I went through quite a few challenges in my life, such as struggles with my identity and faith, the loss of many family members, painful breakups, and the trauma of sexual assault. I never learned how to open up about these things, so I kept on internalizing everything. It wasn't that I didn't care; I simply lacked the tools to address my problems, so I didn't do anything about them. Eventually, that led me into a dark place with depression, addiction, and even some really low moments where I made attempts on my own life. When my grandma, who raised me, passed away earlier this year, I felt like I was at my breaking point. This was especially tough for me because she was my everything and my whole reason for trying to accomplish the things I want actualize; losing her made me feel like there was no point for me to continue living. Thankfully, last summer, things started to change for the better. My best friend was constantly in my ear, like a little fly, about seeking therapy or some type of counseling from my school. I was reluctant for so long until I finally, for the first time, sought out counseling. Immediately, I was introduced to various strategies for managing my mental health. I now utilize tools such as journaling, affirmations, and poetry to articulate my feelings in a meaningful and beautiful way. Journaling and affirmations helped me reaffirm what I believe and how I see myself. I was already into poetry, but adding that depth not only made me a better writer but also painted a clearer picture for me to see what and how I was feeling. Additionally, I’ve learned to hyperfocus on what I can control, like the people I let into my life and how I respond to situations. This helps me steer clear of negativity and avoid making choices I might regret later. I won’t lie and say that I am fully healed from everything I have experienced; I still have really bad moments and dark thoughts sometimes. But when you value your mental health and prioritize it, it's easier to find the problem and work from there. I’ve come to realize that my mental health is just as important, if not sometimes more, than my physical health. It’s easy to overlook because you can’t see it, no one talks about it, and it’s been treated like a lesser issue for so long. But it’s real, and it’s really important. As I keep working on this, I’m all about prioritizing my mental wellness and encouraging others to do the same. Just like that little fly who was constantly suggesting I seek help, I too, am going to do my best to kick wide open the door for conversations about mental health and work toward removing its negative stigma. I will recommend ways people can deal with mental health challenges when I notice signs of struggle. As a precaution for times that I can't notice it, I make it abundantly clear to friends and family that they have someone to talk to their problems about, or even just listen to them. I offer myself up for the role because I know personally how transformative it can be for someone to learn ways to maintain a healthy mind.

Learning, in my opinion, is perhaps the best force for empathy and transformation. At its finest, it teaches us how to see each other beyond stereotypes, labels, and assumptions. In a race and class-torn world of misunderstanding, learning gives us the basis to span differences between groups that might otherwise never encounter one another. As a 20-year-old Black man with locs in his head, navigating professional spaces, I’m constantly reminded of how deeply these assumptions run. I’ve had to earn respect before even speaking, and I often feel the need to overperform just to be seen as competent. That reality can be disheartening, but education gives me the tools to challenge those narratives. It sharpens my voice, strengthens my confidence, and reshapes how others perceive me. More importantly, it prepares me to lead with compassion rather than outrage because I know ignorance is all too often simply a lack of exposure. I believe that when people are truly educated, they begin to question the prejudices they've unwittingly acquired, the implicit biases that make us react without realizing it. Education opens up our empathetic capacities by making us familiar with experiences beyond our own. We become more questioning, more introspective, and much less likely to view others only through superficial judgments. That kind of awareness can heal rifts and assist in building the kind of inclusive communities we so desperately need. But education does more than encourage empathy. I will be the first in my family to attend college and earn a degree. Education serves more than just a personal goal; here, it serves as a family milestone, as the beginning of a legacy of a well-educated Black family. With that achievement comes access to networks, resources, and spaces that have long appeared out of reach. It's a responsibility that I take pride in because I know I'm paving the way for my younger brother and sister and other members of my family to realize they can do the same and more. The quest for knowledge has already changed my life. It's gotten me into rooms and situations that challenge the assumptions normally made about kids from the South Side of Chicago. Whether it’s through my journey with my collegiate or personal studies, education continues to elevate my potential and guide my vision. It’s helped me think critically, speak with intention, and act with purpose. More than anything, it’s made me realize how much more is possible when you’re equipped with the right tools. Learning matters because it breaks cycles. It allows us to understand others more richly and to aspire more broadly for ourselves. That's what it has done for me. And that's why I will never stop learning, not just for myself but for all the people who will follow after me.

