As an African-American rising junior at Rice University and an experienced math tutor, I am fueled by a deep passion for education. Throughout my academic journey, teachers have played a transformative role in shaping my beliefs, fostering meaningful relationships, and guiding my career aspirations. Their impact has ignited my desire to leave a lasting impression on the students I teach, empowering them to unlock their full potential and pursue their dreams. Education is the key that unlocks doors of opportunity, and I am passionate about ensuring that every student has access to this key. Growing up, my teachers instilled in me a belief that knowledge has the power to transcend boundaries and create a brighter future. They pushed me to challenge myself, embrace curiosity, and develop a growth mindset. Witnessing their unwavering dedication and witnessing the impact of education on my own life has solidified my belief in the transformative power of learning. Teachers have the ability to cultivate transformative relationships with their students, serving as mentors, guides, and advocates. Throughout my educational journey, I have been fortunate to encounter educators who went above and beyond their role, investing in my success and well-being. They saw potential in me that I sometimes struggled to see in myself. These teachers became my champions, providing not only academic support but also emotional encouragement and guidance. Their belief in me ignited a fire within, inspiring me to pay it forward and become a catalyst for change in the lives of others. The impact of my teachers has guided my career aspirations toward education and mentoring. Their unwavering commitment to student growth and success has shown me the immense influence a passionate educator can have on shaping lives. I aspire to become a teacher and educational advocate, leveraging my knowledge, experiences, and empathy to create a nurturing and inclusive learning environment. By pursuing a career in education, I aim to be the bridge that connects students to their potential, empowering them to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. To leave a lasting impact on the students I teach, I plan to embrace a student-centered approach that fosters personalized learning experiences. Recognizing the unique strengths, interests, and challenges of each student, I will tailor my teaching methods to cater to their individual needs. By creating an inclusive and supportive environment, I aim to cultivate a love for learning and inspire students to reach for their highest aspirations. I will encourage critical thinking, creativity, and resilience, instilling in them the confidence to tackle challenges and embrace growth. Additionally, I will actively seek opportunities to mentor and guide students beyond the classroom. By providing guidance on study skills, goal setting, and career exploration, I hope to equip them with the necessary tools to navigate their educational and professional journeys. Moreover, I plan to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within the educational system, ensuring that all students have equitable access to quality education and are celebrated for their unique backgrounds and perspectives. My passion for education stems from the profound impact my teachers have had on my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. Their unwavering support and belief in my potential have ignited a deep desire within me to empower students to unlock their own brilliance. Through a student-centered approach, mentorship, and promoting inclusivity, I aspire to leave a lasting impact on the students I teach. I am committed to nurturing their minds, fostering their growth, and empowering them to become lifelong learners and leaders who will shape a brighter future for themselves and their communities.

As an African-American who has lived in both the United States and Nigeria, I envision a utopian future where optimal mental health is prioritized within the Black community. In this essay, I will outline my vision for fostering mental well-being and how mental health care and advocacy can play a crucial role in achieving social justice for communities of color. By addressing the unique challenges faced by Black individuals and promoting mental health support, we can unlock the true potential of the Black community. In my utopian vision, the Black community has dismantled the stigmas surrounding mental health. Open conversations about mental well-being are encouraged and normalized, ensuring that seeking help is seen as a sign of strength rather than weakness. Through education and awareness campaigns, individuals are empowered with knowledge about mental health conditions, their signs, and available resources. This increased awareness reduces the barriers to seeking support and promotes early intervention. Optimal mental health in the Black community is achieved through culturally competent mental health care services. Mental health professionals receive training that embraces cultural sensitivity, acknowledging the unique experiences and challenges faced by Black individuals. Therapists and counselors incorporate culturally relevant approaches and frameworks, ensuring that treatment plans address the specific needs of the community. By providing tailored and inclusive care, individuals can find solace in a therapeutic environment that understands and respects their cultural backgrounds. In my utopian vision, mental health services are readily accessible and affordable for all members of the Black community. Community-based mental health clinics and centers are established in underserved areas, removing geographical and financial barriers. Collaborations between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local institutions ensure that mental health services are integrated into existing community resources, such as schools, places of worship, and sports facilities. By promoting access to mental health services, individuals can receive the support they need without facing financial burdens. Sports play a vital role in promoting optimal mental health within the Black community. I have a deep love for sports and know the power that it has in connecting people firsthand. In my vision, sports programs are available and accessible to Black youth, providing an outlet for physical activity, teamwork, and personal growth. Alongside sports, mentorship programs are established, pairing young individuals with positive role models who can guide and support them. These programs not only promote physical well-being but also foster resilience, self-confidence, and emotional well-being, contributing to long-term mental health. To achieve social justice for communities of color, mental health advocacy is indispensable. My utopian vision envisions a society where policymakers, community leaders, and advocates prioritize the mental health needs of the Black community. This includes investing in mental health research, supporting community-led initiatives, and allocating resources to address the systemic factors that contribute to mental health disparities. By advocating for equitable policies and social change, we can address the root causes of mental health disparities and promote social justice. In my utopian vision, the optimal mental health of the Black community is achieved through open dialogue, culturally competent care, accessibility, and advocacy. By prioritizing mental well-being, we can unlock the true potential of individuals and communities, fostering resilience, empowerment, and social justice. It is through collective efforts, embracing cultural diversity, and dismantling systemic barriers that we can create a future where mental health is cherished, ensuring that the Black community thrives in every aspect of life.

