepen my understanding of event strategy, organizational leadership, tourism development, and emerging technologies that are shaping the future of the industry. In addition to gaining technical knowledge, higher education will provide opportunities to learn from industry experts, collaborate with diverse peers, and build a network of professionals who share a commitment to excellence and innovation. Beyond my professional aspirations, I am committed to creating a positive impact through mentorship, representation, and service. As a Black woman and first-generation college student, I understand the challenges that many individuals from underrepresented communities face when pursuing higher education and professional advancement. Throughout my journey, I have often found myself navigating unfamiliar spaces without a roadmap. These experiences have inspired me to become a mentor and advocate for others who may face similar challenges. I hope to use my education and professional experiences to encourage young people, particularly women and students from immigrant backgrounds, to pursue their goals with confidence and determination. I also believe that diversity and inclusion are essential to the future success of the hospitality and events industry. As I advance in my career, I hope to help create opportunities for individuals from diverse backgrounds and contribute to building a more inclusive industry where different perspectives are valued and represented. By mentoring future professionals, supporting leadership development initiatives, and promoting equitable opportunities, I hope to make a lasting difference beyond my own achievements. Ultimately, higher education is not only a pathway to career advancement but also a means of creating positive change. The knowledge, skills, and opportunities I gain through my graduate studies will help me become a stronger leader, a more effective advocate, and a greater contributor to my community. I am committed to using my education to create meaningful experiences, empower others, and leave a positive impact on the world through leadership, service, and lifelong learning.

Being a first-generation college student meant that I often had to navigate educational systems independently. There was no roadmap for applying to college, understanding financial aid, or balancing school with work responsibilities. To continue my education, I learned how to seek out resources, apply for scholarships, build professional networks, and manage my time effectively. Throughout my academic journey, I have balanced full-time employment with pursuing my degrees, often sacrificing personal time to invest in my future. These experiences strengthened my discipline, adaptability, and commitment to achieving my goals despite challenges. Today, I am pursuing graduate studies in Hospitality and Tourism Management at Florida International University while working full-time as an Events Specialist. In my professional role, I manage corporate events, oversee budgets, and collaborate with senior leaders to create meaningful experiences. I also earned my Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation, reflecting my commitment to continuous learning and professional excellence. My experiences have inspired me to use my success to create opportunities for others. As a Black woman and first-generation Haitian American, I understand the importance of representation and mentorship. I plan to support aspiring hospitality professionals, particularly those from immigrant and underrepresented backgrounds, by sharing knowledge, offering guidance, and helping them navigate their own career journeys. I am actively working toward my goals through education, professional development, and leadership opportunities. My long-term goal is to become a senior leader in the global events industry, where I can create impactful experiences, mentor future professionals, and contribute to a more inclusive field. Ultimately, I hope to use the lessons I have learned through adversity to inspire others, strengthen my community, and create opportunities that extend beyond my own success and positively impact future generations.

My name is Ricardine Leveille, and I am a first-generation Haitian American, graduate student, and hospitality professional with a passion for creating meaningful experiences that bring people together. I was raised in a close-knit family that emphasized faith, education, service, and perseverance. My mother is a nurse, and my father is a pastor, and their dedication to helping others has had a profound influence on the person I am today. Watching them work tirelessly to support our family and serve our community taught me the importance of compassion, resilience, and hard work. As the daughter of Haitian immigrants, I grew up understanding the sacrifices my parents made to provide opportunities for our family. Their journey inspired me to pursue higher education and build a career that would allow me to make a positive impact on others. Being a first-generation college student has been both rewarding and challenging. Without a roadmap for navigating college, I often had to learn how to access resources, seek mentorship, and advocate for myself. These experiences helped me develop independence, determination, and confidence in my abilities. Academically, I earned my Associate of Arts in Business Administration and am currently pursuing both my Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management at Florida International University, with a concentration in Events and Entertainment Management and Mega Events. While pursuing my education, I have also maintained a full-time career in the hospitality and events industry. One of my proudest accomplishments has been earning the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation, a globally recognized certification that reflects my commitment to excellence and lifelong learning. Professionally, I currently work as an Events Specialist, where I lead the planning and execution of corporate events ranging from executive meetings to large-scale programs with thousands of attendees. Through this work, I have developed expertise in event strategy, logistics, budget management, and stakeholder relations. I enjoy creating experiences that foster connection, collaboration, and engagement. Looking ahead, my goal is to become a senior leader in the global events industry, specializing in large-scale and high-profile events that create meaningful impact. I am passionate about mentorship, diversity, and representation, and I hope to use my career to help open doors for future professionals, particularly women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds. Ultimately, I want my success to be measured not only by my professional achievements but also by the opportunities I create for others and the positive impact I make within my community and industry.

