The greatest lessons my mother has taught me weren’t spoken aloud. They were lived. Through quiet strength, unwavering integrity, and deep compassion, she’s shown me what it means to lead a life rooted in honor and purpose. As both an educator and a counselor, she embodies the wisdom of Proverbs 20:7: “The righteous lead blameless lives; blessed are their children after them.” Because of her, I’ve learned to see the good in others even when they can’t see it in themselves. Growing up, I saw my mother go far beyond her job description. To her, teaching was not just about academics but about shaping lives. While others focused on test scores, she focused on hearts. She knew that many students walked into school carrying invisible burdens, and for some, her classroom was the only place they felt safe or seen. One story she told still stays with me. A boy at her school had gained a reputation: disrespectful, defiant, always in trouble. Many teachers had given up on him, seeing him as a lost cause. But my mother saw more. Instead of reacting to his behavior with frustration, she chose empathy. She took the time to understand his story, which was marked by a broken home, trust issues, and emotional walls built high to guard against disappointment. She didn’t demand his trust; she earned it, day by day. She greeted him kindly each morning, even when he ignored her. She reminded him of his worth when he felt like a failure. There were still bad days, still moments of defiance, but she stayed. She showed up when it would have been easier to step back. Then, one day, something changed. He opened up to her. He admitted no one had ever believed in him before. For the first time, he saw himself differently, not as a troublemaker, but as someone who could change because someone finally thought he could. He began to try. It wasn’t perfect, but it was progress. He walked taller. And it all started because one person refused to give up on him. Like many others my mother has lived, that story taught me that integrity is choosing kindness when it’s easier to walk away. It’s recognizing that the hardest people to love are often the ones who need love most. Her quiet acts of grace didn’t just change her students. They changed me. She taught me that righteousness isn’t abstract. It’s found in how we treat others when there’s nothing to gain. Her example has shaped how I see the world and the person I strive to be. I carry her values as I prepare for a future in veterinary medicine. I want to bring medical care to animals and compassion to the people connected to them. I hope to serve underserved communities, educate youth, and treat each human or animal patient with empathy. My mother has never sought recognition, but her influence runs deep. She’s taught me that the objective measure of a well-lived life isn’t in titles or accolades. It’s in the hearts you touch along the way. I am endlessly grateful to have witnessed her example. Because of her, I believe in the power of quiet strength, persistent hope, and love that doesn’t give up.

My name is Taylor Cullins, and I come from a close-knit community where I've learned that making a difference doesn't always mean significant, bold actions; sometimes, it's about being present, offering support, and showing kindness. Over the years, I've dedicated more than 2,000 hours to community service, whether volunteering at a veterinary office, participating in pet advocacy events, or organizing hygiene drives for young girls. These moments have shaped me, not just as a volunteer but as a person who believes in lifting others and creating spaces where people and animals are cared for and valued. My dream is to become an equine veterinarian. This path combines my love for animals, especially horses, with my passion for healing and helping. I've always been drawn to the unique bond between humans and animals, and I see veterinary medicine as both a science and a service. What excites me most about this career is its potential for impact not just in the lives of animals but in the communities that rely on them. Horses, in particular, play a vital role in therapy, agriculture, and companionship. I want to make veterinary care more accessible, especially in underserved and rural areas where these services are often limited. As part of this vision, I hope to offer low-cost mobile veterinary clinics, partner with therapeutic riding centers for people with disabilities, and educate youth about animal care and veterinary careers. Knowledge is power, and when young people, especially young women, see someone who looks like them in a STEM field, it opens doors they may have never considered. Empowering women isn't just something I support; it's something I actively work toward. Whether it's through organizing hygiene drives that boost young girls' confidence or mentoring peers, I aim to be a source of encouragement and example. Education has always been my foundation. For me, academic success isn't just about grades; it's about preparation for the life I want to lead and the change I hope to create. With the support of this scholarship, I can continue to pursue veterinary medicine while deepening my commitment to community service and women's empowerment. Ultimately, my future involves a blend of compassion, science, and service driven by the belief that real change comes from doing what you love in service to others. And for me, that means healing animals, supporting people, and empowering the next generation of women to dream big.

