Who is Semmie? That can take a while to explain. Yet, I figured out the words to describe my story in my own narrative. I am an African-American woman born in a small immediate family in Columbus, Ohio. That’s what I usually would tell people to explain my background. The honest answer: I was raised in an environment that valued strength, compassion, and hard work, where I learned early on that success isn’t just about what you achieve, but how you use those achievements to uplift others. It’s more than just where I come from—it’s the foundation of who I am and how I move through the world. From an early age, I understood the power of empathy. I always wanted to help people in any way I could, or at least assist them. That sense of purpose has pushed me to pursue a career in physical therapy, a space where I can help physically and inspire someone to uplift, lead, and serve others. The example I saw that shaped me into that mindset was my grandmother. She is the biggest aspiration in my life, where she may not even know it. Watching her carry herself with grace, wisdom, and unshakeable Faith are the same principles I want to uphold as I continue my life. Watching her navigate life with quiet strength inspired me to never give up on my dreams, no matter how hard the path. She didn’t just tell me to be strong—she showed me what strength looked like in action. Everything I strive for—education, service, leadership—is rooted in the desire to honor her and continue her legacy. With so many experiences that have shaped me into the person I am, tennis was the biggest life lesson of all. I found the sport at a young age, and it quickly became more than just a game. It became a teacher. Tennis taught me discipline, focus, and resilience. On the court, I learned how to push through frustration, lose with grace, and win with humility. Off the court, I learned how to have a work-life balance and know the right time to rest. How I was on the court wasn’t the same off the court, but both experiences coexist with each other. Being a Black woman in tennis, a sport where people who look like me have often been underrepresented, only made me more determined. I looked up to Serena and Venus Williams, not just for their skills, but for their courage. Through tennis, I learned how to stand tall in spaces where I might be overlooked or underestimated—and how to let my performance speak louder than words. As I look toward the future, my aspirations are grounded in my love for people. I want to build a life and career centered on service—through healthcare and community development. I want to use my voice and presence to open doors for others, especially young girls who need someone to believe in them. Because I know what that belief can do. I’ve lived it. This is my story—shaped by family, driven by purpose and discipline, and powered by ambition to improve the world, one life at a time.

One lyric from Olivia Rodrigo’s *GUTS* that really sticks with me is from the song *“teenage dream”*: **“They all say that it gets better / gets better, but what if I don't?”** The first time I heard that line, I felt like someone had cracked open my chest and pulled out a fear I didn’t know how to express. Growing up, people constantly tell you that things will get better—that high school is just a phase, that you’ll figure yourself out, that you won’t always feel so lost. But what if that’s not true for everyone? What if you’re the exception? For me, adolescence has always felt like this weird in-between space. I’m not a kid anymore, but I don’t feel like an adult either. I wake up some mornings and feel completely invisible, like nothing I do matters, and then other days, everything matters *too* much—every grade, every text left unread, every glance in the hallway. The pressure to be *something*—to be innovative, pretty, interesting, or successful—is overwhelming. And even when I try my best, there’s still this nagging voice in my mind asking: *But what if it’s not enough?* That’s what Olivia Rodrigo captures so perfectly in that lyric. It’s not just sadness—it’s fear. The fear that you’ll grow up and not become the person you hoped you would. That maybe the world doesn’t have a place for you the way people promise it does. It’s the kind of fear that keeps you up at night, staring at the ceiling, wondering why everyone else seems to be doing fine while you’re stuck in your head. I remember a night not long ago when I sat in my room after a long, exhausting day, and just cried—not because something terrible happened, but because everything felt heavy in a way I couldn’t explain. The future felt like this big, blurry thing I was supposed to run toward, but I didn’t know which direction to move. That lyric echoed in my mind: *What if I don’t get better?* And yet, hearing someone else say it—even in a song—made me feel less alone. That’s the magic of Olivia’s music. She doesn’t pretend to have it all figured out. She doesn’t cover her emotions in layers of metaphor or try to make pain sound pretty. She tells the truth. And in that honesty, there’s comfort. If someone else feels this way, too, maybe it’s okay for me to do it. Adolescence is messy. It’s full of mistakes, heartbreak, insecurity, and uncertainty. But it’s also full of growth, even if you can’t always see it happening. Maybe “getting better” doesn’t mean becoming perfect. Perhaps it just means learning to sit with the questions instead of rushing toward the answers. So yes, that lyric scares me—but it also speaks for me. It says the thing I’ve been too afraid to say out loud: *What if I don’t?* I find a little strength in that moment of fear because I’m still here. Still trying. Still hoping that maybe “better” doesn’t have to look the same for everyone

