The most helpful piece of financial advice that I received is the concept of living within one’s means. Living within your means is directly correlated to maintaining a debt free life. When aiming to be financially literate, it is important to understand that aiming to be debt free is the most important thing one could do. Whether one is receiving a single form of income, or multiple revenues, they need to evaluate the accumulation of their income, and compare it to the amount of money that is being spent, and where it is being spent. Managing what you owe from a debt perspective is just as important as tracking how much comes in. For example, if an individual is accumulating 3 million dollars a year in revenue through investments, but he is losing 3.5 million a year due to simultaneous and previous poor investments, he is still in debt, regardless of how high his earnings are. This illustration entails a high-risk situation with a large amount of money; however, it can be applied to any form or amount of income both high and low. Managing debt can be difficult, especially if you are in debt at the beginning of your financial literacy journey. However, understanding from a young age that striving to be debt free is a concept that certainly reaps its rewards. Financial literacy cannot only elevate one’s monetary status but can also positively impact one’s peace of mind. Eliminating debt can make it much easier for an individual to live a comfortable life with much less stress. Understanding how finances work also opens you up to many more opportunities as it pertains to seeking various forms of income to expand your financial portfolio. Understanding basics alone makes you much more susceptible to reaching financial comfortability.

“And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave.” America has seen many accomplishments since its founding accompanied by a fair share of failures as well. When I reflect on the Star-Spangled Banner that was written in 1814 by an amateur poet, I surmise that it was in an effort to cement the legacy of the United States. The author notably framed the country in this light, and many people today see this phrase and protest its validity because so many people were held in captivity as slaves. I agree that components of the history of this country’s founding are haunting, however, I use this quote as motivation to achieve what needs to be done in order to fulfill the prophecy of freedom. As a black man, I have been shaped and raised in an entirely different way than some of my peers, however, I do not think that this was a detriment to my wellbeing. Rather, it has supplied me with a perspective that allows me to see the world in a unique light. When I was a young teen, I decided to dedicate my life to connecting others and uniting the vision of American citizens. I decided to do my part in making America the “land of the free.” In 2017, I joined a mentorship program with the Dallas Cowboys Organization, under the supervision of a public relations executive. It was in this role that I chose to pursue a career in marketing. I was 16 and wide-eyed, however, I knew that the hard work I endured while I was young would shape my life for the better. The following year I entered another mentee relationship with the lead manager of Marketing and Sales. In this role, I was able to plan a volunteer project between the Cowboys Organization, Nike, and my childhood middle school. In this project, I presented a layout for the renovation of the gym and football locker rooms and was able to present my work to a project manager at Nike. Ultimately, I am steadfast on my mission to create unity and understanding among the people of this country by using my gifts. This year, I enter my junior year at the McCombs Business School at The University of Texas, where I major in marketing, striving to fulfill my destiny, with the remnants of the Star-Spangled Banner ringing in my ear. This country is coined “the land of the free,” but I believe freedom is yet to be fully attained, however, it is in reach. This is why I strive to bring individuals together by using my gifts. America is the ultimate breeding ground for innovation, creativity, and positivity if you look in the right places. This quote motivates me to achieve these things and so much more.