I am an artist; there is not a day that goes by that I don’t create something. It’s one of the many ways I express myself. There was a time, however, when my art was my only voice. A traumatic experience in school caused me to have extreme anxiety and depression. I was fearful of going to school and even going outside. Thankfully, there was an counselor at my school who noticed me sitting alone and drawing day after day. Both she and my mother developed a multi-layered plan which included art therapy and psychotherapy. The art I created allowed me to express things I had no words for. Art became an important part of my recovery and remains an important part of who I am today. I believe everything happens for a reason, and that the compassionate, empathetic person I have become is a result of what happened. One of my goals in life is to one day become a Licensed Clinical Therapist specializing in Art therapy I would also like to create a design studio that focuses on creating socially conscious animation. I will use my art to bring joy, create conversation, spur introspection and hopefully help heal children and adolescents with trauma. I want my story and art reflects my resiliency and will be used as both my testimony and encouragement for people that encounter it.

My name is Rebekah Powlette, and I will be the first person in my family to earn a college degree. I am an artist; there isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t create something. It’s one of the many ways I express myself. There was a time, however, when my art was my only voice. A traumatic experience in middle school caused me to have extreme anxiety and depression. I was fearful of going to school and even going outside. My grades dropped, and my erratic behavior caused schoolmates to shun me. It was a dark and lonely time. My mother drove me to school every day, praying out loud for most of the way. I thought I would never get through that experience. Thankfully, there was an angel at my school; her name was Ms. B. She recognized how withdrawn I was and that I would always sit alone and draw. Both she and my mother developed a multi-layered plan that included psychotherapy and art therapy. They were instrumental in my recovery. When I moved to another school, things became even better. I found my "happy place" through participating in various clubs and volunteer opportunities. When I started volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club, I knew that was where I belonged. I love tutoring, helping with homework, playing games, and teaching kids to express frustration through conversation and art rather than conflict. Some of the exercises I learned during my time in art therapy, I do with them. These social interactions make me happy because I really feel like I am making a difference. I know that I have helped them because I see far less fighting than I did when I first started working there. I believe everything happens for a reason. The compassionate, empathetic person I am today is a result of what happened. It also helped me find my purpose. I have a love for art and a deep appreciation of how it helped heal me. My goal is to become a Licensed Clinical Therapist specializing in art therapy. I’d also like to create socially conscious animation. I will use my art for visual storytelling that helps heal children's and adolescents' trauma. I believe I went through all that stuff to use it as a testimony later in life. Art therapy helped me tremendously. Yet when it was first suggested to my parents during the time I was in distress, we had a hard time finding a therapist. I know how much it helped me. I believe it would be a perfect occupation for me. I’d get the opportunity to help others in a field that I love. Additionally, a compassionate art-loving therapist could never be replaced by A.I. or a robot. Thank you for taking the time to read my essay. If I am chosen as a winner of one of the Marsha Cottrell scholarships, the funds will be used to help with books, dorm essentials, or other surprise expenses that college freshmen need.

My name is Rebekah Powlette, and I will be the first person in my family to earn a college degree. I am the daughter of a Grenadian father and a Cuban mother. Like many families who come to the United States, my parents arrived with hopes of creating opportunities that were not easily available to them. My father had to drop out of college to help take care of his family, and my mother never had the opportunity. Their journey has shaped most of who I am today. It has influenced my values, my work ethic, and my determination. When I was growing up, college was never presented as a possibility. It was a certain future outcome and a regular topic in our daily conversations. My mother would look at my messy room and ask, “Is this how your room is going to look when you are in college?” Looking back, I realize those conversations were about much more than a messy room. They were preparing me to finish what they’d started. Understanding my assignment, I always worked very hard in school to afford college with scholarships, grants, and loans as the tools to get me there. I am an artist. There was a time, however, when my art was my only voice. A traumatic experience in middle school caused me to have extreme anxiety and depression. I was fearful of going to school and even going outside. My grades dropped, and my erratic behavior caused schoolmates to shun me. It was a dark and lonely time. My mother drove me to school every day, praying out loud for most of the way. I thought I would never get through that experience. My mother took so many days off from work that she was ultimately let go. Thankfully, there was an angel at my school. Both she and my mother developed a multi-layered plan which included medication, psychotherapy, and art therapy. They were instrumental in my recovery. I believe everything happens for a reason. The compassionate, empathetic person I am today is a result of what happened. It also helped me find my purpose. One day, I will be a Licensed Clinical Therapist specializing in Art therapy. I would also like to create socially conscious animation. One day, I will use my art to help children and adolescents with trauma. I will use that horrible experience as my testimony and encouragement for young people I encounter. Through various clubs and volunteering, I met my tribe. When I started volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club, I became hooked. I love helping children with homework, tutoring them in math (which I previously hated), and teaching them to express frustration through art rather than conflict. My social interactions with these kids feed my soul. I listen to them, share my story with those who need to hear it, and I believe I’ve made a difference in some of their lives. No one who knows me today would ever have guessed what I’ve been through. I have been on the Gold Honor Roll every year. I am a member of the National Honor Society and the American and Japanese Teachers’ Honor Society. My life looks so much different. My advice is advocate for yourself and ask for help when you need it. Winning a Jake Thomas Williams scholarship will give me the mental, emotional, and financial breathing room to adjust and enjoy my first year as a college freshman. Your investment will have a direct impact on my future. Thank you!

My name is Rebekah Powlette, and I will be the first person in my family to earn a college degree. I am the daughter of a Grenadian father and a Cuban mother. Like many families who come to the United States, my parents arrived with hopes of creating opportunities that were not easily available to them. My father had to drop out of college to help take care of his family, and my mother never had the opportunity. Their journey has shaped most of who I am today. It has influenced my values, my work ethic, and my determination. When I was growing up, college was never presented as a possibility. It was a certain future outcome and a regular topic in our daily conversations. My mother would look at my messy room and ask, “Is this how your room is going to look when you are in college?” Sometimes, my father would talk about his brief time in college and often reminded me that “opportunities should never be taken for granted.” Looking back, I realize those conversations were about much more than college. They were preparing me to finish what they’d started. Understanding my assignment, I always worked very hard in school to afford college with scholarships, grants, and loans as the tools to get me there. I am an artist; there is not a day that goes by that I don’t create something. It’s one of the many ways I express myself. There was a time, however, when my art was my only voice. A traumatic experience in middle school caused me to have extreme anxiety and depression. I was fearful of going to school and even going outside. My grades dropped, and my erratic behavior caused schoolmates to shun me. It was a dark and lonely time. My mother drove me to school every day, praying out loud for most of the way. I thought I would never get through that experience. My mother took so many days off from work that she was ultimately let go. Thankfully, there was an angel at my school; her name was Ms.B. Both she and my mother developed a multi-layered plan which included medication, psychotherapy, and art therapy. They were instrumental in my recovery. I believe everything happens for a reason. The compassionate, empathetic person I am today is a result of what happened. It also helped me find my purpose. With God’s help, one day, I will be a Licensed Clinical Therapist specializing in Art therapy. I would also like to create socially conscious animation. One day, I will use my art to help children and adolescents with trauma. I will use that horrible experience as my testimony and encouragement for young people I encounter. Once I got to high school, my life expanded and became colorful again. Through various clubs and volunteering, I met my tribe. When I started volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club, I became hooked. I love helping children with homework, tutoring them in math (which I previously hated), and teaching them to express frustration through art rather than conflict. My social interactions with these kids feed my soul. As an only child, I always wanted siblings. I listen to them, share my story with those who need to hear it, and I believe I’ve made a difference in some of their lives. No one who knows me today would ever have guessed what I’ve been through. I have been on the Gold Honor Roll every year since I’ve been in high school. I am also a member of the National Honor Society and the American and Japanese Teachers’ Honor Society. It has been an awesome high school experience. I have ADHD, and sometimes may need extra time, but I always finish and always do my best. I encourage anyone going through adversity to hang in there and not give up, because situations always change. Advocate for yourself and ask for help when you need it, and don’t forget to pray. After what I went through in middle school, I am well aware of how important my mental health is. Winning a WCEJ Thornton Foundation scholarship will give me the mental, emotional, and financial breathing room to adjust and enjoy my first year as a college freshman. Your investment will have a direct impact on my future. I promise you, it will be bright.

I am the daughter of a Grenadian father and a Cuban mother. Like many new immigrants, they arrived with very little except for a strong determination to create a better life. Their method to accomplish this was hard work, perseverance, and a strong faith in God. Though they didn’t have much, they always found a way to help someone less fortunate than us. My father worked demanding weekend shifts and dedicated his rare days off to volunteering at my school. Through his involvement, he discovered free tutoring and enrichment programs that my family wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford. The early tutoring paid off greatly in my school career. Because of my great tutors, I have maintained a 4.0 GPA, earned membership in the National Honor Society and the American Japanese Honor Society. In my home, attending college was always treated as an inevitable next step rather than a distant dream. I grew up understanding that success also means being in a position to help other people. As such, I’ve dedicated my time to volunteering with the Boys & Girls Club and the Atlanta Community Food Bank. As I head to college, I carry my family's story with me. Their sacrifices motivate me to work hard, serve others, and make the most of every opportunity I receive. Although I will be the one getting the degree, it will be a family achievement. My future success represents the hopes, dreams, and sacrifices of all the family that came before me.

My name is Rebekah Powlette, and I will be the first in my family to receive a college degree. As an artist who creates daily, art was once my only voice. During middle school, I faced extreme anxiety and depression. Thankfully, psychotherapy and art therapy were instrumental in my recovery. While that time was dark, it made me the compassionate person I am today and helped reveal my purpose. Whether as a licensed art therapist or a creator of socially conscious animation, my goal is to use visual storytelling to heal child and adolescent trauma. Less than 5% of all therapists in the U.S. are African American women. The number is much smaller when the therapist's concentration is on Art Therapy. Growing up in the church, they often preached about finding one’s “purpose and calling.” As a tween, this pressured me, as I just wanted to get to high school. However, once I arrived, I found my "happy place" through various clubs. Volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club hooked me immediately. I love helping children with homework and teaching them to express frustration through art rather than conflict. These social interactions feed my soul. As an only child, I always wanted siblings. At school, I serve as Secretary and Special Event Planner for the Japan Club. Under my leadership, we initiated collaborative events with other organizations, which were vital for our growth. These collaborations expanded students’ perspectives on the richness of Japanese culture and inspired me to join three additional clubs. I have always been goal-oriented. After hearing a classmate mention participating in a triathlon, I immediately signed up for the Atlanta Kids Triathlon. I didn't win, but I didn't quit. It was a fun challenge that I have no desire to do again. I love people, embrace challenges, I keep my word, and never quit. Having ADHD, I sometimes may need extra time, but I always finish and do my best. My grades reflect this persistence. I have earned a spot on the Gold Eagle Honor Roll every year, which requires a minimum 4.0 GPA. I am also a member of the National Honor Society and the American and Japanese Teachers’ Honor Society. Having studied Japanese for five years, I am determined to study abroad in Japan. While my senior year is ongoing, I have already met my high school academic goals and will not falter at the finish line. In college, I plan to graduate with honors within four years. When I set a goal, nothing stops me. My family currently faces a new challenge due to my mother’s recent job losses. This scholarship will serve as a critical bridge, allowing me to focus entirely on my studies and research rather than financial survival. Thank you for your consideration.