My mother is my “why” I started my journey to get my doctorate in physical therapy. Before high school, I didn’t know what to do for my major or what career I wanted to pursue that would make me happy. As I was in turmoil over my decision, my mom had a bike accident and broke her arm (radius). After her surgery, I helped her with her exercises at home that the physical therapist would have her do. From then on, I was introduced to physical therapy and felt that it fit me perfectly because I was in sports and always wanted to help people. Five years later, my mom got into a car accident and broke her collarbone (clavicle) and the same arm again. It broke right behind the mental plate in her arm the first time. This time, I drove her to her appointments for therapy. Seeing it in person and the exercises the therapists had her do were what I fell in love with, and I was determined to have a career in physical therapy. Once I started college, I thought I was determined to pursue physical therapy until there were a few hiccups in classes. This is when I understood true motivation and dedication to what I want to do. Honestly, there was a point where I gave up and didn’t want to do it anymore because it seemed too hard, or some classes I didn’t want to do or retake. I almost settled for taking the easy way out. But, each time I tried to do a different career, in the back of my mind, I went back to physical therapy. It wasn’t until I transferred to another college where I graduated that I would pursue what was initially placed in my heart. I reminded myself of this scripture from James 2:26 frequently, “Faith without works is dead”. This was a notion to myself not to give up just because it’s hard, because nothing will be given to you unless I try and put my mind to my goal. The classes were challenging, but my drive grew stronger as I completed my degree in Exercise Science. Now that I am a few months away from starting my physical therapy program, I am proud of myself for not giving up and staying on the course, which is my inspiration, and finding that drive throughout college to pursue it. The next three years will be more challenging and will test me. However, through all the obstacles I have faced to get here, I am determined to get my doctorate and pursue physical therapy as a long-term career.

My mother has been a profound influence in my life, shaping me into the woman I am striving to become. Her spirit and kindness have served as a guiding light, constantly teaching me what it means to be a child of Christ and an honest individual. Through her example, she has instilled in me the values of resilience, compassion, and dedication—qualities that continue to shape my character and aspirations. Since I was young, my mom has emphasized the importance of having faith in life and doing my best, while letting God handle the rest. Without her, I wouldn't have wanted to come to Christ on my own accord. Each time she has encouraged me; she has shown me the value of her guidance. As well as involving Scripture to take the message with me when she is not there physically. My mother has been a role model of being a hard worker and thinking ahead at all times. She has always emphasized the importance of keeping my word and standing firm in my beliefs, regardless of what society believes. She taught me that being a woman of my word means honoring commitments, treating others with respect, and holding myself accountable. I have witnessed her lead by example—whether in her career, in our family, or in the community—demonstrating that true leadership is rooted in honesty and responsibility. Because of her influence, I strive to carry myself with the same level of integrity, ensuring that my actions align with my values. My mother has also shown me the power of resilience and hard work. She has faced obstacles with determination, never allowing setbacks to define her. Instead, she uses challenges as opportunities to grow stronger. Her work ethic and dedication to excellence have motivated me to approach my goals with the same level of commitment. As I pursue a career in physical therapy and work to create environments that support African American college students’ mental health, I am driven by the lessons she has taught me—especially the importance of perseverance and using my gifts to serve others. One of the greatest lessons my mother has imparted is the importance of compassion and community. She has always been a source of encouragement, not only for me but for those around her. She models selflessness, reminding me that true success is not just about personal achievements but also about uplifting others. Her kindness and generosity have inspired me to be intentional about fostering supportive spaces for those in need, whether through mentorship, advocacy, or simply showing love and understanding to those who are struggling. In every aspect of my life, my mother’s influence is evident. I have learned to be a woman who cherishes faith, independence, and integrity. Her example has taught me how to navigate life’s challenges while remaining true to my values, and her unwavering support has given me the confidence to pursue my dreams. My mom has been a role model in my life, where I am dedicated to personal growth as well as having a significant influence on my education, community, and giving back. She has taught me valuable lessons and laid the groundwork for the woman I am becoming, and I am grateful that God placed her as my mom.

