In today's society, one of the most pressing social issues is the pervasive stigmatization of disabled individuals. As a passionate advocate for inclusivity, I am committed to addressing this issue by using my future career in speech pathology to enable disabled individuals to effectively express their thoughts and emotions. By empowering their voices and challenging the misconception that disability equates to diminished intelligence or worth, I aim to promote a more inclusive society. Communication is a fundamental human right, yet many disabled individuals face significant barriers in effectively expressing themselves. As a speech pathologist, my primary goal is to provide individuals with disabilities the tools and support they need to overcome these obstacles. Through individualized therapy plans, I will help them develop or improve their speech, language, and communication skills. By utilizing augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) methods, such as sign language or assistive technology, I will empower them to convey their thoughts and emotions confidently, bridging the communication gap and breaking down societal misconceptions. By working closely with disabled individuals, I will foster self-advocacy skills that empower them to assert their needs and assert their right to be heard. Through therapy sessions, I will create a safe and supportive environment where they can explore their abilities, build confidence, and learn self-expression techniques. By equipping them with communication strategies and emphasizing their strengths, I will challenge the notion that disabilities define their intelligence or worth. By fostering a sense of empowerment, I will contribute to their overall well-being and enable them to engage actively in society. In order to create a truly inclusive environment, collaboration with families and caregivers is crucial. As a speech pathologist, I will actively engage with parents and caregivers to provide education and support. I will empower them with knowledge about communication strategies and encourage them to recognize and celebrate the unique abilities of their disabled loved ones. By involving families in therapy sessions, I will promote a collaborative approach that strengthens communication skills and fosters a positive support system outside of clinical settings. To combat the deeply ingrained stigma surrounding disability, I will actively engage in advocacy efforts and community outreach. I will seek opportunities to educate the public about the diverse range of abilities that exist within the disabled community. Through workshops, presentations, and collaborations with other professionals and organizations, I will work to dispel stereotypes, challenge societal biases, and foster a more inclusive mindset. By promoting awareness and understanding, I aim to create a society that values disabled individuals for their unique perspectives, talents, and contributions. As a future speech pathologist, I am driven by a strong desire to destigmatize disability and empower individuals to better communicate their thoughts and emotions. By working to enhance their communication abilities, promoting self-advocacy and confidence, collaborating with families and caregivers, and engaging in advocacy and community outreach, I aim to challenge societal perceptions and dismantle the notion that disabled individuals are less intelligent or valuable. Through my commitment to inclusivity and empowerment, I hope to contribute to a more compassionate and accepting society that recognizes the inherent worth and capabilities of all individuals, regardless of disability. Together, we can create a world where every voice is heard and every person is respected.

Throughout my life, I have faced the challenges of living with anxiety. This mental illness has significantly impacted various aspects of my life, including my academic pursuits, friendships, and overall ability to navigate the unpredictable nature of life. However, through resilience and self-discovery, I have learned to embrace the journey and find strength in the face of adversity. Anxiety has had a profound effect on my academic journey. Simple tasks like participating in class discussions or presenting in front of my peers became daunting experiences. The fear of judgment and the constant worry of not meeting expectations consumed my thoughts, hindering my ability to fully engage in my studies. However, I refused to let anxiety define my academic potential. Through therapy, self-reflection, and implementing coping strategies, I have gradually regained my confidence. I have learned to approach challenges with a growth mindset, seeking opportunities for personal and academic growth. Anxiety has also influenced my interactions with friends and loved ones. Constant overthinking and fear of rejection made it challenging for me to form and maintain deep connections. However, I have come to realize the importance of open communication and vulnerability. By sharing my struggles with trusted individuals, I have found a network of support and understanding. These experiences have taught me the significance of surrounding myself with compassionate and empathetic individuals who uplift me during difficult times. Through this journey, I have discovered the transformative power of genuine connections and the value of compassion in fostering lasting friendships. One of the most impactful lessons I have learned through my experiences with anxiety is the importance of embracing the unpredictability of life. Anxiety often led me to resist change and crave control over every aspect of my life. However, I have come to appreciate that life is a series of unexpected twists and turns. I have learned to let go of rigid expectations and embrace the flow of life. This mindset shift has allowed me to find joy in spontaneity, embrace new opportunities, and cultivate resilience when faced with adversity. It has empowered me to navigate uncertainty with courage and to embrace personal growth through life's challenges. Living with anxiety has undoubtedly presented numerous obstacles along my journey. However, these challenges have also shaped me into a resilient individual, determined to thrive despite the mental health barriers I face. My experiences have instilled in me a deep appreciation for the importance of mental well-being and a passion for advocating for others who may be on similar paths. I am committed to breaking down the stigma surrounding mental illness, fostering supportive environments, and promoting self-care practices. Through my personal journey, I have gained valuable insights into the power of self-reflection, seeking support, and embracing life's unpredictability. I believe that my firsthand experience with anxiety equips me with a unique perspective that can contribute to the mental health field. With my dedication to personal growth, empathy, and a desire to make a positive impact, I am confident in my ability to support and inspire others who may be navigating their own mental health journeys. In conclusion, my experience with anxiety has not defined me, but rather, it has ignited my passion to empower others facing similar struggles. Through resilience and self-discovery, I have grown to appreciate the importance of embracing life's journey, fostering meaningful connections, and prioritizing mental well-being. I am eager to utilize my experiences to promote mental health awareness, break down barriers, and help create a more compassionate and understanding society.

As I embark on my journey to become a speech pathologist, my career goals are driven by a deep passion for fostering the social-emotional well-being and meeting the intellectual needs of gifted children. I firmly believe that every child, including those who are gifted, deserves to have their unique abilities nurtured in an inclusive and supportive environment. Through my future career as a speech pathologist, I aim to provide these children with the tools and resources they need to thrive, empowering them to reach their full potential. Gifted children often face unique social and emotional challenges due to their heightened cognitive abilities and advanced developmental milestones. As a speech pathologist, I recognize the importance of addressing their emotional needs alongside their intellectual growth. By developing individualized therapy plans and interventions, I can create a safe and supportive space where gifted children can explore and express their emotions, develop coping strategies, and build resilience. Through open communication, active listening, and empathy, I will strive to foster their social-emotional well-being, promoting a positive self-image and healthy relationships with peers and adults. Communication skills are fundamental to intellectual development and academic success. Gifted children often possess exceptional cognitive abilities, but they may struggle with effective communication, such as expressing complex thoughts or managing social interactions. As a speech pathologist, I will work closely with gifted children to develop their speech, language, and social communication skills. By providing individualized therapy sessions, and incorporating strategies to enhance articulation, fluency, vocabulary, and pragmatic language, I will empower these children to effectively communicate their ideas, engage in meaningful discussions, and pursue their academic interests with confidence. Collaboration with educators, parents, and other professionals is crucial in meeting the needs of gifted children holistically. As a speech pathologist, I will actively engage with teachers and school staff to ensure a supportive learning environment that nurtures both intellectual and social-emotional growth. By sharing my expertise and insights, I will advocate for the implementation of inclusive programs, specialized accommodations, and enrichment opportunities tailored to the unique needs of gifted children. Through workshops and training sessions, I will also empower parents and caregivers to understand the developmental milestones of their gifted children and provide them with the necessary support and resources. Gifted children come from diverse cultural backgrounds, and it is essential to embrace and celebrate their individual identities. As a speech pathologist, I will promote cultural sensitivity and inclusivity in my practice. By incorporating culturally relevant materials, considering linguistic diversity, and acknowledging the intersectionality of giftedness and cultural experiences, I will create a culturally responsive environment where every child feels valued and understood. Through this approach, I will not only support their intellectual growth but also contribute to their overall well-being by fostering a sense of belonging and pride in their cultural heritage. Becoming a speech pathologist is my pathway to making a meaningful impact on the social-emotional well-being and intellectual growth of gifted children. By addressing their unique needs through individualized therapy, fostering effective communication skills, facilitating collaboration among stakeholders, and embracing cultural diversity, I am confident in my ability to empower these children and support them in reaching their fullest potential. Through my future career, I will strive to create inclusive and nurturing environments where gifted children can thrive, contributing to a society that values and supports the exceptional abilities and talents of all individuals.