My name is Rebekah Powlette, and I am the daughter of a Grenadian father and a Cuban mother. Like many families who come to the United States, my parents arrived with hopes of creating opportunities that were not easily available to them. Their journey has shaped most of who I am today. It has influenced my values, my work ethic, and my determination to become the first person in my family to earn a college degree. When I was growing up, college was never presented as a possibility. It was an expected destination and often part of our everyday conversation. My mother would look at my messy room and ask, “Is this how your room is going to look when you are in college?” Sometimes, my father would talk about his brief time in college and often reminded me that “opportunities should never be taken for granted.” Looking back, I realize those conversations were about much more than college. They were preparing me to finish what they’d started. My father completed one semester before having to drop out and head to the USA to help his mother. My mother simply didn’t have the money to go and had no idea she could have applied for scholarships, grants and loans back then. Because of her experience, I apply for scholarships every single day in hopes of having enough for my expenses. My parents have a limited amount of money saved for college. Right now, we are barely making ends meet. I plan to look for a work-study opportunity once I start school. As the child of immigrants, I grew up understanding that success is not only measured by personal achievement. Success also meant being in a position to help other people. Many Saturdays were devoted to serving others through volunteer work at a local food pantry and helping care for a neighborhood community garden. Throughout my childhood, there were several occasions when newly arrived relatives lived with us as they worked to build a new life in the United States. In my family, success means achieving more than your predecessors and helping others do the same. My parents worked hard to build a stable life and provide opportunities they never had. I’ve had a much different life than they had, thanks to their grit and determination. Those lessons became especially important during a very challenging period in middle school. A traumatic experience at school caused me to struggle with severe anxiety and depression. During that time, art became more than a hobby. It became my only voice. When I found it difficult to express my emotions with words, I expressed them through creativity. My mother and a caring educator, Ms. Hicks, worked together to create a support system that included psychotherapy and art therapy. Their compassion played a major role in my recovery. Although that experience was painful, it helped shape the person I am today. It taught me empathy and helped me discover my purpose. Whether I become a Licensed Clinical Therapist specializing in art therapy or pursue a career creating socially conscious animation, my goal is to use visual storytelling to support children and adolescents facing trauma and emotional challenges. My desire to help others has also grown through community service. One of the most meaningful experiences of my high school years has been volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club. As an only child, I always imagined what it would be like to have younger siblings. Working with children has given me that sense of connection. I help them with homework, encourage them to express themselves through art, and listen when they need someone to talk to. I often share my excitement about graduating and attending college. Sometimes I catch myself saying the same words my parents said to me: “One day when you are in college.” I hope those conversations plant a seed and help them see new possibilities for their own futures. My family's journey has taught me the value of perseverance. Despite having ADHD, I learned how to advocate for myself and developed strategies that helped me succeed. I have maintained a place on the Gold Honor Roll throughout high school, earned membership in the National Honor Society and the American and Japanese Teachers’ Honor Society, and recently earned a Global certification in Japanese fluency. These accomplishments reflect the determination and discipline my parents instilled in me from a young age. As I prepare to begin college, I carry my family's story with me. Their sacrifices motivate me to work hard, serve others, and make the most of every opportunity I receive. Though I will be the only one in school, when I graduate, it will be a family achievement. It will also represent the hopes, sacrifices, and perseverance of all the generations that came before me. If chosen for one of your scholarships, I would be extremely appreciative. Your money would go towards a student who works hard, cares about people, and will contribute to making the world a better place. Thank you for taking the time to read my essay.

I believe the best way to strengthen a community is to ensure our youth are raised and taught properly. Over the course of my high school career, I’ve completed eighty logged service hours, but I have done far more for the community that has remained unlogged or was completed before high school. I personally believe that working with children is one of the most impactful forms of community service. Children are quite literally the future of society. Kids must have figures to look up to that will provide important life lessons for the future. I’m sure most people can say they became who they are today because of influences in their youth, which is exactly why guiding kids in the right direction has become such an important part of my life. From a very early age, my mother instilled in me the value of sharing and giving to others. It started with tithing in church, then giving away toys I no longer wanted but were in good condition. She has lived her life as an example of how rewarding it can be to help other people. Starting around the time I entered 1st grade, my mother would take me with her to volunteer at food pantries and sometimes community gardens on Saturdays. I used to help pack boxes, fold paper napkins, and perform other small tasks. I can’t say I was much help; I believed it was an opportunity to play with other kids since I was just an only child who longed for siblings. However, this experience did plant the seed of volunteering and the satisfaction of giving and helping make someone's day brighter. When I got to high school, I found my "happy place" through participating in various clubs and volunteer opportunities. I truly got hooked on the idea of childcare when I started volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club. I love tutoring, helping with homework, playing games, and teaching kids to express frustration through conversation and art rather than conflict. These social interactions fed my soul. I listen to these kids, tell them they matter, share my stories, and I believe I’ve made a difference in some of their lives. I know that I have helped them because I see far less fighting than I used to years ago. Oftentimes, when I interact with them, I say "one day when you're in college..." so they will think of themselves as future college students as well. I give back by volunteering my time, encouraging the children I work with, and trying my best to paint a picture in their minds of going to college one day. In the future, I will practice as a Licensed Clinical Therapist (specializing in art therapy) and create socially conscious content through animation. I will use my art as a way of visual storytelling and try to help children and adolescents to overcome some of their trauma. I also aim to create my own scholarship fund one day with the goal of helping kids like me achieve their dreams. The investment in kids like the ones I look at, and myself, gives a second chance of bringing hopes and dreams closer to those who have the power to change the world as we know it in the future. If I am chosen for this scholarship, the funds will assist me with completing my studies and not having less worries about my finances in school. I also promise that I will keep Ms. McClain's by continuing to give.

What happens to a dream deferred? When my mother was a teenager, she was accepted into a performing arts high school in New York City. She loved dance with all her heart and practiced for hours after school in the family’s basement. She dreamed of being an Alvin Ailey dancer; however, she was raised as a Jehovah’s Witness and taught to be obedient. So, when my grandmother told her to choose another school because "Jehovah’s Witnesses are not dancers." She attended a different school and eventually gave up that dream. I was quite young, but I still remember the sadness in her eyes, despite the smile she displayed when she told me the story. She never went to college. She was encouraged to become a “Pioneer”. So instead of gracing stages, she knocked on doors. I always wondered who she would have been if she had followed her dream. I grew up in the same faith. Each night, my mother read to me from My Book of Bible Stories, the same book her mother had read to her years before. I attended meetings at the Kingdom Hall, participated in field service, and spent much of my childhood following a path that was already laid out for me. I never had a birthday party, never celebrated any holidays, or many of the traditions that most of my classmates enjoyed. Growing up, I rarely participated in the traditions that brought many of my neighbors or non JW family members together. I always felt left out. As a child, I have always been curious, independent, and intelligent. By the age of four, I could already read. Sitting through two-hour meetings twice a week, I spent my time following along in the Bible and Watchtower magazines. Without realizing it, those long meetings helped me become an early reader. I was also a critical thinker. Why did Jehovah give us certain talents and then discourage us from using them? Why did I have to wait until we get to paradise? The more questions I had, the more unsure I became. I had to conceal these thoughts and feelings. I didn’t want to disappoint my family or be disassociated from my friends in the congregation. I am an artist. I have been drawing, painting, and creating for as long as I can remember. Art has always been how I express myself. It helped me process my thoughts, explore my imagination, and understand the world around me. Why would God place this inside of me and not want me to use it until we get to Paradise? The answers to my questions didn’t feel right. When my family moved to another state, it felt like I had been given a fresh start. I began attending a new school and a new Kingdom Hall. I immersed myself in everything my school had to offer. I made new friends, joined activities, volunteered in my community, attended events, applied for scholarships, and began preparing for college. My growing independence has sometimes been difficult for my parents. They have gradually come to respect my desire to make my own choices and discover my own path. Because of my internal beliefs, I no longer attend meetings. My future will not be defined by the opportunities that previous generations missed. My goal is to become a Licensed Clinical Therapist, specializing in Art Therapy. Through education, using my God-given creativity and service, I will build a life that honors my family's sacrifices while creating possibilities that never existed before. In the year 2030, I will be a college graduate.

Artists struggle more now than ever when it comes to creating a stable lifestyle. Because of corporate greed, people think that automation can completely replace a human’s touch. That’s why I believe that the change the art community needs the most right now is the lack of change. In order to fight back, we need to keep creating. In fact, in the future, I plan to keep devoting my life to my creativity and use it to spread awareness and positivity among artists who need it. I’ve had my fair share of anxiety and depression caused by the rapid change in the art industry. Even family members of mine have told me to start incorporating artificial intelligence in my life. I know so many artists my age who are scared that college will eventually be a waste of money, and that they’ll fail to find a job in the future. While I’ve shared this same fear in the past, I believe that this change won’t be permanent. We as humans are such beautifully complex creatures that have the power to create everything out of barely anything. Lots of people are quick to claim that there is no point in pursuing art, especially in the current age of AI. People think that because there are quicker and cheaper alternatives to making “creative media,” such as visual art, music, and creative writing, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. I used to feel more hopeless with every growing day, knowing that my future job could be replaced by something that isn’t even human, but I’ve managed to turn things around for myself. Instead of surrounding myself with bad news I saw online, I forced myself outside, and it ultimately helped me. The truth is that real art is everywhere around all of us. An architect designed every single building, and a determined painter created the murals that give my city color. It is because of the ambition of a human writer that I get to read books that help me see the world in a new light. The truth is, artists don’t create because it’s easy; we create because there’s still an infinite amount of ideas that haven’t been created yet, ideas that can’t be created by something that doesn’t feel like a human can. I do mean what I said in the beginning about art getting harder to utilize for a stable future; however, I don’t see it as a complete game-changer. I plan to utilize my strength as a real artist as a way to combat the future that is ahead for millions of other artists out there. When beautiful art becomes something that a company thinks they can profit from or cut corners to achieve, so do thousands of other companies out there. Eventually, there won’t be anything left for A.I. to impress customers with when every other company is doing the same things, which leaves the perfect spot for true talent to shine through and give real artists credit where it is due. And when that time comes, I will gladly place my faith in my practice and welcome the age of the new renaissance. I plan to work as hard as possible and draw, compose, code, and write as if my life depends on it, because the future of art as a whole depends on those who continue to create today.

Diversity in STEM careers is important because the people who design technology, conduct research, and solve problems help shape the future for everyone. When people from many different backgrounds are included in these fields, the ideas, perspectives, and experiences they bring can lead to better solutions and more meaningful innovation. A world as diverse as ours deserves to have that diversity reflected in the people working to improve it. When there isn’t diversity in STEM careers, shortchanging the world because, in my opinion, there are different nuances to what different people bring to their careers. For example, when individuals from different cultures, communities, and life experiences collaborate, they often see problems in different ways. Someone who grew up in a rural community might recognize challenges related to access to technology or healthcare that others may not notice. Someone from a different cultural background might approach problem-solving with new methods or perspectives. When these viewpoints come together, they create stronger teams that are more creative and can also develop solutions that serve a wider range of people. Representation also matters because it influences who feels welcome to pursue STEM careers in the first place. When young students see scientists, engineers, doctors, and innovators who look like them or share similar backgrounds, it helps them believe that they belong in those spaces too. For many students, especially those from historically underrepresented groups, simply seeing someone like them succeed in STEM can be incredibly motivating and help fuel their dreams. Another reason diversity in STEM is so important is that technology and scientific discoveries affect everyone. From medical treatments to artificial intelligence to environmental solutions, the decisions made by people in STEM careers can impact entire communities. If only a small portion of the population is involved in those decisions, important needs and concerns might be overlooked. Diverse teams help ensure that products, research, and innovations consider the experiences of many different groups. As a student preparing for the next stage of my education, I believe that encouraging diversity in STEM is not only about fairness, but also about progress. The biggest challenges our world faces, everything from climate change to the public health crisis, require creativity, collaboration, and new ways of thinking. By welcoming people from all backgrounds into STEM fields, we increase the chances of discovering solutions that benefit everyone. In the end, diversity in STEM strengthens innovation, inspires future generations, and helps create solutions that reflect the needs of our entire society. When different voices are included at the table, the results are not only more equitable but also more powerful and impactful for the world we share. Thank you for taking my thoughts into consideration. If I am chosen for this scholarship. I will your investment to good use. It will assist with my room and board and books.

