Ever since I can remember, I’ve had a deep appreciation for creativity, leadership, and making meaningful connections. These passions naturally led me to marketing, a field that blends strategy, psychology, and creativity to influence the way people see and interact with the world. I want to build a career where I can craft impactful messages, shape brands, and create something that resonates with people on a personal level. More than that, I see marketing as a tool to elevate businesses and communities, helping others bring their visions to life while staying true to my own. One of my biggest goals is to start my own skateboarding brand, designing deck graphics that speak to people on a deeper level. Skateboarding has taught me to appreciate the little things, to make something out of nothing, and to build strong connections with others. It has given me a unique perspective that I want to translate into my brand, blending art and culture in a way that represents the community that has inspired me. To make this dream a reality, I plan to study different art styles and marketing trends, learning how to engage audiences and build a brand that stands out. My passion for leadership also plays a huge role in my professional goals. Through my experience in the Tallahassee Kappa League, I have learned what it truly means to be a leader—encouraging teamwork, holding people accountable, and making sure every voice is heard. Leadership is not about being the loudest person in the room but about earning the respect of those around you through action. Whether in business, marketing, or personal endeavors, I want to be someone who others trust to lead with integrity and vision. Another strong influence on my journey is my dad. Watching him excel in the Army, becoming a section leader and earning awards like the Iron Soldier, showed me what it means to be dedicated, disciplined, and constantly striving for more. His achievements inspire me to push myself, knowing that success isn’t just about talent—it’s about effort, resilience, and the willingness to keep going even when things get tough. I want to carry that same mindset into my career, pushing myself to keep learning and growing in marketing and business. At my core, I want to create something meaningful. Whether it’s through my own brand or by helping others market their ideas, I want to use my skills to make an impact. Marketing is more than just selling a product; it’s about storytelling, connection, and understanding what people truly value. With my background, experiences, and drive, I know I can bring something unique to the field and leave a lasting impression. This is not just a career choice—it’s a way for me to blend everything I love into something that matters.

The Chronicles of Lazy Larry Larry woke up late at noon, Stretching, yawning—what a buffoon! Skipped his breakfast, skipped his run, Said, "Eh, whatever, naps are fun." His mom yelled, "Get a job, you bum!" But Larry just scratched and chewed his gum. "The workforce ain't my kinda place, I'd rather chill and save my grace." He tried to cook but burned the pan, Even microwaved a metal can. His dog just sighed and shook his head, Thinking, This guy's so underfed. He finally said, "Enough, I'll move!" Got up to dance—busted a groove! Tripped on a sock, crashed through the door, Landed face-first on the floor. And so he sighed, "The world is cruel… Guess I'll just stay here—sleep is cool."

Growing up with a parent in the military meant that home was never just one place. I had the privilege of traveling to different cities and states, experiencing new places, meeting new people, and being exposed to different cultures. Every move felt like a fresh start, a new chapter filled with possibilities. But at the same time, it also meant leaving behind friends, familiar streets, and the connections I had built. Each time we packed up and left, I had to start over. I had to introduce myself all over again, figure out the social dynamics of a new school, and try to find my place in a completely different environment. At first, it was exciting. Everything was new. The people were different, the way they spoke, the things they cared about, and even the traditions they celebrated. But as I got older, I realized that while I was gaining so many experiences, I was also losing just as much. The friendships I made never lasted, no matter how much I tried to stay in touch. I would form bonds with people only to have them fade the moment I had to leave. For a long time, it was frustrating. I wondered what it would be like to grow up in one place, to have childhood friends who were still around years later, to not have to explain where I came from every time I introduced myself. But over time, I started to see the value in my experience. Every move taught me something new. I learned how to adapt quickly, how to read people and situations, and how to step into unfamiliar spaces with confidence. I became comfortable with change because I had no other choice. Most importantly, I learned how to appreciate people while they were in my life. Knowing that every friendship could be temporary made me value the moments I had with others even more. I no longer focused on how long a connection would last but rather on what it meant in the present. This helped me develop a deep appreciation for different perspectives and lifestyles. I got to experience what life was like for so many different kinds of people, and that broadened my understanding of the world in ways I wouldn’t trade for anything. Even though I never had a permanent hometown, I carry pieces of every place I have lived and every person I have met. My ability to connect with different kinds of people, my openness to new experiences, and my resilience in the face of change all come from this lifestyle. It was never easy to leave things behind, but it shaped me into someone who sees the value in every interaction and who understands that while people may come and go, the lessons and memories they leave behind stay with me forever.