As a psychology major, I am acutely aware of the pressing need for more black professionals in the mental health field. Within the black community, seeking help for non-physical struggles is often stigmatized, leading to internal suffering and silence. Recognizing this struggle, I have chosen to pursue a career in STEM to alleviate discomfort and reduce the number of individuals in my community who suffer silently. Drawing from my personal experiences of finding solace and support through vulnerability, I am driven to uplift my community and offer the same comfort to others. In the black community, seeking support is often met with skepticism and judgment due to cultural and historical factors. Representation plays a crucial role in challenging this stigma, as it provides a sense of familiarity and understanding. By pursuing a career in STEM, specifically in the mental health field, I aim to become a visible and relatable role model for individuals within my community. By providing services and support that invoke feelings of comfort and acceptance, I hope to help break down the barriers associated with seeking help and encourage others to prioritize their mental well-being. Being a black professional in the mental health field allows for a unique understanding of the cultural nuances and challenges faced by individuals within the black community. I recognize that many psychological struggles are shaped by social, historical, and systemic factors that require a culturally sensitive approach to address effectively. By combining my STEM education with an understanding of the black experience, I aim to provide holistic care that recognizes and addresses the specific needs of my community. This approach will help foster empathy, dismantle stereotypes, and bridge the gap between mental health professionals and the black community. STEM education equips individuals with research skills, critical thinking abilities, and the tools to analyze and interpret data. By leveraging these skills, I aspire to contribute to research efforts that shed light on the mental health disparities experienced by black individuals. Through active advocacy, I aim to raise awareness about the importance of mental health within the black community, challenge stigmas, and promote the utilization of available resources. By partnering with community organizations, engaging in public speaking, and utilizing various media platforms, I intend to drive conversations surrounding mental health and facilitate positive change. Having experienced the power of seeking help and finding solace within my community, I am passionate about extending that support to others. As a mental health professional, I aspire to create a safe space where individuals can share their struggles without fear of judgment or shame. By employing evidence-based practices, active listening, and cultural competence, I aim to offer personalized care that respects the unique experiences of each individual. Through counseling, therapy, and other mental health interventions, I hope to uplift my community and empower individuals to lead fulfilling and mentally healthy lives. Pursuing a career in STEM as a psychology major allows me to address the pressing need for black professionals in the mental health field. By challenging the stigma associated with seeking help, fostering empathy, advocating for mental health awareness, and providing support and comfort, I am determined to uplift my community. I believe that representation, cultural competence, and evidence-based care are essential in breaking down barriers and promoting holistic well-being. With a STEM degree, I am equipped to contribute to research, challenge stereotypes, and provide the necessary support that will help individuals within the black community overcome internal struggles and thrive.

Growing up as a black woman in South Dakota, I constantly felt out of place and struggled with a persistent sense of anxiety. My active mind often plunged me into moments of overthinking and panic. It was during one of these anxious episodes, triggered by feeling otherized due to my hairstyle, that I experienced my first panic attack on my way into my first-grade homeroom. However, I was unaware of the nature of my anxiety at the time and did not realize that my experience was not universally shared. Over the past two years, I have come to understand the impact of mental health on my goals, relationships, and perception of the world. This essay will explore how my experience with mental health has shaped my journey, influenced my relationships, and fostered a deeper understanding of the world around me. Growing up, I struggled with feeling like an outsider due to my race and geographic location. This constant sense of otherness contributed significantly to my anxiety. However, technology and social media emerged as powerful tools that helped me explore different perspectives, seek role models, and come to terms with my identity. Exposure to diverse voices and narratives broadened my understanding of society, reducing the triggers for my anxiety and enabling me to become more comfortable with myself. While I still grapple with anxiety, my focus has shifted toward managing it, particularly as a college student. The demands and pressures of academia often overwhelm me, leading to panic attacks. However, through self-education and seeking professional help, I have learned effective strategies to cope with anxiety. During moments of intense stress, such as finals week, I practice techniques like counting tiles on a bathroom wall and deep breathing to regain control. While anxiety remains a part of my life, I consider my never-ending journey a success as I have developed better mechanisms for dealing with it and experienced a reduction in panic attacks. Living with anxiety has transformed the way I approach relationships. I have come to recognize that my facial expressions and body language may not always accurately convey my thoughts and emotions. Consequently, I approach interactions with others with grace and an understanding that there is often more beneath the surface. Appreciating the complexity of human experiences and the limitations of my understanding has allowed me to cultivate empathy and curiosity. Rather than assuming, I ask questions and strive to gain a deeper understanding of others, fostering more meaningful connections. Living with anxiety has nurtured a natural curiosity within me, as I am aware that appearances can be deceiving. This perspective extends beyond personal relationships and shapes how I view the world at large. Recognizing that I can never fully comprehend someone's motivations or experiences encourages me to approach the world with an open mind and a willingness to learn. I am motivated to challenge assumptions, seek diverse perspectives, and engage in meaningful dialogue, as I believe that understanding and empathy are crucial for fostering positive change. My experience with mental health, specifically anxiety, has significantly shaped my goals, relationships, and understanding of the world. Technology played a pivotal role in helping me understand my identity and seek support. While managing anxiety remains a journey, I have developed effective strategies to cope with overwhelming situations. The experience has also influenced my approach to relationships, promoting empathy and curiosity. Additionally, my perspective on the world has become more nuanced and open-minded, as I recognize the complexity of human experiences. As I continue to navigate my journey, I am committed to embracing personal growth, fostering meaningful connections, and contributing to a more compassionate and understanding society.