My name is Rebekah Powlette, and I will be the first person in my family to earn a college degree. I am an artist; there is not a day that goes by that I don’t create something. It’s one of the many ways I express myself. There was a time, however, when my art was my only voice. An experience in middle school caused me to have extreme anxiety and depression. I was fearful of going to school and even going outside. My grades dropped, and my erratic behavior caused schoolmates, to shun me. It was a dark and lonely time. My mother drove me to school every day, praying out loud for most of the way. I thought I would never get through that experience. Thankfully, there was an angel at my school, her name was Ms. Hicks. She saw my daily struggles. Both she and my mother developed a multi-layered plan which included medication, psychotherapy, and art therapy. They were instrumental in my recovery. I believe everything happens for a reason. The compassionate, empathetic person I am today is a result of what happened. It also helped me find my purpose. One day, whether I am practicing as a licensed art therapist or creating socially conscious animation, I will use visual storytelling through my art to help heal child and adolescent trauma. I have used that test as my testimony. Once I got to high school, my life expanded and became colorful again. Through various clubs and volunteering, I met my tribe. When I started volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club, I became hooked. I love helping children with homework, tutoring them in math (which I previously hated), and teaching them to express frustration through art rather than conflict. My social interactions with these kids feed my soul. As an only child, I always wanted siblings. I listen to them, share my story with those who need to hear it, and I believe I’ve made a difference in some of their lives. No one who knows me today would ever have guessed what I’ve been through. I have been on the Gold Honor Roll every year since I’ve been in high school. I am also a member of the National Honor Society and the American and Japanese Teachers’ Honor Society. I’ve just received all A’s for the Fall semester. Having ADHD, I sometimes may need extra time, but I always finish and do my best. I encourage anyone going through adversity to hang in there and not give up, because situations always change. Advocate for yourself and ask for help when you need it, and don’t forget to pray. After what I've been through, I am well aware of how important my mental health is and I talk about it with my friends. In my friend group it is no longer a taboo conversation. Winning the Mikey Taylor Memorial scholarship will give me the mental, emotional, and financial breathing room to adjust and enjoy my first year as a college freshman. My family is facing a new challenge as a result of my mother’s recent job loss. Your investment will have a direct impact on my future. I promise you, it will be bright.

My name is Rebekah Powlette, I am the daughter of a Grenadian father and a Cuban mother. I will be the first person in my family to earn a college degree. I am an artist; there is not a day that goes by that I don’t create something. It’s one of the many ways I express myself. There was a time, however, when my art was my only voice. An experience in middle school caused me to have extreme anxiety and depression. I was fearful of going to school and even going outside. My grades dropped, and my behavior caused schoolmates to shun me. It was a dark and lonely time. My mother drove me to school every day, praying out loud for most of the way. I thought I would never get through that experience. Thankfully, there was an angel at my school, her name was Ms. Hicks. Both she and my mother developed a multi-layered plan which included psychotherapy and art therapy. They were instrumental in my recovery. I believe everything happens for a reason. The compassionate, empathetic person I am today is a result of what happened. It also helped me find my purpose. One day, whether I am practicing as a licensed art therapist or creating socially conscious animation, I will use visual storytelling through my art to help heal child and adolescent trauma. I have used that test as my testimony. Once I got to high school, I found my "happy place" through various clubs. Volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club hooked me immediately. I love helping children with homework and teaching them to express frustration through art rather than conflict. These social interactions feed my soul. As an only child, I always wanted siblings. I listen to them, share my story with those who need to hear it, and I believe I’ve made a difference in some of their lives. Having ADHD, I’ve had to learn to accept that in school, I sometimes may need extra time, but I always finish and do my best. I have been on the Gold Honor Roll every year since I’ve been in high school. I am also a member of the National Honor Society and the American and Japanese Teachers’ Honor Society. I’ve just received all A’s for the Fall semester. I have had a great high school experience. No one who knows me today would ever have guessed what I’ve been through. I encourage anyone going through adversity to hang in there and not give up, because situations always change. Advocate for yourself and ask for help when you need it, and try as hard as you can, because someone will usually see your effort. Winning a scholarship in Simon M. Humphrey's honor will have a direct impact on my future. My family is facing a new challenge as a result of my mother’s recent job loss.

My name is Rebekah Powlette. I will be the first person in my family to earn a college degree. College has always been part of my story. As a child, my parents spoke about it casually and often, treating it as an expected destination rather than a distant goal. I still remember being in third grade and hearing, “Rebekah, your room is a mess. Is this how it’s going to look when you’re in college?” Because of their constant encouragement, I never saw college as optional; it was a path I knew I would follow. Going to college and getting a degree is extremely important to me because I have seen how hard my parents worked. My mother has worked two jobs for years. They’ve made many sacrifices for me, and I know it's because they believe in me and want me to have a bright future. I know they will be so proud of me at my high school graduation and faces and then when I graduate from college. I am an artist; there is not a day that goes by that I don’t create something. It’s one of the many ways I express myself. There was a time, however, when my art was my only voice, and my road to college was almost derailed. An experience in middle school caused me to have extreme anxiety and depression along with OCD. Thankfully, there was an angel at my school, her name was Ms. Hicks. Both she and my mother developed a multi-layered plan which included psychotherapy and art therapy and medication. They were instrumental in my recovery. I believe everything happens for a reason. The compassionate person I am today is a direct result of what happened. It also helped me find my purpose. One day, I will be practicing as a Licensed Clinical Therapist (specializing in art therapy) or creating socially conscious animation. I will use visual storytelling through my art to help heal child and adolescent trauma. Thankfully, once in I got to high school, I found my "happy place" through various clubs and volunteer opportunities. It was while volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club that I truly became hooked. I love helping children with homework, playing games, and teaching them to express frustration through art rather than conflict. These social interactions feed my soul. As an only child, I always wanted siblings. I listen to them, share my story, and I believe I’ve made a difference in some of their lives. Oftentimes, when I interact with the kids, I say "one day when you're in college..." I have been on the Gold Honor Roll every year for the past 3 years with a minimum GPA of 4.0. I am also a member of the National Honor Society and the American and Japanese Teachers’ Honor Society. I’ve studied Japanese for the past 5 years. I’ve just received all A’s for the Fall semester. I've had a great high school experience. No one who knows me today would ever have guessed what I’ve been through. Winning this scholarship will give me the mental, emotional, and financial breathing room to adjust and succeed in my first year as a college freshman. I will use the money towards my books and other fees. My family is currently facing a challenge as a result of my mother’s recent job loss. Your investment will have a direct impact on my future. I promise you, it will be bright. Thank you for taking the time to read the essay. I want to pay it forward and create my own scholarship fund one day. The story of Ms. Ethel Hayes is more common than discussed in our community. Over 10 years ago, I had an aunt who's name was Yvonne Graham. By all accounts she was successful. She was a college graduate, had a beautiful apartment, traveled often and always dressed for success. Everyone who knew her was shocked and confused when she took her own life. I still miss her and think about her often.

My name is Rebekah Powlette. I will be the first person in my family to earn a college degree. College has always been part of my story. As a child, my parents spoke about it casually and often, treating it as an expected destination rather than a distant goal. I still remember being in third grade and hearing, “Rebekah, your room is a mess. Is this how it’s going to look when you’re in college?” Because of their constant encouragement, I never saw college as optional; it was a path I knew I would follow. Going to college and getting a degree is extremely important to me because I have seen how hard my parents worked. My mother has worked two jobs for years. They’ve made many sacrifices for me, and I know it's because they believe in me and want me to have a bright future. I know they will be so proud of me at my high school graduation and faces and then when I graduate from college. I am an artist; there is not a day that goes by that I don’t create something. It’s one of the many ways I express myself. There was a time, however, when my art was my only voice, and my road to college was almost derailed. An experience in middle school caused me to have extreme anxiety and depression. Thankfully, there was an angel at my school, her name was Ms. Hicks. Both she and my mother developed a multi-layered plan which included psychotherapy and art therapy. They were instrumental in my recovery. I believe everything happens for a reason. The compassionate, empathetic person I am today is a result of what happened. It also helped me find my purpose. One day, whether I am practicing as a Licensed Clinical Therapist (specializing in art therapy) or creating socially conscious animation, I will use visual storytelling through my art heal child and adolescent trauma. Once in high school, I found my "happy place" through various clubs and volunteer opportunities. It was while volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club that I truly became hooked. I love helping children with homework, playing games, and teaching them to express frustration through art rather than conflict. These social interactions feed my soul. As an only child, I always wanted siblings. I listen to them, share my story, and I believe I’ve made a difference in some of their lives. Oftentimes, when I interact with the kids, I say "one day when you're in college..." I have always been very goal-oriented. My grades are a reflection of this. In high school, I have been on the Gold Honor Roll every year. You have to have a minimum GPA of 4.0. I am also a member of the National Honor Society and the American and Japanese Teachers’ Honor Society. I’ve studied Japanese for the past 5 years. I’ve just received all A’s for the Fall semester. I have had a great high school experience. No one who knows me today would ever have guessed what I’ve been through. I want to leave a legacy of people whom I have inspired and helped through my therapy practice. I also want to pay it forward and create my own scholarship fund one day. Winning this scholarship will give me the mental, emotional, and financial breathing room to adjust and succeed in my first year as a college freshman. I will use the money towards my books and other fees. Your investment will have a direct impact on my future. I promise you, it will be bright.

My name is Rebekah Powlette. I am the daughter of a Grenadian father and a Cuban mother, and will be the first person in my family to earn a college degree. College has always been part of my story. As a child, my parents spoke about it casually and often, treating it as an expected destination rather than a distant goal. I still remember being in third grade and hearing, “Rebekah, your room is a mess. Is this how it’s going to look when you’re in college?” Because of their constant encouragement, I never saw college as optional; it was a path I knew I would follow. I am an artist; there is not a day that goes by that I don’t create something. It’s one of the many ways I express myself. There was a time, however, when my art was my only voice, and my road to college was almost derailed. An experience in middle school caused me to have extreme anxiety and depression. Thankfully, there was an angel at my school, her name was Ms. Hicks. With lots of prayer and a plan which included psychotherapy and art therapy. They were instrumental in my recovery. I believe everything happens for a reason. The compassionate, empathetic person I am today is a result of what happened. It also helped me find my purpose. One day, whether I am practicing as a Licensed Clinical Therapist (specializing in art therapy) or creating socially conscious animation, I will use visual storytelling to heal child and adolescent trauma. Growing up in the church, they often preached about finding one’s “purpose and calling.” As a tween, this pressured me, as I just wanted to get to high school. Once I arrived, I found my "happy place" through various clubs. There were also many opportunities to volunteer. It was while volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club that I truly became hooked. I love helping children with homework, playing games, and teaching them to express frustration through art rather than conflict. These social interactions feed my soul. As an only child, I always wanted siblings. I listen to them, share my story, and I believe I’ve made a difference in some of their lives. Oftentimes, when I interact with the kids, I say, "One day when you're in college". I have always been very goal-oriented. My grades are a reflection of this. In high school, I have been on the Gold Honor Roll every year. You have to have a minimum GPA of 4.0. I am also a member of the National Honor Society and the American and Japanese Teachers’ Honor Society. I’ve studied Japanese for the past 5 years. I’ve just received all A’s for the Fall semester. I have had a great high school experience. No one who knows me today would ever have guessed what I’ve been through. Winning this scholarship will give me the financial breathing room to adjust and succeed in my first year as a college freshman. I will use the money towards my books and other fees. My family is currently facing a financial challenge as a result of my mother’s recent job loss. Your investment will have a direct impact on my future. I promise you, it will be bright. Thank you for taking the time to read my story. If I am selected, I promise to bring honor to Valerie Rabb's legacy by succeeding and passing it on.

