
Hobbies and interests
Community Service And Volunteering
Reading
Babysitting And Childcare
Reading
Book Club
Romance
I read books multiple times per month
Sariniti Wilson
1x
Finalist
Sariniti Wilson
1x
FinalistBio
We’re all here for a purpose! I’m Sariniti Wilson, a first-generation college student at Fisk University. I believe in using my education, experiences, and passion to serve my community, inspire young people, and make a real difference in the world.
Education
Fisk University
Bachelor's degree programMajors:
- Criminal Justice and Corrections, General
White Station High
High SchoolMiscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Bachelor's degree program
Graduate schools of interest:
Transfer schools of interest:
Majors of interest:
- Criminal Justice and Corrections, General
- Education, General
Career
Dream career field:
Law Practice
Dream career goals:
Learn and Grow - Be Successful - Give Back to others and Make an Impact
Kids Club Attendant
Music City Kids Club2026 – Present6 monthsChildcare Assistant
Eakin Care Program2024 – 20251 yearHuman Resources Intern/Front Desk Receptionist
Mayor Lee Harris Summer Work Experience2024 – 2024Assistant Teacher for 6th Grade
Read2Lead Program2023 – 20241 yearIntern
Mayor Lee Harris Summer Work Experience2025 – 2025Summer Camp Counselor
YMCA2022 – 2022Front Desk Receptionist
The Mayor Lee Harris Summer Work Experience2023 – 2023
Sports
Cross-Country Running
2017 – 2017
Public services
Advocacy
Diversity Law Week — Law Intern2024 – 2024Volunteering
Volunteered with Trinity Comprehensive Healthcare Center at the Agape Faith, Family, and Fun Event. — Community Outreach Volunteer - One-Day Event2024 – 2024
Future Interests
Advocacy
Volunteering
First Generation Scholarship For Underprivileged Students
The college journey hasn’t always felt simple for me. As a first-generation college student, there are moments when everything feels like an emotional rollercoaster. Some days I feel confident and proud of how far I’ve come, and other days I get emotional because I'm missing my family and I want do everything I can to do this for them. But in those harder moments, I remind myself why I'm here, who I’m doing this for, and the impact I want to make in the future.
My name is Sariniti Wilson, and I’m a sophomore at Fisk University studying Criminal Justice. I’m originally from Memphis, Tennessee, and growing up there taught me early that your starting point doesn’t determine your ending. Being first-generation means I’m learning how to navigate college on my own first, but it also means I get to become the example for the people coming after me.
My biggest motivation has always been my family. I want to make my mom proud. I want to be someone my siblings can look up to and see what’s possible for themselves. And I want to honor my grandmother, who always believed in me and saw the good I can achieve in life. Even though she’s gone now, I still feel like I carry her love, her expectations, and her belief in me every single day. That belief pushes me to keep going, especially when the road feels long.
Through my experiences, I’ve had the chance to work in community service, serve as an assistant teacher, and participate in programs like Do the Write Thing, all of which have taught me the value of helping others, leading in a positive way, and making a meaningful impact.
I want my goals to mean more than a degree. As a Criminal Justice major, I hope to work in the legal field to promote fairness in my community. I also plan to take education courses to grow even more and use my abilities to do bigger things. I want to teach and make a difference because students look up to you, and when they see what you can do, it inspires them to believe in themselves and what they can achieve.
I plan to inspire and motivate other first-generation students by showing them what’s possible. I want them to see that their background does not limit their potential or success. I will share what I learn and have learned from my peers, and professors and encourage them to apply to scholarships, participate in extracurricular activities a and opportunities such as internships, and encourage them to believe they belong in college just as much as anyone else and have the same chances to succeed as anyone else . For me, inspiration doesn’t have to come from big speeches or awards — it comes from showing up consistently, working hard, and being an example of what can happen when you stay committed to your goals.
This scholarship would help relieve some of the financial pressure of college and allow me to stay focused on my education, my career path, and the difference I want to make. I know this road isn’t always easy, but I also know exactly why I’m on it. Every class I take and every challenge I overcome is another step toward the future I’m working to build — not just for myself, but for my family, my community, and the students I hope to inspire along the way.