In today's rapidly changing world, the power of diverse voices in public relations cannot be overstated. As a black, gay woman pursuing a career in the STEM field, I have witnessed firsthand the impact of public opinion and the urgent need for inclusive representation. The racial dynamics that were exacerbated during the summer of 2020 highlighted the significance of diverse voices in shaping public narratives. Moreover, the passage of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation further reinforced the importance of public relations in challenging societal prejudices. In this essay, I will delve into the transformative potential that diverse voices hold in public relations and their profound impact on shaping public narratives. The power of diverse voices lies in their ability to promote authentic representation. Public relations professionals have a responsibility to ensure that the stories and perspectives of marginalized communities are accurately and genuinely portrayed. By actively including diverse voices in public relations efforts, we can challenge existing stereotypes and create a more inclusive narrative. This authenticity resonates with audiences, fostering empathy and understanding, and ultimately dismantling societal biases. Diverse voices bring a wide range of experiences, insights, and perspectives to the table. In public relations, this diversity of thought helps in fostering innovation and creativity, leading to more effective communication strategies. By incorporating diverse perspectives into campaigns and initiatives, public relations professionals can reach a broader audience, making the narratives more relatable and resonant. This inclusivity ensures that public opinion is shaped by a multiplicity of voices, making the discourse richer and more representative of our diverse society. The summer of 2020 exposed deep-rooted racial injustices and systemic inequities. It served as a stark reminder that public opinion can either perpetuate or challenge these inequalities. Diverse voices in public relations have the power to amplify marginalized narratives, shedding light on social issues that require urgent attention. By using their platforms effectively, public relations professionals can initiate meaningful conversations, educate the public, and drive change. Through strategic communication, they can influence public opinion, raise awareness, and pave the way for social progress. The passage of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation serves as a poignant reminder of the battles that marginalized communities continue to face. In the face of such discrimination, the power of diverse voices in public relations becomes even more critical. By actively challenging misconceptions, stereotypes, and biases, public relations professionals can work towards creating a more inclusive and accepting society. They can leverage their skills to counter negative narratives, foster empathy, and promote understanding among diverse populations. The power of diverse voices in public relations cannot be underestimated. As a black, gay woman in a STEM field, I recognize the profound impact of public opinion on societal dynamics. By promoting authentic representation, broadening perspectives, enhancing social awareness, and countering discrimination, diverse voices shape public narratives for the better. As a future public relations professional, I am committed to utilizing my unique perspective and experiences to contribute to a more equitable and inclusive society. Embracing diverse voices is not just an ethical imperative, but also a strategic advantage, as it allows organizations and communities to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.

My honest answer to this question is that I would not say that I have personal experiences with severe mental health. But my experiences with others and their mental health made a strong impact on who I am to this day. My experience with mental health has taught me valuable lessons that have influenced my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations positively. It is through my friendships that I learned how to be supportive and empathetic as they faced constant battles with depression and anxiety. Being a support system is a role I became comfortable with, and it is in this role that I learned how to communicate effectively with people facing mental health issues. My experience has influenced your beliefs by recognizing that mental health is an essential aspect of overall health. You have learned that mental health issues are not something to be ashamed of or ignored and that seeking help is a sign of strength. You have also learned that mental health affects everyone, and being empathetic and non-judgmental towards people facing mental health issues is crucial in building healthy relationships. My experience has also influenced my relationships by helping me become a better friend and support system. I learned how to listen actively, show empathy, and provide non-judgmental support to my friends going through mental health issues. And, through that, learned how to communicate effectively, which has helped me better understand my friends' struggles and provide them with the support they need. My experience with mental health also influenced my career aspirations. When I discovered a career where I could use my skills of empathy and supportiveness to help people who have difficulties communicating through speech therapy I knew that was where I belonged. Communication is essential in mental health, and being able to express oneself can significantly alleviate the burden of mental illness. By pursuing a career in speech therapy, I found a way to contribute to the bettering of an aspect of mental health while also utilizing my strengths. In conclusion, my experience with mental health has taught me valuable lessons that have influenced my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations positively. I learned how to be supportive and empathetic towards people facing mental health issues. And also learned the importance of communication, which is crucial in supporting people with mental health issues. My experience led me to pursue a career in speech therapy, where I can contribute to the better mental health of those in the future.

Mental health is an essential aspect of our overall well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and behave, and can have a significant impact on our daily lives. Personally, I believe that my mental health is important because it directly affects my ability to function in all areas of my life. And, as an emerging adult, I am just beginning my life so I prioritize my ability to function to the best of my ability. Time is something we can never increase so working towards good mental health helps me take advantage of this new and exciting period of life. Being a college student during this period of life has helped me to understand the importance of prioritizing my mental health. The stress and pressure of academic life can be overwhelming, and it is important to take steps to maintain my mental wellness. I have found that practicing self-care and mindfulness techniques has been a helpful way to manage stress and maintain my mental well-being. One way in which I maintain my mental wellness is through journaling. I make a conscious effort to journal regularly, even when I am feeling relatively stable. Putting my feelings down on paper allows me to process my emotions and helps to ameliorate feeling weighed down. It also allows me to gain insight into my thought patterns and identify any negative or harmful patterns that may be affecting my mental health. Another way in which I prioritize my mental health is through meditation. I find that meditating before I go to sleep helps to relieve any stress or anxiety that I may be feeling and helps me to relax and unwind. It also helps to improve my quality of sleep, which in turn has a positive impact on my overall well-being. I also make a conscious effort to practice good self-care habits, such as getting enough sleep, eating healthy, and engaging in regular exercise. These habits help to support my physical and mental health, and allow me to feel more balanced and grounded in my daily life. Overall, I believe that maintaining good mental health is essential to living a fulfilling and meaningful life. By prioritizing my mental wellness, I am better able to manage stress and anxiety, and am better equipped to navigate the challenges that come with being a college student. Through journaling, meditation, and other self-care practices, I am able to maintain my mental well-being and live my life to the best of my ability.

A factor that influenced my upbringing and therefore my values is the schedules of my parents. Both my mother and father are not native to the United States of America. So I grew up as an only child of immigrant parents who were often busy working. I learned to be independent and self-sufficient at a young age. My parents worked long hours to provide for our family, leaving me to my own devices for much of my childhood. While this was difficult at times, it instilled in me a sense of responsibility and self-reliance that has had a profound impact on my life. This independent streak rears its head in my high intrinsic motivation to achieve the goals I set for myself. One of the ways in which this experience has affected my future goals is my desire to become a speech pathologist. I believe that communication is one of the most important aspects of human interaction and that it is essential to achieving independence and success in life. As someone who understands the freedom and necessity that independence brings, I want to use my skills and knowledge to help others overcome communication barriers and achieve their goals. As a speech pathologist, I hope to help people become more independent by improving their communication skills. Whether it is helping a child with a speech disorder to express themselves more clearly, or assisting an adult with a language barrier to communicate effectively in the workplace, I want to empower individuals to become more self-sufficient and achieve their full potential as I am attempting to achieve currently. My personal experience has given me a unique perspective on the importance of independence, and I am committed to helping others achieve it through communication. I believe that every individual has the right to express themselves and be heard, and that by working together, we can break down barriers and create a more inclusive and supportive society. In pursuing my goals, I am committed to working hard and striving for excellence. I understand that becoming a speech pathologist will require dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to learn and grow. I am excited to embark on this journey, and I am grateful for the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Overall, being raised by immigrant parents and learning to be independent has had a profound impact on my life and future goals. I am committed to using my skills and knowledge to help others achieve the independence and success that I have been fortunate enough to achieve.