My name is Rebekah Powlette. I am will be the first person in my family to earn a college degree. College has always been part of my story. As a child, my parents spoke about it casually and often, treating it as an expected destination rather than a distant goal. I still remember being in third grade and hearing, “Rebekah, your room is a mess. Is this how it’s going to look when you’re in college?” Because of their constant encouragement, I never saw college as optional; it was a path I knew I would follow. I am an artist; there is not a day that goes by that I don’t create something. It’s one of the many ways I express myself. There was a time, however, when my art was my only voice, and my road to college was almost derailed. An experience in middle school caused me to have extreme anxiety and depression. Thankfully, there was an angel at my school, her name was Ms. Hicks. Both she and my mother developed a multi-layered plan which included psychotherapy and art therapy. They were instrumental in my recovery. I believe everything happens for a reason. The compassionate, empathetic person I am today is a result of what happened. I learned how to advocate for myself, the importance of protecting my mental health and to seek help from authority if I am being bullied. I believe I have found my purpose. One day, whether I am practicing as a Licensed Clinical Therapist (specializing in art therapy) or creating socially conscious animation, I will use visual storytelling to heal child and adolescent trauma. Once I started high school, I found my "happy place" through various clubs. There were also many opportunities to volunteer. It was while volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club that I truly became hooked. I love helping children with homework, playing games, and teaching them to express frustration through art rather than conflict. These social interactions feed my soul. As an only child, I always wanted siblings. I have been on the Gold Honor Roll every year in High School. You have to have a minimum GPA of 4.0. I am a member of the National Honor Society and the American and Japanese Teachers’ Honor Society. No one who knows me today would ever have guessed what I’ve been through. Thank you for your consideration.

My name is Rebekah Powlette, and I will be the first person in my family to earn a college degree. I am an artist who creates something every day. Art is one of the most important ways I express myself, but there was a time when it was my only voice, and my path to college was almost derailed. In middle school, I experienced a situation that led to extreme anxiety and depression. During that time, my art became my safe space. Thankfully, there was an angel at my school named Ms. Hicks. Prayer and a well put together plan that included psychotherapy and art therapy helped me get through this challenging time . Their compassion, were instrumental in my recovery and helped me regain my confidence. I believe everything happens for a reason. The compassionate, empathetic person I am today is a result of what happened. It also helped me find my purpose. One day, whether I am practicing as a Licensed Clinical Therapist (specializing in art therapy) or creating socially conscious animation, I will use visual storytelling to heal child and adolescent trauma. Once in high school, I found my "happy place" through various clubs and volunteer opportunities. It was while volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club that I truly became hooked. I love helping children with homework, playing games, and teaching them to express frustration through art rather than conflict. These social interactions feed my soul. As an only child, I always wanted siblings. I listen to them, share my story, and I believe I’ve made a difference in some of their lives. I talk to the kids I work with often about the perils of bullying behavior and what kind of pain is inflicted. More importantly, by forcing them to talk it out, the bully often regrets their behavior and I usually see a change in them. We’ve also had several conversations about cyberbullying and putting too much information online. I remind them when they put something online, it stays there forever. I frequently say to them, “One day when you’re in college…” So they keep the future in mind. I have always been very goal-oriented. My grades are a reflection of this. In high school, I have been on the Gold Honor Roll every year. You have to have a minimum GPA of 4.0. I am also a member of the National Honor Society and the American and Japanese Teachers’ Honor Society. I’ve studied Japanese for the past 5 years. I’ve just received all A’s for the Fall semester. No one who knows me today would ever have guessed what I’ve been through. My family’s income is less than $50,000. We have qualified for a Pell grant and also the Georgia Hope Scholarship, which will pay for most of my college credits. However, I am still working on receiving enough scholarship money to cover my room and board, along with books and fees. I don't want to graduate college with lots of debt. Winning this scholarship will give me the mental, emotional, and financial breathing room to adjust and succeed in my first year as a college freshman. I will use the money to pay for books and other fees. Thank you for taking the time to read my essay. I hope my story resonates with you and you find it in your heart to grant me one of the available scholarships.

My name is Rebekah Powlette. I will be the first person in my family to earn a college degree. College has always been part of my story. As a child, my parents spoke about it casually and often, treating it as an expected destination rather than a distant goal. I still remember being in third grade and hearing, “Rebekah, your room is a mess. Is this how it’s going to look when you’re in college?” Because of their constant encouragement, I never saw college as optional; it was a path I knew I would follow. Going to college and getting a degree is extremely important to me because I have seen how hard my parents worked. My mother has worked two jobs for years. They’ve made many sacrifices for me, and I know it's because they believe in me and want me to have a bright future. I know they will be so proud of me at my high school graduation and faces and then when I graduate from college. I am an artist; there is not a day that goes by that I don’t create something. It’s one of the many ways I express myself. There was a time, however, when my art was my only voice, and my road to college was almost derailed. An experience in middle school caused me to have extreme anxiety and depression. Thankfully, there was an angel at my school, her name was Ms. Hicks. Both she and my mother developed a multi-layered plan which included psychotherapy and art therapy. They were instrumental in my recovery. I believe everything happens for a reason. The compassionate, empathetic person I am today is a result of what happened. It also helped me find my purpose. One day, whether I am practicing as a Licensed Clinical Therapist (specializing in art therapy) or creating socially conscious animation, I will use visual storytelling to heal child and adolescent trauma. Once in high school, I found my "happy place" through various clubs and volunteer opportunities. It was while volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club that I truly became hooked. I love helping children with homework, playing games, and teaching them to express frustration through art rather than conflict. These social interactions feed my soul. As an only child, I always wanted siblings. I listen to them, share my story, and I believe I’ve made a difference in some of their lives. Oftentimes, when I interact with the kids, I say "one day when you're in college..." I have always been very goal-oriented. My grades are a reflection of this. In high school, I have been on the Gold Honor Roll every year. You have to have a minimum GPA of 4.0. I am also a member of the National Honor Society and the American and Japanese Teachers’ Honor Society. I’ve studied Japanese for the past 5 years and want to study abroad one day. I’ve just received all A’s for the Fall semester. No one who knows me today would ever have guessed what I’ve been through. I also plan to pay it forward and create my own scholarship fund one day. Winning this scholarship will give me the mental, emotional, and financial breathing room to adjust and succeed in my first year as a college freshman. I will use the money towards my books and other fees. My family is currently facing a new challenge as a result of my mother’s recent job loss. Your investment will have a direct impact on my future. I promise you, it will be bright.

My name is Rebekah Powlette. I will be the first person in my family to earn a college degree. College has always been part of my story. As a child, my parents spoke about it casually and often, treating it as an expected destination rather than a distant goal. I still remember being in third grade and hearing, “Rebekah, your room is a mess. Is this how it’s going to look when you’re in college?” Because of their constant encouragement, I never saw college as optional; it was a path I knew I would follow. Going to college and getting a degree is extremely important to me because I have seen how hard my parents worked. My mother has worked two jobs for years. They’ve made many sacrifices for me, and I know it's because they believe in me and want me to have a bright future. I know they will be so proud of me at my high school graduation and faces and then when I graduate from college. I am an artist; there is not a day that goes by that I don’t create something. It’s one of the many ways I express myself. There was a time, however, when my art was my only voice, and my road to college was almost derailed. An experience in middle school caused me to have extreme anxiety and depression. Thankfully, there was an angel at my school, her name was Ms. Hicks. Both she and my mother developed a multi-layered plan which included psychotherapy and art therapy. They were instrumental in my recovery. I believe everything happens for a reason. The compassionate, empathetic person I am today is a result of what happened. It also helped me find my purpose. One day, whether I am practicing as a Licensed Clinical Therapist (specializing in art therapy) or creating socially conscious animation, I will use visual storytelling to heal child and adolescent trauma. Once in high school, I found my "happy place" through various clubs and volunteer opportunities. It was while volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club that I truly became hooked. I love helping children with homework, playing games, and teaching them to express frustration through art rather than conflict. These social interactions feed my soul. As an only child, I always wanted siblings. I listen to them, share my story, and I believe I’ve made a difference in some of their lives. Oftentimes, when I interact with the kids, I say "one day when you're in college..." I spend my summers as a summer school counselor at a school in College Park Georgia. I have always been very goal-oriented. My grades are a reflection of this. In high school, I have been on the Gold Honor Roll every year. You have to have a minimum GPA of 4.0. I am also a member of the National Honor Society and the American and Japanese Teachers’ Honor Society. I’ve studied Japanese for the past 5 years in hopes of studying a semester abroad in Japan one day. I’ve just received all A’s for the Fall semester. I have had a great high school experience. No one who knows me today would ever have guessed what I’ve been through. Winning this scholarship will give me the mental, and financial breathing room to adjust and succeed in my first year as a college freshman. It will help books and other fees. My family is currently facing a new challenge as a result of my mother’s recent job loss. Your investment will have a direct impact on my future. Thank you for reading this.

My name is Rebekah Powlette. I will be the first person in my family to earn a college degree my mother and step-dad both started college but had to drop out for financial reasons. Even though that was their story, college has always been part of my story. As a child, my parents spoke about it casually and often, treating it as an expected destination rather than a distant goal. I still remember being in third grade and hearing, “Rebekah, your room is a mess. Is this how it’s going to look when you’re in college?” Because of their constant encouragement, I never saw college as optional; it was a path I knew I would follow. I am an artist; there is not a day that goes by that I don’t create something. It’s one of the many ways I express myself. There was a time, however, when my art was my only voice, and my road to college was almost derailed. An experience in middle school caused me to have extreme anxiety and depression. Thankfully, there was an angel at my school, her name was Ms. Hicks. Both she and my mother developed a multi-layered plan which included psychotherapy and art therapy. They were instrumental in my recovery. I believe everything happens for a reason. The compassionate, empathetic person I am today is a result of what happened. It also helped me find my purpose. One day, whether I am practicing as a Licensed Clinical Therapist (specializing in art therapy) or creating socially conscious animation, I will use visual storytelling to heal child and adolescent trauma. Growing up in the church, they often preached about finding one’s “purpose and calling.” As a tween, this pressured me, as I just wanted to get to high school. Once I arrived, I found my "happy place" through various clubs. There were also many opportunities to volunteer. It was while volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club that I truly became hooked. I love helping children with homework, playing games, and teaching them to express frustration through art rather than conflict. These social interactions feed my soul. As an only child, I always wanted siblings. I listen to them, share my story, and I believe I’ve made a difference in some of their lives. Oftentimes, when I interact with the kids, I say, "One day when you're in college". I have always been very goal-oriented. My grades are a reflection of this. In high school, I have been on the Gold Honor Roll every year. You have to have a minimum GPA of 4.0. I am also a member of the National Honor Society and the American and Japanese Teachers’ Honor Society. I’ve studied Japanese for the past 5 years. I’ve just received all A’s for the Fall semester. I have had a great high school experience. No one who knows me today would ever have guessed what I’ve been through. Winning this scholarship will give me the mental, emotional, and financial breathing room to adjust and succeed in my first year as a college freshman. I will use the money towards my books and other fees. My family is currently facing a new challenge as a result of my mother’s recent job loss, we are currently living off of my step-dad's salary. As a result we've had to deplete most of the money from my college fund. Your investment will have a direct impact on my future. I promise you, it will be bright. Thank you for taking the time to read my essay. I hope you have a wonderful day.