Thank you for this scholarship opportunity!
Clara Denise Hall Earle Aspiring Educator Memorial Scholarship
My name is Sariniti Wilson, and I’m a sophomore at Fisk University studying Criminal Justice. I’m from Memphis, Tennessee. I’ve learned that where you come from doesn’t determine your future. Being a first-generation college student means that everything I do is not just for me—it’s for my family and for the opportunities I want to create for both of us. College has been an important step in my journey, and I want to make the most of every opportunity it gives me. I am determined to use my education to make a meaningful impact in my life, my family’s life, and the lives of people in my community.
This scholarship would help me focus on school, take advantage of opportunities, and grow as a student and as a person. I want to use my Criminal Justice degree to fight for fairness and help people in my community. At the same time, I’m interested in taking education courses because I love working with kids and mentoring youth. I hope to combine what I learn in Criminal Justice with what I learn in education to guide, inspire, and help younger students reach their goals. This scholarship would give me the chance to focus on both areas and prepare me to make a bigger impact. It would also help me financially, allowing me to fully dedicate myself to school and opportunities that help me grow, rather than worrying about how to cover tuition, books, and other expenses.
I’ve had many experiences that have taught me the value of helping others and giving back. I worked as a Human Resources intern and front desk receptionist at the Division of Community Services in Memphis, where I assisted with the SAFE Kit initiative and provided those in need with resources and information. I also interned with the Mayor Lee Harris Summer Work Experience in the Justice Review Unit, where I observed court cases, read legal documents, and learned firsthand about how the legal system works. These experiences taught me how important it is to serve others and how even small actions can make a real difference. They also gave me insight into how programs and systems can support people in meaningful ways, and inspired me to continue pursuing a career that contributes to justice and community development.
Working with kids has also been a big part of my life, and it’s something I really enjoy. I’ve been a child care assistant at Music City Kids Club in Nashville, helped in after-school programs, and worked as a summer camp counselor. I also assisted sixth graders with reading and literacy skills at Read2Lead which is a nonprofit orgamization. Working with kids has taught me patience, creativity, and the power of encouragement. I’ve seen how guidance and support helps children in underserved communities build confidence and achieve their goals.I want to combine my Criminal Justice studies with education so I can have a role in the courtroom and also be a teacher in the classroom.
I think what makes me unique is that I try to take everything I’ve learned and turn it into opportunities to help others. Even small actions, like helping a student read better, answering someone’s questions about resources, or guiding kids through a challenging activity, can have a lasting impact. I like using my skills, knowledge, and experiences to support my community and help others reach their goals. It’s something I want to continue doing as I grow in my academic and professional life. I also have a strong sense of responsibility as a first-generation college student, which motivates me to work hard, stay focused, and lead by example for others in my family and community.
Being at Fisk University has been a meaningful part of my growth. I’m learning from professors who care about my development and connecting with peers who are motivated and driven. Fisk challenges me to push myself, not just for my own success, but to think about how I can help and inspire others. It’s a place where my culture and experiences are understood and celebrated. I’m proud to be part of a university that encourages students to learn, grow, and give back to their communities. Fisk has inspired me to take advantage of every opportunity, through classes, internships, and mentoring others, so I can make a difference in my family and community.
This scholarship would allow me to continue on this path. It would give me the financial support I need to focus on school, show me the confidence to do what It takes to take both Criminal Justice and education courses, and fully commit to the experiences that prepare me to make an impact. I want to help people, mentor youth, and provide guidance that inspires students and community members to reach their goals. For my family, going to college shows that their support matters and motivates me to continue working hard. For my community, I hope to give back in ways that create opportunities and make a lasting difference.
Grand Oaks Enterprises LLC Scholarship
Hi, my name is Sariniti Wilson, and my journey to this point has been shaped by faith, family, loss, and determination. As a first-generation college student, everything I am doing now is not just for myself, but for my family and for my future. Going to college has never been something I've taken for granted. It represents hard work, sacrifice, and the hope that I can create opportunities not only for myself but for those who come after me. Every step I take is a reflection of the support and love I have received from my family, and the lessons I’ve learned about perseverance, responsibility, and dedication.