I believe the need to comprehend the universe is the necessary action taken against ignorance to deepen awareness regarding humanity's standing in an obscenely immense and connected entity. Our inquisition about the universe stems from our innate quest for unraveling mystery that describes the existence and where we come from. But, above all, a quest through the cosmos challenges and pushes the frontiers of human knowledge, advances human progress, and illuminates significant understanding into our roles on this planet. And in searching for a better understanding of the nature of the universe, we strengthen our ability to confront significant issues facing humanity while cultivating a perspective that unites rather than divides. No one will ever deny the fact that ignorance prospers where there is no exploration and understanding. An ignorant view more than often results in fear, complacency, and stagnation. Moreover, the reluctance to search for and embrace new knowledge has been a barrier to progress and perpetuated inequality. When we choose to know better the universe (its beginnings, workings, abilities, inhabitants, etc.) we tear down the fences ignorance erects. This process encourages a spirit of inquiry, innovation, and openness to exploration, all key factors in tackling global challenges, such as climate change, resource scarcity, and the ethical impact of technological advance. Moreover, it illuminates the frailty of our existence. Acknowledging Earth's special place in supporting life will, I believe, emphasize our collective responsibility to protect its resources. This will strengthen the call for cooperation and sustainable development, yielding a net positive for humankind's future. To further our understanding of the universe and our place in it, we must also use interdisciplinary approaches that combine science, philosophy, and the humanities. Scientific inquiry into fields such as astrophysics, biology, and AI allows us to explore the material nature of outer space and engage in questions relevant to life, existence, etc. Meanwhile, philosophy and other humanities contextualize these discoveries through ethical considerations fostered by them and a sense of wonder and humility. These efforts, through which practical knowledge is generated yet again, recreate empathy and union as they project humanity and our course in space-time as interconnected. Ultimately, the pursuit of understanding the universe is a commitment to growth, collaboration, and unity. By rejecting ignorance and embracing the complexities of our existence, we acknowledge the profound interconnectedness of life and the responsibilities that come with it. This pursuit challenges us to think beyond individual and national interests, inspiring global solidarity and reaffirming humanity's role as both a product and (hopefully) a caretaker of the universe. Thank you for your consideration!

Some legacies are written in wealth or fame; mine was sewn with love and dedication by my grandma’s hands. As an upholsterer and seamstress, she created beauty not just in her work but in the lives she touched, including my own. Her life taught me that true success lies in uplifting others, and her passing left me with an unwavering purpose: to honor her memory by making it my mission to uplift others and help them conquer whatever it is preventing them from becoming their best selves. This passion stems from my volunteer work, my entrepreneurial aspirations, and the enduring influence of my late grandmother, Darlene, a woman whose kindness and love shaped my values. Darlene embodied compassion in every aspect of her life. In her work, she found joy in creating beauty for others and instilled in me the importance of putting care and thought into everything I do. But even in her personal life, I have seen her give her all to help the people in our community. She would always be there for her neighbors, others at the church, and those who were complete strangers. I have watched her give when others would take, and share when others would hoard. Her dedication to family and community sparked my interest in helping others, and her encouragement to dream big inspired me to pursue entrepreneurship as a way to create something meaningful and uplift those around me forever. Her passing left a void that will never be filled, but it solidified my commitment to living a life that honors her values and spirit. This commitment has manifested in volunteer work since I was 14. I’ve organized food pantries, hosted giveaways at my local church, and helped facilitate and direct the Chicago Special Olympics. These experiences have allowed me to engage with communities in need, learning to empathize with others and support them in overcoming their challenges. Through volunteering, I’ve developed skills like communication, collaboration, and adaptability, which help me connect with people on a deeper level. I also taught myself Spanish to better serve those in my community, and now speak it fluently. Whether assisting individuals facing homelessness or