Georgia is a state rich in higher educational opportunities catering to a wide range of interests. There are several Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) for those seeking community. There are diverse technical colleges for those focused on a particular trade. There are a lot of community colleges for those with financial need. There are many top ranked state and private schools for those seeking prestige. There are even specialized colleges for particular interests, like mine, the arts. These opportunities have given Georgia students the freedom of choice in how we shape our academic journeys and future career goals. The flexibility and variety of educational experiences is the highlight of Georgia’s educational opportunities. As a passionate visual arts student, I’m grateful that Georgia has several colleges with strong and diverse art programs. I’m born and raised in Atlanta, and I can’t imagine living anywhere else. It’s assuring to know that from the comfort of my own home, I can seek quality education for my passion. I can attend an HBCU, like Spelman College or Clark Atlanta University. I can attend a state school, such as Georgia State University or Kennesaw State University. Or I can attend a top ranked private art college, like Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). Any of these universities, and more, offer impressive curriculums that assist students in building unique creative expressions with tried and true technical skills. Their students are set up for success in any of the artistic fields they’re trained in. I’ve been blessed to be accepted to all five, but SCAD is my dream school. I was drawn by the large diversity of majors and global opportunities. But the availability of these diverse programs has given me a sense of direction and confidence when planning my academic journey. My future goals of inspiring others through my art have always felt attainable; however, it does come with some stress. A significant cause of stress for many students, including myself, is the rising cost of education. While there are many financial aid options for Georgia residents, the cost over the available aid compared to most household incomes makes higher education feel more like a luxury than a necessity. And although scholarships can help, many students, between keeping up their grades and having jobs, don’t have time to fill out a lot of applications. Many students are promising and have passions they can’t fully pursue due to finances. This limits how many amazing and educated leaders, workers, and creators Georgia curates. I believe that improving the affordability of higher education is crucial for ensuring that all students have access and Georgia is positioned as a state that produces leaders. A potential solution could be allocating sales tax collected from the purchase of school supplies to fund financial aid for Georgia students attending a college in Georgia. This would increase the available aid while not further hurting those families who need that aid with a tax increase. Georgia's variety of educational opportunities has heavily influenced my academic journey and career aspirations. However, addressing the financial barriers to education is essential in ensuring access to education for all promising students. Through tax money being specifically set aside for financial aid, I hope the educational opportunities within Georgia become more financially attainable for future Georgia students.

As a little Black girl growing up with big dreams, dozens of papers filled with doodles, and a box of broken crayons, “The Princess and the Frog” movie meant the world to me. I was 2.5 years old when I first saw it in the theater on the release day. My mom said it was the first movie I watched from beginning to end in one viewing. As soon as she could, my mom bought the DVD so I could watch it anytime I wanted. Besides the humor and the magic of Disney, and sharing a similar name with the lead, I kept watching the movie for two reasons. One, the art style was beautiful. The art fully engrossed me into the world of the film and had a prominent personality. It stood apart from other films released around the same time. Two, there was a natural sense of diversity within the film. I felt represented in the best way and little me could see myself as a hardworking and smart princess. This movie shaped what I wanted to create for the world and for my community. “The Princess and the Frog” was the second to last Disney movie to be animated in 2-D. Since 2011, Disney has stuck to 3-D animation for their major films. While 3-D animation is beautiful, the distinct personalities and art styles once seen as standard in animated films have slowly dwindled away. I want to revive the big media usage of 2-D animation. I grew up with other Disney films that were amazing in story-telling and had beautiful art, such as “Tangled” and “Moana.” However, it was “The Princess and the Frog” that stayed on repeat in my home. I hope to bring back the magic of 2-D animation to inspire someone just like me growing up with a new and different style to look at compared to what is available, while also introducing them to the nostalgia of an art style from the past. The diversity of the movie was amazing. The research put into the look and culture of New Orleans and of African Americans shined through and I felt well represented. Although I’m not from New Orleans, being a southern African American girl a similar complexion to Tiana, it meant a lot to see myself on screen. It made me feel like I could dream big too. This led me to my big dream of wanting to share this feeling to others who are under- or mis-represented. Many usages of diversity today feel forced and not accurate. It seems like the characters are checking a box instead of being an authentic part of the story. I purposefully avoid this when writing my own stories and designing my own characters. Whether it is a character with a disability, LGBTIQ+ identity, ethnicity, or other, I want those in that community to feel how I felt when I watched Tiana. Overall, “The Princess and the Frog” is a generationally great movie, and even at a young age I recognized the impact it had on me. The art dazzled me and the representation inspired me. The movie still means a lot to me and has helped shape my future goals. I started creating my own characters and stories only a couple years later and still do. Now, as I plan to attend Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) for the upcoming fall semester, I’m seeing my big dreams become a reality. I hope to inspire others from different walks of life the same way “The Princess and the Frog” inspired me.

A trance describes it best. I was glued to the couch in awe as “Tom and Jerry: Classics Collections” captured my attention, which wasn't easy for a preschooler struggling with ADHD. Starting young, I'd draw characters and give them a voice. Becoming more than just a hobby, it's now a powerful exploration of my dreams and talents. I hope to hone my skills through a robust collegiate art program with the help of the Sunshine Legall Scholarship. Being inspired by seemingly mundane objects, like a paperclip or a bracelet, is how my character-designing process usually begins. I then give them a voice by crafting complex narratives, exploring my characters’ origin stories, environments, and motivations. By embracing cultural nuances, I strive to give a voice to a variety of communities who often go unheard by representing them authentically in my art. I approach my craft with the knowledge that art can spark conversations, inspire empathy, and celebrate diversity. I’m committed to making a difference in the world, and giving a voice to the voiceless, one character at a time. In addition to being influenced by my love of art, volunteering at HeadCount has opened my eyes to how many people are reluctant to use their voices when it comes to voting. At HeadCount, my role is to ensure that people are registered to vote and guide those who are not through the registration process. In my experience, I’ve encountered many adults who hesitate to even register to vote, especially those affected by systemic racism. This deep issue complicates the voting process and deters many from participating in what should be a fundamental right. Despite the importance of using our voices to create a community that is cohesive, I find that many individuals, especially in BIPOC communities, lack awareness of the significance of voting. Our voices are often silenced, which makes the opportunity to vote even more crucial. I believe that fighting for our right to vote will create long-term benefits for our communities. It’s essential that we research and vote in elections because our votes are the loudest way of advocating for ourselves and our communities. Through my experience, I’ve come to realize that education about the voting process and why it matters, how to register, and when to vote, is more necessary than ever. By continuing to volunteer at HeadCount, I hope to help more people register and engage in the electoral process as time goes on. I hope to contribute to advocating for BIPOC communities by voting when I am of age and using my art to ensure BIPOC-community concerns and needs are heard and addressed. My academic goal is to major in illustration and minor in creative writing. A huge source of stress for me is affording this necessary step of my journey. This scholarship will help me be able to focus my energy on further developing my talent so that I’m able to showcase my passion in a way others will hopefully see the beauty and magic of visual storytelling that I fell in love with as a little girl. Who knows, maybe there is a little one waiting to be glued to their couch in a trance watching something I create with awe.

Growing up in a single-parent household, there were constant financial struggles, despite not fully understanding the extent of them as a child. My early years were filled with the magic of picture books and cartoons, transporting me to worlds beyond my imagination. This ignited a passion for the arts. My mom could only afford the basic art supplies, but the basics were all I needed. Unfortunately for her, I once used them to draw a dinosaur on my bedroom floor while watching a show where drawings came to life. This love for art served as both an escape and inspiration, especially during a particularly difficult time when I experienced homelessness my last year of elementary school. During that year, we moved from one temporary home to another. Luckily, we always had the support of a loving extended family and close friends, and being grounded spiritually. While I was fortunate to have those emotional safe guards, the experience deepened my understanding of financial adversity and its impact. In the shows and films I’d watch, I often sought reflections of my own experiences. The moments when I’d see parts of myself in characters brought me a sense of hope. It made me realize how powerful representation can be for those feeling voiceless or unseen, and this fueled my desire to create art that could uplift and empower others in similar situations. I want to provide that same emotional support I’d received, offering a light to those navigating their own life struggles at a young age. At the end of middle school is when I started taking my art seriously. I started seeing it as a future profession instead of just a hobby. My mom has been very supportive and tries her best to get me involved in many opportunities to strengthen my skills and gain exposure. I won many art-related contests in 4-H in middle school and various art-related contests in high school. I now serve as President of my school's National Art Honor Society chapter. My most proud achievements are receiving a full scholarship to Savannah College of Art and Design’s summer program two years in a row and recently being awarded Georgia Scholastic Press Association's Superior Artwork for my artwork in my school's literary magazine, “Echo.” I also didn't allow my circumstances to stop me from achieving academic excellence. I qualified for the Talented and Gifted classification for my county the same year I experienced homelessness. I have maintained a 4.0 throughout high school, in the dual magnet program with the concentrations of visual/graphic arts and math/science. Most of my classes have been honors, accelerated, Advanced Placement, or college Dual Enrollment courses. I scored a superscore of 26 on the ACT and 1180 on the SAT. And I've been named Student of the Week and Student of the Month. Although financial constraints still limit me, commitment to my education and self-improvement drives me. However, it’s getting more difficult to not be hindered by economic limitations. Attending college will provide me the knowledge necessary to hone my craft and transform my passion into a career that’ll contribute to a better society. I aim to create characters with stories of resilience and hope, connecting individuals through shared experiences. With funding from the Achieve Potential Scholarship, I can focus on my studies without the burden of financial stress. The adversity I’ve faced has shaped my aspirations and solidified my commitment to using my voice through art. Ultimately, my goal is to create representation in the arts that contributes to healing, inspiring hope, and bringing joy to those who need it most.