I'm from Memphis, Tennessee. I've learned that where you come from doesn't determine where you're going. My background has shaped who I am, but it doesn't define my future or the goals I am working to achieve. I have taken on roles and responsibilities that taught me the importance of hard work and dedication. Working as a front desk receptionist during an internship allowed me to gain hands-on experience in a professional environment. I learned how to assist visitors, answer phone calls, and provide support services, which showed me the value of responsibility, communication, and contributing to a larger purpose. These experiences helped me understand that even small efforts—like providing information or guidance—can make a difference in someone’s day or even their life.
Attending an HBCU like Fisk University is especially meaningful to me. It is a place where my culture, my background, and my experiences are understood and celebrated. Historically Black colleges and universities have a long tradition of preparing leaders, thinkers, and change makers, and being part of that legacy makes me proud. At Fisk, I am learning from professors who care about my growth and success, and I've met peers who are just as motivated as I am. Being in this environment allows me to embrace my identity as a Black woman while preparing to navigate the world with confidence and purpose. Fisk is not just a school—it is a community that empowers me to believe in myself, motivates me and expand my knowledge to use my talents to make a positive impact.
I chose to study criminal justice because I want to fight for fairness, equity, and justice in the legal system. I have always been drawn to understanding how the law affects communities and how I can contribute to making the system more just for everyone. Studying criminal justice allows me to pursue a career where I can advocate for those who face obstacles and ensure that all voices are heard. Beyond my professional goals, I want to give back to my community through mentorship, volunteering, and showing younger students that education and determination can open doors. For my family, my journey through college is proof that their support, sacrifices, and encouragement are meaningful, and it motivates me to work even harder to create opportunities for both myself and those around me.
Every decision I make at Fisk University is about more than just my own success. Whether it is studying, participating in internships, or supporting others, I want my actions to reflect my values and my commitment to helping people. I believe that making a difference does not always require grand gestures; consistent effort, integrity, and care for the people around me can create meaningful impact over time. Being able to contribute, serve, and support others in any way has reinforced my desire to use my education for more than just personal achievement—it is about making a difference for my family, my community, and society as a whole.
Attending Fisk University is both an honor and a responsibility. It represents my journey, my faith, my family, and my determination. This experience has taught me that education is not just about knowledge—it is about applying that knowledge to serve, uplift, and inspire others. I am excited to continue learning, growing, and using my skills to impact my family and my community in meaningful ways. Fisk has shown me that leadership is about heart, commitment, and consistency, and I am determined to use every opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others.
Along the way, I’ve realized that success isn’t just about me. It’s about using what I’ve learned and the opportunities I’ve had to help my family and my community. Everything I’ve experienced and learned has and is preparing me to face challenges and take on new opportunities, and I want to use that to make a difference and impact.
Natalie Joy Poremski Scholarship
My faith is at the center of everything I do, guiding how I treat others and the choices I make each day. I actively live out my faith by showing kindness, respect, and encouragement to everyone I meet, whether it’s classmates, coworkers, or the children I supervise. I try to start each day with a smile and a positive attitude because I know even small acts of care can make a difference in someone’s life. My faith has also shaped my belief that every life is valuable, which is why being Pro-Life is so important to me. I believe that protecting and uplifting others, especially children, reflects God’s love and reminds me to act with compassion and responsibility in all I do.
Growing up in a single-parent household, I learned perseverance, resilience, and the value of hard work. My mom and my grandmother have always been my biggest supporters, showing me that no matter my background, I can achieve my dreams and goals. Faith and their guidance helped me overcome anxiety and low self-esteem in high school, especially after losing my grandmother. I realized that even in hard times, God’s plan is bigger than my fears, and that support and encouragement can come from the people He places in your life. These lessons shaped me into someone who tries to lead with patience, kindness, and understanding.