My name is Rebekah Powlette. I will be the first person in my family to earn a college degree. My Pie In The Sky Goal is to become one of the less than 5% of Licensed Clinical Therapists in the United States who are women of color. What makes my dream even more “deliciously audacious” is that one day I will use visual storytelling to heal child and adolescent trauma. Even though I am still in high school, I have always known I would go to college. As a child, my parents spoke about it casually and often, treating it as an expected destination rather than a distant goal. I still remember being in second or third grade and hearing, “Rebekah, your room is a mess. Is this how it’s going to look when you’re in college?” Because of their constant encouragement, I never saw college as optional; it was a path I knew I would follow. I am an artist; there is not a day that goes by that I don’t create something. It’s one of the many ways I express myself. There was a time, however, when my art was my only voice, and my road to college was almost derailed. An experience in middle school caused me to have extreme anxiety and depression. Thankfully, there was an angel at my school, her name was Ms. Hicks. Both she and my mother developed a multi-layered plan which included psychotherapy and art therapy. These things along with prayer were instrumental in my recovery. I believe everything happens for a reason. The compassionate, empathetic person I am today is a result of what happened. That experience helped me find my purpose and fueled my decision to become a therapist. Once in high school, I became a different person. I found my "happy place" through various clubs and volunteer opportunities. It was while volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club that I truly became hooked. I love helping children with homework, playing games, and teaching them to express frustration through art rather than conflict. These social interactions feed my soul. As an only child, I always wanted siblings. I listen to them, share my story, and I believe I’ve made a difference in some of their lives. Oftentimes, when I interact with the kids, I say "one day when you're in college..." I have always been goal-oriented. One day, after hearing a classmate mention participating in a triathlon, I went home, told my mother, and we immediately signed me up for the Atlanta Kids Triathlon. It was definitely a challenge that I have no desire to do again. I didn't win, but I didn't quit! I love people, embrace challenges, I keep my word, and never quit. Having ADHD, I sometimes may need extra time, but I always finish and do my best. My grades are a reflection of this. In high school, I have been on the Gold Honor Roll every year. You have to have a minimum GPA of 4.0. I am also a member of the National Honor Society and the American and Japanese Teachers’ Honor Society. I’ve studied Japanese for the past 5 years. I’ve just received all A’s for the Fall semester. I have had a great high school experience. No one who knows me today would ever have guessed what I’ve been through. Thank you for reading my essay. I hope my story will inspire you to invest in my future.

My name is Rebekah Powlette. I will be the first person in my family to earn a college degree. College has always been part of my story. As a child, my parents spoke about it casually and often, treating it as an expected destination rather than a distant goal. I still remember being in third grade and hearing, “Rebekah, your room is a mess. Is this how it’s going to look when you’re in college?” Because of their constant encouragement, I never saw college as optional; it was a path I knew I would follow. Going to college and getting a degree is extremely important to me because I have seen how hard my parents worked. My mother has worked two jobs for years and made many sacrifices for me. I know her belief in me inspires her to keep going even when she's tired. I know my family will be so proud of me at my high school graduation and when I graduate from college. I am an artist; there is not a day that goes by that I don’t create something. It’s one of the many ways I express myself. There was a time, however, when my art was my only voice, and my road to college was almost derailed. An experience in middle school caused me to have extreme anxiety and depression. Thankfully, there was an angel at my school, her name was Ms. Hicks. Both she and my mother developed a multi-layered plan which included psychotherapy and art therapy. They were instrumental in my recovery. I believe everything happens for a reason. The compassionate, empathetic person I am today is a result of what happened. It also helped me find my purpose. One day, whether I am practicing as a Licensed Clinical Therapist (specializing in art therapy) or creating socially conscious animation, I will use visual storytelling to heal child and adolescent trauma. Once in high school, I found my "happy place" through various clubs and volunteer opportunities. It was while volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club that I truly became hooked. I love helping children with homework, playing games, and teaching them to express frustration through art rather than conflict. These social interactions feed my soul. As an only child, I always wanted siblings. I listen to them, share my story, and I believe I’ve made a difference in some of their lives. Oftentimes, when I interact with the kids, I say "one day when you're in college..." I have always been very goal-oriented. My grades are a reflection of this. In high school, I have been on the Gold Honor Roll every year. You have to have a minimum GPA of 4.0. I am also a member of the National Honor Society and the American and Japanese Teachers’ Honor Society. I’ve studied Japanese for the past 5 years. I’ve just received all A’s for the Fall semester. I have had a great high school experience. No one who knows me today would ever have guessed what I’ve been through. I want to leave a legacy of people whom I have inspired and helped through my therapy practice. I also want to pay it forward and create my own scholarship fund one day. Thank you for reading my essay. I hope my story will inspire you to invest in my future.

My name is Rebekah Powlette. I will be the first person in my family to earn a college degree. College has always been part of my story. As a child, my parents spoke about it casually and often, treating it as an expected destination rather than a distant goal. I still remember being in third grade and hearing, “Rebekah, your room is a mess. Is this how it’s going to look when you’re in college?” Because of their constant encouragement, I never saw college as optional; it was a path I knew I would follow. Going to college and getting a degree is extremely important to me because I have seen how hard my parents worked. My mother has worked two jobs for years. They’ve made many sacrifices for me, and I know it's because they believe in me and want me to have a bright future. I know they will be so proud of me at my high school graduation and faces and then when I graduate from college. I am an artist; there is not a day that goes by that I don’t create something. It’s one of the many ways I express myself. There was a time, however, when my art was my only voice, and my road to college was almost derailed. An experience in middle school caused me to have extreme anxiety and depression. Thankfully, there was an angel at my school, her name was Ms. Hicks. Both she and my mother developed a multi-layered plan which included psychotherapy and art therapy. They were instrumental in my recovery. I believe everything happens for a reason. The compassionate, empathetic person I am today is a result of what happened. It also helped me find my purpose. One day, whether I am practicing as a Licensed Clinical Therapist (specializing in art therapy) or creating socially conscious animation, I will use visual storytelling to heal child and adolescent trauma. Once in high school, I found my "happy place" through various clubs and volunteer opportunities. It was while volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club that I truly became hooked. I love helping children with homework, playing games, and teaching them to express frustration through art rather than conflict. These social interactions feed my soul. As an only child, I always wanted siblings. I listen to them, share my story, and I believe I’ve made a difference in some of their lives. Oftentimes, when I interact with the kids, I say "one day when you're in college..." I hope my example and my words will plant seeds in their lives and encourage them to pursue further education and change the trajectory of some of their lives. I have always been very goal-oriented. My grades are a reflection of this. In high school, I have been on the Gold Honor Roll every year. You have to have a minimum GPA of 4.0. I am also a member of the National Honor Society and the American and Japanese Teachers’ Honor Society. I’ve studied Japanese for the past 5 years. I’ve just received all A’s for the Fall semester. I have had a great high school experience. No one who knows me today would ever have guessed what I’ve been through. I want to leave a legacy of people whom I have inspired and helped through my therapy practice. I also want to pay it forward and create my own scholarship fund one day. Thank you for taking the time to read my essay.

My name is Rebekah Powlette. I will be the first person in my family to earn a college degree. College has always been part of my story. As a child, my parents spoke about it casually and often, treating it as an expected destination rather than a distant goal. I still remember being in third grade and hearing, “Rebekah, your room is a mess. Is this how it’s going to look when you’re in college?” Because of their constant encouragement, I never saw college as optional; it was a path I knew I would follow. Going to college and getting a degree is extremely important to me because I have seen how hard my parents worked. My mother has worked two jobs for years. They’ve made many sacrifices for me, and I know it's because they believe in me and want me to have a bright future. I know they will be so proud of me at my high school graduation and faces and then when I graduate from college. I am an artist; there is not a day that goes by that I don’t create something. It’s one of the many ways I express myself. There was a time, however, when my art was my only voice, and my road to college was almost derailed. An experience in middle school caused me to have extreme anxiety and depression. Thankfully, there was an angel at my school, her name was Ms. Hicks. Both she and my mother developed a multi-layered plan which included psychotherapy and art therapy. They were instrumental in my recovery. I believe everything happens for a reason. The compassionate, empathetic person I am today is a result of what happened. It also helped me find my purpose. One day, whether I am practicing as a Licensed Clinical Therapist (specializing in art therapy) or creating socially conscious animation, I will use visual storytelling to heal child and adolescent trauma. Once in high school, I found my "happy place" through various clubs and volunteer opportunities. It was while volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club that I truly became hooked. I love helping children with homework, playing games, and teaching them to express frustration through art rather than conflict. These social interactions feed my soul. As an only child, I always wanted siblings. I listen to them, share my story, and I believe I’ve made a difference in some of their lives. Oftentimes, when I interact with the kids, I say "one day when you're in college..." I have always been very goal-oriented. My grades are a reflection of this. In high school, I have been on the Gold Honor Roll every year. You have to have a minimum GPA of 4.0. I am also a member of the National Honor Society and the American and Japanese Teachers’ Honor Society. I’ve studied Japanese for the past 5 years. I’ve just received all A’s for the Fall semester. I have had a great high school experience. No one who knows me today would ever have guessed what I’ve been through. I want to leave a legacy of people whom I have inspired and helped through my therapy practice and my art. I also want to pay it forward and create my own scholarship fund one day. Thank you for taking the time to read my essay.

My name is Rebekah Powlette, and I will be the first person in my family to earn a college degree. Receiving this scholarship would help me to focus on my academic goals rather than the constant pressure of financial uncertainty. My family is currently navigating challenges due to my mother’s recent job losses. For more than three years, she worked two jobs, but one position ended in July, and the restaurant where she worked part-time was recently forced to let her go because of slow business. We had to use some of the funds originally set aside for my education to help pay our mortgage. I am currently looking for a part-time job while dedicating my weekends to applying for scholarships. I am deeply determined, and I know that nothing will prevent me from pursuing a college education. Throughout high school, I made sure I had good grades to increase my chances of getting college scholarships. Being awarded this scholarship would help provide the mental, emotional, and financial stability I need to succeed. I have the grades and SAT score to qualify for the Hope Scholarship and Zell Miller Scholarship. Because of my family’s income, I also qualify for the Pell grant. I am an artist, and I create every day. There was a time when my art was my only voice. An experience in middle school caused me to have extreme anxiety and depression. Psychotherapy and art therapy were instrumental in my recovery. It was a dark and lonely time, but I am the compassionate, empathetic person I am today because of what happened. It also helped me find my purpose. Whether I am practicing as a licensed art therapist or creating socially conscious animation, my professional goal is to use visual storytelling to heal child and adolescent trauma. Once I got to high school, my whole world changed. There were all kinds of clubs and opportunities. I found my happy place. One day, I volunteered at the Boys and Girls Club, and I was hooked. I loved working with these kids. I enjoyed helping them with their homework. I taught them how to express their frustration through art instead of arguing. The connections and social interactions fed my soul. I am an only child and always wished I had siblings when I was younger. Many of the children felt like younger siblings. The kids know how excited I am to go to college and I hope I inspire them. I have always been very goal-oriented. My grades are a reflection of this. In high school, I have been on the Gold Honor Roll every year. You have to have a minimum GPA of 4.0. I am a member of the National Honor Society and the American and Japanese Teachers’ Honor Society. I’ve studied Japanese for the past 5 years. I’ve just received all A’s for the Fall semester. No one who knows me today would ever have guessed what I’ve been through. Thank you for reading my essay.

