Pursuing higher education at Prairie View A&M University has been one of the most transformative decisions of my life. As a rising junior majoring in accounting, I am driven not only by academic achievement but by a deeper purpose: to uplift and empower my community through financial education and economic opportunity. As a first-generation college student, this journey represents more than personal advancement and achievements; it is a legacy I am building for my family and those who will come after me. Raised by a single parent, I learned the values of hard work, sacrifice, and resilience from an early age. My mother, despite limited resources, always emphasized the importance of economics and perseverance. Her unwavering support taught me to remain focused, even in the face of adversity. I carry her sacrifices with me every day, and they continue to fuel my ambition to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and to build a career rooted in service and leadership. Throughout my college journey, I have seen opportunities not only to grow academically but also to give back. I currently serve as a finance intern with College Mentoring Experience, where I help support budgeting and program development to serve underrepresented students. I also participated in the Grant Thornton Empower Program, a professional development initiative that has equipped me with the tools to succeed in the financial services industry. These experiences have deepened my understanding of how financial literacy can transform lives, especially in marginalized communities. My long-term goal is to establish an accounting firm that serves and supports Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs. I believe financial literacy is a cornerstone of generational wealth and self-sufficiency. Far too often, talented individuals and promising businesses are held back not by a lack of potential, but by a lack of access to financial knowledge and resources. I want to change that narrative. My firm will not only offer tax and advisory services but also host free financial literacy workshops for youth and small business owners. I want to be the resource I wish my community had growing up. This scholarship represents more than financial assistance it is an investment in that vision. Your support would help ease the financial strain of tuition and living expenses, allowing me to focus more fully on my studies, CPA preparation, and continued professional development. It would also bring me closer to achieving a dream that is not just mine, but one that belongs to every young person who has ever been told their circumstances define their future. Thank you for considering my application and for supporting students like me who are working to build brighter, more financially empowered communities.

Community to me has always meant showing up especially when others need it most. My sense of hope for the future is deeply rooted in these moments of connection: when I’ve been able to give back, lift someone up, or simply make life a little easier for someone else. These experiences have not only shaped who I am but have also made me confident in the power of people helping people. One moment that stands out was when I volunteered to assist students with special needs in learning how to navigate digital technology. Many of the students struggled with basic functions like logging into Chromebooks, submitting assignments, or using assistive tech features. Instead of simply doing the tasks for them, I took the time to walk them through each step, patiently encouraging hands-on learning and independence. Watching them gain confidence and light up when they could do something on their own, no matter how small, was one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had. It reminded me that connection is not always about grand gestures but about showing consistent care and patience. I also mentor high school students who are first-generation college hopefuls, just like I was. Through workshops and one-on-one sessions, I’ve helped them explore career options, complete college applications, and write personal statements that reflect their unique stories. Many of them doubted whether college was even an option for them. I recognized their fears because I once had the same ones. By sharing my own journey and staying present through each step of theirs, I’ve watched those fears turn into excitement and possibility. Their courage and drive to keep going even when life makes it hard remind me every day why I chose a path centered in service. Both of these experiences have taught me that resilience is not just about pushing through on your own it often comes from the strength we give each other. When we invest in others, we also renew our own hope. I carry these lessons with me into everything I do, from my accounting studies at Prairie View A&M University to my dream of opening a firm that supports and empowers Black-owned businesses. My community has given me purpose, and I will spend my life giving back.

Pursuing higher education at Prairie View A&M University has been one of the most transformative decisions of my life. As a rising junior majoring in accounting, I am driven not only by academic achievement but by a deeper purpose: to uplift and empower my community through financial education and economic opportunity. As a first-generation college student, this journey represents more than personal advancement and achievements; it is a legacy I am building for my family and those who will come after me. Raised by a single parent, I learned the values of hard work, sacrifice, and resilience from an early age. My mother, despite limited resources, always emphasized the importance of economics and perseverance. Her unwavering support taught me to remain focused, even in the face of adversity. I carry her sacrifices with me every day, and they continue to fuel my ambition to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and to build a career rooted in service and leadership. Throughout my college journey, I have seen opportunities not only to grow academically but also to give back. I currently serve as a finance intern with College Mentoring Experience, where I help support budgeting and program development to serve underrepresented students. I also participated in the Grant Thornton Empower Program, a professional development initiative that has equipped me with the tools to succeed in the financial services industry. These experiences have deepened my understanding of how financial literacy can transform lives, especially in marginalized communities. My long-term goal is to establish an accounting firm that serves and supports Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs. I believe financial literacy is a cornerstone of generational wealth and self-sufficiency. Far too often, talented individuals and promising businesses are held back not by a lack of potential, but by a lack of access to financial knowledge and resources. I want to change that narrative. My firm will not only offer tax and advisory services but also host free financial literacy workshops for youth and small business owners. I want to be the resource I wish my community had growing up. This scholarship represents more than financial assistance it is an investment in that vision. Your support would help ease the financial strain of tuition and living expenses, allowing me to focus more fully on my studies, CPA preparation, and continued professional development. It would also bring me closer to achieving a dream that is not just mine, but one that belongs to every young person who has ever been told their circumstances define their future. Thank you for considering my application and for supporting students like me who are working to build brighter, more financially empowered communities.