I am passionate about pursuing a career in law while also working in education because both paths allow me to serve others and make a meaningful impact. I want to advocate for fairness, justice, and the protection of life through my work in law, while also supporting children and young people so they feel safe, valued, and encouraged to reach their potential. Whether in a courtroom, a classroom, or a community setting, my goal is to help others feel heard and supported, no matter what background they come from.
Receiving this scholarship would not only help me continue my education, but it would also affirm my faith-driven journey and commitment to service. I plan to use this opportunity to grow in knowledge and skills so I can make a difference in my community, honor my mom and grandmother, and use my career in law to protect life and help others succeed. My faith continues to be my guiding force, inspiring me to pursue my dreams while making a positive impact every step of the way and always keep a smile on my face.
Erase.com Scholarship
would score ~9.8–10/10.
What I have learned from the books I’ve read, and still read, is how the meaning before the very start of the first chapter, like the author’s message, can make the read so much better with just one line. That one line can shape how I feel throughout the reading and show how much a short message can impact a reader. It taught me that words matter and that even something small can stay with someone for a long time. Because of this, I’ve learned to pay attention not just to big moments, but also to the small messages people give, since those can sometimes matter the most.
My experience with mental health has influenced my beliefs because, looking back at myself as a senior in high school, I struggled with anxiety and low self-esteem. At the time, I felt like I would never overcome my insecurities or challenges. I worried about how my family would see me and sometimes felt misunderstood, like my family thought I needed to leave home to get help and treatment, when really I just needed support, encouragement, and reassurance during the moments I needed it most, especially after my grandma’s passing. Going through that period helped me become stronger emotionally and also made me more aware that many people are fighting battles that others cannot see. It shaped me into someone who is patient, kind, and supportive to others.
My career aspirations are to go into the field of law while also hoping to work in education. I am a criminal justice major and I work with kids, and those are both my passions. I want to make the world a better place whether it’s in the courtroom, a classroom, or even a daycare setting, by helping people feel heard, supported, and treated fairly. I am especially interested in making sure young people feel safe, encouraged, and given opportunities to succeed no matter what background they come from.
My name is Sariniti Wilson, and I am currently a sophomore in college. I plan to make a difference by waking up each day with a smile and greeting people with kindness, even during difficult life circumstances, because someone could need just a little cheering up on a gloomy day. No matter what, I try to wake up grateful and positive because life is short. In my future career in law, I plan to do my job diligently while always remembering to treat people with compassion, fairness, understanding, and respect.
Curtis Holloway Memorial Scholarship
Growing up in a single-parent household, family support has always meant everything to me. One of the biggest influences in my educational journey has been my grandmother. She has always pushed me to stay focused, believe in myself, and remember that my future is bigger than my circumstances. Even when things felt stressful or uncertain, she reminded me that education was something no one could take away from me and that no matter what background I come from, I still have the power to build the life I want and to achieve.
Her support shaped how I understand responsibility and hard work. She checked on my school progress, encouraged me to stay organized, and reminded me not to settle for less than what I was capable of. Watching her strength showed me what perseverance really looks like. Because of her, I learned that success doesn’t come from talent alone — it comes from consistency, effort, and continuing forward even when things feel difficult.
Being raised in a single-parent household also made me more independent and motivated to create opportunities for myself. I understood early that I had to take school seriously and stay focused on my future. That mindset pushed me to stay involved in programs where I could learn and grow. I worked in childcare and after-school programs, helped students with reading, and explored the legal field through internships and courtroom observation. These experiences helped me build communication, responsibility, and leadership skills while also confirming my interest in pursuing a career connected to law and helping others.
I honor the support from both my mom and my grandmother by staying committed to my education and long-term goals. Everything I do academically is not just for myself, but because I plan to make both my mom and grandma proud. Their sacrifices and encouragement continue to motivate me to keep pushing forward, even when challenges arise.
I am currently studying criminal justice and plan to continue my education toward a career in the legal field where I can help people and positively impact my community. Receiving this scholarship would help reduce the financial stress of college expenses and allow me to focus more fully on my studies, internships, and professional growth opportunities that prepare me for my future.