helping children access education, I’ve sought to empower others to reclaim their confidence and achieve their goals. As an aspiring entrepreneur, I view business not only as a path to financial success but as a platform to create opportunities for others. My ultimate goal is to build a portfolio of investments and properties that provide stability and growth for families, enabling them to thrive. Entrepreneurship, at its core, is about solving problems and enhancing lives, and I’m committed to using my skills to make a lasting impact. The support from this scholarship represents an investment in my future, enabling me to refine my skills, expand my knowledge, and amplify my ability to help others. I see it as a partnership between your organization and me, supporting my academic and entrepreneurial goals while staying true to the purpose instilled in me by my grandmother. With your support, I will ensure that her legacy lives on through the lives I touch and the aspirations I pursue. Ultimately, my journey is about more than personal success. It is about transforming the lives of others, uplifting communities, and embodying the values of kindness, dedication, and vision that my grandma passed down to me. This is my passion, my purpose, and the foundation of everything I strive to achieve. Thank you for your consideration!

Some people see school as just a step to the next phase of life, but I see it differently. I’ve always loved the actual process of learning. My life has always been about turning struggles into strength, and for me, learning is about growth, not just reaching a destination. As a black person and someone who’s faced mental health challenges, I see college as a gateway to something bigger...A chance to chase my dreams, even when life feels heavy, and take full advantage of the opportunities and resources available to me. Growing up, I felt a lot of pressure to become successful, but I’ve realized that education is the entryway to success. The more we learn, the more capable we become of understanding and tackling new challenges. I want to be prepared for whatever life throws at me. College, for me, is more than earning a degree. It’s also about proving to myself that I can overcome obstacles and take another step toward building a better future for myself and those around me. It’s also where I plan to take more steps to face my mental health. While pursuing my degree, I’ll be working as a real estate agent, managing a business I co-own with my parents, and balancing a personal life with school. Juggling these responsibilities won’t be easy, and depression has its own way of clouding everything. But I know that with the right tools and support, I can handle it. I hope to find a community where I feel comfortable confiding in others and relying on them when I need support. I also plan to take advantage of counseling services and support groups to help me stay focused on my goals. I never had many friends, nor have I had access to these services, so being able to afford attendance at a good college that offers a sense of community and those resources will be a complete game-changer for me. One of the things I’m most excited about is the opportunity to study abroad. I’ve taught myself two languages, including Spanish, and I’ve always dreamed of immersing myself in the language and culture of Spain. Stepping outside of my comfort zone to experience life in a new way will help me grow as a person and deepen my understanding of the world around me. Despite the challenges I’ve faced, my focus remains on the future. My goals are to build successful businesses with my family through real estate, create generational wealth, and give back to my community. I want to contribute through philanthropy, advocacy, activism, providing mental health and safety resources, and creating job opportunities. I want to end the cycle of poverty in my family and help others do the same, especially people of color. But whether it’s making a difference in my community, advocating for change, or pursuing a career I’m passionate about, I know college is where these dreams will begin to take shape. I want to connect with people who uplift me and who I can eventually celebrate our accomplishments with. College is more than just a stepping stone for me; it’s a chance to transform my life and those around me. It’s a place where I can embrace my identity, confront my mental health challenges, and pursue my dreams with everything I’ve got. That’s why I view scholarships as investments toward my destiny; because I wholeheartedly believe that with the right support and my own determination, I can continue to turn my struggles into strength and carve out a future that reflects my true potential. Thank you for your consideration! Zaire Martin