As a college student who grew up in the United States but spent my formative teenage years in Nigeria, my identity as an African-American carries a unique blend of experiences, perspectives, and challenges. Being part of both the African-American community, an underrepresented minority population in the US, and having roots in Nigeria has shaped my path in profound ways. In this essay, I will explore the impact of my dual identity, its influence on my personal growth, cultural understanding, and the ways it will continue to shape my future aspirations. Growing up with a dual heritage has allowed me to bridge two rich and diverse cultures. Being African-American connects me to the legacy, struggles, and triumphs of my ancestors in the United States, while my time in Nigeria has exposed me to the vibrant traditions, languages, and values of my African heritage. Embracing both aspects of my identity has fostered a deep appreciation for cultural diversity and has broadened my perspective on global issues. My experiences in both the US and Nigeria have influenced my identity formation. In the US, I have witnessed the struggles faced by African-Americans, the fight for equality, and the importance of representation in shaping societal narratives. On the other hand, living in Nigeria allowed me to reconnect with my African roots, gaining a profound understanding of the richness of African culture, community values, and the effects of globalization. These experiences have fostered a strong sense of pride in my dual identity, enabling me to navigate various cultural contexts with empathy, adaptability, and a sense of belonging. Navigating between two worlds has been a catalyst for personal growth and self-discovery. It has taught me resilience, adaptability, and the ability to embrace change. By experiencing diverse cultures, I have developed a global perspective that allows me to approach challenges with creativity and a willingness to learn from different viewpoints. Moreover, these experiences have nurtured my ability to bridge cultural gaps and foster understanding between different communities, which I believe will be invaluable in my future endeavors. As an African-American college student, I am acutely aware of the challenges faced by underrepresented minorities. I have witnessed firsthand the systemic barriers that hinder progress and limit opportunities for individuals from marginalized communities. My unique perspective and experiences motivate me to be an agent of change, advocating for social justice and equity. By leveraging my dual identity, I aim to challenge stereotypes, dismantle systemic racism, and create inclusive spaces where diverse voices are heard and valued. My African-American identity, influenced by my time in Nigeria, will continue to shape my future aspirations. I am passionate about fostering cross-cultural understanding and working towards global solutions to address social inequalities. I aspire to pursue a career that intersects with international relations, diplomacy, or human rights, enabling me to bridge the gaps between different cultures and advocate for equitable policies on a global scale. I envision myself contributing to initiatives that empower underrepresented communities, both in the United States and abroad, and fostering meaningful connections between diverse groups. As an African-American college student with a unique background spanning the United States and Nigeria, my dual identity has profoundly shaped my path. It has empowered me to embrace my heritage, integrate diverse perspectives, and aspire to make a positive impact on society. By navigating the challenges and embracing the opportunities that come with being part of an underrepresented minority population, I am committed to advancing social change, fostering cultural understanding, and working towards a more equitable and inclusive world.