Taylor Swift's '1989' album, released in 2014, was a game-changer for the singer-songwriter. With a new sound and a departure from her country roots, '1989' marked a significant turning point in Swift's career. Among the many standout tracks on the album, "Style" has emerged as a fan favorite and a personal favorite for many listeners, myself included. In this essay, I will explain why "Style" is my favorite song on Taylor Swift's '1989' album. First and foremost, the production of "Style" is impeccable. The song is a perfect blend of synth-pop and 80s-inspired production, giving it a unique and nostalgic sound. The opening guitar riff sets the tone for the song, and the pulsating beat keeps the momentum going. The production captures the essence of the lyrics and complements them perfectly, making for an unforgettable listening experience. Secondly, the lyrics of "Style" are clever and well-crafted. The song is about a relationship that has ended but still lingers in the speaker's mind. The chorus is particularly poignant, with Swift singing, "You got that James Dean daydream look in your eye / And I got that red lip classic thing that you like." The imagery of James Dean and red lipstick creates a vivid picture of the relationship and the nostalgia that comes with it. The lyrics capture the bittersweet nature of a past relationship and the longing that can come with it. Additionally, "Style" showcases Swift's growth as an artist. The song is a departure from her earlier work and shows her willingness to experiment with new sounds and styles. The confidence and maturity that Swift displays in "Style" are a testament to her evolution as an artist. The song is evidence that Swift is not afraid to take risks and try new things, which is an inspiring message for anyone who wants to pursue their passions. Furthermore, "Style" has become an anthem for many fans, myself included. The song has a universal appeal that transcends age, gender, and background. It speaks to the universal experience of longing for a past relationship and the nostalgia that comes with it. The catchy chorus and infectious melody make it impossible not to sing along, and the song has become a staple in Swift's live performances. In conclusion, "Style" is my favorite song on Taylor Swift's '1989' album for several reasons. The production is flawless, the lyrics are clever, and the song showcases Swift's growth as an artist. Additionally, the song has become an anthem for many fans and has a universal appeal that speaks to the human experience. "Style" is a testament to Swift's talent as a songwriter and her willingness to take risks, and it will undoubtedly remain a fan favorite for years to come.

I have always been passionate about access to education and helping others. My educational goals have always been to pursue a degree in psychology and linguistics, leading me to become a speech therapist. However, the path to achieving my goals has not been without its challenges. One of the biggest obstacles I faced was understanding how to accept and embrace myself as a black woman in a predominantly white society. Growing up, I often felt like I didn't belong, and it was challenging to navigate the complexities of race and identity. I struggled with feelings of insecurity and self-doubt, wondering if I would ever be accepted or valued for who I was. But it was through this experience, I learned the importance of self-love and acceptance. I realized that I had to embrace my unique identity and celebrate my cultural heritage, rather than trying to conform to the expectations of others. As a young black woman, I developed this mindset earlier than other groups. And while many years of my life were exceptionally painful, the experience was worth it because I now have an advanced understanding of how difficult yet essential it is to accept the many unique aspects of one's self. This realization not only helped me to feel more confident and secure in myself, but it also inspired me to pursue my educational goals with even greater determination and passion. I was motivated to become a speech therapist because I wanted to help others overcome insecurities with a level of tact and empathy that can only be gained through the experience of being viewed as less than others due to something out of one's control. I wanted to help people feel heard and valued, regardless of their background or identity. Through my studies, I have learned the importance of cultural competence and the role it plays in effective communication. I have also learned to appreciate the unique perspectives and experiences that each individual brings to the table, and how these differences can enrich our understanding of the world. In conclusion, the obstacle of understanding how to accept and embrace myself as a black woman in a white society has taught me the importance of self-love and acceptance. It has also inspired me to pursue my educational goals with greater determination and passion to exercise empathy and knowledge to help others overcome communication barriers and feel heard and valued. As I continue on my educational journey, I am committed to promoting cultural competence and embracing diversity, both in my personal and professional life.

Free speech is one of the most critical rights of American citizens, and it plays a vital role in the intellectual and personal development of college students. The freedom to express one's thoughts and ideas without fear of persecution or censorship allows students to engage in open and honest dialogue, foster diversity of thought, and develop critical thinking skills. In a college setting, free speech encourages students to explore different perspectives and ideas, even those that may be controversial or challenging. Through open discourse, students learn to develop their own opinions and beliefs while also learning to consider the perspectives of others. This exchange of ideas and opinions helps students to develop a deeper understanding of themselves, others, and the world around them. Furthermore, free speech encourages students to engage in social activism and civic engagement. College campuses have been at the forefront of social movements throughout history, from the civil rights movement of the 1960s to the more recent Black Lives Matter movement. The freedom to express oneself and challenge the status quo has been crucial in driving progress and positive change. It is essential to preserve free speech on college campuses as it is a fundamental right guaranteed by the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. Without this right, students would not be able to express themselves freely, limiting their personal and intellectual growth. Furthermore, the censorship of ideas and opinions stifles diversity of thought, hindering progress and positive change. As a student pursuing a degree in Psychology and Linguistics, I have learned the importance of preserving free speech and its critical role in advancing democracy. Our minds hold novel ideas that are only realized in collaboration with our community. And, without the ability to share our thoughts through free speech, there would be innumerable movements and innovations no longer present in our society. As a future speech-language therapist, my goal each day will be to improve the ability of my patients to be able to take advantage of the right to free speech. Additionally, as an active member of several extracurricular organizations on campus, I have seen firsthand how diversity of thought and critical thinking skills can be fostered through free speech. As a member of both the Black Liberation Affairs Committee and SPACES magazine geared toward sharing the artistic and creative ideas of BIPOC students through a monthly magazine, I am consistently reminded of the importance of free speech. Both of these organizations aim to highlight the voices of the underrepresented in society through open dialogue and artistic takes on controversial topics, allowing students to express themselves freely, while also learning to consider the perspectives of others. Through these events, we have been able to promote diversity of thought and encourage critical thinking, preserving the fundamental right of free speech on campus. In conclusion, free speech is essential to the intellectual and personal development of American college students. It promotes diversity of thought, critical thinking skills, and social activism, all of which are critical components of a well-rounded education. We must preserve this fundamental right and continue to foster open dialogue and debate on college campuses. As a student pursuing a degree in Psychology and an active member of several extracurricular organizations on campus, I am committed to advancing diversity of thought and preserving free speech on campus.

The dream version of my future self is someone who has found the equilibrium between centering my emotional and social needs along with constructing strategies to positively impact my community while also learning to embrace whatever my circumstances may be.