Pursuing higher education at Prairie View A&M University has been one of the most important decisions of my life. As a rising junior majoring in Accounting, I am driven not just by academic achievement but by a larger purpose as a first-generation student and to uplift my community through financial empowerment and education. This scholarship would significantly ease the financial challenges I face and help me continue moving forward on this path. Raised by a single parent, I learned the value of hard work, sacrifice, and resilience early on. My mother instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility and determination. Her unwavering support, despite limited resources, has inspired me to strive for excellence and make the most of every opportunity. I carry her sacrifices with me every day as I work toward becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). My long-term goal is to open my accounting firm, one that is rooted in serving and supporting Black-owned businesses. I believe financial literacy is a cornerstone of empowerment, and I want to be a resource for younger generations, helping them understand money, build wealth, and make informed financial decisions. By combining my education with a passion for community development, I hope to create a lasting impact. This scholarship is more than just financial assistance; it is an investment in a future where I can give back and help others rise. Your support would allow me to focus more fully on my studies and professional development, bringing me closer to my goals.

My name is Treasure Rowell, and I am a first-generation college student from Chicago, Illinois. I am currently pursuing my undergraduate degree in accounting at Prairie View A&M University, an HBCU that has given me both a sense of belonging and a platform to grow academically and professionally. Coming from a single-parent household, I’ve seen my mother work tirelessly to provide for me, often sacrificing her own needs to make sure I had opportunities she never had. Being an out-of-state student has increased the financial responsibility on my family, making it challenging to balance academic commitments with financial stability. Receiving this scholarship would make a tremendous difference in my life. It would allow me to continue my education without the constant worry of how tuition, books, and other living expenses will be covered. With this scholarship, I could shift my full focus toward achieving my educational and career goals. My long-term goal is to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and build a career in private accounting. More specifically, I hope to one day open my own accounting firm that specializes in assisting small businesses and minority entrepreneurs. Growing up in Chicago, I saw firsthand how a lack of financial education and access to proper financial planning can hold communities back. I want to be a resource for my community, providing not just accounting services but also financial literacy education to empower individuals and families to build and sustain generational wealth. My ultimate aspiration is to use my education and career to uplift those around me and make meaningful contributions to the economic success of underserved communities. Throughout my academic and personal journey, I have faced many challenges, but one of the most difficult periods was during my freshman year of college. Being away from home for the first time, adapting to a new environment, and facing financial uncertainty created emotional stress that I was not fully prepared for. There were moments when I questioned whether I was capable of handling the pressures that came with being the first in my family to attend college. I often felt isolated and overwhelmed, unsure of where to turn. However, I quickly learned the importance of building a support system. I began joining student organizations, mentorship programs, and academic clubs related to my major. These groups not only provided me with practical resources but also connected me with peers and mentors who understood my struggles and encouraged me to keep going. I also sought help through counseling services, which taught me healthy ways to manage stress and anxiety. This scholarship would be more than just financial support; it would be an investment in my growth, leadership, and future impact. It would help ensure that I can continue my education, achieve my goals, and eventually give back to the communities that shaped me.

