From a young age, my greatest ambition has been to become a veterinarian. Animals have always been my passion, from caring for dogs and cats to tending to birds and geckos. Growing up, I never saw anyone who looked like me pursuing the career I dreamed of. Whether in the media or on TV, no Black women were represented in the veterinary field, especially in wildlife veterinary. As a first-generation student attending a predominantly White institution, I am charting a new path in my family's history by choosing to work with animals. Recognizing that I am venturing into uncharted territory makes the journey all the more challenging and rewarding. Contemplating my decisions and the paths they've led me down fills me with a sense of pride and determination. Growing up in poverty and facing the associated challenges has given me a deep understanding of why I must work tirelessly to pursue my dream. Witnessing my mother's unwavering support and sacrifices for my ambition to become a veterinarian has been a humbling experience. I realize that achieving this dream will take work. Despite the difficulties, my mother's steadfast support has never wavered. She is a source of immense inspiration for me, but she's not the only one. My community has also played a crucial role in giving me the strength to persevere.  My experience at a specialized school for Veterinary Science, where students can graduate with a Veterinary Assistant certification, has been transformative. It has shown me that while the number of students pursuing this career is limited, it is not nonexistent. This realization has deepened my sense of purpose and inspired me to strive for greater representation in the field. I am driven to create opportunities for aspiring students from underrepresented racial groups and challenging financial circumstances. My vision is to establish multiple educational programs tailored to the needs of these students, providing hands-on learning experiences and exposure to the field of veterinary medicine. I am committed to ensuring equitable access to this career path, ultimately working towards a more balanced representation of People of Color in the veterinary profession. Receiving this scholarship will be instrumental in helping me reach my academic goals. As a first-generation student raised in a single-parent household, I face financial challenges when it comes to covering college expenses. My mother has made tremendous sacrifices to support my education, and it's my desire to show her that her sacrifices were worthwhile by excelling in my studies. This scholarship will play a crucial role in easing the financial burden of college and allowing me to pursue my passions without the fear of financial constraints. Over time, I have been shaped by influential experiences that have contributed to the person I am today. These experiences have sown seeds of ambition in my mind, for which I am truly grateful. I draw strength from the legacy that has been established before me, and I am determined to effect a generational shift in the field of veterinary medicine. My goal is to be a representative for other Black women in this profession and to drive positive change for the benefit of all veterinarians through my written work.

From a young age, my greatest ambition has been to become a veterinarian. Animals have always been my passion, from caring for dogs and cats to tending to birds and geckos. Growing up, I never saw anyone who looked like me pursuing the career I dreamed of. Whether in the media or on TV, no Black women were represented in the veterinary field, especially in wildlife veterinary. As a first-generation student attending a predominantly White institution, I am charting a new path in my family's history by choosing to work with animals. Recognizing that I am venturing into uncharted territory makes the journey all the more challenging and rewarding. Contemplating my decisions and the paths they've led me down fills me with a sense of pride and determination. Growing up in poverty and facing the associated challenges has given me a deep understanding of why I must work tirelessly to pursue my dream. Witnessing my mother's unwavering support and sacrifices for my ambition to become a veterinarian has been a humbling experience. I realize that achieving this dream will take work. Despite the difficulties, my mother's steadfast support has never wavered. She is a source of immense inspiration for me, but she's not the only one. My community has also played a crucial role in giving me the strength to persevere.  My experience at a specialized school for Veterinary Science, where students can graduate with a Veterinary Assistant certification, has been transformative. It has shown me that while the number of students pursuing this career is limited, it is not nonexistent. This realization has deepened my sense of purpose and inspired me to strive for greater representation in the field. I am driven to create opportunities for aspiring students from underrepresented racial groups and challenging financial circumstances. My vision is to establish multiple educational programs tailored to the needs of these students, providing hands-on learning experiences and exposure to the field of veterinary medicine. I am committed to ensuring equitable access to this career path, ultimately working towards a more balanced representation of People of Color in the veterinary profession. Receiving this scholarship will be instrumental in helping me reach my academic goals. As a first-generation student raised in a single-parent household, I face financial challenges when it comes to covering college expenses. My mother has made tremendous sacrifices to support my education, and it's my desire to show her that her sacrifices were worthwhile by excelling in my studies. This scholarship will play a crucial role in easing the financial burden of college and allowing me to pursue my passions without the fear of financial constraints. Over time, I have been shaped by influential experiences that have contributed to the person I am today. These experiences have sown seeds of ambition in my mind, for which I am truly grateful. I draw strength from the legacy that has been established before me, and I am determined to effect a generational shift in the field of veterinary medicine. My goal is to be a representative for other Black women in this profession and to drive positive change for the benefit of all veterinarians through my written work.