The support I received growing up taught me resilience, determination, and gratitude. My grandmother’s guidance and my mother’s strength gave me the confidence to pursue my goals and believe in my future. I carry those lessons with me every day as I continue working toward success and building a life that reflects the values they raised me with.
Pastor Thomas Rorie Jr. Christian Values Scholarship
Growing up, my faith has always been a guiding light in my life, and much of that influence comes from my grandmother. She taught me the importance of trusting in the Lord, showing compassion to others, and living with integrity and dignity. Watching her live out her faith daily inspired me to seek a personal relationship with God. Over the years, through prayer, attending church, and participating in faith-based community programs, I’ve learned to turn to Him in both challenges and opportunities. My faith has become the foundation for how I approach school, work, and service to others, shaping the person I strive to be every day.
My career aspiration is to become a criminal justice lawyer. I am passionate about advocating for fairness in the legal system, particularly in addressing racial disparities in sentencing. I want to be the type of lawyer who not only understands the law but also uses it to uplift those who may not have a voice. Alongside that, I hope to be involved in community advocacy programs that support and empower youth. My experiences as an assistant teacher with 6th graders at Read2Lead, supervising children in programs like Eakin Care and Music City Kids Club, and participating in community service initiatives have shown me the impact that guidance, support, and encouragement can have on young people.
One of my proudest accomplishments is being selected as a Do the Write Thing Ambassador and winning the writing contest, where I wrote about the impact of youth violence and ways to improve my community. This experience not only allowed me to express my thoughts and ideas but also strengthened my voice as an advocate for change. It taught me how writing and communication can influence others, a skill I hope to use in my future career to educate, advocate, and make a positive difference not just in my field but also in empowering the youth.
Receiving this scholarship would be a tremendous support in achieving my academic and professional goals. It would allow me to focus more on my studies and take advantage of internships, volunteer opportunities, and leadership programs without the burden of financial stress. Financial support from this scholarship would also help me pursue opportunities that develop my skills, gain meaningful experiences, and prepare me to enter law school with confidence and purpose with less weight put on my shoulders
Looking ahead, I plan to complete my bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and continue building practical experience through internships and community engagement. Ultimately, I hope to attend law school and become a lawyer who not only defends clients but also contributes positively to my community. This scholarship would help me achieve these goals by providing the resources I need to focus fully on my education and professional development!
Through faith, hard work, and dedication, I aim to use my education and experiences to make a meaningful difference in both the legal system and the lives of young people in my community. Receiving this scholarship would be a crucial step in turning these goals into reality
Rev. and Mrs. E B Dunbar Scholarship
Achieving your dreams doesn’t happen overnight. As a first-generation college student, I’ve faced obstacles that tested my patience and determination. Growing up in a single-parent household, I watched my mom take on so many roles—provider, protector, motivator, and example. She worked hard every day to make sure my siblings and I had what we needed, and her love and care never made me feel like I was missing out. Even so, I often felt the weight of responsibility to make her proud and show her that her sacrifices weren’t in vain.
Financial challenges were always part of the picture. From buying school supplies to juggling part-time jobs alongside school, I learned early that reaching my goals would take hard work and persistence. Managing college has been a challenge in itself. Between coursework, assignments, and exams, I have had to carefully plan my time, stay organized, and make tough decisions about priorities. There were times I wanted to give up, feeling overwhelmed by school, family responsibilities, and uncertainty about the future. But I reminded myself that obstacles aren’t roadblocks, they’re chances to grow. I leaned on my faith, my mom’s guidance, and my own determination to take things one step at a time.
I’ve also had to overcome self-doubt. Being shy and small, I sometimes felt like my voice didn’t matter. Becoming a Do the Write Thing ambassador in middle school showed me otherwise. I wrote about the impact of youth violence, and my work was published alongside other students. That experience taught me that even a quiet voice can make a difference, and sharing your perspective can inspire others.
My education has given me tools to make an impact and give back. I want to use my college education and future legal career to advocate for fairness, justice, and opportunity for others. I also want to give back to my mom in the way she gave to me, by showing her that her hard work mattered and that her sacrifices helped me reach my goals. Whether through mentoring, volunteering, or one day practicing law, I want to use what I’ve learned to lift others up while honoring the love and guidance she has always given me.