My dad has always been a source of inspiration to me, not only as a father but also as a soldier who has dedicated his life to serving his country. His story is one of perseverance, determination, and unwavering commitment. Watching him navigate his career in the Army has taught me lessons that extend far beyond the military. He has consistently proven himself through hard work and dedication, achieving incredible milestones that reflect his character and values. One of my most cherished memories of my dad is the day he came home after earning the Iron Soldier award. I remember how he didn’t brag about it, but there was a quiet pride in the way he carried himself. He explained to me that the award wasn’t just about physical strength or endurance—it represented discipline, mental toughness, and teamwork. He emphasized that success in the Army, and in life, is never a solo endeavor. “You can only go so far on your own,” he told me. “It’s the people you support and the team you build that make the real difference.” That moment has always stayed with me because it wasn’t just about an award; it was about the values he lives by and the lessons he wanted to pass on to me. What stands out most about my dad’s journey is the sheer speed and determination with which he has advanced in his career. Becoming a section leader, earning the Iron Soldier award, and rising to the rank of Sergeant First Class (SFC) in such a short amount of time is nothing short of remarkable. These achievements are not handed out lightly. They are earned through relentless effort, a willingness to learn, and the respect of peers and superiors. My dad has consistently demonstrated all of these qualities and more. But for him, it’s not just about the titles or ranks. It’s about leading with integrity, being there for his team, and making sure that everyone around him succeeds as well. One of the most valuable lessons my dad has taught me is the true meaning of leadership. He has shown me that leadership is not about giving orders or being in charge—it’s about setting an example, earning respect through your actions, and lifting others up. He often reminds me that people will follow someone who genuinely cares about their well-being, not someone who just wants to be in control. His approach to leadership has inspired me in my own life, whether it’s at school, in extracurricular activities, or even in everyday interactions. Whenever I face challenges, I think about my dad and everything he has overcome. I remind myself that success doesn’t happen overnight and that the things worth achieving require persistence, patience, and a willingness to learn from setbacks. My dad’s journey is a constant reminder that hard work, resilience, and a sense of purpose can take you far in life. His story isn’t just about his accomplishments in the Army—it’s about the lessons he has instilled in me and the example he sets every single day. I am proud to call him my father and grateful for the values he has passed down to me.

Growing up, I have always been drawn to creating and building something meaningful. This passion has shaped my long-term goal of starting my own skateboarding brand. I want to create designs that resonate deeply with people, combining my love for art and skateboarding into a business that not only provides quality products but also inspires individuals to express themselves authentically. To achieve this, I plan to study marketing and design to understand the art of branding and develop the skills necessary to connect with a diverse audience. Receiving this scholarship would significantly impact my journey. It would alleviate the financial challenges of pursuing higher education, allowing me to focus fully on my studies and the pursuit of my business aspirations. With the resources and opportunities provided by college, I aim to launch my brand and grow it into something that reflects my vision of creativity, inclusivity, and individuality. The scholarship would serve as a foundation for me to turn this dream into a reality. I’ve also learned a lot about resilience through my experiences. One time that stands out is when I faced a period of emotional weakness while working toward a challenging goal. I felt like I wasn’t doing enough and doubted my ability to succeed, even though I was giving everything I had. I was so focused on my perceived shortcomings that I couldn’t see the bigger picture. During this time, I leaned on the support of those around me—family, friends, and mentors who reminded me of my strengths and the progress I had already made. One moment that truly stuck with me was when someone acknowledged my leadership and hard work. While I was caught up in self-doubt, others saw me as a leader who worked tirelessly to push through challenges. This reminded me that sometimes, our own perspective is clouded, and it is important to recognize the effort we are putting in even if the results take time to materialize. I overcame this by setting smaller, achievable goals and celebrating those milestones along the way. Little by little, I regained confidence, not because everything became easy, but because I learned to appreciate the process and recognize my value. This experience taught me that emotional challenges are inevitable, but how we respond to them defines our growth. I’ve carried this lesson into my work and leadership roles, recognizing the importance of persistence and perspective. These moments of self-doubt have shaped me into someone who understands the value of hard work, the strength in asking for help, and the importance of believing in myself even when the path gets tough. With this scholarship, I will continue to build on these lessons, using them to achieve my academic, professional, and personal goals. My ultimate aim is to inspire others, just as I have been inspired, by creating something that represents resilience, creativity, and the importance of being true to oneself.