Growing up in a single-parent household, there were constant financial struggles, despite not fully understanding the extent of them as a child. My early years were filled with the magic of picture books and cartoons, transporting me to worlds beyond my imagination. This ignited a passion for the arts. My mom could only afford the basic art supplies, but the basics were all I needed. Unfortunately for her, I once used them to draw a dinosaur on my bedroom floor while watching a show where drawings came to life. This love for art served as both an escape and inspiration, especially during a particularly difficult time when I experienced homelessness my last year of elementary school. During that year, we moved from one temporary home to another. Luckily, we always had the support of a loving extended family and close friends. While I was fortunate to have that emotional safe guard, the experience deepened my understanding of financial adversity and its impact. In the shows and films I’d watch, I often sought reflections of my own experiences. The moments when I’d see parts of myself in characters brought me a sense of hope. It made me realize how powerful representation can be for those feeling voiceless or unseen, and this fueled my desire to create art that could uplift and empower others in similar situations. I want to provide that same emotional support I’d received, offering a light to those navigating their own life struggles at a young age. At the end of middle school is when I started taking my art seriously. I started seeing it as a future profession instead of just a hobby. My mom has been very supportive and tries her best to get me involved in many opportunities to strengthen my skills and gain exposure. I won many art-related contests in 4-H in middle school and various art-related contests in high school. I now serve as the President of my high school’s National Art Honor Society (NAHS). My most proud achievements are receiving a full scholarship to Savannah College of Art and Design’s summer program two years in a row and being awarded Georgia Scholastic Press Association's Superior Artwork for my artwork in my school’s literary magazine, “Echo.” But my most impactful accomplishment is leading my NAHS chapter. Serving as NAHS President has enriched my leadership skills. At the beginning of the year, while my fellow officers showed potential, many struggled to embrace their roles. I recognized that with guidance and support, we could transform into a cohesive team. By understanding each officer’s strengths and weaknesses, I assigned tasks that utilized their abilities, creating a trusting and collaborative environment. For example, I encouraged an officer who excelled in creativity to focus on the artistic elements of our events while assigning organizational tasks to others who thrived with logistics. As we worked together, my peers became more confident and engaged leaders, learning to effectively run events and inspire participation. Witnessing their growth has been rewarding, and I am excited to see how the skills we've developed contribute to the success of the chapter long-term. Although financial constraints still limit me, commitment to my education and self-improvement drives me. I aim to create characters with stories of resilience and hope, connecting individuals through shared experiences. With funding from the Resilient Scholar Award, I can focus on my studies without the burden of financial stress. Ultimately, my goal is to create representation in the arts that contributes to healing, inspiring hope, and bringing joy to those who need it most.

The biggest struggle I’ve faced as a student is my neurodivergence, specifically being diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and generalized anxiety. These conditions feed off of each other and significantly impact my academic life, both inside and outside the classroom, as well as my mental health. Although I’ve been able to manage them better after understanding my diagnosis and obtaining accommodations, I still struggle with taking notes, meeting assignment deadlines, taking tests, and my self-esteem. In class, I’m easily distracted and find my focus slipping away constantly. A smell sparks a thought to wander to dinner. All of a sudden, I find myself wondering how to pronounce “Worcestershire” sauce; from there, I question who invented it and what it’s actually made of. By the time the bell rings, I’ve only managed to write down a few words in my notes to accompany a bunch of doodling because art has always been a source of comfort for me. At home with sparse notes, I now face the task of completing my homework or studying. Before I know it, now it’s close to midnight and I’m frantically trying to finish my homework and/or studying to get ready for bed. In high school it has been even harder because I have to wake up earlier and get home later than most of my peers. Due to being a dual magnet student and bussing in from a different school zone, my commute is around 1 hour each way. And taking tests, especially standardized tests, seems impossible. I frequently run out of time because the slightest noise or movement sends my mind wondering. And then not being able to multitask easily bores me leading my imagination to come to the “rescue.” Because I’m constantly the last one still working on the test, my anxiety then kicks in as EVERYone seems to be staring at and whispering about me holding up them being able to leave. This cycle has been my educational life from pre-school on. It has led to my struggles with mental health and self-confidence. However, after being diagnosed, obtaining accommodations, and getting help from my family, teachers, and mental health counselor, I’ve made a significant improvement in being able to manage it. Although I still encounter challenges, especially with standardized testing and my self-esteem, I’m slowly learning how to navigate an educational environment that isn’t suited for learners like me and a world that seems often against me. I’m determined to embrace my neurodivergence and mental health struggles, turning them into a source of strength and inspiration rather than barriers to my success. Because I know how it feels, I help others by lending an ear. When I go to someone to express myself, they usually try to come up with a solution. But I often don’t want one. I know they’re just trying to help me, but it’s frustration to not be able to just get something off my chest. Although I’m not a licensed therapist, I know what it means to just want someone to listen. I pride myself on making others feel seen and heard. I don’t always have that, so I want to be that for others.

CREATING LIFE A trance is the best word I could use to describe it. There I was, glued to the couch in awe as I watched something that captured ALL of my attention…which was pretty hard to do for a toddler struggling with ADHD. Little did I know, this moment was an omen revealing the course my life would take. Although I could’ve been watching any new show for kids my age; instead, I was mesmerized by the timeless “Tom and Jerry.” Not even the newer version, the “Classics Collection” is what commanded my full concentration. Of course, I didn’t have the words to describe it at the time, but it was the way the show visually and audibly conveyed plot and character that won me over. With strictly 2-D animation to dazzle the eyes and classical music to shore up emotions, from a very young age I knew that’s what I wanted to do. Before I could read, I had an art desk fully stocked with every age-appropriate art supply available, to be replenished every birthday and Christmas. Unfortunately for my mom, at 4 years old I drew a 5’ x 3’ brontosaurus across my bedroom floor carpet in marker after watching a tv show where drawings came to life. She was of course livid, but she says she had to hold in how impressed she was at how well I had drawn it at my age, especially considering the scale and medium. Why, of all creatures, I wanted a dinosaur to come to life in my bedroom I couldn’t tell you. Drawing wasn’t the only artistic interest that I showed early on. I also thoroughly enjoyed creating narratives, usually using my dolls and stuffed animals as actors. Another story my mom tells every chance you give her, also at 4 years old and while at pre-school, I would perform puppet shows so enthralling one of the teachers enthusiastically told my mom that she needed to get me in acting and/or puppetry art classes because she was so impressed by how invested she was in my stories. My mom laughs to this day at how serious she was and how much she said she looked forward to hearing and watching my shows. As I entered my elementary school years, I would continue to use my art supplies to create my own characters and/or story lines. From the intricate relationships between my Barbie and Ken dolls, including a few cheating scandals, to the graphic novels I created for Character Day on Halloween each year because I didn’t own a book of the character I wanted to come dressed as and we were required to bring a book to school to match our costume. My trademark was always ending my stories in a cliffhanger to be picked up for the next time I played or in anticipation of the next book. Near the end of elementary school and going into middle school is when film became more important to me. I valued the beauty of the visuals, the complexity of the characters and the dynamic interactions between them, the plot and its twists, and the way each movie in cinematic universes such as Marvel would feel like a puzzle piece connecting it to the next movie and to previous movies. I even thought I wanted to be an actress for a while. My first role was an extra in an independent film of a student at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) for her senior project. I would go on to be an extra in several other films, including Marvel’s “Ant Man and The Wasp” and “Uncle Drew,” and tv series like ABC’s “Dynasty” and FaceBook TV’s “Queen America.” When I reached the end of my middle school years and started high school, I realized the pull to illustrate my own characters and create their unique stories were just too strong and completely overshadowed any interest I had in acting. Now, I yearn for the age of 2-D animation again. In a world where 3-D animation is dominant in the industry, I miss the magic of 2-D animation and the feeling films like “The Chipmuck Adventure” and “The Princess and the Frog” gave me even after the umpteenth time watching them. I decided illustration and character and world developing would be the best way to express myself. Throughout high school, I always lose track of time sketching characters, writing their back stories, and theorizing about different plots with them. When I’m stuck on a part of a test or homework assignment, or my ADD gets the better of me, I doodle in the margins. I don’t go anywhere without a sketch pad…or turning something into one. No matter where I go from here, I know my characters will follow.

The biggest mental health struggle that I’ve faced is dealing with my neurodivergence, specifically being diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and generalized anxiety. These conditions feed off of each other and significantly impact my academic life, both inside and outside the classroom, and my self-esteem. Although I’ve been able to manage them better after understanding my diagnosis and obtaining accommodations, I still struggle with taking notes, meeting assignment deadlines, and taking tests. In class, I’m easily distracted and find my focus slipping away constantly. A smell sparks a thought to wander to dinner. All of a sudden, I find myself wondering how to pronounce “Worcestershire” sauce; from there, I question who invented it and what it’s actually made of. By the time the bell rings, I’ve only managed to write down a few words in my notes to accompany a bunch of doodling because art has always been a source of comfort for me. At home with sparse notes, I now face the task of completing my homework or studying. Before I know it, now it’s close to midnight and I’m frantically trying to finish my homework and/or studying to get ready for bed. In high school it has been even harder because I have to wake up earlier and I get home later than most of my peers. Due to being a dual magnet student and bussing in from a different school zone, my commute is around 1 hour each way. And taking tests, especially standardized tests, seems impossible. I frequently run out of time because the slightest noise or movement sends my mind wondering. Additionally, not being able to multitask easily bores me, leading my imagination to come to the “rescue.” Then, because I’m constantly the last one still working on the test, my anxiety then kicks in as EVERYone seems to be staring at and whispering about me holding up them being able to leave. This cycle has been my educational life from pre-school on. However, after being diagnosed, obtaining accommodations, and getting help from my family, teachers, and mental health counselor, I’ve made a significant improvement in being able to manage it. Although I still encounter challenges, especially with standardized testing, I’m slowly learning how to navigate an educational environment that isn’t suited for learners like me. I’m determined to embrace my neurodivergence, turning it into a source of strength and inspiration rather than a barrier to my success. What my experiences with these struggles have taught me more than anything is to learn to live in the moment. Thinking of all the possibilities in the future and about what I couldn’t change in the past has often almost led me to ruining my present. The future is unknown and the past is gone. The only thing I can do and control is the present, which is exactly where I am. I express the emotions and experiences from my struggles in my art. I’m eager to immerse myself in a robust collegiate art program’s diverse and learned environment; where I hope to contribute as much as I will receive, honing my skills to create unique and authentic visual narratives that resonate and inspire positive change globally. The Camille Donaldson Memorial Scholarship will be a crucial step in helping me gain the opportunity to further my education in the arts, giving me the tools to refine my skills and broaden my knowledge. With these skills, my goal is to help others like me embrace the positives and overcome the negatives of their mental health struggles.