Overcoming challenges has taught me resilience, patience, and the value of using the opportunities I’ve been given to help others. With the support of this scholarship, I can continue pursuing my education, manage the responsibilities of college successfully, create a meaningful impact in my community, and make my mom proud by carrying forward everything she has taught me.
JobTest Career Coach Scholarship for Law Students
My name is Sariniti Wilson, and I want to become a criminal justice lawyer. I’ve always cared about fairness and making sure people’s voices are heard, especially those who often get overlooked. Being a first-generation college student, I’ve seen how much opportunity, or the lack of it, can affect someone’s life. I want to use my career in law to help people navigate the system and make sure justice is served.
One experience that showed me the power of my voice was becoming a Do the Write Thing ambassador in 8th grade. I wrote about the impact of youth violence, and my work was published alongside others. I remember being really shy and small in my class, thinking my voice didn’t matter. I never imagined that writing something personal could make a difference. But when people read my work and responded to it, I realized that even quiet, small voices can have an impact. That experience taught me that advocacy starts with speaking up, even if it feels scary, and that sharing your perspective can influence others in meaningful ways. It also helped me grow my confidence and showed me the importance of listening as much as speaking.
To gain more hands-on experience in the legal field, I interned with the Justice Review Unit at Criminal Court. I got to see how cases are reviewed, including wrongful convictions, and how cases move forward to trial. I learned how the court works behind the scenes and practiced reading legal documents and appeals. This experience showed me how much attention to detail and careful thinking law requires. It also gave me a real understanding of how the justice system can impact individuals and communities, and it reinforced my desire to advocate for fairness.
In addition, I’ve volunteered with youth programs and community service initiatives, which taught me patience, empathy, and how to really listen to people. These experiences have helped me understand that advocacy isn’t only about arguing in court, it’s about supporting people, understanding their situations, and using your voice to help others navigate challenges to a fair solution.
My goal is to become a criminal justice lawyer who fights for fairness and equality. I plan to continue gaining experience through internships, legal clinics, and mentorship while focusing on my studies to prepare for law school. I want to help people whose stories might not otherwise be heard and make sure they get the support and representation they deserve.
Through these experiences, I’ve learned that persistence, empathy, and courage are what create real impact. I hope to bring these qualities into my career, using my voice and skills to help others and make a meaningful difference in the legal field. Law is about more than rules, it’s about people, fairness, and standing up for what’s right. That is the kind of lawyer I want to be.
Nabi Nicole Grant Memorial Scholarship
There was a time when I felt like the weight of the world was on my shoulders. As a first-generation college student, I felt pressure to succeed, not just for myself, but for my family. I wanted to make them proud, and sometimes it felt too much. Financial stress, school, and self-doubt all piled up, and there were moments when I honestly thought about giving up. I would stay up late trying to figure out how to make everything work, feeling overwhelmed and exhausted, wondering if I was strong enough to handle it all.
During those times, my faith became my anchor. I would think about what my grandma would say to me and how much faith in the Lord could push me through. When I didn’t know what to do, I prayed for strength and guidance. I reminded myself that God didn’t bring me this far to leave me. Even when I didn’t have all the answers, faith helped me trust the process and believe that my effort would pay off. Taking a moment to pray or just breathe and focus helped me feel calmer and more in control, even in the middle of stressful days.
Some days the pressure felt heavier, especially when money was tight or I questioned if I was doing enough. Instead of letting fear take over, I tried to focus on one thing at a time. I learned that challenges aren’t signs of failure—they’re chances to grow. I reminded myself that I could handle more than I thought if I kept going. I also learned that it’s okay to ask for help when I need it, and that relying on my faith doesn’t make me weak—it makes me stronger.