There are moments in life when a person unexpectedly changes the way you see the world, and for me, that person was my high school psychology teacher, Ms. Frisby. She wasn’t just a teacher who explained concepts about the mind; she became someone who taught me invaluable lessons about life itself. Her impact went far beyond the classroom, shaping my perspective on how to treat others and live with intention. One of the first things Ms. Frisby emphasized was the importance of not being selfish with people. I still remember the way she described relationships as mutual exchanges where both parties should feel valued. She would say, "Don’t let relationships become one-sided; people are not there just to serve your needs." It wasn’t just a lesson for friendships or family but a principle for all interactions. Whether it was working on group projects or volunteering for events, I began to think about how I could contribute more meaningfully, rather than simply focusing on what I could gain. She challenged us to look beyond ourselves and ask, “What can I do to make someone else’s day better?” This perspective helped me step outside of my own bubble and consider the well-being of those around me. Another lesson that resonated with me was how to support others on an emotional level. Psychology is a subject deeply tied to understanding people, and Ms. Frisby had a way of weaving empathy into every topic she taught. She didn’t just talk about mental health; she normalized it, urging us to check in on friends, listen without judgment, and be present for others in moments of vulnerability. “Sometimes,” she said, “people don’t need advice; they just need to be heard.” I’ve carried that with me, finding that even the smallest acts of kindness, like listening or offering a comforting word, can make a significant difference in someone’s life. She taught me that emotional intelligence is just as important as intellectual understanding. What stood out most about Ms. Frisby, though, was her authenticity. She didn’t just teach these principles; she lived them. She treated every student with respect and kindness, even on the days when we weren’t at our best. She showed us that being a good person isn’t about grand gestures or constant perfection. Instead, it is about consistency in the small, everyday actions—showing up for others, offering grace when it is needed, and living with integrity. Thanks to Ms. Frisby, I’ve adopted these lessons into my own life. I strive to be more mindful of how I interact with others and how my actions affect them. She showed me that being a good person is not something you achieve overnight; it is a series of choices you make every single day. Her influence will stay with me long after high school, reminding me of the kind of person I aspire to be.

The movie that has had the greatest impact on my life is Mid90s, directed by Jonah Hill. This film captures the essence of growing up, friendship, and skateboarding, and it resonates deeply with my own experiences. Watching Mid90s opened my eyes to how skateboarding can shape a person’s view on life. The film tells the story of Stevie, a young boy in Los Angeles during the 1990s who finds comfort in the skateboarding community. He connects with a group of friends who share his passion, and together they navigate the challenges of adolescence. The film beautifully portrays the struggles and triumphs of youth, emphasizing themes of friendship and the importance of finding where you belong. For me, skateboarding has been more than just a pastime; it has been a way to express myself and connect with others. Like Stevie, I found my group of friends through skateboarding. The support and camaraderie within this community have taught me valuable lessons about resilience and determination. Watching Mid90s helped me realize that skateboarding is not just about tricks or competition; it is about the journey and the bonds we form along the way. The film also shows the challenges of growing up, including the pressure to fit in and deal with personal struggles. Stevie’s experiences mirror my own as I navigated my teenage years, learning to confront insecurities and find my identity. Skateboarding became a form of therapy for me, allowing me to channel my emotions into something positive. It taught me that failure is part of growth, and every fall is an opportunity to get back up and try again. Mid90s inspired me to embrace my individuality and appreciate the uniqueness of others. It reinforced the idea that everyone has their own story and struggles, and being part of a community means supporting one another. This message resonates with me, as I strive to create a welcoming environment for others in my life. In the end, Mid90s strengthened my belief that skateboarding can change lives. It is not just a sport; it is a culture that fosters creativity, friendship, and personal growth. The film encourages me to be open-minded, explore new experiences, and appreciate the journey rather than just the destination. It inspires me to continue pursuing my passion for skateboarding while using it as a platform to uplift others. In conclusion, Mid90s has profoundly influenced my view on life by showcasing the importance of connection, resilience, and self-discovery through skateboarding. It reminds me that we all have our struggles, but through friendship and shared passion, we can overcome challenges and grow together.

