Billie Eilish has a way of capturing the raw, unfiltered parts of life, especially the stuff people tend to hide. Her music blends vulnerability with defiance, and that duality is what makes her songs so powerful to me. If I had to choose just three, the ones that resonate most are “everything i wanted,” “Happier Than Ever,” and “idontwannabeyouanymore.” “everything i wanted” hits in a way that’s hard to explain unless you’ve been in a place where success doesn’t fix the darkness. The lyrics reflect the emotional isolation that can come even when everything looks fine on the outside. The line “I had a dream/I got everything I wanted/Not what you’d think” captures the disillusionment of chasing goals and still feeling empty. It reminds me to check in with myself emotionally, not just check off accomplishments. “Happier Than Ever” is an emotional release. It starts quiet and reflective, then erupts into anger and freedom. That shift is exactly how it feels to finally speak out after bottling things up for too long. The second half, where Billie practically shouts, “I’d never treat me this sh*tty/You made me hate this city,” is cathartic. It’s about reclaiming your power and naming the people who made you feel small. Listening to it reminds me that it's okay to be angry, to speak up, and to put myself first. Lastly, “idontwannabeyouanymore” speaks to insecurity and self loathing in a hauntingly beautiful way. It’s like a conversation with yourself during your lowest moments. The lyric “If teardrops could be bottled/There’d be swimming pools filled by models” perfectly captures the quiet despair people often hide. I admire the courage it takes to put that kind of emotion into words. That song helped me feel less alone during times when I struggled with my own self image. Each of these songs speaks to a different version of pain; quiet sadness, explosive frustration, and silent self doubt. Billie Eilish doesn’t just make music. She creates space for people to feel things they didn’t know how to say out loud. And for me, that’s what music is all about.

I am a first generation American born to Nigerian immigrants, and my identity has been shaped by the intersection of two cultures. One rooted in rich traditions and resilience, the other filled with opportunity and forward thinking ideals. Growing up, I learned the value of hard work, community, and perseverance from my parents, who sacrificed greatly to give me a chance at a better life. Their example instilled in me a deep sense of purpose: to not only succeed for myself but also uplift others along the way. From a young age, I’ve been fascinated by how environments shape people’s experiences. How the spaces we live, work, and learn in can impact health, opportunity, and overall wellbeing. This curiosity evolved into a passion for architecture and urban planning. I want to study how to design inclusive, sustainable, and functional spaces that meet the needs of diverse communities, particularly those that have been historically underserved or ignored. For me, architecture is not just about buildings, it’s about creating structures that reflect equity, dignity, and possibility. In college, I plan to major in architecture with a focus on social impact and sustainability. I aim to learn not only technical skills like design software and structural engineering, but also to deeply understand urban sociology, environmental justice, and community engagement practices. I believe that the most effective architects are those who listen, who understand that the people who live in a space know best what they need. I want to be part of a new generation of designers who use their skills to serve, not just to impress. My ultimate career goal is to establish a firm that focuses on designing affordable housing and community spaces in marginalized neighborhoods. I hope to work closely with local governments, nonprofits, and residents to ensure that every project reflects the voices and visions of the people it’s meant to serve. Whether it’s creating parks in low income neighborhoods, renovating schools to make them safer and more inspiring, or helping cities respond to climate change with more sustainable infrastructure, I want my work to be rooted in impact. In everything I do, I carry with me the lessons of my family, the pride of my heritage, and a responsibility to give back. I believe that with the right tools and education, I can make meaningful contributions to society; contributions that leave a lasting mark not only in concrete and steel but in the lives and futures of real people.