Since my earliest days, animals have held a special place in my heart. Whether watching National Geographic shows or caring for my own pets, animals have always been an integral part of my life. My mother used to say, "Ever since you could talk about it, you've wanted to be a veterinarian." It wasn't until I reached college that I truly understood the deep connection between my life and animals. During my first year, I discussed future career goals with Posse. In passing, I mentioned that I had never aspired to be anything other than a veterinarian, and that this had always been my lifelong dream. It was interesting to hear my peers' thoughts on this, as they were still contemplating their own career paths. It made me realize the profound significance of my relationship with animals. During my younger years, I always had a pet, whether it was a dog, cat, bird, or fish. This habit of mine often caused concern for my mother, yet having a pet proved to be a source of comfort during the most challenging times of my life. It got me through my struggles with depression, periods of homelessness, and family issues, offering non-judgmental companionship. Deep down, I believe my mother understood this. In all honesty, having a pet provided me with a sense of purpose and a mission, especially during my formative academic years. My experiences as a veterinary student in high school and a psychology student in college taught me valuable lessons in empathy and respect. These experiences also heightened my awareness of the importance of educating others about our relationship with animals and the harmony they bring to our world. My mission is to preserve our compassion for these creatures despite the challenges of our world. I am committed to saving the lives of the most vulnerable animals, demonstrating that I can make a difference, and repaying the invaluable support they have provided me in achieving my goals. In my pursuit of becoming a Veterinarian, I am dedicated to thoroughly immersing myself in the diverse aspects of animal studies throughout my academic journey. During my first year, I delved into Biology and Psychology, delving into the intricate neurological and anatomical aspects of animals. This deepened my understanding of animals and ignited my passion for exploring alternative approaches to aid in the conservation of endangered species. My bond with animals became akin to reconnecting with a long-lost relative, prompting me to reassess traditional hierarchical views and adopt a more empathetic stance towards their welfare. These pivotal experiences influenced my decision to pursue a double major in animal behavior and psychology, aligning my educational path with my aspirations as a Veterinarian and my personal affinity for animals. The scholarship will play a crucial role in alleviating the financial strain of my college education, allowing me to fully immerse myself in on-campus activities. Specifically, I aspire to contribute to my school's vivarium and engage in research under the guidance of one of my esteemed professors. These activities will further pursue my passion for advocating animal rights and promoting environmental consciousness. Ultimately, the scholarship will enable me to dedicate more time and effort to these endeavors, unencumbered by financial worries.

Since my earliest days, animals have held a special place in my heart. Whether watching National Geographic shows or caring for my pets, animals have always been integral to my life. My mother used to say, "Ever since you could talk about it, you've wanted to be a veterinarian." It wasn't until I reached college that I truly understood the deep connection between my life and animals. During my first year, I discussed future career goals with Posse. In passing, I mentioned that I had never aspired to be anything other than a veterinarian and that this had always been my lifelong dream. It was interesting to hear my peers' thoughts on this as they were still contemplating their career paths. It made me realize the profound significance of my relationship with animals. During my younger years, I always had a pet, whether a dog, cat, bird, or fish. This habit of mine often caused concern for my mother, yet having a pet proved to be a source of comfort during the most challenging times of my life. It got me through my struggles with depression, periods of homelessness, and family issues, offering non-judgmental companionship. Deep down, I believe my mother understood this. Having a pet gave me a sense of purpose and a mission, especially during my formative academic years. My experiences as a veterinary student in high school and a psychology student in college taught me valuable lessons in empathy and respect. These experiences also heightened my awareness of the importance of educating others about our relationship with animals and the harmony they bring to our world. My mission is to preserve our compassion for these creatures despite the challenges of our world. I am committed to saving the lives of the most vulnerable animals, demonstrating that I can make a difference, and repaying the invaluable support they have provided me in achieving my goals. In my pursuit of becoming a Veterinarian, I am dedicated to thoroughly immersing myself in the diverse aspects of animal studies throughout my academic journey. During my first year, I delved into Biology and Psychology, delving into animals' intricate neurological and anatomical elements. This deepened my understanding of animals and ignited my passion for exploring alternative approaches to aid in conserving endangered species. My bond with animals became akin to reconnecting with a long-lost relative, prompting me to reassess traditional hierarchical views and adopt a more empathetic stance towards their welfare. These pivotal experiences influenced my decision to pursue a double major in animal behavior and psychology, aligning my educational path with my aspirations as a Veterinarian and my personal affinity for animals. The scholarship will play a crucial role in alleviating the financial strain of my college education, allowing me to fully immerse myself in on-campus activities. Specifically, I aspire to contribute to my school's vivarium and engage in research under the guidance of one of my esteemed professors. These activities will further pursue my passion for advocating animal rights and promoting environmental consciousness. Ultimately, the scholarship will enable me to dedicate more time and effort to these endeavors, unencumbered by financial worries.