Throughout my life, I have faced various challenges within myself, often dealing with issues like forgiveness, hatred, and wrath. These internal struggles have at times felt overwhelming, but my faith in the Lord has been a constant source of strength and guidance. Without my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, I truly believe I wouldn’t be who I am today. One particular moment stands out when I was grappling with feelings of resentment toward someone who had wronged me. I felt a deep sense of anger and bitterness, and it was consuming me. I struggled to let go of the hurt I had experienced, which affected my relationships and overall well-being. In that moment of turmoil, I turned to my faith for solace and clarity. I prayed earnestly, seeking guidance and asking for the strength to forgive and move forward. As I spent time in prayer and reflection, I was reminded of the teachings of Jesus about forgiveness and love. I came to understand that holding onto anger was not only hurting the other person but was also damaging my own spirit. This realization helped me find the courage to forgive, even though it was not easy. I learned that forgiveness is a process, and it doesn’t mean forgetting what happened. Instead, it’s about freeing myself from the burdens of hatred and allowing healing to take place. I also leaned on my faith during moments of weakness when I felt tempted to give in to feelings of wrath. Whenever I struggled with sin or found myself in situations where I could easily react out of anger, I would remind myself of the importance of compassion and understanding. My faith taught me that Jesus embodied grace and mercy, and I aspired to reflect those qualities in my own life. Even though I still face struggles with sin and sometimes find it challenging to maintain that peace, I have faith that if I continue to seek God and follow His path, He will be there for me. My faith has shown me that it’s okay to stumble along the way, as long as I keep striving to improve and grow. By relying on my faith, I have learned that I am not alone in my struggles. Jesus is my constant support, helping me navigate the complexities of life. I have found comfort in knowing that I can turn to Him in times of difficulty, and that reliance on faith empowers me to overcome the obstacles that arise within me. Ultimately, my relationship with Christ has shaped me into a more forgiving and compassionate person. I am grateful for the growth I have experienced through my faith, and I am committed to continuing this journey of self-improvement and spiritual development. With each challenge, I am reminded that faith is not just a crutch; it is a foundation that guides me toward becoming the best version of myself.

Improving relationships between law enforcement agencies and the African American community in the United States requires trust, communication, and accountability. These relationships have been strained due to historical injustices and ongoing issues, but there are meaningful steps that both sides can take to build understanding and work toward lasting change. One of the most important ways law enforcement can improve these relationships is by prioritizing community engagement. Officers need to spend more time in the communities they serve, not just in moments of crisis but in everyday situations. This could include attending community events, hosting discussions, and creating opportunities for people to interact with officers in a positive setting. When officers make the effort to listen and build relationships, it helps break down barriers and shows the community that they care about more than just enforcing laws. Transparency is another key factor in rebuilding trust. Many African Americans feel distrust toward law enforcement because of a lack of accountability when officers misuse their power. Departments can address this by being open about their policies and actions. Body cameras, for example, can provide an unbiased account of interactions and hold both officers and civilians accountable. Sharing data on stops, arrests, and use-of-force incidents can also help the community understand what is happening and push for necessary changes. Cultural competency and bias training are essential as well. Officers need to understand the history of policing in African American communities and how it has contributed to the mistrust that exists today. Training programs should focus on recognizing and addressing implicit biases, as well as teaching officers how to de-escalate situations in a way that protects everyone involved. This kind of education can help officers approach their work with empathy and a deeper understanding of the communities they serve. Creating more diversity within law enforcement is another step toward improving relationships. When police departments reflect the communities they serve, it becomes easier for officers and civilians to connect and relate to one another. Recruiting and promoting African American officers, as well as officers from other underrepresented groups, can help bridge the gap and make law enforcement agencies more representative of society as a whole. Community policing is another effective strategy. This approach focuses on officers becoming part of the fabric of the neighborhoods they serve, working alongside residents to solve problems and improve safety. By building partnerships with community leaders, organizations, and residents, law enforcement can address the root causes of crime and create a sense of shared responsibility for public safety. Finally, accountability is non-negotiable. When officers violate the law or act unjustly, they must be held responsible. This sends a clear message that misconduct will not be tolerated and helps restore faith in the system. Departments must also create systems where civilians can report issues and voice concerns without fear of retaliation. Improving relationships between law enforcement and the African American community will not happen overnight, but with consistent effort, open communication, and a commitment to change, progress is possible. Building trust takes time, but it is worth the effort to create a safer, more united society for everyone.