A trance is the best word I could use to describe it. There I was, glued to the couch in awe as I watched something that captured ALL my attention…which was pretty hard to do for a toddler struggling with ADHD. Little did I know, this moment was an omen revealing the course my life would take. Although I could’ve been watching any new show for kids my age; instead, I was mesmerized by the timeless “Tom and Jerry.” Not even the newer version, the “Classics Collection” is what commanded my full concentration. Of course, I didn’t have the words to describe it at the time, but it was the way the show visually and audibly conveyed plot and character that won me over. With strictly 2-D animation to dazzle the eyes and classical music to shore up emotions, from a very young age I knew that’s what I wanted to do. Before I could read, I had an art desk fully stocked with every age-appropriate art supply available, to be replenished every birthday and Christmas. Unfortunately for my mom, I used them to draw a 5’x4’ brontosaurus across my bedroom carpet after watching a show where drawings came to life. Illustration wasn’t the only artistic interest I showed early; I thoroughly enjoyed creating narratives. I would perform puppet shows so enthralling one of my preschool teachers demanded my mom enroll me in puppetry-art classes because she was so invested in my stories. As I entered elementary school, I continued to design characters and construct plotlines. From the intricate relationships between my dolls, including a few cheating scandals, to the graphic novels I created for Halloween any year I didn’t own a book of the character I wanted to come dressed as because we were required to bring a book to school to match our costume...and because I often created my own character. My trademark was always ending my stories on a cliffhanger to be picked up for the next time I played or in anticipation of the next book. Still today, I constantly lose track of time sketching characters, writing their back stories, and theorizing about different scenarios involving them. All my tests and homework have doodles in the margins, and I don’t go anywhere without my sketch pad and iPad Pro. Through a full scholarship to the Savannah College of Art and Design Summer Seminars program two summers in a row, I got a taste of what it would be like to attend college as an art student. It further solidified that this is the path for me. My creations aren’t just a hobby, they are powerful explorations of my dreams. I approach my art knowing it holds the potential to spark conversations, inspire empathy, and celebrate diversity. Although I’m grateful for the consistent support from my mom, no one close to me is an artist, so I’ve never had an artist close to look up to and learn from. By enrolling in a diverse and robust collegiate art program, I hope to connect with students and professors who share my passion for art, enabling me to grow and contribute meaningfully to the art community. I will use funds from the Al Luna Memorial Design Scholarship to further develop my skills so that I’m able to showcase my passion to others and hopefully they too can see the beauty and magic of visual storytelling that I fell in love with as a little girl. Who knows, maybe there is a little one waiting to be glued to the couch in a trance watching something I create with awe.

A trance is the best word I could use to describe it. There I was, glued to the couch in awe as I watched something that captured ALL my attention…which was pretty hard to do for a toddler struggling with ADHD. Little did I know, this moment was an omen revealing the course my life would take. Although I could’ve been watching any new show for kids my age; instead, I was mesmerized by the timeless “Tom and Jerry.” Not even the newer version, the “Classics Collection” is what commanded my full concentration. Of course, I didn’t have the words to describe it at the time, but it was the way the show visually and audibly conveyed plot and character that won me over. With strictly 2-D animation to dazzle the eyes and classical music to shore up emotions, from a very young age I knew that’s what I wanted to do. Before I could read, I had an art desk fully stocked with every age-appropriate art supply available, to be replenished every birthday and Christmas. Unfortunately for my mom, I used them to draw a 5’x4’ brontosaurus across my bedroom carpet after watching a show where drawings came to life. Illustration wasn’t the only artistic interest I showed early; I thoroughly enjoyed creating narratives. I would perform puppet shows so enthralling one of my preschool teachers demanded my mom enroll me in puppetry-art classes because she was so invested in my stories. As I entered elementary school, I continued to design characters and construct plotlines. From the intricate relationships between my dolls, including a few cheating scandals, to the graphic novels I created for Halloween any year I didn’t own a book of the character I wanted to come dressed as because we were required to bring a book to school to match our costume...and because I often created my own character. My trademark was always ending my stories on a cliffhanger to be picked up for the next time I played or in anticipation of the next book. Still today, I constantly lose track of time sketching characters, writing their back stories, and theorizing about different scenarios involving them. All my tests and homework have doodles in the margins, and I don’t go anywhere without my sketch pad and iPad Pro. Through a full scholarship to the Savannah College of Art and Design Summer Seminars program two summers in a row, I got a taste of what it would be like to attend college as an art student. It further solidified that this is the path for me. My creations aren’t just a hobby, they are powerful explorations of my dreams. I approach my art knowing it holds the potential to spark conversations, inspire empathy, and celebrate diversity. Although I’m grateful for the consistent support from my mom, no one close to me is an artist, so I’ve never had an artist close to look up to and learn from. By enrolling in a diverse and robust collegiate art program, I hope to connect with students and professors who share my passion for art, enabling me to grow and contribute meaningfully to the art community. I will use funds from the Christal Carter Creative Arts Scholarship to further develop my skills so that I’m able to showcase my passion to others and hopefully they too can see the beauty and magic of visual storytelling that I fell in love with as a little girl. Who knows, maybe there is a little one waiting to be glued to the couch in a trance watching something I create with awe.

Growing up in a single-parent household, there were constant financial struggles, despite not fully understanding the extent of them as a child. My early years were filled with the magic of picture books and cartoons, transporting me to worlds beyond my imagination. This ignited a passion for the arts. My mom could only afford the basic art supplies, but the basics were all I needed. Unfortunately for her, I once used them to draw a dinosaur on my bedroom floor while watching a show where drawings came to life. This love for art served as both an escape and inspiration, especially during a particularly difficult time when I experienced homelessness my last year of elementary school. During that year, we moved from one temporary home to another. Luckily, we always had the support of a loving extended family and close friends, and being grounded spiritually. While I was fortunate to have those emotional safe guards, the experience deepened my understanding of financial adversity and its impact. In the shows and films I’d watch, I often sought reflections of my own experiences. The moments when I’d see parts of myself in characters brought me a sense of hope. It made me realize how powerful representation can be for those feeling voiceless or unseen, and this fueled my desire to create art that could uplift and empower others in similar situations. I want to provide that same emotional support I’d received, offering a light to those navigating their own life struggles at a young age. At the end of middle school is when I started taking my art seriously. I started seeing it as a future profession instead of just a hobby. My mom has been very supportive and tries her best to get me involved in many opportunities to strengthen my skills and gain exposure. I won many art-related contests in 4-H in middle school, various art-related contests in high school, and now serve as the President of NSHS’s National Art Honor Society. My most proud achievements are receiving a full scholarship to Savannah College of Art and Design’s summer program two years in a row and recently being awarded Georgia Scholastic Press Association's Superior Artwork for my work on NSHS’s literary magazine, “Echo.” I also didn't allow my circumstances to stop me from achieving academic excellence. I qualified for the Talented and Gifted classification for my county the same year I experienced homelessness. I have maintained a 4.0 throughout high school, in the dual magnet program with the concentrations of visual/graphic arts and math/science. Most of my classes have been honors, accelerated, Advanced Placement, or college Dual Enrollment courses. I scored a superscore of 26 on the ACT and 1180 on the SAT. And I've been named Student of the Week and Student of the Month. Although financial constraints still limit me, commitment to my education and self-improvement drives me. However, it’s getting more difficult to not be hindered by economic limitations. Attending college will provide me the knowledge necessary to hone my craft and transform my passion into a career that’ll contribute to a better society. I aim to create characters with stories of resilience and hope, connecting individuals through shared experiences. With funding from the Chidubé Bobby Lee Green, Jr. Nkiruka Memorial Scholarship, I can focus on my studies without the burden of financial stress. The adversity I’ve faced has shaped my aspirations and solidified my commitment to using my voice through art. Ultimately, my goal is to create representation in the arts that contributes to healing, inspiring hope, and bringing joy to those who need it most.

Growing up in a single-parent household, there were constant financial struggles, despite not fully understanding the extent of them as a child. My early years were filled with the magic of picture books and cartoons, transporting me to worlds beyond my imagination. This ignited a passion for the arts. My mom could only afford the basic art supplies, but the basics were all I needed. Unfortunately for her, I once used them to draw a dinosaur on my bedroom floor while watching a show where drawings came to life. This love for art served as both an escape and inspiration, especially during a particularly difficult time when I experienced homelessness my last year of elementary school. During that year, we moved from one temporary home to another. Luckily, we always had the support of a loving extended family and close friends. While I was fortunate to have that emotional safe guard, the experience deepened my understanding of financial adversity and its impact. In the shows and films I’d watch, I often sought reflections of my own experiences. The moments when I’d see parts of myself in characters brought me a sense of hope. It made me realize how powerful representation can be for those feeling voiceless or unseen, and this fueled my desire to create art that could uplift and empower others in similar situations. I want to provide that same emotional support I’d received, offering a light to those navigating their own life struggles at a young age. At the end of middle school is when I started taking my art seriously. I started seeing it as a future profession instead of just a hobby. My mom has been very supportive and tries her best to get me involved in many opportunities to strengthen my skills and gain exposure. I won many art-related contests in 4-H in middle school, various art-related contests in high school, and now serve as the President of NSHS’s National Art Honor Society. My most proud achievements are receiving a full scholarship to Savannah College of Art and Design’s summer program two years in a row and recently being awarded Georgia Scholastic Press Association's Superior Artwork for my work on NSHS’s literary magazine, “Echo.” Although financial constraints still limit me, commitment to my education and self-improvement drives me. However, it’s getting more difficult to not be hindered by economic limitations. Attending college will provide me the knowledge necessary to hone my craft and transform my passion into a career that’ll contribute to a better society. I aim to create characters with stories of resilience and hope, connecting individuals through shared experiences. With funding from the Julius Quentin Jackson Scholarship, I can focus on my studies without the burden of financial stress. The adversity I’ve faced has shaped my aspirations and solidified my commitment to using my voice through art. Ultimately, my goal is to create representation in the arts that contributes to healing, inspiring hope, and bringing joy to those who need it most.