My name is Rebekah Powlette. I am the daughter of a Grenadian father and a Cuban mother, and will be the first person in my family to earn a college degree. College has always been part of my story. As a child, my parents spoke about it casually and often, treating it as an expected destination rather than a distant goal. I still remember being in third grade and hearing, “Rebekah, your room is a mess. Is this how it’s going to look when you’re in college?” Because of their constant encouragement, I never saw college as optional; it was a path I knew I would follow. I am an artist; there is not a day that goes by that I don’t create something. It’s one of the many ways I express myself. There was a time, however, when my art was my only voice and my road to college was almost derailed. An experience in middle school caused me to have extreme anxiety and depression. Thankfully, there was an angel at my school, her name was Ms. Hicks. Both she and my mother developed a multi-layered plan which included psychotherapy and art therapy. They were instrumental in my recovery. I believe everything happens for a reason. The compassionate, empathetic person I am today is a result of what happened. It also helped me find my purpose. One day, whether I am practicing as a Licensed Clinical Therapist (specializing in art therapy) or creating socially conscious animation, I will use visual storytelling to heal child and adolescent trauma. Growing up in the church, they often preached about finding one’s “purpose and calling.” As a tween, this pressured me, as I just wanted to get to high school. Once I arrived, I found my "happy place" through various clubs. There were also many opportunities to volunteer. It was while volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club that I truly became hooked. I love helping children with homework, playing games, and teaching them to express frustration through art rather than conflict. These social interactions feed my soul. As an only child, I always wanted siblings. I listen to them, share my story, and I believe I’ve made a difference in some of their lives. Oftentimes, when I interact with the kids, I say "one day when you're in college". I have always been very goal-oriented. My grades are a reflection of this. In high school, I have been on the Gold Honor Roll every year. You have to have a minimum GPA of 4.0. I am also a member of the National Honor Society and the American and Japanese Teachers’ Honor Society. I’ve studied Japanese for the past 5 years. I’ve just received all A’s for the Fall 2025 semester. I have had a wonderful high school experience. No one who knows me today would ever have guessed what I’ve been through. Winning this scholarship will give me the mental, emotional, and financial breathing room to adjust and succeed in my first year as a college freshman. I will use the money towards my books and other fees. My family is currently facing a new challenge as a result of my mother’s recent job loss. Your investment will have a direct impact on my future. I promise you, it will be bright. Thank you for taking the time to read my essay. I hope you have a wonderful day.

My name is Rebekah Powlette, and I will be the first person in my family to earn a college degree. I am an artist, there is not a day that goes by when I don’t create something. It’s one of the many ways I express myself. There was a time however when my art was my only voice. An experience in middle school caused me to have extreme anxiety and depression. I was fearful of going to school and even going outside. My grades dropped and my behavior caused school mates to shun me. It was a dark and lonely time. My mother drove me to school every day, praying out loud for most of the way. I thought I would never get through that experience. Thankfully, there was an angel at my school, her name was Ms. Hicks. Both she and my mother developed a multi layered plan which included psychotherapy and art therapy. They were instrumental in my recovery. I believe everything happens for a reason. The compassionate, empathetic person I am today is a result of what happened. It also helped me find my purpose. One day, whether I am practicing as a licensed art therapist or creating socially conscious animation, I will use visual storytelling to heal child and adolescent trauma. I have used that test, to become my testimony. Growing up in the church, they often preached about finding one’s “purpose and calling.” As a tween, this pressured me, as I just wanted to get to high school. Once I arrived, I found my "happy place" through various clubs. Volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club hooked me immediately. I love helping children with homework and teaching them to express frustration through art rather than conflict. These social interactions feed my soul. As an only child, I always wanted siblings. I listen to them, share my story with the ones who need to hear it and I believe I’ve made a difference in some of their lives. I have always been very goal-oriented. One day at school, I overheard one of my classmates mention participating in an upcoming triathlon. I went home, told my mother about it, and we signed me up for the Atlanta Kids Triathlon. I didn’t win, but I didn’t quit, and it was definitely a challenge. It was fun, but I have no desire to do it again. I love people, I love a challenge, I keep my word, I work hard, and I never quit. Having ADHD, I’ve had to learn to accept that in school, I sometimes may need extra time, but I always finish and do my best. My grades are a reflection of this. In high school, I have been on the Gold Honor Roll every year. You have to have a minimum GPA of 4.0. I am a member of the National Honor Society and the American and Japanese Teachers’ Honor Society. I’ve studied Japanese for the past 5 years. I’ve just received all A’s for the Fall semester. I have had a wonderful high school experience. No one who knows me today would ever have guessed what I’ve been through. Winning this scholarship will give me the mental, emotional, and financial breathing room to adjust and enjoy my first year as a college freshman. My family is facing a new challenge as a result of my mother’s recent job loss. Your investment will have a direct impact on my future. I promise you, it will be bright. Thank you for taking the time to read my essay. I hope you have a wonderful day.

My name is Rebekah Powlette, and I will be the first in my family to receive a college degree. As an artist who creates daily, art was once my only voice. During middle school, I faced extreme anxiety and depression. Thankfully, psychotherapy and art therapy were instrumental in my recovery. While that time was dark, it made me the compassionate person I am today and helped reveal my purpose. Whether as a licensed art therapist or a creator of socially conscious animation, my goal is to use visual storytelling to heal child and adolescent trauma. Less than 5% of all therapists in the U.S. are African American women. The number is much smaller when the therapist's concentration is healing through art. I am a firm believer in tithing so I will donate 10% of my weekly schedule to clients who need therapy but can't afford it. Growing up in the church, they often preached about finding one’s “purpose and calling.” As a tween, this pressured me, as I just wanted to get to high school. However, once I arrived, I found my "happy place" through various clubs. Volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club hooked me immediately. I love helping children with homework and teaching them to express frustration through art rather than conflict. These social interactions feed my soul. As an only child, I always wanted siblings. At school, I serve as Secretary and Special Event Planner for the Japan Club. Under my leadership, we initiated collaborative events with other organizations, which were vital for our growth. These collaborations expanded students’ perspectives on the richness of Japanese culture and inspired me to join three additional clubs. I have always been goal-oriented. After hearing a classmate mention participating in a triathlon, I immediately signed up for the Atlanta Kids Triathlon. I didn't win, but I didn't quit. It was a fun challenge that I have no desire to do again. I love people, embrace challenges, I keep my word, and never quit. Having ADHD, I sometimes may need extra time, but I always finish and do my best. My grades reflect this persistence. I have earned a spot on the Gold Eagle Honor Roll every year, which requires a minimum 4.0 GPA. I am also a member of the National Honor Society and the American and Japanese Teachers’ Honor Society. Having studied Japanese for five years, I am determined to study abroad in Japan. While my senior year is ongoing, I have already met my high school academic goals and will not falter at the finish line. In college, I plan to graduate with honors within four years. When I set a goal, nothing stops me. My family currently faces a new challenge due to my mother’s recent job losses. This scholarship will serve as a critical bridge, allowing me to focus entirely on my studies and research rather than financial survival. I intend to work while I am in school but would like to keep my hours Thank you for your consideration.

My name is Rebekah Powlette, and I will be the first in my family to receive a college degree. As an artist who creates daily, art was once my only voice. During middle school, I faced extreme anxiety and depression. Thankfully, psychotherapy and art therapy were instrumental in my recovery. While that time was dark, it made me the compassionate person I am today and helped reveal my purpose. Whether as a licensed art therapist or a creator of socially conscious animation, my goal is to use visual storytelling to heal child and adolescent trauma. Less than 5% of all therapists in the U.S. are African American women. The number is much smaller when the therapist's concentration is on Art Therapy. Growing up in the church, they often preached about finding one’s “purpose and calling.” As a tween, this pressured me, as I just wanted to get to high school. However, once I arrived, I found my "happy place" through various clubs. Volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club hooked me immediately. I love helping children with homework and teaching them to express frustration through art rather than conflict. These social interactions feed my soul. As an only child, I always wanted siblings. At school, I serve as Secretary and Special Event Planner for the Japan Club. Under my leadership, we initiated collaborative events with other organizations, which were vital for our growth. These collaborations expanded students’ perspectives on the richness of Japanese culture and inspired me to join three additional clubs. I have always been goal-oriented. After hearing a classmate mention participating in a triathlon, I immediately signed up for the Atlanta Kids Triathlon. I didn't win, but I didn't quit. It was a fun challenge that I have no desire to do again. I love people, embrace challenges, I keep my word, and never quit. Having ADHD, I sometimes may need extra time, but I always finish and do my best. My grades reflect this persistence. I have earned a spot on the Gold Eagle Honor Roll every year, which requires a minimum 4.0 GPA. I am also a member of the National Honor Society and the American and Japanese Teachers’ Honor Society. Having studied Japanese for five years, I am determined to study abroad in Japan. While my senior year is ongoing, I have already met my high school academic goals and will not falter at the finish line. In college, I plan to graduate with honors within four years. When I set a goal, nothing stops me. My family currently faces a new challenge due to my mother’s recent job losses. This scholarship will serve as a critical bridge, allowing me to focus entirely on my studies and research rather than financial survival. Thank you for your consideration.

My name is Rebekah Powlette, and I will be the first in my family to receive a college degree. As an artist who creates daily, art was once my only voice. During middle school, I faced extreme anxiety and depression. Thankfully, psychotherapy and art therapy were instrumental in my recovery. While that time was dark, it made me the compassionate person I am today and helped reveal my purpose. Whether as a licensed art therapist or a creator of socially conscious animation, my goal is to use visual storytelling to heal child and adolescent trauma. Less than 5% of all therapists in the U.S. are African American women. The number is much smaller when the therapist's concentration is on Art Therapy. Growing up in the church, they often preached about finding one’s “purpose and calling.” As a tween, this pressured me, as I just wanted to get to high school. However, once I arrived, I found my "happy place" through various clubs. Volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club hooked me immediately. I love helping children with homework and teaching them to express frustration through art rather than conflict. These social interactions feed my soul. As an only child, I always wanted siblings. At school, I serve as Secretary and Special Event Planner for the Japan Club. Under my leadership, we initiated collaborative events with other organizations, which were vital for our growth. These collaborations expanded students’ perspectives on the richness of Japanese culture and inspired me to join three additional clubs. I have always been goal-oriented and a hard worker. My grades reflect this persistence. I have earned a spot on the Gold Eagle Honor Roll every year, which requires a minimum 4.0 GPA. I am also a member of the National Honor Society and the American and Japanese Teachers’ Honor Society. Having studied Japanese for five years, I am determined to study abroad in Japan. While my senior year is ongoing, I have already met my high school academic goals and will not falter at the finish line. In college, I plan to graduate with honors within four years. When I set a goal, nothing stops me. My family currently faces a new challenge due to my mother’s recent job losses. This scholarship will serve as a critical bridge, allowing me to focus entirely on my studies and research rather than financial survival. Thank you for your consideration.