Leadership, to me, is about service. It is about putting the needs of others first and inspiring them to reach their full potential. I have been fortunate to demonstrate leadership both on the baseball field and in the Tallahassee Kappa League, and these experiences have shaped how I understand what it truly means to lead. As a leader on my baseball team, I realized early on that leadership is not about having authority but about being someone others can trust and rely on. I worked hard to lead by example, showing my teammates the importance of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. Whether it was stepping up during tough games, staying after practice to help a teammate improve, or bringing energy and positivity to the team, I made it my goal to ensure everyone felt supported and motivated. Over time, I earned the respect of my teammates, not by demanding it, but by showing my commitment to our shared success. This experience taught me that leadership means nothing if the people you are leading are not willing to follow you. In the Tallahassee Kappa League, I took on a different kind of leadership, one that focused on serving my community. I worked with my brothers in the organization to promote events, help the less fortunate, and uplift the people around us. One of my proudest moments was helping organize a community event that brought people together to support a local charity. I made sure everyone in the group was involved and contributed, creating a sense of teamwork and shared responsibility. Seeing how our efforts positively impacted the community was deeply rewarding, and it strengthened my belief that service is at the heart of great leadership. These experiences have shown me how important it is to serve others as a leader. It is not about standing in the spotlight but about rolling up your sleeves and doing the work that helps everyone succeed. As I enter my university community, I plan to use these skills to contribute in meaningful ways. I want to join organizations that focus on service and leadership development, using my experiences to bring people together and create opportunities for growth and collaboration. My leadership skills will also play a big role in helping me achieve my personal and professional goals. I dream of starting my own skateboarding brand, and I know that leading a business requires the ability to inspire others and build strong, supportive teams. Whether it is guiding employees or collaborating with designers, I will rely on the lessons I have learned about communication, empathy, and leading by example to build a brand that makes a positive difference. For me, leadership is not just about being in charge. It is about serving others and creating an environment where everyone can grow and succeed. Whether on the baseball field, in my community, or in my future business, I want to help people believe in themselves, work together, and move forward.

Skateboarding has been a huge part of my life, not just as a hobby but as a way of expressing myself and forming bonds with people from all walks of life. It has taught me valuable lessons about resilience, creativity, and the ability to make something meaningful out of the smallest things. These lessons have shaped my dream of becoming an entrepreneur and starting my own skateboarding brand. I plan to make a positive impact through my entrepreneurship by creating a brand that is about more than just skateboards. My vision is to design boards that resonate with people on a deeper level, incorporating artwork and messages that inspire individuality, confidence, and pride. I want my designs to reflect diverse perspectives and experiences, especially those within the African-American community. Through this, I hope to show others that their uniqueness is their greatest strength and that they can embrace who they are without hesitation. Beyond the products themselves, I want my brand to serve as a platform that uplifts and empowers others. My goal is to create opportunities for young creatives, whether by collaborating with up-and-coming artists, hosting community events, or supporting skateboarding initiatives in underrepresented areas. Skateboarding has a way of bringing people together, and I want to use my brand to build a community where everyone feels seen and valued. I also plan to use my journey as an entrepreneur to inspire others to pursue their dreams, no matter how big or small. I want to show that with hard work, determination, and the courage to take risks, it is possible to turn a passion into a purpose. For me, skateboarding is not just about tricks or competition; it is about freedom, creativity, and the ability to connect with others in an authentic way. I hope to share that perspective with people from all backgrounds and encourage them to find their own path. My ultimate goal is to make a difference not just through the products I create but through the message I share. I want my brand to be a symbol of what is possible when you believe in yourself and stay committed to your vision. By building something that reflects my values and gives back to the community, I hope to leave a lasting impact that goes beyond the skateboarding world. Entrepreneurship is more than a career path for me—it is a way to inspire, connect, and uplift others. Through my skateboarding brand, I aim to create something meaningful that empowers people to embrace their individuality, dream big, and keep pushing forward, no matter what challenges they face.