I am most inspired by Jack Terry’s success despite the loss of his family. He used the horrific circumstances during his upbringing as fuel to make so many positive contributions to society. Adversity didn’t stop him from living his life to the fullest and aiding others in the process. Although, I’m not particularly interested in the wonders of geological engineering, psychoanalytic, or the military, as he was, I am interested in the arts and how they can be used to influence and motivate people. I hope to create art that inspires people to push past their past, as Jack did. Growing up in a single-parent household, there were constant financial struggles, despite not fully understanding the extent of them as a child. My early years were filled with the magic of picture books and cartoons, transporting me to worlds beyond my imagination. This ignited in me a passion for the arts. My mom could only afford the basic art supplies, but the basics were all I needed. Unfortunately for her, I once used them to draw a dinosaur on my bedroom floor while watching a show where drawings came to life. This love for art served as both an escape and inspiration, especially during a particularly difficult time when I experienced homelessness my last year of elementary school. During that year, we moved from one temporary home to another. Luckily, we always had the support of a loving extended family and close friends. That’s why I was most touched by the fact that Jack lost his family. Without my family, I would’ve really felt the effects of being homeless. While I was fortunate to have that emotional safe guard, the experience deepened my understanding of financial adversity and its impact. To cope, art became a beautiful distraction, and also a beautiful motivation. In the shows and films I’d watch, I often sought reflections of my own experiences. The moments when I’d see parts of myself in characters brought me a sense of hope. It made me realize how powerful representation can be for those feeling voiceless or unseen, and this fueled my desire to create art that could uplift and empower others in similar situations. I want to provide that same emotional support I’d received, offering a light to those navigating their own life struggles at a young age. Although financial constraints still limit me, commitment to my education and self-improvement drives me. However, it’s getting more difficult to not be hindered by economic limitations. Attending college will provide me with the knowledge necessary to hone my craft and transform my passion into a career that’ll contribute to a better society. I aim to create characters with stories of resilience and hope through adversity, like Jack’s story, connecting individuals through shared experiences. With funding from the Jack Terry Memorial Scholarship, I can focus on my studies without the burden of financial stress. The adversity I’ve faced has shaped my aspirations and solidified my commitment to using my voice through art. Ultimately, my goal is to create representation in the arts that contributes to healing, inspiring hope, and bringing joy to those who need it most.

Death to Bliss The death of my childhood marks the end of my blissful ignorance. One of my favorite digital art pieces that I have created is titled, “Death to Bliss.” It represents my perspective on the current state of America. As I’ve grown up, I’ve become increasingly more aware of the complexities of the world around me. While that is a crucial aspect of growing up, I often miss the simplicity and magic of my youth. My nostalgia is refreshed whenever I immerse myself in animated films crafted with love and passion. Animation ignited my passion for the arts and provided an escape from the harsh realities of experiencing homelessness and the state of economic turmoil within America at the time I was becoming of age. In a society where I often feel so helpless politically, I aspire to empower others through representation in animated film and media. Creating art allows me to visualize my emotions and experiences, ensuring that those who share similar feelings feel heard and understood. In the foreground, there is a calm natural scene juxtaposed with tennis shoes hanging from a tree. In many urban, minority populated areas, shoes hanging from a wire can mean a marker for someone’s death, especially that of a child. In my piece, it signifies a marker for my childhood dying in general; and more specifically, not knowing what this meant as a kid seeing it in the city I grew up, Atlanta, GA, but knowing the grim truth behind it now. The waves represent not only global climate change effecting the weather, but also a reference to Noah’s Ark. The waves represent the need to restart amongst the chaos. The buildings represent industrialization and city life contributing the global climate change through smog. The torn American flag represents my feelings about the direction of the country and how the positive perception of America globally is coming apart at the seams. The intact plane represents that although there is a recent stigma about the increase of plane crashes, it turns out, according to the National Transportation Safety Board, this past year has not had a significant uptick in crashes so far when compared to the period between 2014-2024. Despite that fact, there is a lot of fear centered around traveling due to plane accidents being publicized more than usual. In conclusion, “Death to Bliss,” serves as both a visualization of the US in my perspective and a call to action through which I can advocate for representation, connection, and understanding in a world that often feels divided. Art has the power not just to represent reality, but to inspire change; and it is in this spirit that I vow to continue to create. As a Black girl, it has been challenging to find authentic and appropriate representation of myself in the arts. There's a persistent struggle to amplify our voices within the narratives that shape society. Through my art, I want to carve out a space not only for my own voice, but also for others who resonate with my journey. I hope to inspire kids like me, showing them that a place exists where they can express themselves and be seen for who they truly are. With, “Death to Bliss”, my hope is that this piece, alongside my continued work in art media, can foster a sense of community and understanding among those who view it. Through art, I strive to create a narrative that educates while empowering and uplifting, giving voice to stories often left untold.

As I start, my mind first wandered to the 1st place 4-H metal I received for Project Achievement, after a year of preparation and overcoming public speaking anxiety. This was my first definition of success: having a goal, working hard at it, then accomplishing it. But as time changed, so did I, as did my definition of success. While success has one definition, “accomplishing an aim or a purpose,” I don’t believe how success looks is universal. Usually, when someone is called “successful,” it correlates with material wealth, fame, and/or dominance. I’ve grown to see success as defined by the philosophy Epicureanism. To be happy physically, mentally, and socially would make my life a success. With that successful life I’d inspire the next generation using art. Receiving the Redefining Victory Scholarship, added to the maximum Academic Honors Scholarship I received from my school of choice, would help me achieve it. What’s Epicureanism, you ask? I can assure you it’s not a new method of self-care combining a manicure with a pedicure. It’s actually not new at all; it was developed in 370 BCE by the Greek philosopher, Epicurus. To describe his philosophy in my own words, true happiness is a life in moderation and balance. Being happy all the time is unrealistic, but it’s possible to be content overall. Epicurus spoke on pitfalls of materialism. The natural things that make a person happy provide a sense of peace. His view, and I agree, is that basing success on material gains will never lead to happiness because it’s insatiable. That’s unsuccessful in my eyes. To be physically happy, my body would be healthy, yet I still being able to have “cheat days” on occasion. Limiting myself from all “unhealthy” foods indefinitely wouldn’t make me happy, however indulging without limit wouldn’t either…at least the consequences wouldn’t. The balance I learned from my mom is combining foods I do like with foods I need. Like having a burger with a salad. Another example, working out in moderation. Of course, my body would thank me for the exercise; however, I don’t need to overexert myself by longing of a specific body shape. Maintaining the right balance to be physically happy spills over to my mental wellbeing. Mental wellbeing is a huge part of happiness for me. Positive mental health can be a result of a lot of actions. Learning to let go of past traumas and grievances is a big issue I look to get better at tackling as I mature. Continuing to gain emotional intelligence when it comes to not only my own emotions, but handling those of others is just as important. And being able to recognize when I’m too stressed and need a break versus needing to be more productive and less distracted will serve me well through life. Beyond my own mental health habits, being surrounded socially by likeminded people who have positive mental health habits is another aspect of a successful life in my opinion. Socially, I aspire to have a nontoxic immediate family and positive group of close friends. The health of my family is the most obvious sign that I’ve been successful in my life. Having seen a lot of broken families growing up, including my own, I’d love to break that generational curse and have a loving family unit who stays together. I’ve been blessed to have some great childhood friendships, but they have been few. I look to grow my friendship group as I grow, while strengthening the bonds I currently have. Resilient love and honest friendships cannot be bought with money. Although, money can buy good healthcare and counseling services, the people you love and enjoy spending time with are the ones worth living a good life for. Having people worth living for is the biggest part of what I deem as being successful. Having a balanced, healthy, and happy life not only helps me. My goal is to have a career helping and inspiring others through my creativity and art, especially connecting with children and amplify their voices. I plan to major in illustration and minor in creative writing at Savannah College of Art and Design. A huge source of stress for me is affording this necessary step of my journey. This scholarship will allow me to focus my energy on further developing my talent with one less barrier to my happiness. To conclude, happiness in moderation through the physical, mental and social aspect of life is my definition of success. With a balanced, healthy, and happy life, I hope to inspire others through my art and I’d use this scholarship to do fund my education to do so. Who knows, I may help a generation find their own definition of success and the world will be a better place because of it!

Growing up, whenever my heart would feel something strongly, it would be difficult for me to find the words and confidence to express it. But I could always write or draw how I felt. That came easy. I thank my mom for instilling in me the love of books, because that is what made all the difference in me discovering my voice and myself. Picture books initially inspired me to become an artist. Once I got older, fiction and nonfiction books, overtime, helped improve my vocabulary to better communicate my feelings and gain confidence in doing so. And literacy has not only helped me maintain great grades in school, but has helped me advocate for myself. My first introduction to books was as a toddler. My mom amassed a mini library of children’s books for me to enjoy. Even before I could read, the way picture books visually convey plot and themes helped me comprehend complex ideas. Two of my favorite children’s books with expressive pictures are “please, baby, please,” by Spike Lee and Tonya Lewis Lee and the Sesame Street classic, “The Monster at the End of this Book,” by Jon Stone. The beautiful details drawn in these books, and many other picture books I enjoyed at a very young age, aided my comprehension of the words my mom would read to me at bed time. This was what inspired me to get into drawing my own characters and creating their unique stories. As a child, I would see my mother constantly read news articles and nonfiction books on issues that mattered to her. She would also re-read many of her favorite fiction books she discovered in her youth. Many of them became some of my favorites too, like “Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry,” by Mildred D. Taylor and “The Westing Game,” by Ellen Raskin. And we would discover new books to read together, such as “Children of Blood and Bone,” by Tomi Adeyemi. Every summer, we would visit the library at least once a week, and she would assign books to me, both fiction and nonfiction, that she thought I would be interested in. This influence helped me excel in school despite struggling with ADHD and generalized anxiety. My mom has always been assured and confident in voicing her opinions no matter where she was speaking or who she was speaking to, and always has the research and knowledge to back it up factually. But, because of my anxiety, I found it hard to advocate for myself. Anytime I tried to speak up for myself, I would frequently think what was the point in wasting my energy when no one is listening or cares? So, my safe space was in reading, writing, and drawing. However, I found through books like “The Hate U Give,” by Angie Thomas and “All The Black Girls are Activists,” by ebonyjanice, the push to not give up on myself. “If you are silent about your pain, they’ll kill you and say you enjoyed it.” This quote by Zora Neale Hurston emphasizes the importance of using my words. Self-advocacy is not an easy feat for me; reading books that represented who I was pushed me to grow into who I am. With this award, I would fund my education in illustration and creative writing. I hope to create works of art from my experience growing up that will help kids develop the love of literacy early on, as I did, and it continues for a life time. And I hope little Black girls find my books and are inspired to advocate for themselves.