My name is Rebekah Powlette, and I will be the first in my family to receive a college degree. As an artist who creates daily, art was once my only voice. During middle school, I faced extreme anxiety and depression. Thankfully, psychotherapy and art therapy were instrumental in my recovery. While that time was dark, it made me the compassionate person I am today and helped reveal my purpose. Whether as a licensed art therapist or a creator of socially conscious animation, my goal is to use visual storytelling to heal child and adolescent trauma. Less than 5% of all therapists in the U.S. are African American women. The number is much smaller when the therapist's concentration is on Art Therapy. Growing up in the church, they often preached about finding one’s “purpose and calling.” As a tween, this pressured me, as I just wanted to get to high school. However, once I arrived, I found my "happy place" through various clubs. Volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club hooked me immediately. I love helping children with homework and teaching them to express frustration through art rather than conflict. These social interactions feed my soul. As an only child, I always wanted siblings. At school, I serve as Secretary and Special Event Planner for the Japan Club. Under my leadership, we initiated collaborative events with other organizations, which were vital for our growth. These collaborations expanded students’ perspectives on the richness of Japanese culture and inspired me to join three additional clubs. I have always been goal-oriented. After hearing a classmate mention participating in a triathlon, I immediately signed up for the Atlanta Kids Triathlon. I didn't win, but I didn't quit. It was a fun challenge that I have no desire to do again. I love people, embrace challenges, I keep my word, and never quit. Having ADHD, I sometimes may need extra time, but I always finish and do my best. My grades reflect this persistence. I have earned a spot on the Gold Eagle Honor Roll every year, which requires a minimum 4.0 GPA. I am also a member of the National Honor Society and the American and Japanese Teachers’ Honor Society. Having studied Japanese for five years, I am determined to study abroad in Japan. While my senior year is ongoing, I have already met my high school academic goals and will not falter at the finish line. In college, I plan to graduate with honors within four years. When I set a goal, nothing stops me. My family currently faces a new challenge due to my mother’s recent job loss. This scholarship will serve as a critical bridge, allowing me to focus entirely on my studies and research rather than financial survival. Thank you for your consideration.

My name is Rebekah Powlette, and I’m a senior who lives in Atlanta. I’ve always been passionate about helping others, which has shaped both my academics and extracurricular activities. I’m 17 years old and have been volunteering for the past 12 years. My mother used to take me with her to volunteer at a food pantry starting around when I was in first grade. Years later, we moved from Florida and have been regular volunteers at the Atlanta Food Bank. This past year, I haven’t had as much time to volunteer. I’ve had to study for the SAT, apply to college, and apply for scholarships. However, I still volunteer usually twice a month at the Boys and Girls Club. I am an artist and love expressing myself creatively through fashion, cultural projects, and school activities. But what I’m most proud of is my community involvement. One of my most impactful activities was when I organized a coat drive. One freezing morning in Atlanta, I saw a girl at a bus stop shivering while wearing just a hoodie. I couldn’t stop thinking about how some kids in our area didn’t have warm coats. Winters in Atlanta typically aren’t that bad, but it was freezing that day. The next day, I brought up that incident in one of my classes, and we decided to plan a school-wide coat drive. I made flyers, spoke during homeroom, and encouraged classmates to donate. Although I’m usually introverted, I stepped out of my comfort zone, and soon students, teachers, and parents joined in. In total, we collected 100 coats (93 from school and 7 from friends and family) for four local organizations. This experience taught me about inspiring others to care and take action. I express myself through my art. Some people have diaries they write in; I have sketch books I draw in. Oftentimes, when I look back at one of my many sketchbooks, I can see exactly how I was feeling at that time. One of the things I like to do the most when volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club is teach younger kids how to express their emotions through art. Instead of acting out when they are sad or angry, I try to teach them to channel their emotions by making something. I plan to major in Visual and Performing Arts in college; however, I am also seriously thinking about a Psychology minor. I am thinking of possibly becoming a therapist so that I may formally teach kids and adolescents the power of art as therapy. I get real satisfaction when I do it. Thankfully, as an artist, I can do both. After spending so much time volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club, I am convinced that if we had more programs for children and adolescents, we would have less crime and violence. We are all born with gifts and talents. If our teens had the opportunity to see who they could be, they would have a more positive outlook on their future. By the way, I currently have a 4.0 GPA, and I’ve made the Gold Honor Roll each year at my high school. To get on this honor roll, you must have a GPA above 3.7, and I’m also a National Honor Roll recipient and honored by the American and Japanese Teachers’ Association. I’ve been studying Japanese for the past 4 years. Thank you for taking the time to read this essay. If I am selected as the winner, the funds will go towards the cost of my dorm.

When I started ninth grade, everything in my life flipped upside down. I was suddenly in a class where I didn’t know a single person. Before that, I had been happy, silly, confident, and surrounded by friends who understood me. But that year, things changed fast. I’ve always been a little different; animated, funny, creative, and expressive through my outfits and ideas. Instead of being accepted, I became a target. Kids laughed at the things I said and how I dressed. Every day, I tried to stay positive, but inside, I started to shrink. My ADHD sometimes made me blurt out thoughts or get distracted, which only drew more teasing. Eventually, I just wanted to disappear. Not long after, I began having panic attacks. My heart would race, my face would burn, and I’d feel dizzy and scared. My parents took me to the hospital multiple times before doctors finally said it was anxiety. At the same time, the bullying at school intensified. One girl made it her mission to embarrass me. I lost twelve pounds, stopped talking, and wore black almost every day, hoping to blend in. I often ended up in the nurse’s office, too overwhelmed to stay in class. Everything changed when a school counselor helped me switch to a different classroom, one taught by a teacher I’d had years earlier; her name was Mrs. Jordan. She noticed right away that I wasn’t myself. She didn’t push me to talk before I was ready, but she made it clear that I had a safe space with her. She let me eat lunch in her classroom so I wouldn’t have to be alone and checked on me every day. More importantly, Ms. Jordan taught me to reframe how I saw myself. Instead of focusing on what others said, she encouraged me to recognize what made me unique. My creativity, energy, and compassion were gifts. She helped me understand that being different wasn’t something to hide but something to embrace. She reminded me that everyone’s path looks different, and confidence comes from understanding your own worth, not from others’ approval. Through her guidance, I began to rebuild my confidence. I started speaking up more in class, sharing ideas again, and even joining a small art group after school. Ms. Jordan helped me shift my mindset from “Why me?” to “What can I learn from this?” She showed me how challenges can shape you into someone stronger, more self-aware, and more empathetic toward others. That year was one of the hardest times in my life, but it was also the most transformative. Ms. Jordan didn’t just help me survive ninth grade; she helped me rediscover myself. She taught me that confidence isn’t about being liked; it’s about being comfortable in your own skin. I’m at a new school now with a wonderful small group of true friends. However, I’ll carry those lessons with me into college and the rest of my life. Mr. Foster sounds like he was a phenomenal teacher. Thank you for taking the time to read my essay. If I am selected as the winner, the scholarship money will go towards my meal plan and fees.

My name is Rebekah Powlette, and I’m a senior who lives in Grant Park in Atlanta. I’ve always been passionate about helping others, which has shaped both my academics and extracurricular activities. I’m 17 years old and have been volunteering for the past 12 years. My mother used to take me with her to volunteer at a food pantry starting around when I was in first grade. Years later, we moved from Florida and have been regular volunteers at the Atlanta Food Bank. This past year, I haven’t had as much time to volunteer. I’ve had to study for the SAT, apply to colleges, and apply for scholarships. However, I still volunteer usually twice a month at the Boys and Girls Club. I am an artist and love expressing myself creatively through fashion, cultural projects, and school activities. But what I’m most proud of is my community involvement. One of my most impactful activities was when I organized a coat drive. One freezing morning in Atlanta, I saw a girl at a bus stop shivering while wearing just a hoodie. I couldn’t stop thinking about how some kids in our area didn’t have warm coats. Winters in Atlanta typically aren’t that bad, but it was freezing that day. The next day, I brought up that incident in one of my classes and we decided to plan a school-wide coat drive. I made flyers, spoke during homeroom, and encouraged classmates to donate. Although I’m usually introverted, I stepped out of my comfort zone, and soon students, teachers, and parents joined in. In total, we collected 100 coats (93 from school and 7 from friends and family) for four local organizations. This experience taught me about inspiring others to care and take action. As an artist, I express myself through my art. Some people have diaries they write in; I have sketch books I draw in. Oftentimes, when I look back at one of my many sketchbooks, I can see exactly how I was feeling at that time. One of the things I like to do the most when volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club is teach younger kids how to express their emotions through art. Instead of acting out when they are sad or angry, I try to teach them to channel their emotions by making something. I plan to major in Visual and Performing Arts in college; however, I am also seriously thinking about a Psychology minor. I may decide one day to become a therapist so that I may formally teach kids and adolescents the power of art as therapy. I get real satisfaction when I do it. By the way, I currently have a 4.0 GPA, and I’ve made the Gold Honor Roll each year at my high school. To get on this honor roll, you must have a GPA above 3.7, and I’m also a National Honor Roll recipient and honored by the American and Japanese Teachers’ Association. I’ve been studying Japanese for the past 4 years. Thank you for taking the time to read this essay. If I am selected as the winner, your funds will go towards the cost of my dorm.

My name is Rebekah Powlette, and I’m a senior at Woodward Academy. I’ve always been passionate about helping others, which has shaped both my academics and extracurricular activities. I’m 17 years old and have been volunteering for the past 12 years. My mother used to take me with her to volunteer at a food pantry starting around when I was in first grade. Years later, we moved to Florida and have been regular volunteers at the Atlanta Food Bank. Besides working at food pantries, I’ve done all kinds of creative and fun volunteering over the years. I love expressing myself creatively through fashion, cultural projects, and school activities. But what I’m most proud of is my community involvement. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned about leadership came from a coat drive I organized last year. One freezing morning, I saw a girl at a bus stop shivering while wearing just a hoodie. I couldn’t stop thinking about how some kids in our area didn’t have warm coats. The next day, I worked with a teacher to plan a school-wide coat drive. I made flyers, spoke during homeroom, and encouraged classmates to donate. Although I’m usually introverted, I stepped out of my comfort zone, and soon students, teachers, and parents joined in. In total, we collected 100 coats (93 from school and 7 from friends and family) for four local organizations. This experience taught me that leadership isn’t about doing everything yourself. It’s also about inspiring others to care and take action. If I could start my own charity, it would focus on providing educational resources and mentorship to children in underserved communities, both locally and internationally. Its mission would be to empower students by giving them the tools they need to succeed academically and personally. I am an artist, and one of the things I love to do the most when volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club is teach younger kids how to express their emotions through art. In terms of school, I currently have a 4.0 GPA. I’ve made the Gold Honor Roll each year at my high school. To get on this honor roll, you must have a GPA above 3.7, and I’m also a National Honor Roll recipient and honored by the American and Japanese Teachers’ Association. Next fall, I’ll start college and work toward becoming a psychologist specializing in art therapy. If I am selected, I will use the scholarship money to help pay for all my books and fees. Thank you for considering me for this scholarship. I wish I had the opportunity to have met Ms. Aserina Hill. After reading her biography, I’m sure she was a blessing to anyone who met her.