I chose my degree because I witnessed the impact of my degree at an early age. My younger cousin was nonverbal for the first few years of his life and this led to him attending speech therapy. While my cousin and I were able to communicate in other ways, the gradual process of my cousin being able to verbally communicate with me was a beautiful thing to watch. When my cousin gained the ability to speak, he also gained independence. This independence led him to find or enhance his hobbies and relationships. And, it wasn't until I was older that I personally realized how important independence and freedom are in one's journey of cultivating themselves. So, with my degree in speech-language pathology, I hope to help others gain the freedom to express themselves. The beautiful thing about self-expression is that its effects ripple. The primary ripple being that my future patients will feel personally satisfied with their ability to better pursue what they deem important in myriad sectors of their lives. Succeeding that ripple is the social benefit of a society that has individuals who can communicate successfully. Without communication we could not come together to catalyze change, creativity, and self-realization. And, to have any influence in these categories of people's lives is a privilege I would be honored to have. In my career, I hope that I can focus my skills on youth. Within the last few years I have come to realize the power that the younger generation has and to be able to better mobilize them is certainly a goal of mine. Another goal of mine is to ensure that children with disabilities can better relay their ideas to those around them for both safety and personal reasons. I witnessed the confidence and power that communication can bring through my family members' experiences with speech therapy and would love to participate in this exchange. In order to accomplish these goals, I will need to pay for my schooling and living expenses as I pursue not only my undergraduate degree but my master's degree in Speech Language-Pathology. A majority of the payment for these categories comes from my full-time summer job and part-time job during the school year. This summer I plan on interning and it will be unpaid. While I will also have a paying job during this time, I will receive less income to pay for my upcoming semester and rent. This scholarship would help me feel more comfortable financially to fully experience higher education in the form of a summer internship and feel more prepared for my future.

Since dogs are a different species to humans, it is to be expected that dogs have different perspectives than us. However I think that dogs are more similar to us than we think. Dogs, like us, aim to have their needs met like food, water, and shelter; and, also like us, they prioritize receiving love. However, dogs have a shameless approach that humans, as they age, tend to lose. Being able to seek love without ego, pride, or shame is one of the many lessons that we can learn from dogs. My dogs, both past and present, have taught me so much about how to approach life. My first dog, Misty, was a dachshund and rat terrier mix. She taught me to approach life with tenacity and bravery. Despite her size, she would never accept the fact that anyone was bigger than her. Her strength and fearlessness is something I admire. And while the ability to take up space without hesitation is something I needed to learn as a woman and a person of color, this strategy also left me with a hard exterior. And, while this demeanor is oftentimes necessary, it is not auspicious to continue. My next dog taught me how to truly enjoy life. I think that when you are a minority, you are constantly encouraged to be strong and unwavering in the face of constant adversity. But, when I got my dog Milo in 2020, I was taught how to be flexible, vulnerable, and positive; something that can be very difficult considering the state of the world currently. My second, and current, dog Milo is a maltese, and he is overflowing with curiosity, energy and love in his little body. His ability to find joy in every situation astonishes me everytime. My favorite example of this is how he revels each season. Like many dogs, he enjoys summer. He chases the birds in our yard, rolls in the grass, and takes in the many scents of summer. In the fall, he dives into the crunchiest piles of leaves he can find, and in the winter, he runs as fast as he can in order to spray the South Dakota snow behind him. And, in the spring despite his white fur, and my protest, he rolls in mud and splashes in the puddles of April’s showers. While I may think that summer is too hot, spring is too muddy, fall is too brown, or winter is too cold, my dog sees potential for excitement and experience. He allows the world to mold his experiences while also shaping the world into experiences for himself. He never shies away from a new experience, or a new fire hydrant, tree trunk, or electrical box, and he is always better for it. The world is his oyster. This habit of seeking fun and enjoyment in all situations is something I wish to become as natural to me as it is to Milo. I also wish to unlearn my fear of taking up space like Misty. Ultimately, I hope to take more control of my life by seeking new experiences with an open mind and sustaining the courage to seek only the best for myself with both experiences and people. Of course these qualities are not as intrinsic to me as they are to my dogs and many others around the world. So, as odd as it is to say, hopefully soon, I will be more like dogs.

Cuban Characters II by Scott Watton Scott Watton’s photography series taken in Havana, Cuba of the locals is one of my favorite art pieces. My favorite photograph is Cuban Character II. I feel a connection to this photograph specifically because it reminds me of my father’s side of the family. My father’s family is Caribbean and whenever we visit them it always feels like I am transported to a new world. The smell of the ocean’s salt and empanadillas along with the sight of vibrant piragua stands all return to me when I see this image. I am also able to feel the dirt of the rainforest near my grandfather's farm and the coats of his horses. Besides the filial connection I share with this photograph, I also connect with the embodiment of womanhood. This photograph depicts the many forms that femininity can take. As a black woman, it often feels like my access to femininity is blocked by the western culture I am surrounded by. So being able to see a photo of a woman who contradicts the ideals of femininity simultaneously forces me to be more comfortable with mine. With her seemingly masculine cigar and firm facial expression along with the traditionally feminine ideals like flowers, jewelry, and lace, a beautiful amalgamation of culture, masculinity, and femininity osmosize to the viewer. Not only do I see a beautiful portrait but I also see my ancestors, my memories, and, finally, myself.

Growing up in a time that acknowledges mental health is beneficial to me. I am inundated with tools to ameliorate the stresses of daily life. However, I was aware from a young age the methods that worked best for me. As an only child, the opportunity to talk to someone about how I felt was not always provided so I found ways to express my feelings. This led to using art and writing whenever I felt upset or stressed. This is evident in the many notebooks and sketchbooks I had as a child. I even remember when I was about four years old drawing my parents in garbage bags surrounded by flies and banana peels when I was upset with them. This translated to my current love for painting and drawing in times of distress. Picking up a pencil or a paintbrush to express my feelings always ameliorates the emotions I am feeling. A more current method I use to relieve myself of stress is journaling. I find that I am constantly thinking and, sometimes, overthinking. It was during the pandemic while applying to colleges that I was at my worst mentally. I was surrounded by myriad uncertainties while also having to make some of the biggest decisions for my future and this caused immense stress for me. I ordered a journal one day and began to write down all the thoughts that were plaguing me over the last few months. I felt so relieved afterwards because I was able to get all my thoughts out without distractions and come to constructive conclusions. Since then I have gone through two journals and am very grateful that I found this outlet. Another outlet I found to be helpful is going on walks. Rain or shine, if I feel overwhelmed I will find a way to go on a walk. My college campus introduced me to this option as I began using walking as a main source of transportation. These walks revealed themselves to be therapeutic and this led me to take them more often in moments of stress. During midterms and finals week I would listen to music and take a long walk and this would relieve a great amount of stress for me. Having that time to myself while also getting fresh air was a great combination for me that I will continue to utilize. I am aware of how expensive taking care of mental health can be whether that be therapy or the ability to receive diagnoses. This is why I am grateful to have cost effective and efficient strategies for myself. However, as much as I love these strategies, these will not work for everyone. The majority of my friends are people that need to express their feelings to someone through conversations. Oftentimes they want to feel supported and validated in order to ameliorate stress, and while this is not my preferred method of stress relief, it is helpful to many. Relieving stress can be done in many ways and while art, journaling, and walking are all great methods for me, talking about your feelings can also relieve a great amount of stress for many. If you have the ability to reach out to a mental health professional, take advantage of that. However I recognize that not only are they sometimes inaccessible, but even if you do have access to them, they will not be available in every moment of stress. This is why I recommend exploring self regulatory options for stress relief to maintain control of your life.