Math is the bedrock of human understanding. As a student majoring in Computational and Applied Mathematics at Rice, I find myself constantly drawn to the subject and the many challenges it presents. First and foremost, I love math because it is a universal language. Mathematics is a language that transcends borders, cultures, and time. Whether you are in Africa or Asia, whether you are studying ancient or modern mathematics, the language of math remains the same. This universality is what makes math so exciting for me because it allows me to connect with people all over the world and throughout history. Secondly, I love math because it is a subject that requires critical thinking and problem-solving skills. In mathematics, every problem presents a challenge that requires careful analysis and creative thinking to solve. It is like a puzzle that needs to be solved, and I find the process of working through a problem to be incredibly rewarding. I'm a person who loves to learn, and I find math to be a very intellectually stimulating subject. The satisfaction of finally solving a difficult problem or working out a mathematical proof is indescribable and motivates me to tackle even more challenging problems. Another reason why I love math is that it is a subject that is constantly evolving. Mathematics is a living, breathing subject that is always growing and changing. There are always new ideas, theories, and discoveries to be made, which makes math an exciting field to be a part of. As a student, I feel privileged to be studying a subject that is constantly pushing the boundaries of what we know and what we can do. Finally, I love math because it is a subject that has real-world applications. Mathematics is not just an abstract concept that exists in a vacuum; it is a subject that has practical applications in many different fields, from science and engineering to finance and business. By studying math, I am developing skills that can be applied to a wide range of real-world problems, and I find this to be incredibly empowering. In conclusion, these are just a few of the reasons why I love math. Its universality, its focus on critical thinking and problem-solving, its constant evolution, and its practical applications are all factors that make it a fascinating subject for me. I am grateful for the opportunity to study mathematics in college and look forward to continuing to explore its many mysteries and challenges.

Math is the bedrock of human understanding. As a student majoring in Computational and Applied Mathematics at Rice, I find myself constantly drawn to the subject and the many challenges it presents. First and foremost, I love math because it is a universal language. Mathematics is a language that transcends borders, cultures, and time. Whether you are in Africa or Asia, whether you are studying ancient or modern mathematics, the language of math remains the same. This universality is what makes math so exciting for me because it allows me to connect with people all over the world and throughout history. Secondly, I love math because it is a subject that requires critical thinking and problem-solving skills. In mathematics, every problem presents a challenge that requires careful analysis and creative thinking to solve. It is like a puzzle that needs to be solved, and I find the process of working through a problem to be incredibly rewarding. The satisfaction of finally solving a difficult problem is indescribable and motivates me to tackle even more challenging problems. Another reason why I love math is that it is a subject that is constantly evolving. Mathematics is a living, breathing subject that is always growing and changing. There are always new ideas, theories, and discoveries to be made, which makes math an exciting field to be a part of. As a student, I feel privileged to be studying a subject that is constantly pushing the boundaries of what we know and what we can do. Finally, I love math because it is a subject that has real-world applications. Mathematics is not just an abstract concept that exists in a vacuum; it is a subject that has practical applications in many different fields, from science and engineering to finance and business. By studying math, I am developing skills that can be applied to a wide range of real-world problems, and I find this to be incredibly empowering. In conclusion, these are just a few of the reasons why I love math. Its universality, its focus on critical thinking and problem-solving, its constant evolution, and its practical applications are all factors that make it a fascinating subject for me. I am grateful for the opportunity to study mathematics in college and look forward to continuing to explore its many mysteries and challenges.

STEM fields are critical to the future of our society. They provide the foundation for innovation and technological advancement, and they are essential for solving some of the most pressing problems facing our world, from climate change to health care. But to truly achieve progress in these fields, we need to ensure that all voices are heard, and that includes the voices of Black people. For too long, Black people have been underrepresented in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, and I believe that by pursuing a career in STEM, I can help to change that. I want to pursue a career in STEM because I am passionate about the potential for these fields to create positive change in the world. I am also motivated by the fact that Black people are underrepresented in STEM, and I want to help change that by being a visible, successful Black person in these fields. I want to inspire other young Black people to pursue STEM careers and show them that it is possible to succeed in these fields despite the challenges. But pursuing a career in STEM is not enough. I also want to use my degree to help uplift my community. STEM is very special in that there exists so many possible ways in which it can be used to enact positive change in the Black community. The possibilities range from improving healthcare outcomes, especially for those of black women who are notoriously overlooked in the healthcare world, to creating sustainable energy solutions that benefit everyone. As a Computational and Applied Mathematics major, I want to use my degree to do things such as work on developing new algorithms that improve healthcare outcomes for Black patients or develop new financial models that address economic inequality. Another area that I am particularly passionate about is education. I believe that access to quality education is essential for creating a more equitable society, and I want to use my STEM degree to help improve educational outcomes for Black students. Whether it's developing new educational technologies or designing programs that help students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, I want to use my knowledge and skills to make a positive impact on the lives of Black students. In conclusion, pursuing a career in STEM is a way for me to follow my passion and make a difference in the world. But it is also a way to help uplift my community and create a more equitable society. I believe that by working hard, being visible, and using my degree to make a positive impact, I can help to inspire the next generation of Black STEM professionals and create a better future for all.