A trance is the best word I could use to describe it. There I was, glued to the couch in awe as I watched something that captured ALL my attention…which was pretty hard to do for a toddler struggling with ADHD. Little did I know, this moment was an omen revealing the course my life would take. Although I could’ve been watching any new show for kids my age; instead, I was mesmerized by the timeless “Tom and Jerry.” Not even the newer version, the “Classics Collection” is what commanded my full concentration. Of course, I didn’t have the words to describe it at the time, but it was the way the show visually and audibly conveyed plot and character that won me over. With strictly 2-D animation to dazzle the eyes and classical music to shore up emotions, from a very young age I knew that’s what I wanted to do. Before I could read, I had an art desk fully stocked with every age-appropriate art supply available, to be replenished every birthday and Christmas. Unfortunately for my mom, I used them to draw a 5’x4’ brontosaurus across my bedroom carpet after watching a show where drawings came to life. Illustration wasn’t the only artistic interest I showed early; I thoroughly enjoyed creating narratives. I would perform puppet shows so enthralling one of my preschool teachers demanded my mom enroll me in puppetry-art classes because she was so invested in my stories. As I entered elementary school, I continued to design characters and construct plotlines. From the intricate relationships between my dolls, including a few cheating scandals, to the graphic novels I created for Halloween any year I didn’t own a book of the character I wanted to come dressed as because we were required to bring a book to school to match our costume...and because I often created my own character. My trademark was always ending my stories on a cliffhanger to be picked up for the next time I played or in anticipation of the next book. Still today, I constantly lose track of time sketching characters, writing their back stories, and theorizing about different scenarios involving them. All my tests and homework have doodles in the margins, and I don’t go anywhere without my sketch pad and iPad Pro. Through a full scholarship to the Savannah College of Art and Design Summer Seminars program two summers in a row, I got a taste of what it would be like to attend college as an art student. It further solidified that this is the path for me. My creations aren’t just a hobby, they are powerful explorations of my dreams. I approach my art knowing it holds the potential to spark conversations, inspire empathy, and celebrate diversity. Although I’m grateful for the consistent support from my mom, no one close to me is an artist, so I’ve never had an artist close to look up to and learn from. By enrolling in a diverse and robust collegiate art program, I hope to connect with students and professors who share my passion for art, enabling me to grow and contribute meaningfully to the art community. My goal is to further develop my skills so that I’m able to showcase my passion to others and hopefully they too can see the beauty and magic of visual storytelling that I fell in love with as a little girl. Who knows, maybe there is a little one waiting to be glued to the couch in a trance watching something I create with awe.

The biggest educational barrier I’ve faced is my neurodivergence, specifically being diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and generalized social anxiety. These conditions feed off of each other and significantly impact my academic life, both inside and outside the classroom. Although I’ve been able to manage them better after understanding my diagnosis and obtaining accommodations, I still struggle with taking notes, meeting assignment deadlines and taking tests. In class, I’m easily distracted and find my focus slipping away constantly. A smell sparks a thought to wander to dinner. All of a sudden, I find myself wondering how to pronounce “Worcestershire” sauce; from there, I question who invented it and what it’s actually made of. By the time the bell rings, I’ve only managed to write down a few words in my notes to accompany a bunch of doodling because art has always been a source of comfort for me. At home with sparse notes, I now face the task of completing my homework or studying. Before I know it, now it’s close to midnight and I’m frantically trying to finish my homework and/or studying to get ready for bed. In high school it has been even harder because I have to wake up extra early. Due to being a dual magnet student and bussing in from a different school zone, my commute is around 1 hour each way. And taking tests, especially standardized tests, seems impossible. I frequently run out of time because the slightest noise or movement sends my mind wondering. And then not being able to multitask easily bores me leading my imagination to come to the “rescue.” Because I’m constantly the last one still working on the test, my anxiety then kicks in as EVERYone seems to be staring at and whispering about me holding up them being able to leave. This cycle has been my educational life from pre-school on. However, after being diagnosed, obtaining accommodations, and getting help from my family, teachers, and counselors, I’ve made a significant improvement in being able to manage it. Although I still encounter challenges, especially with standardized testing, I’m slowly learning how to navigate an educational environment that isn’t suited for learners like me. I’m determined to embrace my neurodivergence, turning it into a source of strength and inspiration rather than a barrier to my success. I express the emotions and experiences from my experiences and struggles in my art. I’m eager to immerse myself in a robust collegiate art program’s diverse and learned environment; where I hope to contribute as much as I will receive, honing my skills to create unique and authentic visual narratives that resonate and inspire positive change globally. This scholarship will be a crucial step in helping me gain the opportunity to further my education in the arts, giving me the tools to refine my skills and broaden my knowledge. With these skills, my goal is to help others like me embrace the positives and overcome the negatives of their disabilities.

My professional aspiration is to create authentically diverse characters in the film/tv industry. I strive to bringing depth and complexity to representations of underrepresented ethnicities, skin tones and lifestyles. I am driven by the belief that accurate diversity goes beyond the appearance of a character; it entails characters who resonate with audiences through their unique cultures, lifestyles, and personalities. I find inspiration for character designs in the most mundane objects and transform those ideas into characters who reflect the richness of our shared human experience. A key motivation for my artwork is the desire to see accurate and relatable representation on screen. Representation in film and tv has been a critical topic of discussion lately, especially since 2020. While many creators succeed in including diverse characters, often times the execution falls short, resulting in representation that feels more like a checkbox than an authentic portrayal. My focus would be on creating works of visual storytelling that prioritize natural and accurate representation, going beyond mere tokenism to create characters whose identities—be it race, ethnicity, sexuality, or disability—are integral to their narratives. As an African American woman, I find myself frustrated by the lack of depth in characters who are supposed to serve the purpose of representation. I’ve noticed a pattern where characters are reduced to stereotypes that don’t accurately represent the diverse personalities of the minority they’re representing. My goal would be to create stories that include multi-dimensional and relatable characters. Additionally, I’m passionate about addressing the portrayal of different races in varying skin tones. It’s very common for many African Americans, Asians, and those who are ethnically Hispanic to be depicted with lighter skin tones primarily. This not only impacts how these communities are perceived but also affects self-image among individuals who don’t fit these limited representations. I aim to challenge this norm by celebrating the full spectrum of skin tones and experiences within these communities, showcasing the beauty and diversity that exists in reality. I am committed to creating new stories with new characters, rather than recreating old narratives to lazily fit a more diverse cast. Through my studies at a robust collegiate art program, I hope to refine my skills and bring my vision to life, creating art that inspires and uplifts those who see themselves in my characters. Authentic representation matters, and I am dedicated to contributing to a film and tv industry where everyone can find stories that reflect their realities and aspirations. My hope is to inspire others to embrace their identities and understand that they are more than just stereotypes needed for entertainment. Being inspired by seemingly mundane objects, like a paperclip or bracelet, is how my character-designing process usually starts. I then craft complex narratives by exploring my characters’ origin stories, motivations, and environments. Getting lost in transforming those initial ideas into characters who reflect the richness of our shared human experience, the entire character creation process captivates me. The exploration of the breadth of the human experience sparks my creativity. Each of my characters is a unique puzzle, where every piece contributes to a cohesive and compelling narrative. Ultimately, my aspiration is to create characters in stories that promote understanding and empathy, allowing individuals to feel highlighted. Through my illustrations and storytelling, I want to build a more inclusive world within film, where diversity is accurate and detailed. I believe putting authentic voices and experiences in the spotlight will inspire a broader spectrum of people throughout our society. By doing so, I hope to inspire underrepresented people, like myself, who may not see themselves in mainstream media often.

The biggest educational barrier I’ve faced is my neurodivergence, specifically being diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and generalized anxiety. These conditions feed off of each other and significantly impact my academic life, both inside and outside the classroom, as well as my mental health. Although I’ve been able to manage them better after understanding my diagnosis and obtaining accommodations, I still struggle with taking notes, meeting assignment deadlines, taking tests, and my self-esteem. In class, I’m easily distracted and find my focus slipping away constantly. A smell sparks a thought to wander to dinner. All of a sudden, I find myself wondering how to pronounce “Worcestershire” sauce; from there, I question who invented it and what it’s actually made of. By the time the bell rings, I’ve only managed to write down a few words in my notes to accompany a bunch of doodling because art has always been a source of comfort for me. At home with sparse notes, I now face the task of completing my homework or studying. Before I know it, now it’s close to midnight and I’m frantically trying to finish my homework and/or studying to get ready for bed. In high school it has been even harder because I have to wake up extra early. Due to being a dual magnet student and bussing in from a different school zone, my commute is around 1 hour each way. And taking tests, especially standardized tests, seems impossible. I frequently run out of time because the slightest noise or movement sends my mind wondering. And then not being able to multitask easily bores me leading my imagination to come to the “rescue.” Because I’m constantly the last one still working on the test, my anxiety then kicks in as EVERYone seems to be staring at and whispering about me holding up them being able to leave. This cycle has been my educational life from pre-school on. It has led to my struggles with mental health and self-confidence. However, after being diagnosed, obtaining accommodations, and getting help from my family, teachers, and counselors, I’ve made a significant improvement in being able to manage it. Although I still encounter challenges, especially with standardized testing and my self-esteem, I’m slowly learning how to navigate an educational environment that isn’t suited for learners like me and a world that seems often against me. I’m determined to embrace my neurodivergence and mental health struggles, turning them into a source of strength and inspiration rather than barriers to my success. I maintain a regular schedule of attending counseling sessions to get professional help with my mental health struggles. And I express the emotions and experiences from my experiences and struggles in my art. Both have helped me immensely. I’m eager to immerse myself in a robust collegiate art program’s diverse and learned environment; where I hope to contribute as much as I will receive, honing my skills to create unique and authentic visual narratives that resonate and inspire positive change globally. This scholarship will be a crucial step in helping me gain the opportunity to further my education in the arts, giving me the tools to refine my skills and broaden my knowledge. With these skills, my goal is to help others like me embrace the positives and overcome the negatives of their disabilities and mental health struggles.