Strength and conditioning is a career that is constantly evolving due to ongoing research, technological advancements, and a growing focus on the holistic development of athletes. These significant advancements in areas such as injury prevention, data-driven training, customized programming, and mental performance will contribute to long-term growth, with integration expected within the next decade. By incorporating evidence-based rehabilitation techniques, promoting accessibility in sports performance training, and cultivating a more inclusive approach to strength and conditioning, I aim to contribute to this growth as a future physical therapist who is passionate about business and social equity. The increasing use of technology and data analytics to enhance training programs will be one of the biggest shifts in the industry. Motion capture devices, wearable technology, and AI-powered performance tracking are already being utilized to measure fatigue, enhance recovery, and evaluate biomechanics. These tools will advance in sophistication over the next ten years, enabling clinicians and trainers to design highly customized training plans. In order to ensure that athletes, particularly those recuperating from injuries, have access to accurate, data-driven interventions that improve performance and longevity, I intend to help by integrating these developments into physical therapy and rehabilitation settings. Preventative care and recovery from caused injuries are an urgent priority that needs to also be a top priority. Specialists in this expertise will move towards active, movement-based methods as people enduring longer effects of overtraining, bad form, and repetitive stress on the body. Strength training connects physical therapy concepts to help athletes improve their balance, mobility, and stability, as well as their strength. Creating programs that transition athletes from injury to peak performance, I aim to ensure they return stronger and more resilient than before. Within strength training, the mental element of performance will be more important than the physical component of training. Mental durability, and stress management have often been overlooked in traditional training regimens, although being crucial for physical performance. In the next decade, more coaches and practitioners will include mindfulness, visualization exercises, and psychological skills training into their programs. By encouraging a more all-encompassing approach to athlete development and including mental health practices into fitness programs, I specifically hope to assist communities who might not have access to sports psychology resources. Another important area of development will be accessibility and inclusiveness in strength and conditioning. Elite athletes and those with financial means have traditionally had exclusive access to top-notch training and rehabilitation. However, as the sector develops, more focus will be placed on expanding access to strength and conditioning programs for a variety of demographics, such as young athletes, leisure athletes, and people with impairments. I intend to address these discrepancies as someone who is dedicated to social equity by creating reasonably priced training programs, collaborating with local organizations, and utilizing business tactics to increase access to top-notch performance and rehabilitation services. In conclusion, the future of physical fitness is focused on inclusivity, injury prevention, mental performance, and technology-driven training. My role in this evolution will be to integrate cutting-edge rehabilitation techniques, advocate for mental and physical well-being, and create opportunities for all individuals—regardless of background—to benefit from high-quality strength and conditioning programs. I aim to have a lasting influence on the field while enabling others to realize their greatest potential through creativity, instruction, and community involvement.