I am the president of FIFA and have completely driven corruption out of the organization, and am a person that people can look up to and say "Maybe some of the people in high places do have our best interests at heart after all."

Society has a moral obligation to respond to the problems faced by disadvantaged individuals and communities. Unfortunately, the current approach to addressing these problems is often inadequate and ineffective. It is necessary for society to change its way of responding to the problems of the disadvantaged, in order to promote equality, justice, and social cohesion. One reason why it is necessary to change the way society responds to the problems of the disadvantaged is that the current approach perpetuates social inequalities. Many of the interventions that are currently in place are reactive rather than proactive and focus on treating symptoms rather than addressing root causes. This approach often leads to a cycle of poverty, as disadvantaged individuals and communities continue to struggle with the same problems, year after year. Another reason why it is necessary to change the way society responds to the problems of the disadvantaged is that the current approach often stigmatizes and marginalizes those who are already vulnerable. Many of the interventions that are currently in place are paternalistic and disempowering and fail to recognize the agency and resilience of disadvantaged individuals and communities. This can lead to a sense of hopelessness and despair, which can further exacerbate the problems they face. Furthermore, it is necessary to change the way society responds to the problems of the disadvantaged because it is the right thing to do. Society has a moral obligation to promote equality and social justice and to ensure that all individuals have the opportunity to fulfill their potential. By failing to respond effectively to the problems faced by the disadvantaged, we are failing to live up to these values. In order to change the way society responds to the problems of the disadvantaged, it is necessary to adopt a more proactive and empowering approach. This can include investing in education, training, and employment opportunities for disadvantaged individuals and communities, as well as providing support for social entrepreneurship and community-based initiatives. It can also include a focus on addressing root causes, such as systemic discrimination and inequality. In conclusion, society must change its way of responding to the problems of the disadvantaged. The current approach perpetuates social inequalities, stigmatizes and marginalizes vulnerable individuals and communities, and fails to live up to our moral obligations to promote equality and social justice. By adopting a more proactive and empowering approach, we can promote social cohesion and ensure that all individuals have the opportunity to fulfill their potential.

From ancient times to the present day, mathematics has been used to explain and understand the world around us. It is a powerful tool that helps us make sense of complex phenomena, and it has transformed every aspect of our lives, from the way we think about the universe to the way we navigate our daily routines. I am a student at Rice University majoring in Computational and Applied Mathematics. I chose to pursue a mathematics degree because math is the bedrock of human understanding. I feel like if you understand math, then you can understand the world around you. Something that really drew me towards a math degree is the intellectual challenge that the field offers. It is a rigorous and logical discipline that requires creative problem-solving skills and critical thinking abilities. It hasn't been easy, but every milestone I achieve gives me a deep sense of personal accomplishment as I work to understand complex mathematical concepts presented to me. Mathematics is a universal language that can help individuals understand the fundamental laws of the universe. The pursuit of mathematical knowledge is a deeply rewarding experience and it imbues me with a sense of purpose. In addition, pursuing a math degree provides me with a strong foundation for further academic pursuits. Many fields, including physics, economics, and computer science, rely heavily on mathematical expertise. If I were to pursue further education beyond my bachelor's, I feel that math is a good foundation upon which I can build further, whether it be any of those fields above, or further into mathematics itself. Above all, math is just something that I'm passionate about. I've always been very analytical in my thinking, and I love solving problems. I get a little dopamine rush every time I solve a difficult equation or figure out a proof, and it's simultaneously intellectually stimulating and rewarding. I love to learn, and I feel like getting a degree in math and going deep into mathematics is allowing me to learn as much as possible and develop into the person that I want to become.

