Education has always been more than just a path to a career for me—it is a powerful tool to create change, uplift my community, and leave a meaningful impact on the world. Growing up on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, I watched how access to education could shape opportunities, inspire growth, and break cycles of limitation. Being a first-generation college student, I understand firsthand the courage and determination it takes to pursue higher learning, and that understanding fuels my ambition. For me, education represents opportunity and empowerment. It is the key to understanding the world, thinking critically, and contributing to society in meaningful ways. Throughout my experiences volunteering at Central Elementary and Eastlawn Elementary schools in Pascagoula, I witnessed how education can transform lives. Even in a short period, helping young students grasp new concepts, encouraging them to ask questions, and seeing the pride in their eyes when they succeed has shown me the importance of education as more than just a personal achievement—it is a way to inspire and support others. These experiences solidified my desire to pursue elementary education, so I can not only teach academic skills but also help children develop confidence, curiosity, and resilience. Being a first-generation college student comes with challenges, but it also offers a unique perspective. I have had to navigate systems, seek out resources, and push myself beyond comfort zones. These experiences have strengthened my drive and resilience and have taught me the importance of persistence, adaptability, and using one’s voice. I hope to use my education to pave the way for others like me, showing that determination and hard work can overcome barriers, and that first-generation students can thrive and make a difference. The legacy I hope to leave is one of empowerment, mentorship, and impact. I want to inspire students to believe in their potential, regardless of their background. I want to create classrooms where students feel valued, challenged, and supported—spaces where they can develop the skills to succeed academically and personally. Beyond the classroom, I aim to contribute to my community by advocating for equitable education and providing guidance to students and families navigating the educational system. Ultimately, I hope my journey will demonstrate that education is not just about earning a degree; it is about using knowledge and opportunity to uplift others and create lasting positive change. In conclusion, education is important to me because it empowers me to break boundaries, support others, and create a meaningful impact. The legacy I hope to leave is one of inspiration and service—a reminder that knowledge, dedication, and compassion can transform lives. By investing in my education, I am investing in a future where I can make a tangible difference in the lives of students, my community, and beyond.

One moment that really shaped how I think about my voice happened in my college public speaking course. I had prepared for a major test where we had to give a speech in front of the class, and I thought I was ready. But when the day came, everything went wrong. I stumbled over my words, forgot key points, and my nerves got the best of me. By the end of the speech, I felt embarrassed and defeated. When I got my grade back, I had failed the test. I left the classroom feeling frustrated and doubting myself, wondering if I was even capable of improving. At first, I wanted to give up, to avoid speaking in front of others entirely. But then I reminded myself why I was taking the class in the first place—to grow, to challenge myself, and to become someone who could communicate clearly. I realized that failure wasn’t the end; it was part of the process. I decided to keep practicing, to learn from my mistakes, and to focus on progress rather than perfection. I stayed after class for feedback, rehearsed my speeches multiple times, and worked on managing my nerves. Slowly, my confidence began to grow, and I started to see that my voice mattered—not just in front of the class, but in everything I said and did. This experience taught me that communication isn’t about being perfect; it’s about showing up, learning from mistakes, and being willing to keep trying even when it feels uncomfortable. I learned that failure can be a teacher, and that courage often means speaking up even when you are scared or unsure. The experience also taught me patience—with myself and with others—because confidence is not something that happens overnight. I plan to carry this lesson into my future as a teacher. I want to create a classroom where students feel safe to take risks, make mistakes, and speak up without fear of judgment. I want to encourage them to keep trying, just like I had to, and to celebrate progress as much as achievement. I also hope to show them that using your voice is not always easy, but it is powerful, and that perseverance in communication can build confidence and open doors for the future. Failing that test was difficult, but it became one of the most important lessons I have learned about resilience, courage, and growth. It showed me that confidence is built step by step, and that using your voice—even when it feels scary—can have a lasting impact. I want to inspire my future students to embrace their voices, take risks, and believe in their own ability to overcome challenges, just as I did.