I've always been captivated by entrepreneurship because of its capacity to produce novel answers to pressing issues. My own experiences and desire to support others going through similar struggles led me to pursue entrepreneurship. I experienced a lot of stress as a college tennis student-athlete trying to balance my personal, academic, and athletic lives. I experienced a depression during my sophomore year of college, where I struggled to control my emotions while still involved in extracurricular activities and class. As I thought of an idea for my business idea, I wanted to include mental awareness with comfort. This how I came up with infusing essential oils in sweatshirts to regulate emotions as customers wear them. As an aspiring physical therapist, I love connecting the body and mind with knowing without proper care of one, the other will faulter. Essentials oils can be used in many ways, but all of them target benefits towards the limbic system which is responsible for emotional response and simply process emotions. There are certain oils that help with certain things. Example, lavender for relaxation, roman chamomile for nervousness, and citrus for energy boost. Integrating these in sweatshirts that is use for daily wear, my goal is for every customer to have a wearable wellness experience. I believe my idea is crucial during our current times where suicide is the top 20 causes of mortality in young adults. There were moments when stress felt overwhelming, and I sought natural ways to manage it. Aromatherapy became a game-changer for me, but carrying around essential oils wasn’t always convenient. That’s when I realized the potential of embedding these benefits into something as simple and accessible as a sweatshirt. With my business idea, I want to achieve several objectives. First, I want to provide an innovative and practical solution for emotional regulation, particularly for students, athletes, and professionals dealing with daily stress. Second, I aim to promote self-care in a way that is seamless and integrated into everyday life. Lastly, I want to contribute to the broader conversation around mental well-being by creating products that make emotional wellness more approachable and culturally relevant. Ultimately, I see this business evolving beyond just sweatshirts – expanding into other wearable items, developing personalized scent combinations, and even partnering with mental health initiatives to enhance holistic well-being. My mission is to blend wellness, fashion, and functionality to empower people to feel their best, no matter where they are or what they’re facing.

Billie Eilish has an uncanny ability to tap into deep emotions, creating music that feels intimate and universal at the same time. Three of her most powerful songs— “Birds of a Feather,” “Wildflower,” and “What Was I Made For?”—stand out not only for their haunting melodies but also for their lyrical depth and emotional weight. Each of these tracks resonates with me for different reasons, whether it’s their themes of love, self-discovery, or vulnerability. “Birds of a Feather” is a song that captures the idea of deep, unwavering love. Billie’s soft yet passionate delivery makes it feel like a whispered confession, something deeply personal yet relatable. The phrase “birds of a feather” suggests a connection that goes beyond the surface—two people who are meant to be together, bound by something more than just circumstance. This song resonates with me because it speaks to the idea of finding someone who truly understands and mirrors you. Whether in friendships, relationships, or even personal growth, the search for connection is something everyone can relate to. Billie’s ethereal vocals paired with the dreamlike production make it feel like a love story unfolding in slow motion, full of hope and devotion. “Wildflower” stands out as one of Billie’s most poetic songs, using nature as a metaphor for resilience and growth. A wildflower isn’t cultivated in a garden—it grows where it chooses, often in unexpected places. This idea of flourishing despite hardships is incredibly moving, and it reflects Billie’s own journey as an artist who never fit into the industry mold but thrived anyway. For me, this song is a reminder that beauty doesn’t have to be perfect or planned. It resonates deeply because it embraces uniqueness and transformation. It’s about learning to love yourself as you are, even when you feel out of place or unconventional. The delicate instrumentation paired with Billie’s emotive delivery makes “Wildflower” feel like a gentle but powerful anthem of self-acceptance. This song is perhaps Billie’s most introspective and heart-wrenching track. Written for the Barbie movie, “What Was I Made For?” captures feelings of existential doubt and longing for purpose. The stripped-down piano arrangement allows Billie’s vocals to take center stage, making every word hit even harder. This song resonates with me on a deep level because it explores moments of self-questioning that everyone experiences. It’s about feeling lost, searching for meaning, and trying to understand your place in the world. Billie’s ability to put those feelings into words and melody is what makes her music so impactful. The raw honesty in this song is both heartbreaking and comforting, making it a track that lingers in the soul long after it ends. Each of these songs showcases a different side of her artistry. Her ability to capture love, self-discovery, and deep introspection. “Birds of a Feather” speaks to lasting love and connection, “Wildflower” celebrates resilience and self-acceptance, and “What Was I Made For?” delves into the universal search for purpose within ourselves. These songs resonate deeply because they remind us of the beauty in love, individuality, and the journey of figuring out who we are.