Growing up in a tight-knit community, I quickly learned that making a difference doesn't always require grand gestures; sometimes, it starts with a helping hand, a listening ear, or simply showing up when others need you. Over the years, I've committed more than 2,000 hours to community service, not because I had to, but because it became a part of who I am. Through volunteering at the vet office, pet advocacy events, and helping organize hygiene drives for young ladies, I've seen firsthand how these services have uplifted others and strengthened our bonds. For instance, our hygiene drives have significantly improved the health and confidence of young ladies in our community. These experiences have shaped my character and inspired me to continue making a difference in the lives of others. While my commitment to community service is unwavering, I also recognize the equal importance of academic excellence in shaping a better world. Education equips us with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to address challenges and combat injustices. For me, academic success has always been about more than just grades; it's about preparation. I am preparing to realize my dream of becoming an equine veterinarian, a goal that stems from my deep love for animals and a burning desire to bring healing where it's most needed. My passion for horses began in my early years, and as I grew, I came to understand that veterinary medicine is not just about science, but also about compassion, advocacy, and responsibility. Combining academics with service has taught me that the most meaningful change happens when we use our knowledge to serve others. As an aspiring equine veterinarian, I plan to offer low-cost services in underserved communities, support therapeutic riding centers for individuals with disabilities, and educate young people, about animal care and careers in veterinary science. I envision setting up mobile clinics to reach remote areas, collaborating with local schools to introduce veterinary science as a career option, and working with therapeutic riding centers to improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities. I believe that access to veterinary care shouldn't be a privilege, and through my work, I hope to make animal health more accessible while inspiring others to follow their paths of purpose. Receiving this scholarship would not only be an investment in my education but also a testament to my commitment to the values it represents. It would enable me to continue my pursuit of academic excellence while remaining rooted in service. Specifically, it would support my studies in veterinary medicine and allow me to expand my community service initiatives. This balance, which has been a guiding principle in my life, is one I am dedicated to upholding as I move forward in my journey. In everything I do, whether studying late into the night or organizing a community event, I am guided by the belief that we each have a role to play in improving the world. Mine involves a little science, heart, and maybe a few horses and animals.

Hello. My name is Taylor Cullins, and I’m an 18-year-old West Broward High School senior. My deep love and connection with animals has been a driving force in my life since a young age. This passion, which has only grown stronger with time, led me to pursue my Veterinary Assistant Certification during my junior year of high school. Earning that certification was a proud moment for me, it confirmed that I was on the right path and strengthened my commitment to a future in veterinary medicine. This fall, I’m excited to begin the next chapter of my journey at Fort Valley State University, where I will further my education and get closer to my ultimate dream: becoming an equine veterinarian specializing in caring for large animals. Horses have always fascinated me because of their strength and grace and their ability to connect with humans in such a powerful and calming way. I want to dedicate my life to understanding and caring for these incredible animals, particularly in rural and underserved areas where veterinary care is often lacking. My journey hasn’t been easy. I’ve faced my share of obstacles and adversity, but each challenge has shaped me into the person I am today ambitious, kind-hearted, understanding, hardworking, and loyal. These qualities are not only important to me personally, but they’re also at the core of what makes a great veterinarian. For instance, I have demonstrated my understanding and care for animals by [specific example]. Animals, just like people, need someone who will listen, care, and show up consistently. What drives me even more is the opportunity to help increase diversity and representation in the veterinary field. As a young Black woman, I am proud to bring my unique perspective and background to a profession where people who look like me are still underrepresented. My journey can inspire other young people, especially girls of color, to believe in their dreams and pursue careers in science and animal care. I am also passionate about educating the public on animal welfare, proper livestock care, and humane treatment practices. Knowledge is powerful, and I want to provide guidance and advocacy for both animals and their owners. Thank you for considering me for this scholarship. Your support is not just a financial relief, but also an affirmation of my commitment to making a meaningful impact. I look forward to giving back to my community and making a difference one animal, one farm, and one step at a time.