Growing up on the Mississippi Gulf Coast and spending most of my life in the Pascagoula area, I’ve always felt connected to my community. It’s where I went to school, where I volunteered, and where I discovered my love for helping young children learn. As an Elementary Education major with a minor in Psychology, I have seen how early education can shape a child’s future. If I were given the opportunity to improve my community, I would focus on expanding educational support for young students, especially in early elementary grades. I believe that when children are supported academically and emotionally from the beginning, the entire community benefits. One of the biggest needs I’ve noticed through volunteering at Central Elementary, Eastlawn Elementary, and interning at Arlington Elementary is that many young students aren’t getting enough one-on-one help. Teachers do the best they can, but classrooms are often full, and some children require more time, patience, and personal attention to really understand the material. Many parents work long or late hours, and even though they care deeply about their children, they may not always have the time or confidence to help with homework every night. This leaves many students trying to catch up without the support they need. Because of this, I would create an after-school tutoring and mentorship program designed specifically for K–3rd grade students. The program would focus on reading, basic math, and social-emotional skills—areas that are essential for long-term academic success. Volunteers would include college students, high school students earning service hours, retired teachers, and other community members who want to help. This would not only support young children academically, but also bring the community together through service and connection. I would also add literacy circles, where students get to choose fun, age-appropriate books and practice reading with others. This helps build confidence, improves fluency, and encourages children to see reading as something enjoyable instead of stressful. In addition, I would host occasional family learning nights. These events would teach parents simple strategies they can use at home, like practicing sight words, reading together for 15 minutes, or using everyday activities to build math skills. Many parents want to help—they just aren’t sure how. Giving them tools and confidence would strengthen families as well. This work matters to me because I have seen the difference that the right support can make. During my time assisting in a 1st-grade classroom, I watched students light up when a concept finally “clicked” simply because someone took the time to explain it differently or work with them one-on-one. I also saw how easily a student can fall behind if they don’t have that support. Those experiences inspired me to want to be the type of educator who gives children both knowledge and encouragement, inside and outside the classroom. Improving my community matters because this is home. It’s where I grew up, and it’s where I want to give back. By supporting young learners, we strengthen families, increase confidence in children, and help build a brighter future. When we invest in kids early, we’re not just helping them succeed in school—we’re helping the entire community grow stronger for generations to come.

Growing up in Pascagoula, Mississippi, I witnessed firsthand the challenges that many families in my community face, including limited access to resources and opportunities. Being a first-generation college student has shaped the way I view education and my future career goals. I understand that I am paving a path not only for myself but also for my family and for others who may look up to me as an example of what is possible. This experience has influenced my decision to pursue a career in Elementary Education because I want to give children the tools and encouragement they need to succeed, regardless of their background. I know how impactful a supportive teacher can be in a child's life, especially when they come from communities like mine, where educational resources may be limited. My goal is to create classrooms that inspire confidence and provide a strong foundation for lifelong learning. Being a first-generation student has also taught me the value of perseverance, dedication, and community support. These lessons drive me to work hard every day to make sure I reach my goal and to ensure that the children I teach have opportunities to thrive, grow, and reach their fullest potential always.