As a first-generation college student from Chicago, Illinois, my journey through higher education has been shaped by both my personal experiences and the environment I grew up in. Coming from a single-parent household, I have always understood the importance of education and hard work. Watching my mother work tirelessly to provide for me inspired me to push beyond the limitations often placed on students from my background. I knew early on that attending college was not just a dream it was a responsibility I owed to myself, my family, and my community. I am pursuing my degree in accounting at Prairie View A&M University, an HBCU that has given me a sense of belonging, cultural pride, and academic opportunity. Being out-of-state adds a financial strain on my family, making scholarships like this one vital to my ability to continue my education. Every financial resource I receive is another step toward breaking generational barriers and building a stable future not only for myself but also for those who look up to me. My passion for business and accounting stems from wanting to understand how organizations grow and function behind the scenes. I am working diligently to complete my undergraduate degree with plans to pursue a CPA license after graduation. With that certification, I hope to work in private accounting or financial consulting, helping businesses, especially those in minority communities, manage their finances and succeed. In the long term, I would like to start programs that help young students learn about financial literacy and entrepreneurship, giving them the tools to build wealth for themselves and their families. Beyond academics, community service has always been an essential part of who I am. I have volunteered at local food drives and community clean-up efforts, and I have served as a mentor for younger students navigating high school and preparing for college. Giving back to others has taught me leadership skills, accountability, and humility. I don’t view community service as just volunteering it’s a responsibility to uplift others the same way I was uplifted by mentors and leaders before me. Earning this scholarship would not only ease my financial burden but also serve as motivation to keep pushing toward my goals. It would be an investment in my future and the futures of those I plan to serve. I am determined to represent my family, my community, and Prairie View A&M University with pride and excellence as I continue my academic journey. With your support, I will continue to work toward becoming a successful Black woman in business, one who not only excels professionally but also gives back to uplift others along the way.

As a first-generation and out-of-state college student pursuing a degree in accounting, I understand firsthand the challenges that come with limited access to financial knowledge and resources. My vision for economic empowerment and business innovation is rooted in the belief that when underserved communities gain access to financial tools, mentorship, and opportunities, they gain the power to build generational wealth, create stability, and influence systemic change. Economic empowerment begins with education. I plan to use my accounting background to increase financial literacy within underrepresented communities by offering workshops on budgeting, taxes, credit, and business development. Too often, communities of color and first-generation individuals are left out of financial conversations that directly impact their futures. My goal is to bridge that gap and ensure people have access to information that allows them to make informed, confident decisions both personally and professionally. Innovation in business isn’t just about technology or profits; it’s about inclusivity, equity, and creating systems that work for everyone. I envision launching an accounting firm that offers affordable, high quality services tailored to the needs of minority owned businesses and first-time entrepreneurs. These businesses often struggle not because they lack vision, but because they don’t have access to financial planning, proper reporting, or capital. I want to be part of the solution by helping them create strong financial foundations so they can thrive and scale. In addition to my career goals, I also strive to uplift others through mentorship. As someone who had to navigate college alone, I know how isolating it can feel. That’s why I’ve taken on leadership roles in several campus organizations focused on mentorship, sisterhood, and community outreach. I help guide first-year students, especially other first-gen and out-of-state students. through everything from course planning to applying for scholarships. I believe success should be shared, and leadership is about lifting others as you climb. I’m also committed to using my platform to advocate for ethical business practices such as pay transparency, supplier diversity, and inclusive hiring. These policies not only promote justice but also ensure that business growth does not come at the expense of equity. Ultimately, I want to build a career that reflects my values: service, empowerment, and progress. I believe accounting, when paired with heart and purpose, can be a tool for transformation. With the support of this scholarship, I’ll be better equipped to turn this vision into reality and make a meaningful difference in both business and community spaces.