My favorite book is Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery. I remember going to the public library with my mom to get the film adaptation. My mom and I fell in love with colorful characters and storylines. So, when I entered middle school I ventured to read the series and loved every second. But, the first novel stood out to me the most. The book was overflowing with life lessons constructed with humor, amity, love, and family. And each time I read it, the novel’s significance expands and fills in empty nooks of knowledge as I grow. Each chapter holds a secret to life that, as I grow older, am more inclined to unearth. For example, the way Anne’s outlook on life shifted as she grew up influenced my own outlook on life. In the novel, Anne holds a grudge with Gilbert for years after he makes fun of her hair. She allowed the resentment to fester despite his attempts at making peace and this resulted in a one sided grudge that not only became a waste of energy but something that withheld her from someone that became very special to her later on. Once Anne finally decided to forgive him, Gilbert made a substantial sacrifice for her and later on became her best friend and husband. This example of forgiveness stuck with me. And, like many of the lessons in this novel, became a little voice in the back of my head. I make a conscious effort to not hold grudges because I learned through Anne the benefits of not allowing someone’s actions to determine how I treat them for the rest of their lives. Anne has improved my personhood by letting me experience her mistakes first and that is why it is my favorite book.

To say that education is a privilege would be an understatement. Both filially and ancestrally, education is something that has been avidly fought for. The reason that people have risked their lives to receive education is because of the power that education holds. Not only does an education make you a more informed participant in the space you occupy, but it also plays a large role in your future. Being able to improve how I connect to and understand the world along with being able to have more control of my future are both things that my family and I desire in our lives. My mother, who grew up in Democratic Republic of Congo, was a witness to the effects of a lack of education. She told me about how, while her family was able to afford to send her to school, she also knew people that lived only five minutes away from her that, unfortunately, did not know how to write their own names. My mother had the privilege of an education in Africa and had the bravery to continue seeking it in America. Despite English not being her first language, she pursued nursing school while also having the job of being a mother and homemaker. My father, who grew up in the U.S. Virgin Islands, had access to an education but not one of quality. He, along with many of his peers, was taught in an underfunded public school that neglected to prepare their students for higher education and the workforce. This led to my father joining the military as it seemed to be his only way to progress in life despite an inferior education. After getting out of the military, my father worked in construction and this took a negative toll on his body. This led to him pursuing civil engineering in his mid forties in order to make a better future for himself and his family. I have witnessed both of my parents make immense sacrifices for education: money, time, and dignity as most of them did not enter academia with ideal backgrounds. But, my parents are both beyond satisfied with their decision to pursue education and have embedded the importance of education in me because of the power they know that it holds. Education also played a large role in my ancestors' lives. As both a woman and an African American, access to education has not always been guaranteed. Thanks to leaders in the movement for equal access to education like Ruby Bridges and bills like Title XI, I now have access to education in the United States of America. I recognize the effort that both women, African Americans, and my own family have put forth and to commemorate those efforts I will continue having a passion for pursuing my education not only for the power it grants me both in my future and in the world but because of the passion I have for learning and intrinsic curiosity I have carried from birth.

Simply put, Amelia Boynton Robinson and Samuel William Boynton, were civil rights activists. But to say being a civil rights activist is anything close to simple would be to do a great injustice to the myriad people who sacrificed time, efforts, and even their lives to halt the lamentable disenfranchisement of African Americans. Both Amelia and Samuel Boynton recognized the iniquitous nature of the United States government and that the African American community would have to coalesce in order to dismantle this system; this is what bonded them and led to their marriage in 1936. The steps they took in order to help the African American community gain suffrage included advocating for farmers and sharecroppers regarding their rights to property, education, and voting in Alabama through the Boynton founded Dallas County Voters League. She also held voter registration drives in Selma, Alabama for nearly twenty years and was alongside her husband for the majority of those years. Unfortunately, Boynton’s husband passed away in 1963, but this did not avert her attention away from the apparent need for change in the United States government towards African Americans. And, while Boynton focused most of her career on the rights of African Americans to be constituents she also paved the way as a political figure as well; in 1964, Boynton ran for the democratic seat in Congress in Alabama and was the first African American female to do so. And, in 1965, Boynton supported the civil rights movement in a substantial manner by lending her home to Martin Luther King Jr. for the planning of the Selma to Montgomery March and also by participating in the march. This march led to Bloody Sunday in which she was brutally beaten. Boynton’s unconscious, assaulted body was photographed and shown in a newspaper which acted as a catalyst for then president Lyndon B. Johnson to enact the Voting Rights Act; this act prevented state and local legislation from finding covert ways to continue disenfranchising African Americans. Even after this major milestone in the civil rights movement, Boynton did not stop there. In her later years she continued to promote civil rights by working with the Schiller Institute, an organization whose mission statement claims themselves to be, “...working around the world to defend the rights of all humanity to progress- material, moral, and intellectual,” as the Vice Chairwoman (Schiller Institute). Altogether, both Amelia and Samuel Robinson helped African Americans gain a voice in this country. Without a voice, citizens of this country were unfairly treated and unable to put a stop to any of it. It has been made apparent to me and my black peers that if the government does not have black voices advocating for themselves that political figures and legislation will not attempt to account for our needs. It is because of this realization that I have encouraged my peers to register to vote as this is the first, but often neglected, step in making change. I have also organized protests concerning Black Lives Matter in my city because I recognize that there are also scenarios in which political figures that we may support still need to be made aware of the severity of our needs. And, considering that Boynton's goal was to give African Americans a voice in government, it makes my career choice of a speech pathologist even more valuable. My life’s work will be dedicated to helping people gain the voice that they will use to advocate for themselves for the rest of their lives. And, through my research of the Boyntons I can better see the impact that voices have.

1.) I have eaten a lot of kiwis. I mean not just a handful of kiwis, okay? I have eaten 17 kiwis every day for the past 18 years. The minute I got teeth; I ate kiwis. 6,570 days worth of eating all these kiwis. I took no days off. At this point I think I’m turning into a kiwi myself. Well this can’t be all for nothing. That’s all I’m trying to say. 2.) I’d like to use my abundant knowledge of kiwis for good. I’m thinking kiwi soaps, perfumes, lotions, and hair care products. I mean the possibilities are endless. Eating all those kiwis cannot have been for nothing; it just can’t be. 3.) Honestly, I can’t think of anything. I mean I have really good self control, non compulsive tendencies, and an acute ability to avoid unhealthy situations and habits so I don’t really encounter obstacles in my life.