I chose to pursue a career in Early Childhood Education because I have always been passionate about helping children grow, learn, and reach their full potential. From a young age, I understood the importance of nurturing curiosity, creativity, and confidence in children. I believe that the early years of a child's life are the most critical for laying the foundation for their future success, and I want to be a teacher who ensures every child feels values, heard, and encouraged. Early Childhood education is not just about teaching academics; it is about shaping the way children see themselves, how they interact with the world, and how they approach challenges. I want to be part of that transformative process, helping children develop a love for learning and the confidence to explore their interests. My plan to support early childhood development is by creating a classroom that is both nurturing and stimulating, where children can feel safe to express themselves and explore new ideas. I aim to foster a learning environment that balances academic growth with emotional and social development. Teaching children how to manage emotions, collaborate, with peers, and problem-solves is just as important as teaching them how to read, write, or count. I want to encourage children to ask questions, try new things, and embrace their creativity, helping them build self-confidence and resilience along the way. By actively listening to each child and understanding their unique needs, I can support their individual growth and help them develop the skills necessary to succeed both inside and outside the classroom. Encouraging the values of honesty, curiosity, and creativity helps children become independent thinkers who can communicate their ideas clearly and confidently. I plan to support early childhood development by integrating different activities. Ultimately, I chose this field because I want to make a meaningful and lasting impact on children during the most formative years of their lives. Supporting early childhood development would not just be a career for me. It is a purpose. I am committed to creating classrooms where children feel empowered, inspired, and confident to grow into capable, compassionate, and curious individuals. I want to be a teacher who helps children believe in themselves, discover their potential, and develop the skills they need to thrive in the future. Through my work in early childhood education, I plan to make a difference in the lives of children and positively influence the generations that come after them.

My name is TaRyah Riley, and I am an African American female attending Alabama State University, where I am majoring in Early Childhood Education. I come from a low-income family, and I am a first-generation college student. Growing up in the South of Mississippi (The Mississippi Gulf Coast), I always understood the importance of education, but I also saw how many children in my community lacked the support and opportunities they needed to succeed. That reality is what motivates me to become a teacher who makes a difference for children who come from similar backgrounds as I. During high school, I interned at Arlington Elementary School, where I spent four hours each day assisting in a first-grade classroom. I helped students with reading, writing, and classroom activities while learning how to connect with each child's needs and learning styles. That experience taught me that teaching goes beyond lessons; it's about patience, understanding, and creating a safe space for children can grow. The experience gave me hands-on experience working with children and made me realize how much of an impact a caring and dedicated teacher can have on students' lives. My goal is to become an early childhood educator who gives students the attention, support, and encouragement they deserve. I want to create a classroom where every child feels valued and capable of doing great things. I want to be the kind teacher who inspires confidence, kindness, and a love for learning in my students. Right now, I am proud to be attending Alabama State University, an HBCU that truly changed me in so many ways. Attending a historically black college has given me a new sense of confidence, purpose, and pride in who I am as a black woman. It has helped me grow and look at life differently. The people, culture, and energy on campus have reminded me that I belong in spaces that celebrate and uplift me. Even if I ever reached a point where I could not afford to stay at my current school, I would still choose an HBCU every single time. Being surrounded by people who share similar backgrounds and goals has been life-changing and has pushed me to keep going, even when things get hard. This scholarship would relieve the financial stress that comes with being a college student. It would allow me to continue to focus on my education at Alabama State University, my classroom experience, and the dream I'm going to continue to work so hard to reach.

The first time I visited Alabama State University, I knew it was the place for me. Walking through campus, I felt the sense of belonging. The students dedication to each other, the emphasis of faith and Christianity values, and the energy of a community that pushes through challenges together spoke to my heart. I watched younger students, not much older than myself, striving just as hard to achieve their goals. Their focus, determination, and joy, made me feel inspired and all at home at once. I want to become an elementary teacher because I believe in the power of education to transform lives. I want to create a space for children of any color and ages to feel safe, values and encouraged. Teaching is my way to give back to the black community and helping the next generation to succeed, just as so many of my mentors have helped me. Being black means carrying a legacy of resilience, pride, and community. It means embracing our history and using our opportunities to uplift others. Attending a Historically Black College/University allows me to learn in a space that celebrates Black excellence, faith and perseverance while preparing me to make a meaningful impact.

