My name is Sianna Waters, and I am a freshman Elementary Education major at Xavier University of Louisiana. For as long as I can remember, I have wanted to help people, especially youth. When I turned thirteen, I began volunteering at my former after school care, and the following year, I earned a job as an after-school camp counselor. Since then, my passion for working with children and teaching has grown stronger. I’ve learned that young people need guidance not only academically but also in navigating resources beyond what they learn at home. My goal is to become an elementary school teacher who serves as a reliable outlet for my students, helping them find happiness and success in their own way, while equipping them with life skills to better themselves and their communities. Throughout high school, I balanced many roles that helped me develop leadership and a strong work ethic. I was a varsity cheerleading captain, a member of the drill team, children’s choir, praise dance team, and youth Bible study at Second Baptist Church, where I have been active since 2018. These activities helped me build confidence, teamwork, and a deep commitment to serving others. I also took part in community events like youth ushering, the annual toy drive, and the church picnic, which strengthened my desire to give back. Additionally, I worked part-time as a server at Brookdale Senior Living and Raising Cane’s, while also serving as a swim instructor and inclusion aide, supporting children with disabilities at Robert Crown Community Center. This role taught me patience, empathy, and how to create safe, nurturing spaces for children facing challenges. Academically, I grew into my potential over time, moving from underestimating the importance of school during my freshman year to graduating with a 3.8 GPA and honors like National Honor Society and Black Caucus recognition. My mother’s encouragement motivated me to push through obstacles and strive for excellence. I also embrace leadership naturally; I am not afraid to speak up for others or stand out in group settings. I take pride in fostering environments where everyone feels valued and supported. As I continue college, I plan to join organizations aligned with my passion for advocacy and community service so I can uplift others and make a positive impact. Coming from a single-parent household with three children, I know firsthand the challenges of limited resources and opportunities. My older sister is also pursuing education, inspiring me to follow a similar path. Receiving a scholarship would allow me to continue attending Xavier University of Louisiana, where I can immerse myself in Black culture, history, and educational reform, elements deeply important to me. I want to be a teacher who not only educates but empowers students from underserved communities, helping them develop skills beyond the classroom. Living in Evanston, I’ve witnessed firsthand the effects of violence and the lack of safe spaces for youth. I believe creating more community centers where children can learn, get meals, and find positive role models would make a significant difference. I want to lead efforts to build those spaces, working with community leaders to offer opportunities encouraging kids to make healthy, productive choices. Ultimately, I am dedicated to becoming a teacher who influences lives positively, teaching more than academics but the true meaning of happiness and success. I want my students to grow into confident, capable individuals who can lift themselves and others. This scholarship will support me in this journey by helping me access the education and resources I need to make that vision a reality.