My passion is art. I love viewing pieces of art, but what I love more than that is making them. Ever since I was little, there was always some medium of art in my grasp. From etch-a-sketches, chalk, the classic pencil and paper combination, and to my kindergarten teacher's rug's dismay, sharpies, I was always participating in some sort of artistic activity. I remember through long drives in Seattle traffic and the late hours of the night under my butterfly bedsheets, art was my most reliable companion. Along with the role of companion, art also served as my most loyal confidant. My art knew that my parents upset me and was the first to know of their relocation to a smelly trash can with myriad flies to keep them company. My art also knew my dreams and aspirations. When I wanted to be a mermaid in the ocean with little fishy friends, my art knew. When I wanted to eat an ice cream sundae with three cherries on top, my art knew. And, during college application season, when I became overwhelmed by the constant questioning of who I was and what my future held, my art knew. While my art has the ability to serve as a time capsule, it also has the ability to serve as the channel connecting myself to my emotions. I will admit, one of my flaws is the constant struggle I face with expressing vulnerability. Of course, I’ve developed close relationships with my parents and friends, but, as an only child, the majority of my emotions and thoughts are naturally dealt with internally, so expressing my emotions often feels laborious and taxing. The thought of telling those around me about the malaise or inchoate thoughts circulating in my brain often leaves me feeling weak and panicked. My art, however, allows me to combine color, texture, and mediums to unearth my emotions. But, if I keep my art to myself, am I really expressing vulnerability? I wrestled with this question during quarantine as I did many other questions. I then concluded that I needed to ascertain a way to exercise vulnerability, real vulnerability, through art. This inspired me to start posting my art on social media. It is through this practice that I discovered the amount of parallel experiences in the world. It is through this process that I felt less alone. And, I think it is being alone that scared me the most about being vulnerable. The thought of admitting a feeling or thought that hasn’t been felt or thought can be isolating. And being isolated can leave uncertainty about what the future holds for the carrier of certain thoughts. But through my art I learned that we are never alone. There is nothing new under the sun. And, thanks to my art, I discovered this to be one of my greatest comforts.

If you would've asked me about the impact of having a cellphone when I got my first one in 6th grade, I would've told you that cellphones are the best thing ever. My friends, professional camera, and music were all in one place. What more could a 13 year old ask for? What I didn't know was that this was the beginning of a very one-sided relationship. I would wake up and there was my whole world on my nightstand. It followed me in my hands, pockets, and waistbands everywhere. And, embarrassingly enough, even the bathroom. There wasn't a moment I didn't know where it was. Each ping of a social media notification and buzz of a text message was the constant reminder of the possibility of my missing out on something. When I began driving a year later, my parents knew that there would have to be a discussion about priorities. They explained that no like, follow, message, or phone call was more important than my safety. And, frankly, the tightness in my knuckles when holding the wheel at exactly 10 and 2 didn't allow me to grab my phone no matter what happened. The only use my phone had was letting music permeate my 1999 Saturn. While my parents addressing the importance of prioritization made perfect sense to me in the context of driving, I wish I would've understood that could be applied to more than the wheel. A car crash and physical pain are things we've all seen or experienced before. So, when I was resisting my phone, it was to avoid something tangible and frighteningly real. I wish I had known more about the effects we can't see. I couldn't see the dark cloud forming above me the following years. My confidence was crumbling at every scroll of my thumb. Seeing "perfect" people effortlessly exist in my hand everyday for hours at a time was like a hammer coming down on my self esteem until it was finally flush with the floor. My screen being veiled with racism, classism, and misogyny affected me more than I could've ever fathomed. So, like most relationships, once I realized the cons were outweighing the pros, I began to limit my time on my device. I turned off my notifications, set time limits, and allotted time for other activities that wouldn't require a phone. I even went back to my habits of reading and drawing. The feeling I would get after finishing something real that I put effort into was unparalleled and unknowingly missed. I was finally back to reality. However, I'm nowhere near perfect. Some days are harder than others like any addiction. And, just like any addiction, I'm proud of myself for overcoming it. Now my phone isn't used as a substitute for the world around me but an enhancer. The act of having my phone play my music on all my drives is a perfect example. Sure, my phone is being used, but it's being used to enhance the experience. This is a harmless habit that I don't plan on breaking. Now I can truly appreciate the fact that any song I need to hear again and again, any question I need answered, and any place I want to go are all right in front of me. What I've learned from having a smartphone is how to let things be additions to my life instead of life itself. While the journey was long and hard, I now know how to have the world in my hands and continue living in the world around me.

Can one expect a tree to fully sympathize with the worms that supplement its roots? Sure, one could argue asking any tree any question could prove to be futile, but to humor me, consider it. Could a tree ever come close to understanding the inner workings of the world lying beneath it? A tree resides in the sky, and to ask it to comprehend the importance of a worm or a mineral in its life would simply be unjust. Perhaps, a flower could better answer our question; or, better yet, a worm could inform us of the fundamentals of the earth beneath us. While it would be nice for us to expect our government and elected leaders to wholly fathom each struggle their constituents face, it is unrealistic. What is realistic, however, is the expectation that neighbors can help neighbors. The certitude that as human beings we are neighbors inhabiting the earth and we are the only creatures that can truly come close to understanding our experiences leads us to believe that we are meant to rely on each other; our existences cannot be isolated. I believe it is our responsibility to seek those around us that we know we have the potential to help simply because we can. We have an ability to sensitively address the inequalities our neighbors face and to let an aptness continuously slip through our fingertips would be the greatest tragedy. My experiences, internally and externally, have all molded my areas of expertise and sensitivity. My experiences as a black child and now woman shaped me as well as my being raised in a state with a high Native American population. Growing up as a black child I experienced myriad examples of racism from my teachers and peers and felt first hand how those junctures can affect the psyche of a child into adulthood. While these effects were mainly negative, they began to catalyze my journey towards unmitigated confidence. I learned that the thoughts of others are just thoughts and are in no way fact. This left me with only my own thoughts of myself and once I realized that their perceptions of me were based on things far beyond me I was able to curate positive thoughts about myself. Since I successfully inculcated these beliefs into myself, I believe that I can help others achieve the social liberation I once did. In the future, I see myself offering this area of sensitivity and knowledge I have to the future generation as a child psychologist. All of this in hopes that with a higher self esteem, youth can aim higher. The potential of the youth unmitigated by mental setbacks is one that I am beyond thrilled to see and eventually be a part of. Being able to be raised with Native Americans and their culture around me is such a privilege considering the malicious treatment towards them and the dwindled population as a result. In school, my Native American friends would talk about their cultural dances and bring their dresses to school. Seeing the painstaking detail that went into their beadwork and their music was so beautiful and memorable. So, when I had the opportunity to volunteer in the Pine Ridge reservation, I was already excited to give my prior knowledge and experience of the people and a place to be utilized. While my visit wasn't one filled with the initial joy I had to go, mainly because of the realizations that came with my visits, the conditions they lived in and their lack of law enforcement assistance left me grasping at ways to help. This led me to organizing food and clothing drives for that community in hopes of giving what comfort I could. While I was there I organized activities for the children in their community center to bring them closer together with fun endeavors. When I focused on child impact, I noticed the immense fulfillment I felt because of the lasting effect my actions would have. These actions being ones filled with the fond memories of my childhood friends that propelled my compassion and understanding for that group of fellow neighbors to better help them. This is an example of how external circumstances can help us become more attune to our already existing centers for sensitivities in our hearts. As long as we continue to have experiences in our lives we will invariably find neighbors whom we can better help due to our experiences. It’s a beautiful cycle that I want to continue in my life and help others begin or continue as well. From grains of dirt, to a couple worms, to a few minerals a tree is born, and, with a few neighbors, experiences shared, and a common cause of peace, compassion, and equality, a wondrous community can be made.