Being an up-stander in a community isn’t easy, but it’s one of the most rewarding roles I’ve ever taken on. From volunteering at local churches to participating in the Special Olympics, each opportunity has taught me something new and allowed me to help those in need. These experiences have not only shaped my perspective on the world but also deepened my understanding of what it means to be part of a community. When I was 14, I began volunteering at my local church, helping organize food pantries. At first, I was nervous, but as I sorted through donations and interacted with those who came for help, I realized how essential this work was. Seeing families leave with bags of groceries, their faces filled with gratitude, made me feel connected to something much larger than myself. I relate to Mohamed’s idea that even small acts can be impactful. Though my contribution may have seemed small, it felt significant to me, and it left me with a desire to continue doing work like this. Since then, food drives have become a regular part of my life. Alongside other volunteers, I helped collect donations and distribute food to those in need. What struck me the most was the sense of community among all of us. It reminded me that when we come together, we can make a real difference. I also forged lasting friendships with others who shared a passion for giving back. Another rewarding experience was volunteering at poetry events. As someone who has always used poetry as a form of activism, I was thrilled to facilitate workshops where people could express themselves creatively. Watching people of color share their stories and emotions through poetry was incredibly powerful. It reminded me how important it is to provide spaces for voices that are often overlooked. The joy and relief participants felt after creating something deeply personal was truly special. Once again, what seemed like a small act—facilitating a poetry workshop—proved to be deeply meaningful for everyone involved. However, the highlight of my journey as an up-stander was my experience at the Special Olympics. In my final year of training with the fire department, I had the honor of leading training sessions and helping with food distribution at the Chicago Special Olympics at Soldier Field. Coaching athletes with intellectual disabilities opened my eyes to the strength and resilience of the human spirit. Success comes in many forms, and every achievement, no matter how small, deserves to be celebrated. The community we built through encouragement and support was inspiring, and I felt incredibly fortunate to be a part of it. To conclude, self-sacrificing work can be complex. It can be challenging. It can inconvenience you. Sometimes it can actually be frustrating. But at the end of the day, being there for someone who has no one, giving something to someone who doesn’t have anything, and acknowledging someone who is always overlooked is powerful. Small acts really can change someone’s life, and the aggregated small acts that I have taken have changed my life forever. Thank you for your consideration! Zaire Martin

I have been playing Minecraft religiously since I was 8 years old in 2012, and growing up playing this game, I can honestly say it opened my eyes to new ideas and changed the way I think. My favorite thing about Minecraft has to be the multiplayer mode. In multiplayer, I learned how to communicate better with friends in things like coming up with plans to build this insane castle, or, teaming up to survive against mobs. It taught me a ton about teamwork, too. You quickly realize that splitting up tasks based on skills and relying on each other is key to getting things done. The creativity that comes out of playing with others is incredible. I remember getting together with friends to brainstorm ideas for our projects. We’d work on everything from massive roller coasters to intricate redstone machines. Collaborating like that not only boosted my creative thinking but also helped me see challenges from different angles. Those moments really pushed us to think critically and adapt to whatever came our way. Minecraft also became a hangout spot for making friends. The game offered a safe space to chat, share experiences, and support one another. I made a lot of friends from those late-night gaming sessions. I still have friends I met in Minecraft who I played with throughout high school and beyond. So many nights I spent designing and constructing huge builds on my realm for all my friends to see when they logged back on. So many times that we all went on a quest and all died and had to run back to make it just in time for our things not to despawn. Those shared experiences and adventures created a sense of community that made it feel like we were all in it together, which was super important during those years. The multiplayer aspect of Minecraft definitely enriched my childhood. It helped me build social skills, foster creativity, and create lasting friendships. More than just a game, Minecraft became a platform for my own personal growth. As we navigated those virtual worlds, we weren’t just playing; we were learning valuable life skills that have stuck with me long after logging off. I'll definitely be a forever fan! Thank you for this opportunity and your consideration! Zaire Martin