The biggest educational barrier I’ve faced is my neurodivergence, specifically being diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and generalized anxiety. These conditions feed off of each other and significantly impact my academic life, both inside and outside the classroom. Although I’ve been able to manage them better after understanding my diagnosis and obtaining accommodations, I still struggle with taking notes, meeting assignment deadlines and taking tests. In class, I’m easily distracted and find my focus slipping away constantly. A smell sparks a thought to wander to dinner. All of a sudden, I find myself wondering how to pronounce “Worcestershire” sauce; from there, I question who invented it and what it’s actually made of. By the time the bell rings, I’ve only managed to write down a few words in my notes to accompany a bunch of doodling because art has always been a source of comfort for me. At home with sparse notes, I now face the task of completing my homework or studying. Before I know it, now it’s close to midnight and I’m frantically trying to finish my homework and/or studying to get ready for bed. In high school it has been even harder because I have to wake up extra early. Due to being a dual magnet student and bussing in from a different school zone, my commute is around 1 hour each way. And taking tests, especially standardized tests, seems impossible. I frequently run out of time because the slightest noise or movement sends my mind wondering. And then not being able to multitask easily bores me leading my imagination to come to the “rescue.” Because I’m constantly the last one still working on the test, my anxiety then kicks in as EVERYone seems to be staring at and whispering about me holding up them being able to leave. This cycle has been my educational life from pre-school on. However, after being diagnosed, obtaining accommodations, and getting help from my family, teachers, and counselors, I’ve made a significant improvement in being able to manage it. Although I still encounter challenges, especially with standardized testing, I’m slowly learning how to navigate an educational environment that isn’t suited for learners like me. I’m determined to embrace my neurodivergence, turning it into a source of strength and inspiration rather than a barrier to my success. I express the emotions and experiences from my experiences and struggles in my art. I’m eager to immerse myself in a robust collegiate art program’s diverse and learned environment; where I hope to contribute as much as I will receive, honing my skills to create unique and authentic visual narratives that resonate and inspire positive change globally. This scholarship will be a crucial step in helping me gain the opportunity to further my education in the arts, giving me the tools to refine my skills and broaden my knowledge. With these skills, my goal is to help others like me embrace the positives and overcome the negatives of their disabilities.

The biggest educational barrier I’ve faced is my neurodivergence, specifically being diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and generalized anxiety. These conditions feed off of each other and significantly impact my academic life, both inside and outside the classroom, as well as my mental health. Although I’ve been able to manage them better after understanding my diagnosis and obtaining accommodations, I still struggle with taking notes, meeting assignment deadlines, taking tests, and my self-esteem. In class, I’m easily distracted and find my focus slipping away constantly. A smell sparks a thought to wander to dinner. All of a sudden, I find myself wondering how to pronounce “Worcestershire” sauce; from there, I question who invented it and what it’s actually made of. By the time the bell rings, I’ve only managed to write down a few words in my notes to accompany a bunch of doodling because art has always been a source of comfort for me. At home with sparse notes, I now face the task of completing my homework or studying. Before I know it, now it’s close to midnight and I’m frantically trying to finish my homework and/or studying to get ready for bed. In high school it has been even harder because I have to wake up extra early. Due to being a dual magnet student and bussing in from a different school zone, my commute is around 1 hour each way. And taking tests, especially standardized tests, seems impossible. I frequently run out of time because the slightest noise or movement sends my mind wondering. And then not being able to multitask easily bores me leading my imagination to come to the “rescue.” Because I’m constantly the last one still working on the test, my anxiety then kicks in as EVERYone seems to be staring at and whispering about me holding up them being able to leave. This cycle has been my educational life from pre-school on. It has led to my struggles with mental health and self-confidence. However, after being diagnosed, obtaining accommodations, and getting help from my family, teachers, and counselors, I’ve made a significant improvement in being able to manage it. Although I still encounter challenges, especially with standardized testing and my self-esteem, I’m slowly learning how to navigate an educational environment that isn’t suited for learners like me and a world that seems often against me. I’m determined to embrace my neurodivergence and mental health struggles, turning them into a source of strength and inspiration rather than barriers to my success. I express the emotions and experiences from my experiences and struggles in my art. I’m eager to immerse myself in a robust collegiate art program’s diverse and learned environment; where I hope to contribute as much as I will receive, honing my skills to create unique and authentic visual narratives that resonate and inspire positive change globally. This scholarship will be a crucial step in helping me gain the opportunity to further my education in the arts, giving me the tools to refine my skills and broaden my knowledge. With these skills, my goal is to help others like me embrace the positives and overcome the negatives of their disabilities and mental health struggles.

The biggest educational barrier I’ve faced is my neurodivergence, specifically being diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and generalized anxiety. These conditions feed off of each other and significantly impact my academic life, both inside and outside the classroom. Although I’ve been able to manage them better after understanding my diagnosis and obtaining accommodations, I still struggle with taking notes, meeting assignment deadlines and taking tests. In class, I’m easily distracted and find my focus slipping away constantly. A smell sparks a thought to wander to dinner. All of a sudden, I find myself wondering how to pronounce “Worcestershire” sauce; from there, I question who invented it and what it’s actually made of. By the time the bell rings, I’ve only managed to write down a few words in my notes to accompany a bunch of doodling because art has always been a source of comfort for me. At home with sparse notes, I now face the task of completing my homework or studying. Before I know it, now it’s close to midnight and I’m frantically trying to finish my homework and/or studying to get ready for bed. In high school it has been even harder because I have to wake up extra early. Due to being a dual magnet student and bussing in from a different school zone, my commute is around 1 hour each way. And taking tests, especially standardized tests, seems impossible. I frequently run out of time because the slightest noise or movement sends my mind wondering. And then not being able to multitask easily bores me leading my imagination to come to the “rescue.” Because I’m constantly the last one still working on the test, my anxiety then kicks in as EVERYone seems to be staring at and whispering about me holding up them being able to leave. This cycle has been my educational life from pre-school on. However, after being diagnosed, obtaining accommodations, and getting help from my family, teachers, and counselors, I’ve made a significant improvement in being able to manage it. Although I still encounter challenges, especially with standardized testing, I’m slowly learning how to navigate an educational environment that isn’t suited for learners like me. I’m determined to embrace my neurodivergence, turning it into a source of strength and inspiration rather than a barrier to my success. I express the emotions and experiences from my experiences and struggles in my art. I’m eager to immerse myself in a robust collegiate art program’s diverse and learned environment; where I hope to contribute as much as I will receive, honing my skills to create unique and authentic visual narratives that resonate and inspire positive change globally. This scholarship will be a crucial step in helping me gain the opportunity to further my education in the arts, giving me the tools to refine my skills and broaden my knowledge. With these skills, my goal is to help others like me embrace the positives and overcome the negatives of their disabilities.

The biggest educational barrier I’ve faced is my neurodivergence, specifically being diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and generalized anxiety. These conditions feed off of each other and significantly impact my academic life, both inside and outside the classroom, as well as my mental health. Although I’ve been able to manage them better after understanding my diagnosis and obtaining accommodations, I still struggle with taking notes, meeting assignment deadlines, taking tests, and my self-esteem. In class, I’m easily distracted and find my focus slipping away constantly. A smell sparks a thought to wander to dinner. All of a sudden, I find myself wondering how to pronounce “Worcestershire” sauce; from there, I question who invented it and what it’s actually made of. By the time the bell rings, I’ve only managed to write down a few words in my notes to accompany a bunch of doodling because art has always been a source of comfort for me. At home with sparse notes, I now face the task of completing my homework or studying. Before I know it, now it’s close to midnight and I’m frantically trying to finish my homework and/or studying to get ready for bed. In high school it has been even harder because I have to wake up extra early. Due to being a dual magnet student and bussing in from a different school zone, my commute is around 1 hour each way. And taking tests, especially standardized tests, seems impossible. I frequently run out of time because the slightest noise or movement sends my mind wondering. And then not being able to multitask easily bores me leading my imagination to come to the “rescue.” Because I’m constantly the last one still working on the test, my anxiety then kicks in as EVERYone seems to be staring at and whispering about me holding up them being able to leave. This cycle has been my educational life from pre-school on. It has led to my struggles with mental health and self-confidence. However, after being diagnosed, obtaining accommodations, and getting help from my family, teachers, and counselors, I’ve made a significant improvement in being able to manage it. Although I still encounter challenges, especially with standardized testing and my self-esteem, I’m slowly learning how to navigate an educational environment that isn’t suited for learners like me and a world that seems often against me. I’m determined to embrace my neurodivergence and mental health struggles, turning them into a source of strength and inspiration rather than barriers to my success. I express the emotions and experiences from my experiences and struggles in my art. I’m eager to immerse myself in a robust collegiate art program’s diverse and learned environment; where I hope to contribute as much as I will receive, honing my skills to create unique and authentic visual narratives that resonate and inspire positive change globally. This scholarship will be a crucial step in helping me gain the opportunity to further my education in the arts, giving me the tools to refine my skills and broaden my knowledge. With these skills, my goal is to help others like me embrace the positives and overcome the negatives of their disabilities and mental health struggles.