A lyric from Olivia Rodrigo’s album, GUTS that deeply resonates with my teenage experience comes from her song "teenage dream": “They all say that it gets better, it gets better the more you grow/Yeah, they all say that it gets better, it gets better, but what if I don’t?” This lyric captures one of the most unspoken truths about adolescence; the fear that you’ll never become who you’re supposed to be. As teenagers, we’re constantly told to be patient, to wait until we’re older and everything will fall into place. But in the quiet moments, that promise can feel hollow. What if you DON'T grow into someone confident, successful, or sure of themselves? What if you really do peak in high school? What if you try your best and still fall short? When I first heard this lyric, I felt seen in a way that few songs have ever managed. There’s so much pressure in your teenage years to be extraordinary. Whether it’s excelling academically, standing out on social media, or knowing exactly what you want to do with your life by eighteen, we’re expected to perform adulthood before we’ve even finished being kids. This is the only age where the line between being a kid and an adult is so scarily blurred. That pressure doesn’t always come from other people, it can come from ourselves. Especially when we’re ambitious, sensitive, or afraid of disappointing others, which is a box I feel like many teens fit in. I’ve often felt caught between wanting to savor my youth and wanting to be taken seriously. I worry about being "enough". Am I smart enough, talented enough, hardworking enough? And then, with college, there’s the added fear of what if none of this leads anywhere? That’s what Olivia Rodrigo captures so powerfully in this lyric, the doubt that lingers even when people are telling you to be hopeful. It’s a quiet kind of anxiety, not always loud or dramatic, but it stays with you. The lyric also captures how isolating teenage years can be. On the outside, things might look fine; grades are good, friends are around, you’re doing what you’re “supposed” to. But inside, there’s often a storm of insecurity, comparison, and fear about the future. Olivia doesn’t sugarcoat that. She leans into the discomfort, the not knowing, the wondering if everything adults say about “growing up” really applies to you. It’s raw, honest, and for many teens, it’s real. What I admire most about this song, and this lyric in particular, is that it gives space for the complexity of adolescence. Being a teenager isn’t just about crushes or prom or rebellious phases. It’s also about deep reflection, quiet fears, and moments where you question your worth. Rodrigo’s lyric offers comfort, not by pretending everything will be okay, but by acknowledging that it’s okay to not have it all figured out. In a world that constantly tells teens to rush toward adulthood, "teenage dream" reminds us that growing up is messy, nonlinear, and scary sometimes. And in that uncertainty, we’re not alone.

Ever since I was young, education has been both a personal passion and a gateway to a future that felt bigger than myself. As a second-generation Nigerian American, I’ve always been acutely aware of the sacrifices my parents made to ensure I had opportunities they never did. That awareness has shaped my goals, fueled my work ethic, and deepened my belief that education is not just a tool for personal advancement but a responsibility. The responsibility to use what I gain to serve others. Academically, I aim to pursue a degree in Architecture followed by graduate studies that will help refine my understanding of systemic issues and equip me with the skills to address them. My educational goal is not only to master content, but to critically engage with it. Asking what impact knowledge has, who it serves, and how it can be used to promote justice and equity. I hope to conduct research, intern in policy focused or nonprofit organizations, and participate in study abroad or service learning experiences that broaden my perspective and sharpen my skills. Professionally, I aspire to work in a field that exists at the intersection of service, leadership, and systemic change. Whether that is through government work, policy analysis, urban planning, education reform, or nonprofit leadership, my goal is to contribute to the design of better systems; ones that empower, not exclude. I want a career that makes me feel intellectually challenged and emotionally connected, where I can measure success not only in outcomes, but in lives changed and communities strengthened. I’m especially interested in working in underserved communities and pushing for policy that addresses root causes rather than just symptoms. Whether it’s housing insecurity, educational disparities, or public health inequalities. But beyond aspirations and academic plans, my most consistent driving force has been a deep commitment to public service. Service is not a resume bullet point, it’s a way of life. A value instilled by my family and reinforced by every experience I’ve had in my community. Growing up, I volunteered with my church giving food to the homeless in Trenton. In high school, I worked with student organizations focused on community, cultural inclusion, and helping those who can't help themselves. These organizations were something I genuinely enjoyed being a part of. Without them, so many experiences and people I've met through the years never would have happened. At the core of all my goals is a desire to give back. I’ve benefited from people who believed in me, institutions that gave me chances, and communities that uplifted me. I believe I owe it to them, and to myself, to keep showing up for others. I want my life to reflect the values of empathy, action, and accountability. This scholarship would be a vital investment in that vision. It would not only alleviate financial stress as I pursue higher education but would also serve as a reminder that my dreams are valid and supported. More importantly, it would allow me to focus on what really matters: learning deeply, serving meaningfully, and leading courageously.