My goal in pursuing higher education is to inspire and uplift the African-American community by showing that success is possible for all of us, no matter what challenges we face. Growing up, I’ve seen how words and stereotypes can bring people down, making them question their own worth. I want to be an example that proves we can make something of ourselves if we work hard, stay focused, and refuse to let negativity define us. For me, it is about more than personal success. It is about helping others see their potential and showing that we are capable of so much more than society sometimes gives us credit for. With my degree in marketing, I plan to create a business that represents individuality, creativity, and pride in who we are as a community. My dream is to start my own skateboarding brand, using unique designs that speak to people on a deeper level. Through this, I hope to show others, especially young people in the African-American community, that they can turn their passions into something meaningful. I want to create something that not only inspires but also encourages others to think big and believe in their abilities. I also hope to use my education to give back by mentoring and supporting those coming up after me. Representation is so important. Seeing someone who looks like you succeed can make a world of difference. I want to show kids that no matter where they come from or what others say about them, they can achieve their goals if they work hard and stay true to themselves. I want to remind them that our worth is not determined by the opinions of others. We can rise above and build the lives we dream of. I have applied to several Historically Black Colleges and Universities, including Clark Atlanta University, Tennessee State University, Grambling State University, Alabama A&M University, and South Carolina State University. While I have not officially committed yet, I plan to attend Clark Atlanta University. I chose Clark because I believe it is the perfect place for me to grow as a leader and work toward my goals while being surrounded by a supportive community that understands the challenges and triumphs of our shared culture. Choosing an HBCU was a very personal decision for me. I want to be in an environment that celebrates and uplifts the African-American experience, where I can learn from people who understand the journey I am on. HBCUs have a history of producing leaders and change-makers, and I want to continue that legacy by using what I learn to uplift others. In the end, my goal is simple. I want to show the African-American community that we are capable of greatness, no matter the challenges we face. I want to be living proof that, with hard work and determination, we can create a future where we lift each other up, inspire one another, and achieve things that once seemed impossible.

Challenges have played a significant role in shaping the person I am today. One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced was stepping into leadership roles at a young age, particularly in situations where earning respect was not immediate. As a leader in the Tallahassee Kappa League and on my sports teams, I learned the importance of leading through actions rather than words. Gaining the trust of my peers took time, effort, and a willingness to put the needs of the group ahead of my own. I ensured my actions reflected the energy, discipline, and collaboration I wanted to see in my team. This experience taught me that leadership isn’t about authority—it’s about service, respect, and building connections. Growing up, I also faced financial challenges that shaped my sense of responsibility and resilience. My father, who serves in the Army, has worked tirelessly to support me and instilled in me the value of hard work and independence. With an income of $40,000 a year, he ensures I have the essentials to grow, learn, and thrive. However, there were still sacrifices—extracurricular activities, resources, and opportunities were often limited, and I had to find creative ways to make the most of what we had. These circumstances taught me to appreciate the little things, prioritize my goals, and find innovative solutions to problems. These financial struggles continue to impact my educational journey. Pursuing higher education, particularly at institutions like Howard University or Duke University, represents a significant financial burden. As much as my father has supported me, I understand that affording tuition, books, housing, and other expenses will be a challenge for us. This scholarship would alleviate a substantial portion of that burden, allowing me to focus fully on my studies and personal growth without the constant worry of financial strain. Receiving this scholarship would not only ease our financial struggles but also open doors to opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach. With the support of this scholarship, I can further my education in marketing and business, areas I am deeply passionate about, to eventually launch my own skateboarding brand. This dream is rooted in my desire to inspire others through meaningful designs and build a community that appreciates individuality and creativity. The challenges I have faced have taught me the value of perseverance, resourcefulness, and community. They have motivated me to strive for excellence, not only for myself but also for my family and those who look up to me. This scholarship would be a vital step toward achieving my goals, as it represents more than financial aid—it symbolizes an investment in my potential and a belief in my ability to succeed. I am determined to honor that belief by working hard, giving back to my community, and becoming a leader who inspires others to overcome their challenges and pursue their dreams.