Masai Russell is an electrifying athlete to cheer for on Team USA, and I am definitely rooting for her to get the gold medal! Her dominance in track and field, particularly in the 100m hurdles, makes her one of the most exciting competitors to watch. Russell’s combination of speed, power, and precision over the hurdles sets her apart, but it’s her relentless work ethic and vibrant personality that truly make her a standout. One of the things that makes Russell so special is her versatility. She’s not just a hurdler; she’s an all-around track star with incredible performances in sprinting and relays. Her time at the University of Kentucky showcased her ability to consistently compete at the highest level, breaking records and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in collegiate track. She set the NCAA indoor 60m hurdles record, proving that she’s a force to be reckoned with on both the national and international stage. Beyond her athletic abilities, Masai Russell is also a role model. She balances being an elite athlete with an engaging social media presence, using her platform to inspire younger athletes. Her confidence, positivity, and commitment to self-improvement resonate with many fans, especially young Black women in sports. She embraces her identity, showing that success comes not just from talent but from resilience and self-belief. Cheering for Masai Russell is about more than just watching her cross the finish line first—it’s about celebrating an athlete who embodies dedication, culture, and the pursuit of greatness. She’s a testament to the power of hard work and authenticity, making her an inspiration for aspiring athletes everywhere.

LeBron James is more than just a basketball player-he is an icon, a leader, and a role model both on and off the court. What makes me a fan of LeBron isn’t just his incredible athleticism or skill but also his work ethic, leadership, and commitment to making a difference in society. On the court, LeBron is one of the most dominant players in NBA history. His combination of size, strength, speed, and basketball IQ is unmatched. He can play multiple positions, score in various ways, and make his teammates better with his passing and court vision. From his early days with the Cleveland Cavaliers to winning championships with the Miami Heat, returning to Cleveland to bring them a title, and now leading the Los Angeles Lakers, LeBron has consistently performed at an elite level for over two decades. His longevity and ability to evolve his game over time are truly remarkable. Off the court, LeBron's impact is just as significant. His "I PROMISE School" in Akron, Ohio, provides education and opportunities for underprivileged children, showing his commitment to giving back to his community. He has also been a vocal advocate for social justice, using his platform to address important issues such as racial inequality and education reform. His dedication to empowering others and being a positive influence makes him an inspiration beyond basketball. The question of whether LeBron James is the greatest basketball player of all time (GOAT) is highly debated. While he is certainly one of the greatest, determining the GOAT depends on various factors, including individual dominance, championships, influence on the game, and longevity. LeBron’s case for being the GOAT is strong. He is the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, has four championships, four MVPs, and is one of the most complete players in history. His ability to dominate in multiple eras, sustain elite performance into his late 30s, and consistently impact the game on both ends of the floor set him apart. However, some argue that Michael Jordan or Kobe Bryant still holds the GOAT title due to their multiple championships, triumphant Finals record, and cultural impact during his era. Jordan's killer instinct and dominance in the 1990s created a legacy that is hard to surpass. Kobe's mindset in "Mamba Mentality" had shown pure determination to improving his game was legendary. While LeBron has had an incredible career, critics point to his NBA Finals losses as a reason he isn't the greatest of all time. Ultimately, the GOAT debate is subjective. While Jordan may have had a perfect Finals record, LeBron’s all-around versatility, leadership, and longevity make him just as deserving of the title. In my opinion, LeBron is at least the most complete player in history, and his impact on and off the court makes him one of the greatest athletes ever.