I've had a strong bond with animals since I was a young child in Florida. I was the girl who stayed outside a little longer to chat with the neighborhood cats or watch ants bring crumbs back to their homes, while most youngsters were enamored with computer games or TV. I once attempted to "rescue" a baby lizard and constructed an entire house out of shoeboxes and cotton balls, as my mother likes to share with others. The same young child grew up to be an 18-year-old studying animal science at a historically Black institution in Georgia. She has vast goals and a deep love for animals. One of my life's most uplifting experiences has been attending an HBCU. Being surrounded by students who, like me, have similar backgrounds and share my desire to change the world is quite powerful. Future veterinarians, agricultural leaders, and animal advocates who share my enthusiasm for cows and goats are my tribe in the animal science department. I'm passionate about animals for reasons beyond their cuteness (though let's face it, baby goats are gorgeous). It stems from a desire to comprehend, care for, and ensure they receive the respect they are due. I've witnessed how animals can provide humans solace, healing, and even a feeling of direction. Ginger, our now elderly dog, would sleep at the edge of my bed when I was sick. After witnessing that kind of interaction, I understood that animals are more than simply pets; they are family, a type of therapy, and caregivers in their own right. In addition to my passion for animals, I am intensely interested in agriculture and how it affects our communities, particularly Black communities. Agriculture has always been a complex aspect of our history. However, I see it as a place for empowerment and healing. I want to join a new generation of Black agricultural scientists to reclaim that space and guarantee that our people are represented in every aspect of the food and animal care system. I strongly desire to provide access to animal care in underprivileged communities. I plan to build a communal animal clinic where families can afford to bring their farm animals or pets, where compassionate teaching is given, and where the doors remain open to those most in need. Animal science and agriculture are more than just academic disciplines; they are acts of communal service, healing, and development. In keeping with the little girl who once constructed a shoebox palace for a lizard, they are my way of giving back to the planet. I pridefully tread this path, even though it may not be the most well-traveled.

I've always believed leadership is about service—being there, speaking out, and taking the initiative when it counts most. Working with my mentor group to plan a personal hygiene push was one of my most influential experiences as a community leader. What began as a straightforward concept swiftly developed into a potent campaign that raised awareness of a frequently ignored problem: middle and high school girls' access to basic hygiene supplies. When we were talking about how we could help young girls in our community directly during one of our weekly mentor sessions, the idea struck. Teachers and counselors told us about students absent from school due to a lack of hygiene products. I could relate to it. Nobody should have to miss out on education or feel ashamed over something so trivial. I offered to take the initiative in arranging and planning the drive. I worked closely with my mentors and fellow group members to organize every aspect, including gathering money, contacting nearby companies, creating flyers, and liaising with schools to identify youngsters in need. We used social media to spread the word and placed contribution bins at neighborhood churches and community organizations. Not everything was simple. When the donations arrived later than anticipated or when the logistics seemed too much to handle, there were times when doubts surfaced. Ultimately, we gathered over 300 hygiene packages that included necessities like toothbrushes, deodorants, soap, and sanitary goods. It will never be forgotten to provide those kits and witness the sincere appreciation from students and school personnel. It served as a reminder that service-oriented leadership may have a significant, noticeable impact. More significantly, it demonstrated how even tiny deeds of kindness may dramatically impact others. I carry that same enthusiasm for service-based leadership as I prepare to become a part of the Fort Valley State University community. I intend to participate in student organizations emphasizing community development, outreach, and mentoring—particularly those supporting health equity and empowering young women. I want to keep making spaces where people feel noticed, encouraged, and motivated to succeed, whether planning another hygiene drive, giving seminars on confidence and self-care, or mentoring first-year students. In the long run, I envision myself in a position where I can continue to lead with compassion, perhaps in nonprofit leadership, public health, or education, emphasizing using animals to promote human well-being. The strong link between people and animals inspires me, particularly how service animals can help people with developmental, emotional, and physical issues. I want to be a part of initiatives that use this connection to empower and heal communities, whether training support animals for veterans and people with disabilities or using therapy animals in hospitals and schools. My objectives align with Fort Valley State University's supportive environment, dedication to service, and strong community values. The university's agricultural heritage and animal science programs particularly interest me since they are a chance to further my knowledge and influence in this field. Authentic leadership is determined by the lives we impact and the change we contribute to, often with the assistance of four paws and a wagging tail, rather than by titles or recognition.