The biggest educational barrier I’ve faced is my neurodivergence, specifically being diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and generalized anxiety. These conditions feed off of each other and significantly impact my academic life, both inside and outside the classroom. Although I’ve been able to manage them better after understanding my diagnosis and obtaining accommodations, I still struggle with taking notes, meeting assignment deadlines and taking tests. In class, I’m easily distracted and find my focus slipping away constantly. A smell sparks a thought to wander to dinner. All of a sudden, I find myself wondering how to pronounce “Worcestershire” sauce; from there, I question who invented it and what it’s actually made of. By the time the bell rings, I’ve only managed to write down a few words in my notes to accompany a bunch of doodling because art has always been a source of comfort for me. At home with sparse notes, I now face the task of completing my homework or studying. Before I know it, now it’s close to midnight and I’m frantically trying to finish my homework and/or studying to get ready for bed. In high school it has been even harder because I have to wake up extra early. Due to being a dual magnet student and bussing in from a different school zone, my commute is around 1 hour each way. And taking tests, especially standardized tests, seems impossible. I frequently run out of time because the slightest noise or movement sends my mind wondering. And then not being able to multitask easily bores me leading my imagination to come to the “rescue.” Because I’m constantly the last one still working on the test, my anxiety then kicks in as EVERYone seems to be staring at and whispering about me holding up them being able to leave. This cycle has been my educational life from pre-school on. However, after being diagnosed, obtaining accommodations, and getting help from my family, teachers, and counselors, I’ve made a significant improvement in being able to manage it. Although I still encounter challenges, especially with standardized testing, I’m slowly learning how to navigate an educational environment that isn’t suited for learners like me. I’m determined to embrace my neurodivergence, turning it into a source of strength and inspiration rather than a barrier to my success. I express the emotions and experiences from my experiences and struggles in my art. I’m eager to immerse myself in a robust collegiate art program’s diverse and learned environment; where I hope to contribute as much as I will receive, honing my skills to create unique and authentic visual narratives that resonate and inspire positive change globally. This scholarship will be a crucial step in helping me gain the opportunity to further my education in the arts, giving me the tools to refine my skills and broaden my knowledge. With these skills, my goal is to help others like me embrace the positives and overcome the negatives of their disabilities.

“Would you rather have one parent or two?” A question that most would answer similarly. Growing up in a single-parent household, I became conscious of the negative portrayal of single-parent families within movies, TV shows and social media. This poor representation led to feelings of inadequacy and insecurity. While I do recognize that it’s usually ideal for children to be raised with both parents, it’s important to acknowledge that single-parent households and blended families are increasingly common. This has inspired me to create my own characters and stories to counter this negative portrayal. In an age where representation matters more than ever, it’s crucial for media to evolve and reflect the realities of modern family life, including the many diverse forms that family can take. Currently, when the media does choose to portray single-parent households, it often highlights only the struggles associated with them. Whether it be financial difficulties, emotional tolls, or negative societal perceptions. These portrayals often fail to capture the complexity and beauty of these family dynamics. Children who come from single-parent homes, like me, grow up feeling a sense of shame or inadequacy, believing that their family structure is less valid than those where both parents are present. This can also lead to guilt in parents who may feel they’re failing their children by not providing a "traditional" family structure. Positive representation in media can offer a sense of empowerment to single parents who may feel marginalized or overlooked. It’s never normally in a parent’s plans to be a single parent. Positive representation gives a sense of consoling for someone’s circumstances, whereas negative representation rubs salt into already fresh wounds. Life is not perfect, and families in life are often formed out of circumstances that exceed our control; acknowledging this reality in popular media can help to normalize single-parent households and blended families, allowing for a more positive and accepting outlook of different dynamics and circumstances within families. With my artistic talents, I aspire to create stories that illuminate these relationships, showcasing the love, warmth, and resilience that exist within single-parent households. I was heavily influenced in this goal by media that breaks this stereotype, like the relationship between Master Splinter and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Their story offers a refreshing perspective on family, portraying the bond between a father figure and his “adopted” sons amidst trials and tribulations. Master Splinter's dedication to teaching and nurturing the Turtles showcases the love, loyalty, and strength that can arise from non-traditional family settings. It served as a reminder to me that family isn’t just defined by traditional structures, but rather by the love and commitment that individuals contribute to their familial relationships. Through the guidance and mentorship of Master Splinter, the Turtles find their self-confidence through identity and purpose. Likewise, I believe my mother has been instrumental in not only helping me develop as a person and an artist, but she has connected me with other parental figures who have been just as influential in my growth. To conclude, as our world continues evolving, so should the narratives we create and consume. By promoting positive depictions of single-parent households and blended families, we can aid in dismantling negative stereotypes and shame, and instead contribute to a more inclusive society. Every child is deserving of seeing their family reflected in the stories they love, reminding them that love, commitment, and resilience are at the heart of what makes a family, regardless of its structure. I hope to create narratives in the media that I wish I saw more of growing up.

A trance is the best word I could use to describe it. There I was, glued to the couch in awe as I watched something that captured ALL of my attention…which was pretty hard to do for a toddler struggling with ADHD. Little did I know, this moment was an omen revealing the course my life would take. Of course, I didn’t have the words to describe it at the time, but it was the way “Tom and Jerry: Classics Collections” visually and audibly conveyed plot and character that won me over. From a very young age I knew that’s what I wanted to do. Before I could read, I had every age-appropriate art supply available. Unfortunately for my mom, I used them to draw a 5’x4’ brontosaurus across my bedroom carpet after watching a show where drawings came to life. Illustration wasn’t the only artistic interest I showed early; I thoroughly enjoyed creating narratives. I would perform puppet shows so enthralling one of my preschool teachers demanded my mom enroll me in puppetry-art classes because she was so invested in my stories. And in elementary school, I would create graphic novels each year for Halloween because we were required to bring a book to match our costume, and my costume-characters were my own creation. My trademark was always ending my stories in a cliffhanger. Still today, I constantly lose track of time sketching characters, writing their back stories, and theorizing about different scenarios involving them. Books have been my guiding light in this journey. They have taught me about diverse narratives and have shaped my desire to create art that reflects a multitude of perspectives. Works like “The Artist’s Way,” by Julia Cameron inspired and instructed me on how to unlock my creativity, whilst graphic novels from Marvel served as inspiration as a medium for powerful visual storytelling. Both demonstrated how art could shape the world by speaking about experiences that might otherwise remain unheard. They have strengthened my passion and elevated my skills for creating visual stories that inspire, empower, and spark social change. In the summer last year, I worked at an art-based youth summer camp for two months as an assistant camp counselor. I was able to lead kids from age 3 to 7, around the age I first discovered my love of art. And this year, my senior year, as President of my National Art Honors Society chapter, I’ve not only grown as a leader, I’ve helped my peers as officers develop as leaders as well. The beginning was rough, so I sought advice from professional leaders. After rearranging officer roles based on their strengths and weaknesses, we’re now a cohesive team. Although I’m grateful for the consistent support from my mom as a single-parent, no one close to me is an artist. My goal is to further develop my skills at a robust collegiate art program so that I’m able to showcase my passion to others. This scholarship will be a crucial step in helping me gain the opportunity to further my education, giving me the tools to refine my skills and broaden my knowledge. I strive to create art that doesn’t only entertain, but also reflects our shared humanity, explores critical social issues, and fosters connection in an individualistic world. Who knows, maybe there is a little one waiting to be glued to the couch in a trance watching something I create with awe.

A trance is the best word I could use to describe it. There I was, glued to the couch in awe as I watched something that captured ALL of my attention…which was pretty hard to do for a toddler struggling with ADHD. Little did I know, this moment was an omen revealing the course my life would take. Of course, I didn’t have the words to describe it at the time, but it was the way “Tom and Jerry: Classics Collections” visually and audibly conveyed plot and character that won me over. From a very young age I knew that’s what I wanted to do. Before I could read, I had every age-appropriate art supply available. Unfortunately for my mom, I used them to draw a 5’x4’ brontosaurus across my bedroom carpet after watching a show where drawings came to life. Illustration wasn’t the only artistic interest I showed early; I thoroughly enjoyed creating narratives. I would perform puppet shows so enthralling one of my preschool teachers demanded my mom enroll me in puppetry-art classes because she was so invested in my stories. My trademark was always ending my stories in a cliffhanger. Still today, I constantly lose track of time sketching characters, writing their back stories, and theorizing about different scenarios involving them. All of my tests and homework have doodles in the margins and I don’t go anywhere without my sketch pad and iPad Pro. Through a full scholarship to the Savannah College of Art and Design Summer Seminars program two summers in a row, I got a taste of what it would be like to attend college as an art student. It further solidified that this is the path for me. Although I’m grateful for the consistent support from my mom, no one close to me is an artist so I’ve never had one close to me to look up to and learn from. Despite not knowing what my future holds, I know I’m enthralled by illustration and story-telling. My goal is to further develop my skills at a robust art collegiate art program so that I’m able to showcase my passion to others. Who knows, maybe there is a little one waiting to be glued to the couch in a trance watching something I create with awe.