I want to see equity. As broad as that statement is, I think that it is entirely possible if we first work toward equity in education, the equity in other categories will begin to fall into place. Once we are all given the ability to have access to quality education, we can all have the ability to make the best decisions for our futures. These decisions regarding either physical and mental sustainability or more tangible life choices. Having the competency to do so will make the difference between the past generation and the next. Over the past 2 years I have visited the Pine Ridge Reservation. It is there that I came to the conclusion that access is what separates the prosperous and the latter. To say that it is just the amount of ambition a person has would be to completely diminish any underlying factors and label everyone that is "unsuccessful" as simply unwilling which is untrue. In this reservation, I witnessed the unalloyed underprivilege that runs through their drinking water, law enforcement, and school buildings. It was this experience that catalyzed my fervor for equity. The actions I took in the reservation towards equity were providing increased access to food, housing, and clothing all in order to create a more conducive environment to learn and grow. While my actions at the time seemed small and futile, I am now aware of the fact that every small step closer to propitious conditions is a step closer to equity as a whole. Also, while equity is best served to all no matter the demographic, I also am a firm believer in the focus on youth centered education. Change can commence when we begin at the foundation otherwise known as the future. This leads to why I want to become school or child psychologist. I want to be able to mold the minds of the youth in order to multiply the amount minds ready for education; I want to strive towards increasing the amount of minds competent to receive information that will better their future. With the increasing amount of qualified minds through the amelioration of environments and the education system, I hope to be a contributor to equity in the future.

The idea of permanence is a seductive entity; it draws us into a fog of security. A fog so dense that the ability to comprehend our intrinsically transformative nature is subdued. We are creatures that are meant morph into better versions of ourselves myriad times throughout our existence; but, many of us have been convinced that our characteristics cannot be changed. Many of us, except for my father. My father grew up as the eldest of four brothers to a single mother. While growing up with the ocean as your alarm clock and salted breeze as your air conditioning has its advantages, St. Croix wasn't exactly picturesque. The encumbering responsibility from watching his siblings and the bewilderment stemming from the abandonment of his own father left him angry at his life. This cloud of anger loomed above him casting a shadow on everything in his life. However, once he and mother had me, he made a conscious effort to change himself for the better. He confronted his generational demons and emerged a significantly better person. He taught me that it is possible to control who we are despite our circumstances. In essence, we are not what happened to us and we are not our actions. With this comforting information having been inculcated into my system from birth, I have been able to approach all of life's problems without the fear of a permanent designation. I do not reside in the clutches of failure, and mistakes don't induce fear within me. With this rare liberty I have been granted, I am able to pursue aspirations without the fear of being branded a failure. With the knowledge of my father ascending beyond his past labels and circumstances, I no longer need to ascertain for myself what my existence is based on. He is not his past; he is my metamorphosing, invariably improving, and ascending father. And, I can only hope that I will subsist as a metamorphosing, invariably improving, and ascending human myself. Permanence cannot corrupt my journey, and it is all due to my biggest role model: my father.

Oh, to Be an Elephant I want to be more like an elephant. While weighing in at up to 20,000 pounds isn't necessarily something I would want to be my defining characteristic, I'd be honored to be compared to one any day. We, as humans, view legacies as something left behind for our family or, more generally speaking, for the rest of the inhabitants of the world. But, if we're being honest, it's a little bit more egocentric than that. Most of the time our legacies are centered on tangible items based on monetary value and the esteem of others. What do esteem and opulence have in common? They both give transient fulfillment. I want to be more like an elephant. I want to live everyday making my legacy. Do you know how elephants make their legacy? They spend eighteen hours of their day foraging through Africa, about 50 miles a day, leaving pretty tough shoes, or rather footprints, to fill. Their legacy is simply leaving behind empty space; basically the definition of intangible and the boldest contrast to us. Elephants aren't even aware of the impact they are having on their environment. With each step they leave behind is an elephant paw sized well for water and a path cleared for animals they haven't even met. The elephant doesn't leave cleared paths and wells of water so the other animals will have a Lion King moment and bow to them when they pass but because of an inextricable and intrinsic need to do so. It's simply their nature. I want to be more like an elephant. I want to leave a legacy that isn't only curated by tactile accomplishments but by the aura left from my actions and choices. I want my legacy to simply be an extension of myself. An essence I want to be effortlessly composed of consideration, kindness, understanding, and gentleness. This is the kind of legacy I want to establish; a path cleared by innate behaviors conducive to those around me and my environment that will only serve as an auspicious landscape for many long after I’ve gone. At the end of the day, a legacy is what you leave behind. That can be anything from a pecuniary legacy or a filial legacy, but I think what’s most important aren’t the physical extensions we leave, but how we get them. What did our actions delineate about ourselves? How did our actions affect others? Maybe our actions seem small now but they actually have a large, or rather, an elephantine impact. I want to be more like an elephant.

"Dreams and make believes are all very well in the daytime and sunshine, but when dark and storm come they fail to satisfy. One wants real things then," (Montgomery 1264). The Anne of Green Gables series will never cease to remain my favorite piece of literary work. This quote written by L.M. Montgomery was interpreted by me to mean that there comes a time when simply dreaming or entreating a shooting star won't truly fulfill our souls. From our younger years to our oldest, we dream. Perhaps I am not speaking for only myself when I say most of those dreams have become somewhat more realistic now. Regardless of the type of dream, it is only human nature to long. It is the way we go about dreaming, however, that separate aspiration from imagination. One of the most tragic exemplifications of futility is a dream residing in a mind that never thought themselves able to follow it. Surely there are dreams that can be left to gather dust in the corners of our minds that will only serve to be the foundation of which we stack our new ones atop. Dissimilarly, there are dreams that left unattended, as Langston Hughes alluded to in his poem "A Dream Deferred", will explode leaving our mind uninhabitable and barren; a home only to the ash of what was. Our mind is the residence of many things: people, thoughts, and ideas. But, if no dreams ever become tangible manifestations, will there even be room for others? Will our mind become an attic saturated with memories and past inspiration pitied by the bats that have never seen the summer sun? Dreams can only fuel us for so long until they drain us with the painful reminder of what could've been. This quote reminds me that the moments spent in reverie that may appear real, are not. The only way for them to be real is to act in the present towards the future, instead of the opposition.