Relying on my faith helped me push forward when quitting felt easier. It taught me patience and gave me courage to keep trying even when I was scared or unsure. Faith showed me that struggles don’t make me weak—they’re part of preparing me for what’s ahead. Today, I try to remember that no matter how hard things get, I can keep moving forward. My faith, and the lessons from my grandma, give me strength to handle challenges and stay focused on my goals. I’ve learned that trusting in the Lord and believing in myself can help me overcome any obstacle, and I hope to carry that with me in everything I do, encouraging others along the way whenever I can that faith is what keeps us going.
Hearts on Sleeves, Minds in College Scholarship
When I was in 8th grade, I became a Do the Write Thing ambassador. At first, I thought it was just another literature assignment and never imagined my writing could make a difference. I was the tiny one in the classroom at just 4’8, really shy, and didn’t think my voice mattered. I remember thinking, “This is such a cool writing assignment,” especially since it gave us a break from reading Unbroken by Louie Zamperini.
I wrote about the impact of youth violence, and later my work was published alongside others. Seeing that made me realize that even a quiet, nervous girl can have an impact. Speaking up doesn’t mean being the loudest, it just means sharing what matters to you.
At first, I struggled to use my voice. I felt nervous and unsure, and it was hard to believe anyone would care about what I had to say. But when I shared my story, I it made me aware that real life experiences put on paper and that I wasn’t an act it was a real life experience of what violence is and how it impacted me as well as the youth. That gave me courage and taught me that even small voices can make a difference.
Since then, I’ve tried to use my voice more and lend a small helping hand whenever I can, even if my shyness gets in the way. Even little actions, like giving advice, support, or encouragement, or just being a friend someone needs—can have a meaningful effect. One tiny act can make someone feel heard, seen, or valued. I’ve realized that my role in the world isn’t about standing out for attention—it’s about creating positive impact through small, consistent actions.
This experience also helped me grow my confidence and understand the importance of communication. I learned that it’s okay to be nervous or unsure at first; what matters is trying anyway. I also learned that listening is just as important as speaking, and paying attention to other people’s experiences helps me respond with empathy.
In the future, I want to use my voice as a lawyer to fight for fairness and justice, especially for people whose stories are often overlooked. I want to help amplify voices that go unheard and create real change in my community. That shy girl in 8th grade, who thought it was just another assignment, would be proud to know that even small actions, quiet voices, and honest words can really matter. I want to keep learning, growing, and using my voice to help others every day.
Resilient Scholar Award
Hi, my name is Sariniti Wilson, and I am a first-generation college student raised in a single-parent household. Growing up, I watched my mom take on multiple roles—provider, protector, motivator, and example. As a child, I never thought I faced hardships, largely because she nurtured my siblings and me with care and love. Even when resources were limited, her determination and guidance created an environment where we felt supported and encouraged to pursue our dreams. Being raised in this environment taught me independence at an early age and showed me the value of perseverance, even when the path forward was uncertain.
A realization that reshaped my understanding of myself and others came through my involvement in community service and youth advocacy. As a Do the Write Thing ambassador, I wrote about the impact of violence on youth and was later recognized for my work. Sharing my story and listening to the experiences of others opened my eyes to how deeply environment and opportunity shape a person’s choices. I realized that many individuals are not defined by their mistakes, but by the circumstances they face and the support, or lack thereof, they receive. This understanding strengthened my empathy and affirmed my desire to pursue a future where I can advocate for fairness, justice, and equality for those whose voices often go unheard.
Through these experiences, I learned that my background is a foundation, not a limitation. Being raised in a single-parent household instilled resilience, taught me the value of hard work, and shaped the way I approach challenges. My accomplishments in advocacy reinforced the importance of using my voice with purpose, not only to express myself but to inspire others and create positive change in my community. My mom shaped me into someone who is self-driven and deeply aware of the impact compassion and opportunity can have on others. I plan to show her just how much of an impact she has made on me by using the lessons she taught me to make a difference in the world.
I now understand that the lessons I learned at home and through service are interconnected: perseverance, empathy, and responsibility go hand in hand. They have shaped not only who I am today, but who I aspire to be, a leader, an advocate, and a positive influence for others navigating challenges similar to those I faced. My journey has taught me that success is not measured solely by personal achievements, but by the ability to uplift, empower, and inspire others along the way and to make my mother proud.