Soccer. Football. Fútbol. It is a sport that goes by many names, but the one I've always loved the most is “Jogo Bonito,” or “The Beautiful Game”. It is the one thing in my life that captures my attention more than anything else. It’s my passion and has been since I was 11 years old. I play soccer all the time, I watch soccer all the time, most games I play are soccer-related, and I’m constantly researching every latest soccer update and player statistic. In short, you could say that I’m a bit of a soccer fan. But it’s far more than just a sport to me. Soccer helped me find a sense of purpose and connection with others. When I was 12 years old, I moved from Fairfax, Virginia, all the way to Abuja, Nigeria. It was a bit of a culture shock, to say the least. It was a vastly different environment with a lot of new people, and I was never really comfortable when it came to change. I struggled to put myself out there and talk to new people, but soccer acted as the bridge that connected me to others. To put it in soccer terms, I “did my talking on the pitch.” Soccer is a sport that requires teamwork and collaboration. All the players on a team have a common goal that they have to work together to achieve. When you play together in a team, you develop trust, communication, and a sense of camaraderie. I made lifelong friends on the football pitch. We had one common interest, football, and that was all that was needed to bring us together. The sense of unity and belonging that we developed on the field extended into our personal lives, and it made it far easier to acclimate to my new surroundings. It made me realize that maybe change wasn't such a bad thing after all. When I came to understand the power that soccer has when it comes to bringing people together, it made me realize that whatever I would do in the future, football had to be involved. I want to use the power of football to connect people. I want everyone to be able to experience the joy and the unity that I feel when I play soccer, the rush of adrenaline and awe I feel when I watch the world’s best on the big screen, the pain of loss and the desire to improve. It’s more than a game. It’s the beautiful game.

"I am in control." This is phrase often repeated in "In Control" by Baker Boy, and a mantra I often tell myself. Sometimes the hardships of life can frustrate me and make me feel helpless, and I need to remind myself that I'm not a spectator in my own life. I have control over my life, my actions and my future. I'm not passive, I'm active, and "In Control" a song that I feel captures that sentiment perfectly. Baker Boy glides triumphantly on an upbeat instrumental, reassuring listeners that the "darkest days" will end eventually, and be followed by brighter ones. We all have bad days, and on mine, I often struggle to find meaning in what I do. The message of this song, saying that dark days will be followed by good ones, and nobody else except for you is in control of your future, fills me with hope, which I think is a scarce feeling nowadays. Simply knowing that better days are ahead inspires me. It gives me something to work towards. In addition to this, this song galvanizes me into wanting to be my best self. Lines like "Be an icon, like a pillar for the next gen" tell me that I can truly have an impact in this life. I don't have to settle for good enough, I can truly be great. This song is a great pick me up, and it's a groove too. Not only does it lift me from poor spirits, but it also reminds me of what I can achieve, which is anything i put my mind in, since I am in control.

A literary work that has inspired me is the classic Animal Farm by George Orwell; it was a book that helped me realize a lot about the world. The animals were being oppressed under farmers’ cruel rule and revolted successfully, but their new leaders, the pigs, became exactly what they had fought so hard against originally. Animal Farm made me reflect on the seduction of power and how it changes people. It made me realize that many regimes throughout history began with someone offering a solution to an oppressed people’s plight. Despite the fact that they may have had genuinely positive intentions at first, when people gain power, instead of using it to help people, they tend to use it to fuel their own vain desires. Animal Farm helped me understand humanity’s innate selfishness, which is one of our biggest flaws, and how when some people rise up, they forget where they come from. The book inspired me to get introspective and think about what I want to do with my life. I have made a promise to myself that I will never forget my morals and lose myself no matter what position I find myself in. I want to be a leader of integrity, and I want to use my position to be a positive influence, not just for the acquisition of power itself. I’m not a selfish person by nature, and reading Animal Farm inspired me to always remember who I am and why I work so hard. My long term objective isn’t to make money, or to become famous or powerful, but to add to the world in whatever way or capacity I can, and that is what is most important to me.