I am also committed to supporting business practices by advocating for pay transparency, supplier diversity, and inclusive financial policies within organizations. These practices are crucial for dismantling systemic barriers and ensuring that all individuals, regardless of background, have equal access to success in the workplace. My long-term goal is to provide affordable, high quality accounting services to minority owned businesses, helping them grow and thrive in competitive markets. Many small businesses face challenges not because they lack ideas or ambition, but because they lack access to the financial support and guidance necessary to scale. I want to change that narrative by offering personalized services and financial education that prioritize the needs of underserved entrepreneurs. As I advance in my career and pursue my CPA designation, I also plan to give back by mentoring and supporting future professionals, particularly first-generation college students and students of color. I want to share not just accounting knowledge, but also the unspoken lessons of navigating higher education, how to apply for scholarships, access resources, manage time effectively, and stay focused on long-term goals despite setbacks. As a first-generation college student and only child, I didn't have that guidance, so I use my leadership skills to advance my community with the knowledge I now have. College can be overwhelming, especially for students who don’t have a roadmap or a support system. My goal is to be the kind of mentor I wish I had when I started, someone who leads with transparency, encouragement, and lived experience. I want to empower students to not only stay in school but to thrive, graduate, and become leaders in their own right. Additionally, I hope to create internship opportunities within my future firm to give students hands-on experience and professional development. These internships would be designed not only to teach technical skills but also to build confidence and networking abilities. I also want to partner with schools and local organizations to provide free financial literacy workshops and business planning support. My goal is to create a ripple effect, where the people I help go on to empower others in their communities. Ultimately, I envision establishing an accounting firm rooted in community, integrity, and impact, one dedicated to helping values driven businesses and entrepreneurs achieve financial success. I believe that through education, mentorship, and accessible services, we can transform lives and strengthen communities. With the support of this scholarship, I’ll be one step closer to making that vision a reality.

Growing up in a single-parent household with just my mom has profoundly shaped who I am today. Her resilience and dedication have been the cornerstone of my upbringing, instilling in me the values of independence and hard work. From an early age, I learned that the effort I put into my endeavors directly influences the rewards I reap. My mom's unwavering spirit and positive attitude, even in challenging circumstances, have taught me the importance of perseverance and optimism. Despite the financial struggles we faced, my mom demonstrated remarkable ingenuity in managing our resources. She taught me how to stretch a dollar and make it last through the weeks, a skill that has proved invaluable as I navigate college life. Her practical lessons in budgeting and money management weren’t just about making ends meet; they were about understanding the value of hard work and planning for the future. Through her example, I learned that financial discipline is not just about surviving but thriving despite limitations. Moreover, my mom’s approach to life has always emphasized the importance of showing up fully and giving my best effort, regardless of external validation. She encouraged me to perform as if no one is watching, stressing that my self-worth and self-assessment are what truly matter. This mindset has been instrumental in my journey as a first-generation college student. It has pushed me to engage deeply with my studies, to seek out opportunities, and to challenge myself continually. Navigating college as a first-generation student presents its own set of challenges—academic pressures, social adjustments, and the financial burden of higher education. Yet, the lessons imparted by my mom have provided a strong foundation to address these challenges. Her resilience has taught me not to shy away from difficulties but to confront them with determination and a positive attitude. Her belief in the value of hard work and integrity has guided me through the complexities of college life, reinforcing my commitment to achieving my goals. The values my mom has instilled in me—independence, resilience, and a strong work ethic—are not just abstract principles; they are practical tools I rely on daily. Her support has been a constant source of strength, and her example serves as a daily reminder of the kind of person I strive to be. Each step I take toward my educational and personal goals is a testament to her influence and the sacrifices she made for our family.

Furthering my education will help me build a professional network, discover my passions, and create job security. Also, I chose to further my education because I always loved hbcu schools and had a goal of being a first-generation college student. I grew up in a low-income neighborhood on the west side of Chicago where most kids don't have the support or money to attend or even apply to school. With me having the motivation I built for myself to succeed. I want to show the future kids from my neighborhood that they to can be first-generation college student who not just attends but also graduate. Unfortunately, I grew up in a single-parent household, where I was raised by my mom who had the dream to attend college but at the time money was tight she was not allowed to. So, I want to show her all her hard work raising me to the best of her ability has paid off to make me who I am today. While in college you build a professional network by doing internships in the career field you decide, and you meet people through connections. You can discover different passions also because it'll be different people from around the world connecting you to things you never knew of. Lastly, you create job security because most good-paying jobs require you to have a degree of some kind which allows you to gain a higher income compared to a person with no degree. This scholarship will help my future career goals by allowing me to apply this scholarship to my resume helping me stand out when it's time for internships or a job search. Reducing financial barriers also play a part in my future career goals because it allows me to focus more on education rather than working a part-time job to help pay for college while in school. Winning this scholarship will allow me to feel I am viewed for even more potential greatness in my future. In conclusion, I have chosen to further my education because of the love I have for education, build a professional network, discover my passions, and create job security. Also, be an impact on my community to show them they have the possibilities to do anything they put their minds to. Next, this scholarship will help with my future career goals by reducing financial debt, and help me stand out for jobs/ internships in the future.