When I started eighth grade, everything in my life flipped upside down. I was suddenly in a class where I didn’t know a single person. Before that, I was happy, silly, confident, and surrounded by friends who understood me. But that year, things changed fast. I’ve always been a little different, animated, creative, and funny, and I loved to express myself through my outfits. But instead of being accepted for who I was, kids in this new class laughed at me. They made fun of my clothes, my personality, and even the random things I said. Every day, I tried to stay positive, but inside, I started to shrink. At lunch, I’d try to sit with my old friends, but after a time, they already had new inside jokes and closer bonds. I started feeling like I didn’t fit anywhere. I have ADHD, which sometimes makes me blurt out my thoughts or get distracted, and that made it easier for people who did not know or understand me to tease me. Eventually, I just wanted to be invisible. One day at home, everything got worse. My heart started pounding so fast that I thought I was having a heart attack. My ears rang, my face got hot, and I felt dizzy. My parents rushed me to the children’s hospital, but the doctors couldn’t find anything wrong. These episodes kept happening every other day until a doctor finally said it might be panic attacks. Around that same time, the bullying at school escalated. One girl made it her goal to humiliate me. She whispered awful things when she passed me and made sure others laughed. I lost twelve pounds, started wearing black all the time, and tried my hardest to disappear. Oftentimes, I felt so sick, I had to go to the nurse, and my mother would have to leave work to pick me up in the middle of the day. In those times, my mother used to pray out loud during our drive to school, and we would listen to worship music. She prayed and made me pray along with her. During one of my many hospital visits, we met a woman who helped me switch my class. I was moved to a room with a teacher I had years earlier, Miss Jordan. She was so good to me. She let me eat lunch in her classroom so I didn’t have to be alone, and she encouraged me every single day. She reminded me that I was unique for a reason and that God hadn’t forgotten me. Slowly, things started to get better. Lots of prayer and therapy helped, and I finally felt like I could breathe again. That year was the hardest time of my life, but I also learned many lessons. My faith became real to me then. I learned that even when I don’t hear God’s voice, He’s still working. He showed up through people at church, my mom’s love, Miss Jordan’s kindness, and through small moments that reminded me I wasn’t alone. I learned scriptures to encourage me when I was scared or unsure. I learned how to pray out loud, call on the Holy Spirit, how to change the atmosphere through worship music, and many other things. I have a group of friends who are also believers, and we are not afraid to pray for each other. I will take all these things with me as I go to college and throughout my career. No matter where I go, I will try my best to keep God in the center of my life.

When I started eighth grade, everything in my life flipped upside down. I was suddenly in a class where I didn’t know a single person. Before that, I was happy, silly, confident, and surrounded by friends who understood me. But that year, things changed fast. I’ve always been a little different; animated, creative, and funny. I loved to express myself through my outfits. I’d wear things like sunflowers or feathers in my hair, colorful crochet pants, or hats I thought were cute. But instead of being accepted for who I was, kids in this new class laughed at me. They made fun of my clothes, my personality, and the things I said. Every day, I tried to stay positive, but inside, I started to shrink. At lunch, I’d try to sit with my old friends, but they already had new inside jokes and closer bonds. I started feeling like I didn’t fit anywhere. I have ADHD, which sometimes makes me blurt out my thoughts or get distracted, and that made it easier for people who didn’t know or understand me to tease me. Eventually, I just wanted to be invisible. One day at home, everything got worse. My heart pounded so quickly, I thought I was having a heart attack. My ears rang, and I felt faint. My parents rushed me to the hospital, but the doctors couldn’t find anything. These episodes kept happening until a doctor finally said they were panic attacks. Around that time, the bullying at school escalated. One girl made it her goal to humiliate me. I lost twelve pounds, started wearing black all the time, and tried my hardest to disappear. During one of my hospital visits, we met a woman who helped us switch my class. I was moved to a room with a teacher I’d had before Miss Jordan. She was so good to me. She let me eat lunch in her classroom and encouraged me every single day. She reminded me that I was unique for a reason and that God hadn’t forgotten me. She told me God had big plans for my life and that the devil was trying to steal my light by making me want to quit. Slowly, things started to get better. My youth group at church prayed for me and encouraged me. I started therapy, and I finally felt like I could breathe again. That year was the hardest time of my life, but it also taught me the most. I learned that even when I don’t hear God’s voice, He’s still working. He showed up through my mom’s love, Miss Jordan’s kindness, and the prayers of my church family. Now, I’m in a new school with a supportive group of friends. I’ve made the Gold Honor Roll each year, with a GPA above 3.7, and I’m also a National Honor Roll recipient and honored by the American and Japanese Teachers’ Association. Next fall, I’ll start college and work toward becoming a psychologist specializing in art therapy.

When I started eighth grade, everything in my life flipped upside down. I was suddenly in a class where I didn’t know a single person. Before that, I was happy, silly, confident, and surrounded by friends who understood me. But that year, things changed fast. I’ve always been a little different, animated, creative, and funny, and I loved to express myself through my outfits. I’d wear things like sunflowers or feathers in my hair, colored crochet pants and hats, anything I thought was cute. But instead of being accepted for who I was, kids in this new class laughed at me. They made fun of my clothes, my personality, and even the random things I said. Every day, I tried to stay positive, but inside, I started to shrink. At lunch, I’d try to sit with my old friends, but after a time, they already had new inside jokes and closer bonds. I started feeling like I didn’t fit anywhere. I have ADHD, which sometimes makes me blurt out my thoughts or get distracted, and that made it easier for people who did not know or understand me to tease me. Eventually, I just wanted to be invisible. Then one day at home, everything got worse. Out of nowhere, my heart started pounding so fast that I thought I was having a heart attack. My ears rang, my face got hot, and I felt dizzy. My parents rushed me to the children’s hospital, but the doctors couldn’t find anything wrong. These episodes kept happening every other day until a doctor finally said it might be panic attacks. Around that same time, the bullying at school escalated. One girl made it her goal to humiliate me. She whispered awful things when she passed me and made sure others laughed. I lost twelve pounds, started wearing black all the time, and tried my hardest to disappear. Oftentimes, I felt so sick that my mother would have to leave work to pick me up in the middle of the day. Eventually, the school counselor told my parents I should see a psychologist. When I got prescribed medication, my mom cried. She prayed for me every day in the car, at home, everywhere. I prayed too, but sometimes it felt like God didn’t hear me; I felt like my prayers were only a drop in the bucket. I couldn’t understand why He was letting me go through something so awful. During one of my hospital visits, we met a woman who helped us switch my class. I was moved to a room with a teacher I had years earlier, Miss Jordan. She was so good to me.. She let me eat lunch in her classroom so I didn’t have to be alone, and she encouraged me every single day. She reminded me that I was unique for a reason and that God hadn’t forgotten me. Slowly, things started to get better. My medication began to work, therapy helped, and I finally felt like I could breathe again. That year was the hardest time of my life, but it also taught me the most. My faith became real to me then. I learned that even when I don’t hear God’s voice, He’s still working. He showed up through people at church, Miss Jordan’s kindness, and through small moments that reminded me I wasn’t alone. Faith didn’t make my problems disappear, but it gave me the strength to face them. I wouldn’t wish what I went through on anyone, but I am also okay with it now, because it made me who I am.

When I started eighth grade, everything in my life flipped upside down. I was in a class where I didn’t know a single person. Before that, I was happy, silly, confident, and surrounded by friends who understood me. But that year, things changed fast. I’ve always been a little different, animated, creative, and funny. I loved to express myself through my outfits. I’d wear things like sunflowers or feathers in my hair, colored crochet pants and hats, anything I thought was cute. But instead of being accepted for who I was, kids in this new class laughed at me. They made fun of my clothes, my personality, and even the random things I said. Every day, I tried to stay positive, but inside, I started to shrink. At lunch, I’d try to sit with my old friends, but after a time, they already had new inside jokes and closer bonds. I started feeling like I didn’t fit anywhere. I have ADHD, which sometimes makes me blurt out my thoughts or get distracted, and that made it easier for people who did not know or understand me to tease me. Eventually, I just wanted to be invisible. Then one day at home, everything got worse. Out of nowhere, my heart started pounding so fast that I thought I was having a heart attack. My ears rang, my face got hot, and I felt dizzy. My parents rushed me to the children’s hospital, but the doctors couldn’t find anything wrong. After several other visits, they finally said it might be panic attacks. Around that same time, the bullying at school escalated. One girl made it her goal to humiliate me. She whispered awful things when she passed me and made sure others laughed. I lost twelve pounds, started wearing black all the time, and tried my hardest to disappear. Oftentimes, I felt so sick, I had to go to the nurse. My mother would have to leave work to pick me up in the middle of the day. Eventually, the school counselor told my parents I should see a psychologist. When I got prescribed medication, my mom cried. She prayed for me every day in the car, at home, everywhere. I prayed too, but sometimes it felt like God didn’t hear me; I felt like my prayers were only a drop in the bucket. I couldn’t understand why He was letting me go through something so awful. Then something happened that changed everything. During one of my hospital visits, we met a woman who helped us switch my class. I was moved to a room with a teacher I had years earlier, Miss Jordan. She was so good to me.. She let me eat lunch in her classroom so I didn’t have to be alone, and she encouraged me every single day. She reminded me that I was unique for a reason and that God hadn’t forgotten me. Slowly, things started to improve. My medication began to work, therapy helped, and I finally felt like I could breathe again. That year was the hardest, but it also taught me the most. My faith became real to me then. I learned that even when I don’t hear God’s voice, He’s still working. He showed up through people at church, my mom’s love, Miss Jordan’s kindness, and through small moments that reminded me I wasn’t alone. Faith didn’t make my problems disappear, but it gave me the strength to face them. I wouldn’t wish what I went through on anyone, but I am also okay with it now; it made me who I am.

My name is Rebekah, and I am currently a senior at a school in College Park, Georgia. I am an only child. My mother had me at 42 years old after years of trying. She always reminds me that God's timing is not our timing, and that's why he waited until she was 42. I am an artist, that is my gift. I've been drawing since I was a small child. I’m still trying to figure out how my gifting aligns with my purpose. My pastor tells me to be patient, but honestly sometimes its hard. We were members of the Christian Cultural Center in New York City, Dr. A.R. Bernard was our pastor. We have recently started attending Liiv Atlanta church in Brookhaven, Georgia. Next fall, I plan to major in visual arts and minor in East Asian studies at either Kennesaw University or Carleton College. My goal is to continue creating meaningful art and a become teacher. I would also like to open a multicultural animation studio. I’ve been studying Japanese for the past four years, and I hope to spend a year abroad. I’ve always been a good student and have worked really hard in school. My dedication has earned me a place on the Gold Eagle Honor Roll during my freshman, sophomore, and junior years. I was also honored to be named a National Honor Roll recipient and recognized by the American and Japanese Teaching Associations as an Honors student. I volunteer 10 hours a month at the Boys and Girls Club. I usually teach young kids how to express their joy, anger, sadness and other feelings through drawing, painting and other artistic means. I also help raise money twice a year for children in need of school supplies and holiday gifts. Receiving the Nellie Delores Blount Boyce Scholarship would make a huge difference in my life. I’m heading to college next year, and right now, I don’t have any money saved for it. My parents work hard just to keep up with everyday bills, so I know covering tuition, housing, and books may be a challenge. This scholarship would help cover the textbooks I’ll need to start college prepared. Mentally, it would give me some peace of mind and confidence knowing that my hard work in school and applying for scholarships on the weekends is paying off. Financially, I would be one step closer toward my college goals, and spiritually, it would be the answer to a prayer. Thank you for considering me for this scholarship. If I am selected, I promise to honor her legacy with the seed that you’ve sown.