Being a confident Black individual in the business world is undoubtedly a challenge. In my few years in real estate, I have encountered experiences that highlight the deep-rooted issues we face, both within the business sector and our own communities. At the core of these challenges lies ignorance. On the business side, there is a striking lack of representation. Many leaders are simply not accustomed to seeing professionals like us in these spaces. I wear locs, a choice that symbolizes my identity, yet I often find that it is viewed through a lens shaped by stereotypes prevalent in media rather than reality. I believe it is long overdue for more individuals from our community to occupy significant roles in business. I vividly recall an instance when a fellow Black man suggested I cut my hair to fit in. While I was taken aback, I recognized that he was constrained by the narrow standards often imposed by dominant cultural narratives. I am determined to show the business world that my identity is not synonymous with disorder or unprofessionalism. As more of us occupy the business world we will complicate the narrative they try to make us fit into, which will pave the way for other Black people to thrive in business. Conversely, within the African American community, there is a pervasive sense of struggle, fear, and often a reluctance to pursue our full potential. Growing up on the South Side of Chicago, I witnessed firsthand the devastating consequences of this mindset, where violence often stems from a limited worldview. Plainly, kids are killing other kids. To outsiders, it seems like a product of a gang rivalry or a "bad" neighborhood. But the problem is simply this - they are ignorant to the fact that their world is small. These young people are unaware of the vast opportunities that lie beyond their immediate surroundings, failing to recognize the immense value of their lives and aspirations. My vision extends beyond personal success; though I aim to build generational wealth for my family, my goals aren't just for my immediate family. We are all related through erased and unrealized bloodlines, and as I begin to achieve my goals I will help my extended family by fostering job creation and educational initiatives. I want to show the youth in my community that greatness is attainable, and I will be a living testament to what is possible when we dare to dream beyond our circumstances. Together, we can redefine what it means, and what it looks like to succeed, not just for ourselves, but for generations to come.

I've been a hardcore fan of Billie Eilish since she first blew up in 2017, so picking a top three is a very difficult task. Nonetheless, the three songs that resonate with me most deeply are "bury a friend", "ilomilo", and more recently "CHIHIRO". "bury a friend" is an introspective piece in which Billie personifies her anxious and insecure thoughts. I find it relatable, as I have also grappled with anxiety and feelings of isolation. At the time of its release, this song provided me with a sense of connection, helping me feel less alone in my struggles. The refrain draws inspiration from Billie’s experiences with sleep paralysis; in an interview, she shared that her initial thought during such an episode was, "I didn't get to say goodbye to the people I love." This sentiment resonates with me deeply, as I strive to express my love and appreciation for those close to me every day. Life is unpredictable, and I want my loved ones to know how much they mean to me, without any regrets. Furthermore, the progression of the synths and bass, along with the increasing intensity in Billie’s passionate delivery, enhances my immersion in the song. "ilomilo", named after a childhood computer game, also stands out to me. Billie incorporates references to the game, such as "losing another life" and the world appearing "blurry," which serve as metaphors for her fear of losing someone and perceiving the world as dark and distorted. I appreciate the lyrical complexity and subtle references, as well as my own connection to the feeling of needing to overcompensate in a relationship. My past experiences have led me to view the world through a more somber lens than others, making this song not only one of my favorites by Billie but also one of my all-time favorites. "CHIHIRO" captivates me with its beautiful melody and synth progression. The song elegantly explores themes of detachment, both physically and spiritually. Billie poses the poignant question, "Did you take my love away from me?" reflecting her feelings of lost self-worth following a breakup. I relate to the experience of linking my self-worth to that of a partner, and I have grappled with similar thoughts after the end of a relationship. This song provides comfort, reminding me that I am not alone in facing such feelings. In conclusion, my admiration for Billie Eilish has grown significantly over the years. She is a remarkable artist who brings a uniquely beautiful perspective to the alternative genre. Her music has offered solace during difficult times in my life, and it continues to do so today.