I am Toluwani Oyewale. A dedicated and purpose driven student with a strong commitment to both academic success and community impact. As a second generation immigrant, I grew up learning the importance of perseverance, hard work, and giving back to others. These values have shaped not only my character, but also my goals for the future. I strive to be someone who not only overcomes obstacles, but also creates opportunities for others. Especially those who come from underrepresented or underserved backgrounds. Throughout my academic journey, I’ve consistently challenged myself to grow both inside and outside the classroom. Whether it was taking on leadership roles in student organizations, volunteering in my community, or pushing myself in rigorous courses, I’ve remained focused on my long term goal of making a difference. I am passionate about architecture, and I see my education as a powerful tool to help me contribute solutions to the problems I care about most. Despite my motivation and vision, financing my education remains a significant challenge. Although my upcoming attendance at Howard University is an opportunity I will forever be grateful for, a part of me feels guilty for the potential financial burden I may have brought. My parents have been supportive every step of the way but I must also do what I can in order to pay for my tuition. Therefore, I’ve applied for many scholarships and continue to look for other scholarships. As well as found ways to save and budget carefully. But the reality is that every bit of support helps; not just by covering tuition or textbooks, but by giving me peace of mind. With less financial pressure, I can devote more time and energy to learning, growing, and getting involved on campus and in the wider community. And spend less time worrying about what my parents and I will do, even when they tell me not to worry. This scholarship would make a meaningful difference in my journey. More than anything, it would be a vote of confidence in me and the future I’m working toward. I believe that success isn’t just about personal achievement, it’s about lifting others as you climb. I hope to use my education to build bridges between people, create positive change in my field, and inspire the next generation of students. Receiving this scholarship would not only help me reach my goals, but it would also remind me that I’m not alone; that there are people who believe in my potential and are willing to support it. I carry that encouragement with me, and I will pay it forward in everything I do.

Growing up in New Jersey has deeply shaped who I am;my values, my relationships, and the career path I hope to pursue. As a state full of contrasts, including urban and suburban areas, and both diversity and tight-knit communities, New Jersey gave me an early education in adaptability and perspective. From the immigrant-owned shops in Newark to the tree-lined streets of Toms River, I’ve witnessed how different people coexist, collaborate, and contribute to their communities. This exposure taught me to value both individuality and interdependence, values that have shaped not just how I view the world, but how I want to move through it. New Jersey is often seen as a place people pass through, overshadowed by neighboring cities like New York and Philadelphia. But living here taught me that greatness doesn't always come from being in the spotlight. There is power in persistence, in showing up, and in doing the work even when no one is watching. My parents, Nigerian immigrants who made a life for themselves here, modeled that lesson for me every day. They didn’t have glamorous jobs, but they instilled in me the importance of resilience, responsibility, and education. That work ethic is now at the core of who I am. The cultural diversity of New Jersey also shaped how I build relationships. From an early age, I was surrounded by people from different races, religions, and income levels. I learned how to relate to people beyond surface differences. Whether it was celebrating my friend's Quinceñera, attending a Nigerian traditional wedding, or going to a church youth retreat, I was constantly learning about the values and traditions of others. As a result, I’ve become someone who seeks understanding first, and that approach has helped me become a better friend, student, and leader. These experiences have also directly influenced my career goals. I want to pursue a career in architecture and urban design not just because I love art and math, but because I care about the spaces people live in. In many New Jersey cities, I’ve seen how a lack of intentional planning can divide communities or limit opportunities. On the other hand, I’ve also seen how inclusive design, such as accessible parks, walkable areas, reliable transit, and affordable housing, can bring people together. My goal is to use architecture as a tool for equity, helping to build cities that work for everyone, not just the wealthy or well-connected. New Jersey may not have the glamour or fame of other places, but it taught me something even more valuable. I learned how to stay grounded, how to find strength in community, and how to dream beyond my zip code. Those lessons have not only shaped my beliefs and relationships, but they’ve also given me a purpose I am proud to pursue.