As a first-generation Haitian American and the daughter of immigrant parents, my family's immigrant experience has significantly shaped my educational journey and influenced my ability to pursue my academic goals. My parents came to the United States seeking opportunities that were not readily available to them in Haiti. Like many immigrant families, they sacrificed comfort, stability, and familiarity to create a better future for their children. Their journey taught me the value of resilience, hard work, faith, and education from a very young age. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the challenges my parents faced as they worked to establish themselves in a new country. My mother, a nurse, dedicated herself to caring for others while balancing the responsibilities of supporting our family. My father, a pastor, devoted his life to serving our community and helping others navigate their own challenges. Despite long work hours and financial pressures, they consistently emphasized the importance of education and encouraged me to pursue opportunities they did not have. Their sacrifices motivated me to approach my education with gratitude and determination. At the same time, being a first-generation college student presented unique challenges. Unlike many of my peers, I did not have parents who could guide me through the college application process, explain financial aid packages, or help me navigate higher education systems. Many aspects of the educational process were unfamiliar to my family, which meant I often had to figure things out independently. I learned how to seek resources, ask questions, connect with mentors, and advocate for myself. While these experiences were sometimes difficult, they helped me develop confidence, resourcefulness, and problem-solving skills that continue to benefit me today. My immigrant background has also influenced my work ethic. Throughout my academic journey, I have balanced school with significant professional responsibilities. I currently work full-time as an Events Specialist while pursuing my education and advancing my career in hospitality and event management. Managing both work and school has required discipline, sacrifice, and strong time-management skills. There have been moments when balancing competing priorities felt overwhelming, but my parents' example taught me that persistence and dedication can help overcome obstacles. Rather than viewing my immigrant experience as a barrier, I see it as one of my greatest strengths. It has given me a unique perspective, a strong sense of purpose, and an appreciation for opportunities that might otherwise be taken for granted. My family's story reminds me that education is not simply about earning a degree; it is about creating opportunities, expanding possibilities, and building a foundation for future generations. As I continue pursuing my Master of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management, I carry the lessons of my parents with me. Their sacrifices inspire me to strive for excellence, and their resilience motivates me to continue pushing forward even when challenges arise. My educational goals are not only about personal achievement but also about honoring the journey of those who came before me and creating opportunities for those who will come after me. I hope to use my education and professional success to serve as a role model for other first-generation students and members of immigrant communities, demonstrating that with determination, hard work, and support, it is possible to achieve meaningful goals and make a lasting impact.

I envision using my passion for hospitality to create experiences that bring people together, foster meaningful connections, and leave a lasting positive impact on individuals and communities. To me, hospitality is much more than planning events or providing excellent service—it is about creating environments where people feel welcomed, valued, and connected. Whether through corporate events, community initiatives, or large-scale experiences, I believe hospitality has the power to inspire collaboration, strengthen relationships, and create opportunities for personal and professional growth. As a hospitality professional, I hope to use my skills to design events and experiences that are inclusive, accessible, and meaningful. In today's increasingly diverse and global society, it is important that people from all backgrounds feel represented and respected. I want to help create experiences that celebrate diversity, encourage cultural understanding, and bring together individuals with different perspectives and experiences. By doing so, I hope to contribute to building stronger communities and fostering a greater sense of belonging. My long-term goal is to become a leader in the global events industry, specializing in large-scale events that not only achieve organizational objectives but also create lasting social impact. I am particularly interested in how events can be used to support education, professional development, community engagement, and charitable causes. Whether through fundraising events, conferences, cultural celebrations, or industry programs, I want to leverage the power of hospitality to create opportunities that positively affect people's lives. As a first-generation Haitian American and Black woman, I am also passionate about increasing representation and mentorship within the hospitality and events industry. Throughout my career, I hope to support and mentor aspiring professionals, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, by sharing knowledge, creating opportunities, and helping them navigate their own career paths. I believe that success becomes even more meaningful when it creates opportunities for others. Ultimately, I want my work to be defined not only by successful events but also by the positive experiences and connections I help create. Hospitality has the unique ability to bring people together during some of life's most important moments, and I am committed to using my passion, education, and professional experience to make a meaningful difference in the world through service, leadership, and human connection.

My name is Ricardine Leveille, and I am a first-generation Haitian American, Certified Meeting Professional (CMP), and graduate student pursuing a Master of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management with a concentration in Mega Events at Florida International University. My journey has been shaped by the values of hard work, perseverance, faith, and service that were instilled in me by my parents. As the daughter of Haitian immigrants, I grew up understanding the importance of education, resilience, and creating opportunities not only for myself but also for those who come after me. My passion for hospitality and event management stems from my belief that experiences have the power to bring people together, build meaningful relationships, and create lasting impact. Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to work in hospitality, private aviation, and corporate event management, where I have developed expertise in customer service, logistics, project management, and strategic planning. These experiences have allowed me to see firsthand how well-executed events can strengthen communities, support business objectives, and create memorable experiences for attendees. Currently, I work as an Events Specialist, where I lead the planning and execution of corporate events ranging from executive meetings and client programs to large-scale events with thousands of attendees. In this role, I manage budgets, negotiate contracts, coordinate with vendors, collaborate with senior leaders, and oversee event logistics from start to finish. One of my proudest accomplishments has been earning the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation, a globally recognized certification that demonstrates expertise and commitment to the meetings and events industry. Achieving this certification reinforced my desire to continue growing as a leader and to make a meaningful contribution to the profession. My future goal is to become a senior leader in the global events industry, specializing in large-scale and high-profile events that create meaningful connections and memorable experiences. I am particularly interested in the intersection of event strategy, innovation, and emerging technologies, and how they can be used to enhance attendee engagement and deliver greater value to organizations. Through my graduate studies, I hope to deepen my understanding of event management, leadership, and global tourism trends so that I can continue advancing within the industry. Beyond my professional aspirations, I am passionate about mentorship, diversity, and representation. As a Black woman working in an industry where leadership positions are not always representative of diverse communities, I understand the importance of visibility and support. I hope to use my experiences to mentor future hospitality and event professionals, particularly women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds. I want to help create pathways for others and contribute to building a more inclusive and innovative industry. Ultimately, my goal is not only to achieve professional success but also to make a positive impact on the people and communities I serve. Through education, leadership, and a commitment to excellence, I hope to continue creating experiences that inspire connection, foster collaboration, and leave a lasting impression. I believe that every event has the potential to bring people together in meaningful ways, and I am excited to continue building a career dedicated to that purpose.