Choosing to major in Exercise Science was a natural decision for me, driven by my passion for physical health, athletic performance, and rehabilitation. As a student-athlete, I have firsthand experience with the impact of exercise, injury prevention, and recovery strategies on performance and overall well-being. I wanted a program that not only deepened my understanding of human movement and physiology but also prepared me for a career where I could help others enhance their physical health. My ultimate career goal is to become a physical therapist, and Exercise Science provides the ideal foundation for this path. The coursework covers essential topics such as biomechanics, kinesiology, and exercise prescription, all of which are critical in rehabilitation settings. Additionally, my desire to drive social equity and justice in healthcare inspired me to choose this field. I recognize that many marginalized communities, including African Americans, face barriers to quality healthcare and rehabilitation services. By equipping myself with the knowledge and skills in Exercise Science, I aim to advocate for greater accessibility and culturally competent care in physical therapy. The knowledge I am gaining in Exercise Science will enable me to contribute to society in several impactful ways. First, I plan to use my expertise to support individuals recovering from injuries by designing effective rehabilitation programs that promote long-term healing and prevent future injuries. This is particularly important for athletes and individuals with physically demanding jobs. Beyond rehabilitation, I also want to promote preventive health measures, especially within underserved communities. Many chronic conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity, disproportionately affect African Americans. Through education and community outreach, I aspire to teach individuals about the importance of exercise, proper nutrition, and lifestyle choices that can reduce the risk of these conditions. By creating culturally relevant health programs and working within communities, I hope to bridge gaps in knowledge and access to wellness resources. Additionally, I see Exercise Science as a tool for empowering individuals to take control of their physical health. Whether its helping young athletes reach their full potential or guiding older adults toward maintaining mobility and independence, my goal is to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives through movement and rehabilitation. Balancing work and academics as a college student has been both challenging and rewarding. Working while studying has taught me valuable time management skills, requiring me to plan my schedule carefully to ensure that I meet academic deadlines while fulfilling work responsibilities. While this has sometimes been stressful, it has also made me more disciplined and efficient in my studies. Working has provided me with hands-on experience that reinforces what I learn in the classroom. Whether it’s through internships, coaching, or assisting in fitness-related jobs, I have been able to apply my knowledge in real-world settings. This practical experience has strengthened my understanding of exercise science principles and their applications, making me more confident in my future career. However, balancing work and studies has also required sacrifices. There have been times when I had to forgo social activities or personal downtime to meet my commitments. Yet, I see these sacrifices as investments in my future. The ability to juggle multiple responsibilities has prepared me for the demands of a career in healthcare, where time management and adaptability are essential skills. Ultimately, my experience as a working college student has reinforced my passion for Exercise Science and my commitment to using my education to make a positive impact on society. Despite the challenges, I remain motivated to excel academically and professionally, knowing that my efforts will one day allow me to help others lead healthier, more active lives.

In the pursuit of wanting higher education, naturally, I never thought I would go through obstacles that could prevent me from reaching higher education. In my senior year in high school, I finished my regular classes and a few of my college courses with As and Bs. I was very confident I would graduate. However, a week before graduation, I had gotten an email that they haven’t received my grade from the college course and that I wouldn’t be able to graduate. Furthermore, I would have had to attend summer school. I was devastated hearing the news knowing I passed the class. I was very overwhelmed, to say the least, and didn’t know what to do, since graduation was the following week. During this time, my mom helped me a lot, but it was my grandma who truly helped. My grandma kept me calm and made sure I stayed positive during this time. She is such a great woman of faith. She believes and speaks faith in God at all times. A scripture she always says to me by 2 Corinthians 5:7 “For we walk by faith, not by sight”. This situation was a test that only walking by faith could bring me through. Something so sporadic as this could harm my chances of graduating and going to college. this was only the beginning of the many obstacles I would face in my life while pursuing higher education. My mom also played a big part in encouraging and stretching me to figure out the problem and find a conclusion. She taught me to address the task at hand and follow it through which in this case was to figure out what happened to my grade and why it wasn’t shown in the academic file. After talking to many counselors and deans, I found out that my professor at that time did not submit my grade into the system. Because of these circumstances that I couldn’t control, caused me an abundance of stress and strife whereas there weren’t any significant challenges that would hinder me from pursuing college and my dream of playing collegiate tennis. Days before high school graduation, I got confirmation that I would be able to walk with my class and the grade that wasn’t on file was added to the system. From this obstacle, I took a heave of what my grandma told me and always walk by faith knowing that everything isn’t what it appears to be. As well as her reminding me to stay calm and think things through without having negative emotions. A quote I heard that connected to this situation and kept me optimistic for future challenges is “The road to success is always under construction.”- Unknown