I have been a part of my church family since the day I was born. In fact, my pastor was even present at my birth, which makes my connection to the church something very personal and deeply rooted. Growing up in that environment has shaped who I am, not just spiritually, but also as a person who values service, leadership, and giving back. My church has never been just a place of worship for me—it has been a foundation that taught me how to serve others with love and purpose. One of the most memorable parts of my journey has been praise dancing. From a young age, I expressed my faith and joy through dance, and it became more than just a performance—it was a way to minister to others. I realized that serving does not always look like handing out food or organizing donations; sometimes, it’s about uplifting people’s spirits and sharing positivity in creative ways. Praise dancing gave me the chance to do that, and it showed me how service can come from using the gifts God has given me. My role in the church grew even further when I became a youth leader. At first, I wasn’t sure if I was ready for that responsibility, but it turned out to be one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Being a youth leader taught me how to guide, encourage, and support younger members of the church. I learned to listen, to set a good example, and to be patient. This role also helped me become more confident in myself, and it gave me leadership skills that I now carry into every area of my life. Another way I have served through my church is by volunteering at Vacation Bible Study, which is one of our biggest annual events. This program brings children together to learn, grow, and connect, and I’ve always loved being part of it. Whether I was helping with activities, assisting the teachers, or simply being a positive role model for the kids, I felt the importance of pouring back into the next generation. Through VBS, I saw firsthand how my service could inspire joy and faith in children, which motivated me even more to continue giving back. Beyond these specific roles, being raised in the church has shaped the way I approach all forms of service. My pastor and church family have always emphasized that service is not about being noticed, but about being faithful and compassionate. Whether I am helping at church, volunteering in schools, or assisting at community events, I carry that mindset with me. Serving others has become second nature because it was instilled in me from the very beginning. Most importantly, my church has given me a sense of purpose in serving. It has shown me that service can come in many forms—whether it’s dancing, leading, teaching, or simply lending a helping hand. Each opportunity has helped me grow in character, patience, and love. I’ve learned that even the smallest acts of kindness can have a lasting impact, and that giving back is not just something you do—it’s a way of life. In conclusion, my lifelong involvement in my church has shaped my heart for service. From praise dancing to leading the youth, to helping with Vacation Bible Study, every experience has taught me lessons I will carry forever. My church has not only guided me spiritually but has also prepared me to serve my community with love, humility, and purpose. It has built in me a lifelong commitment to uplifting others, wherever life takes me.

I was born and raised on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, and I take great pride in calling this place home. The Gulf Coast has taught me about strength, independence, and the value of community. Growing up in Pascagoula, Mississippi, I saw both the struggles and the determination that make this area unique. These experiences inspired me to pursue a career where I can give back and make a real difference -- through education. Graduating from Pascagoula High School, I chose to further my education at Alabama State University, where I plan to major in Elementary Education and minor in Psychology. I chose Alabama State because it is a Historically Black University that I believe will support both my professional and personal growth. I'm excited to be in an environment where I can continue learning about myself while preparing for a career I am passionate about. During high school, I had the opportunity to intern at Arlington Elementary School as a teacher assistant in a first-grade classroom. I worked there for five hours each school day, gaining hands-on experience supporting students and helping the teacher with daily lessons. That internship confirmed my passion for teaching and learning. In addition to my internship, I also completed over 100 volunteer hours at Central Elementary School and Eastlawn Elementary, both in Pascagoula. Whether it was helping a student sound out words or giving encouragement during a rough day, I saw the power of small actions in shaping a child's confidence and success. After graduating from Alabama State University, I plan to return to Mississippi Gulf Coast and teach in a public elementary school. I want to work in a community like the one I grew up in. Where students may face challenges but have big dreams. I want to be the kind of teacher who helps students believe in themselves, who creates a classroom that feels like a second home, who never gives up on them and to help them beyond just learning academics. Eventually, I may explore becoming a school counselor or taking on a leadership role in education. But no matter what, my focus will always be helping children succeed and supporting schools in my home state. I believe in education is one of the strongest tools for change, and I want to use it to build a stronger future for Mississippi. Receiving this scholarship would help me move forward without worrying about the financial stress of college. It would allow me to stay focused on my goals and return home with the tools I need to make a real impact. I'm proud of where I come from, and I'm committed to making a difference right here on the Gulf Coast.