As a second-generation Nigerian immigrant, my community contributions are deeply rooted in a desire to bridge cultural divides and uplift voices that are often marginalized or overlooked. Growing up in a predominantly white environment, I have experienced the struggle of having a culture not similar to those around you and the challenges that come with navigating your identity. These experiences have inspired me to create spaces where others feel seen, heard, and valued, regardless of their background. One way I have worked toward this is by organizing events with my fellow Multicultural Club friends in my school and local community that showcase multiple cultures. This provides me the chance to display beloved Nigerian art, music, and food. These events not only celebrate the vibrant traditions of my heritage but also invite others to engage with a culture they may not be familiar with. From traditional dance performances and cooking demonstrations to visual art exhibitions and music showcases, these moments of cultural connection foster understanding and unity. By bringing people together across cultural lines, I believe we can challenge stereotypes, break down barriers, and encourage empathy. My Nigerian upbringing has instilled in me values that guide my actions and ambitions; resilience, a commitment to community, and a strong work ethic. These values have not only influenced my cultural contributions but also shaped my academic journey and future career goals. I am passionate about pursuing a career in STEM, a field where I can continue to make a meaningful impact. Whether it’s through engineering innovative solutions or promoting diversity in tech spaces, I want to use my knowledge to create a better future for others. Especially underrepresented youth who, like me, may not always see themselves reflected in these industries. My academic journey has not been without its challenges, but I have consistently remained focused, motivated by both my personal goals and the sacrifices my parents have made for me. As immigrants, they came to this country seeking better opportunities, not just for themselves but for their children. Everything I do, I do with a sense of gratitude and purpose, knowing that I stand on the shoulders of their hard work and dreams. I want to make them proud, and I want to ensure that their efforts were not in vain. Receiving the Dr. Soronnadi Nnaji Legacy Scholarship would be an incredible honor and a significant step toward achieving my goals. It would help alleviate the financial burdens of higher education, allowing me to concentrate fully on my studies and explore opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach. With this support, I can continue to excel academically, give back to my community, and pursue my STEM aspirations with clarity and confidence. More than anything, it would remind me that there are people who believe in the power of my story and potential, and that belief would carry me forward.

My name is Toluwani Oyewale, and I am a high school senior with a passion for architecture. As a Black woman, I have faced my share of adversity, but one experience stands out as particularly transformative. It taught me the value of resilience and the importance of community support. During my sophomore year, my family faced a significant financial setback. My parents, who had always worked hard to provide for us, suddenly found themselves struggling to make ends meet. This put a lot of stress on our family and made it difficult for me to focus on my studies. I worried constantly about our situation and felt helpless, unsure of how I could contribute or make things better. Despite the challenges, I was determined not to let our circumstances derail my dreams of studying architecture. I knew that education was my path forward, but balancing schoolwork with the emotional weight of our situation was not easy. I learned to lean on my support system—my teachers, friends, and community—who offered encouragement and practical help. My teachers, in particular, were incredibly understanding, providing me with extra time on assignments when needed and offering guidance on how to manage my workload effectively. To overcome this adversity, I set small, achievable goals for myself each day. I focused on what I could control, like maintaining my grades and seeking out scholarships to ease the financial burden on my family. I also found solace in creative outlets, such as sketching and designing, which allowed me to express my emotions and envision a brighter future. These activities not only helped me cope but also strengthened my resolve to pursue a career in architecture. This experience shaped me in profound ways. It taught me resilience and the importance of perseverance in the face of challenges. I learned that while adversity can be daunting, it can also be a catalyst for growth and self-discovery. I realized the power of community and the importance of reaching out for help when needed. These lessons have made me more empathetic and driven to support others who may be facing similar struggles. To anyone facing similar circumstances, my advice is to stay focused on your goals and not be afraid to ask for help. Remember that you are not alone, and there are people who care and want to support you. Break down your challenges into smaller, manageable tasks and celebrate each small victory. Use your passion as a source of strength and motivation. Adversity can be overwhelming, but it can also be a powerful teacher, guiding you towards resilience and success. As I look forward to studying architecture at Rutgers University or Howard University, I carry these lessons with me. I am committed to using my education to make a positive impact and to inspire others to overcome their own obstacles.