When I was younger, I faced socioeconomic hardships. At one point, my family was homeless and living in the shelter. I recall the days of not having enough money to get by, and being forced to do whatever we could with the few resources we had. Mostly, I remember the treatment and disregard society seemed to have for us because we were at the bottom of the class system. We were outcasted and tossed to the side as if our circumstances weren’t dire. It was not only our fault for being in crisis, but also our fault for not getting ourselves. Reflecting on those memories reminds me of why I volunteer. I aim to be a helping hand to those in need because I’m aware of what it feels like to be treated like your story isn't good enough when you need help the most. I have always been a philanthropist. Even at a young age, I would volunteer my time whenever someone needed me. Whether it be my school, a neighbor, or a friend, volunteering opened me up to network and build relationships with those I am helping– on the grounds of genuine appreciation. Some of the best experiences I’ve had with others have been through volunteer work when they needed me, with the expectation that I would receive nothing back in return. Over the years of experience through volunteering, I have learned to be more welcoming and sensitive. You never know what a person is going through behind closed doors, and kindness is free and infinite. Volunteering exposed me to the most vulnerable side of people, and I have learned to be more nurturing because of that. Through these experiences, I have matured as a young woman. I have also learned that I am not alone. There are others out there that have similar stories. I have learned to take pride in what I have gone through because it has led me to great achievements. Volunteering made me prideful in the work I was doing for others because I watched my work make changes in lives within my community. The small changes I have made have gained me appreciation from others, a badge I wear with honor. Volunteering has given me big dreams. Dreams to help others on a wider scale. I have begone to work on issues in my career field. I watched my volunteering help others in my community, but changes need to be made within an industry. The Veterinary field is male-dominated and also predominately white. Volunteering has taught me to stand up for what I believe in and make the changes necessary for my community. My mission is to create spaces for Black and Brown bodies to learn about the Veterinary Science field. I will be the representation for Black scientists that share my story, letting the world know that our experiences do not define who we are. This scholarship will help me achieve that goal. Being a first-generation student in a single-parent household poses financial difficulty. My mother isn't able to cover the costs of college. My mother has provided so much for my education that I want her to watch me grow knowing that she made the best decisions for me. This scholarship will help me cover the final costs of college and alleviate the money worries. This scholarship will allow me to continue giving my time back to my passions. With this scholarship, I will be able to do what I love without fear.

An advocate for all of those that came before me and a role model for all that comes after.

Even from a young age, my biggest aspiration was to be a Veterinarian. Animals have always been my passion, from having dogs and cats to having birds and geckos. In the media, I did not see other people in the career field I dream of that looked like me. Whether they were White or they were predominantly men, none of the channels I watched as a child showed Black women in the Veterinary field, let alone in the Wildlife Veterinary field. I am a first-generation student going to a PWI and the first person in my family history to want to work with animals. Understanding that I am following a path never traveled before makes the journey all the more difficult and all the more worth it. When I reflect on my choices and the positions it has led me to, it fills me with pride and vigor. Coming from poverty and experiencing the socioeconomic difficulties of poverty have allowed me to understand why this dream of mine is something I have to work so hard to achieve. Watching my mother sacrifice so much for me and my dreams of becoming a Veterinarian— unconditionally at that—has humbled me, knowing that this dream of mine is not easy to pursue, but the support given to me by my mother never changed because it isn’t. My mother is one of my biggest inspirations to me, but she is not the only one that has given me the power to persevere. My community has done the same. Going to a school that specializes in Veterinary Science and allows students to leave with a Veterinary Assistant certification exposed me to like-minded students that have the same dream as me. It allows me to see that, though the pool of students going for this career is small, it is not zero. That gives me another purpose. It forces me to add another inspiration in pursuing my Veterinary career. To create spaces for more students like me. Not just one school or one program for students. Multiple spaces where students from underrepresented racial groups, facing financial hardships, can learn what the Veterinary field has to offer. Hands-on learning experiences allow my black and brown students to be exposed to this career field. We deserve to tip the scale, making the disproportion in the number of People of Color becoming Veterinarians more proportionate. When I was completing a project on some of the most influential Veterinarians that changed the Veterinary field, I noticed a lack of women credited and a small percentage of Black faces discussed. I saw a few notable Veterinarians, Dr. Alfreda Johnson Webb and Dr. Jane Hinton, but the list of these Black Veterinarians fell too short. The percentage of Black Veterinarians is only about 1.2 percent. After this, I knew I had to make a change. I have to open the door for those statistics to skyrocket. For there to be faces of POC from all over the world to weigh more than just 1.2 percent. It wasn't overnight, but I cannot deny the influences that have made me who I am today. Those influences have planted seeds in my mind—seeds of achievement. I am thankful for them; I am not easily defeated as I see the legacy built before me. I will make the changes that create a generational shift in the next wave of Veterinarians. I will be the representation for other Black women in the Veterinary field. I will be that person in articles making changes—the necessary change for the greater good of all Veterinarians.