In college, my focus will be on learning how best to display authentic representation of diverse communities in film/tv. This issue has gained attention recently, yet many creators rely on tokenism instead of delivering genuine portrayals. As an African-American woman, I’m drained by the shallow depictions of minorities that reduce and limit us to stereotypes. My goal is to refine my skills in a robust art program and perfect how to create multi-dimensional, relatable characters whose identities, while integral to their narratives, also connect to others outside of those who share their identities. By celebrating the full spectrum of under-represented communities and experiences, I aim to showcase the richness and value of reality. And I’m dedicated to the challenge of crafting new stories as opposed to simply diversifying existing familiar narratives. The biggest barrier I’ve faced in my life is my neurodivergence, specifically being diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and generalized anxiety. These conditions significantly impact my life, both academically and personally. Before I understood my diagnosis and learned about accommodations I had access to, I struggled immensely with taking notes, meeting assignment deadlines and taking tests. Difficulties in school would make me even more anxious in my personal life and my view of myself was negatively impacted. In class, I always find my focus slipping away constantly. A smell sparks my thoughts to wander to dinner. I suddenly find myself wondering how to pronounce “Worcestershire” sauce; from there, I question who invented it and what it’s actually made of. By the time the bell rings, I’ve only managed to write down a few words in my notes to accompany a bunch of doodling. At home with sparse notes, I face the task of completing my homework or studying, which I’m constantly not able to do in enough time to get to bed at a good time. Taking tests, especially standardized tests, often seems impossible. Before obtaining extended time accommodations, I’d always run out of time. And before obtaining small group accommodations, because I was constantly the last one, my anxiety would kick in as EVERYone seemed to be staring at and whispering about me holding them up from being able to leave. This cycle has been my life from as long as I can remember. Obtaining 504 accommodations, getting help from my family and teachers, and regular mental-health counseling has allowed me to make significant improvement in being able to manage it. Although I still encounter challenges, especially with standardized testing, I’m slowly learning how to navigate an educational environment that isn’t suited for learners like me and to practice self-love in a world that seems very antagonistic at times. I’m determined to embrace my neurodivergence, turning it into a source of strength and inspiration rather than a barrier to my success, and love myself in the process.

Volunteering at HeadCount has opened my eyes to how many people are reluctant to use their voices when it comes to voting. At HeadCount, my role is to ensure that people are registered to vote and guide those who are not through the registration process. In my experience, I’ve encountered many adults who hesitate to even register to vote, especially those affected by systemic racism. This deep issue complicates the voting process and deters many from participating in what should be a fundamental right. Despite the importance of using our voices to create a community that is cohesive, I find that many individuals, especially within the African American community, lack awareness of the significance of voting. Our voices are often silenced, which makes the opportunity to vote even more crucial. I believe that fighting for our right to vote will create long-term benefits for our community and other communities of minorities. It’s essential that we research and vote in elections because our votes are the loudest way of advocating for ourselves and our communities. Through my experience, I’ve come to realize that education about the voting process and why it matters, how to register, and when to vote, is more necessary than ever. By continuing to volunteer at HeadCount, I hope to see more people to register and engage in the electoral process as time goes on. I hope to contribute to advocating for my community by voting when I am of age. Together, I believe my community can work toward a representative democracy that ensures our community's concerns and needs are heard and addressed. In addition, serving as the President of my school’s National Art Honors Society has been an enriching experience that has not only allowed me to improve my own leadership skills, but I’ve also helped my peers develop as leaders. At the start of the school year, our chapter had officers with potential to excel, but many hadn’t fully embraced their roles. It became clear that with some guidance and support, we could collectively transform into a cohesive team. The beginning was rough. I felt alone in my excitement and dedication to make the year great. I’d assign tasks that would be half-way done or not at all. And simple tasks that should be obvious required my specific and detailed instructions. I felt defeated and, at times, wanted to step down. After getting advice from professional leaders, I focused on understanding each officer’s strengths and weaknesses. By taking the time to communicate in ways that resonated with them, I was able to assign tasks that played into their individual strengths. This approach fostered an environment of trust and collaboration, enabling us to support each other in areas where we each had room for growth. For instance, an officer who struggled with organization but excelled in creativity, I rearranged roles so that officer could focus only on creative aspects of our events while another officer handled the event planning responsibilities. As we worked together, I noticed a shift in how my peers interacted with the rest of the members. They became confident and engaged leaders, showing an understanding of what it takes to effectively run events and inspire participation. This growth has been not only rewarding to witness, but a sign of the positive impact we can have on one another. I'm confident that, as we learn from our experiences this year, our chapter will continue to thrive in the future. I look forward to seeing how the skills we have worked on this year will help the underclassmen who will serve in leadership positions next year.

A trance is the best word I could use to describe it. There I was, glued to the couch in awe as I watched something that captured ALL of my attention…which was pretty hard to do for a toddler struggling with ADHD. Little did I know, this moment was an omen revealing the course my life would take. Of course, I didn’t have the words to describe it at the time, but it was the way “Tom and Jerry: Classics Collections” visually and audibly conveyed plot and character that won me over. From a very young age I knew that’s what I wanted to do. I approach my art knowing it holds the potential to spark conversations, inspire empathy, and celebrate diversity. Before I could read, I had every age-appropriate art supply available. Unfortunately for my mom, I used them to draw a 5’x4’ brontosaurus across my bedroom carpet after watching a show where drawings came to life. Illustration wasn’t the only artistic interest I showed early; I thoroughly enjoyed creating narratives. I would perform puppet shows so enthralling one of my preschool teachers demanded my mom enroll me in puppetry-art classes because she was so invested in my stories. As I entered elementary school, I continued to design characters and construct plotlines. From the intricate relationships between my dolls, including a few cheating scandals, to the graphic novels I created for Halloween any year I didn’t own a book of the character I wanted to come dressed as because we were required to bring a book to school to match our costume. My trademark was always ending my stories in a cliffhanger to be picked up for the next time I played or in anticipation of the next book. Still today, I constantly lose track of time sketching characters, writing their back stories, and theorizing about different scenarios involving them. All of my tests and homework have doodles in the margins and I don’t go anywhere without my sketch pad and iPad Pro. Through a full scholarship to the Savannah College of Art and Design's Summer Seminars program two summers in a row, I got a taste of what it would be like to attend college as an art student. It further solidified that this is the path for me. My creations aren’t just a hobby, they are powerful explorations of my dreams. Although I’m grateful for the consistent support from my mom, no one close to me is an artist so I’ve never had one close to me to look up to and learn from. My goal is to further develop my skills with the help of peers and professors at a robust collegiate art program so that I’m able to showcase my passion to others. And hopefully they too can see the beauty and magic of visual storytelling that I fell in love with as a little girl. Who knows, maybe there is a little one waiting to be glued to the couch in a trance watching something I create with awe.

A trance is the best word I could use to describe it. There I was, glued to the couch in awe as I watched something that captured ALL of my attention…which was pretty hard to do for a toddler struggling with ADHD. Little did I know, this moment was an omen revealing the course my life would take. Of course, I didn’t have the words to describe it at the time, but it was the way “Tom and Jerry: Classics Collections” visually and audibly conveyed plot and character that won me over. From a very young age I knew that’s what I wanted to do. I approach my art knowing it holds the potential to spark conversations, inspire empathy, and celebrate diversity. Before I could read, I had every age-appropriate art supply available. Unfortunately for my mom, I used them to draw a 5’x4’ brontosaurus across my bedroom carpet after watching a show where drawings came to life. Illustration wasn’t the only artistic interest I showed early; I thoroughly enjoyed creating narratives. I would perform puppet shows so enthralling one of my preschool teachers demanded my mom enroll me in puppetry-art classes because she was so invested in my stories. As I entered elementary school, I continued to design characters and construct plotlines. From the intricate relationships between my dolls, including a few cheating scandals, to the graphic novels I created for Halloween any year I didn’t own a book of the character I wanted to come dressed as because we were required to bring a book to school to match our costume. My trademark was always ending my stories in a cliffhanger to be picked up for the next time I played or in anticipation of the next book. Still today, I constantly lose track of time sketching characters, writing their back stories, and theorizing about different scenarios involving them. All of my tests and homework have doodles in the margins and I don’t go anywhere without my sketch pad and iPad Pro. Through a full scholarship to the Savannah College of Art and Design's Summer Seminars program two summers in a row, I got a taste of what it would be like to attend college as an art student. It further solidified that this is the path for me. My creations aren’t just a hobby, they are powerful explorations of my dreams. Although I’m grateful for the consistent support from my mom, no one close to me is an artist so I’ve never had one close to me to look up to and learn from. My goal is to further develop my skills with the help of peers and professors at a robust collegiate art program so that I’m able to showcase my passion to others. And hopefully they too can see the beauty and magic of visual storytelling that I fell in love with as a little girl. Who knows, maybe there is a little one waiting to be glued to the couch in a trance watching something I create with awe.

A trance is the best word I could use to describe it. There I was, glued to the couch in awe as I watched something that captured ALL my attention…which was pretty hard to do for a toddler struggling with ADHD. Little did I know, this moment was an omen revealing the course my life would take. Although I could’ve been watching any new show for kids my age; instead, I was mesmerized by the timeless “Tom and Jerry.” Not even the newer version, the “Classics Collection” is what commanded my full concentration. Of course, I didn’t have the words to describe it at the time, but it was the way the show visually and audibly conveyed plot and character that won me over. With strictly 2-D animation to dazzle the eyes and classical music to shore up emotions, from a very young age I knew that’s what I wanted to do. Before I could read, I had an art desk fully stocked with every age-appropriate art supply available. Unfortunately for my mom, I used them to draw a 5’x4’ brontosaurus across my bedroom carpet. I also enjoyed creating narratives. I would perform puppet shows so enthralling one of my preschool teachers demanded my mom enroll me in puppetry-art classes because she was so invested in my stories. As I entered elementary school, I continued to design characters and construct plotlines. From the intricate relationships between my dolls to the graphic novels I created for Halloween any year I didn’t own a book of the character I wanted to come to school dressed as. My trademark was always ending my stories in a cliffhanger to be picked up for the next time I played or in anticipation of the next book. Still today, I constantly lose track of time sketching characters, writing their back stories, and theorizing about different scenarios involving them. All my tests and homework have doodles in the margins, and I don’t go anywhere without my sketch pad and iPad Pro. Through a full scholarship to the Savannah College of Art & Design Summer Seminars program two summers in a row, I got a taste of what it would be like to attend college as an art student. It further solidified that this is the path for me. My creations aren’t just a hobby, they are powerful explorations of my dreams. By enrolling in a robust collegiate art program, I hope to connect with students and professors who share my passion for art, enabling me to grow and contribute meaningfully to the art community. My goal is to further develop my skills so that I’m able to showcase my passion to others and hopefully they too can see the beauty and magic of visual storytelling that I fell in love with as a little girl. Who knows, maybe there is a little one waiting to be glued to the couch in a trance watching something I create with awe.