The biggest problem that the world faces right now is a crippling lack of empathy. All of the world's greatest evils: racism, sexism, classism, homophobia, and more can all go down to people simply not being able to put themselves in someone else's shoes. My favorite word is sonder. Sonder is the realization that every single person in the world lives a life just as rich and vivid as your own. People you walk past once and never see again may be considered as just extras in your little bubble, but they are living their own lives, as is everyone else. You are not the main character. We need to have more empathy for others, and not just live for our own selfish desires, with our own selfish viewpoints, and disregard the humanity of those who look, act, or think differently to us. This is far easier said than done though, as selfishness is human nature, an evolutionary advantage in order to survive. However, at this point in time, it causes more harm than good. We need to teach care in schools, and we need to exhibit it in our daily lives. Kids need to understand just how different people can be, and how the diversity of humanity is our strength. All kinds of people need to be represented in pop culture in order for it to be normalized, and hatred and division needs to be frowned upon. Young children are naturally egocentric, and are incapable of seeing anything outside of their own point of view. As they get older, that is supposed to change, and they are meant to grow in emotional intelligence, and understand that the world in fact doesn't revolve around them. I don't think enough people grow out of that egocentric phase, and that's a problem.

“We’re moving to Nigeria.” Those four words cut my heart clean in two. I had spent most of my first 11 years living in Virginia, so it was all I knew. I enjoyed the safety in monotony, knowing that the things around me, the same friends from preschool, my house, and my general environment remained constant. To have the rug swept out from under me with the revelation that we were moving halfway across the world was devastating. I’m biologically Nigerian, and my parents were both raised there, but I was as American as they come. The change blindsided me and boiled my blood. Why me? I had 9 months to process the information, but spent the whole time in complete denial. “Maybe it was all just a bad dream, and if I ignore it then nothing will change.” Before I knew it, we packed our bags and flew to Nigeria. The first year was the equivalent of swimming in a shark tank with a bloody wound – not fun to say the least. I had never had to consciously make friends, and it turns out I was terrible at it. I was a few minutes late to my first class, so when I walked in, everyone was already seated. All eyes on me, sweat beads began to trickle down my forehead. “We have a new student today,” my teacher announced. “Please introduce yourself to the class.” “I’m Temi,” I squeaked. I don’t even know if anyone heard me. I became the quiet kid, and even though everyone looked like me, I had never felt more isolated. It felt like my world was going to collapse. I struggled to socialize, and adopted two coping mechanisms: eating and playing FIFA. That’s not exactly the most healthy combination, and I was already a little chunky before, so I became very overweight, almost dangerously so. My lowest point came in science class. I got an answer that was different to everyone else's, including the teacher. A small part of me wanted to acquiesce just to not further isolate myself, but I remained adamant that I was right, and they were confident that they were. Eventually, when it was confirmed that I was right I just started crying in front of the whole class as all of the feelings that I had tried to push away for so long came rushing out. Those tears were of resignation – I was in Nigeria now and there was no going back. There wasn’t a specific moment that changed everything, but there was a sport. I channeled my love for FIFA into a deeper appreciation for soccer, the one sport just about every Nigerian loves. I found common interests with my peers. I got comfortable enough with them to talk about other things as well, and built strong lasting friendships. I realized that we were all more similar than I had earlier thought, just kids trying to figure out who we were and what we wanted to accomplish. It took a while, but I came to appreciate my time in Nigeria. Moving there taught me resilience and the inevitability of change. While I can’t always control what happens, I can control my reaction. Evolve, or go extinct. I also learned a lot about people. I’ve seen life through the lens of both developed and developing countries, and can see just how similar we all are. We all have hopes and dreams, we laugh, we cry, we do good, and we make mistakes. But at our core, we’re all human.

1. I am a man, and men have suffered from a history of oppression and lack of opportunity for millennia. I believe that getting this scholarship will be one step towards true equality and closing the gender gap. 2. I want to make a lot of money and fulfill all of my personal desires. I want to build multiple houses, buy many cars, and become as famous as possible. For me, this life is purely about what you can gain materially, especially for yourself. 3. Once I went on a walk, and I tripped over a rock. I fell down, and got back up. That was when I realized that I was special and could overcome anything thrown my way. It was a big rock too, almost 6 inches high.