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Aaliyah Makodila

3,355

Bold Points

3x

Finalist

Bio

I am currently a sophomore at Adelphi University studying Biology. I aspire to be a physician. I am determined to become successful even without the financial and emotional support of my family. I am passionate about achieving my goals of become the first doctor in my family. My favorite subjects are math and science. I love STEM programs and feel it's is the wave of the future technology. My motivation was my grandmother that was a very positive inspiration. She was diagnosed with cancer when I was very young. I watched how her medical team was so empathetic and compassionate. I aspire to be a part of a medical team fighting to cure patients, and showing compassion and care that my grandmother received. I feel that it is very important that more diversity of medical professionals are present. Diverse cultures, backgrounds, and experiences to relate to the patients. I will be an exceptionally well addition to the industry because of my passion for people. In my spare time, I love graphic arts, drawing and painting.

Education

Adelphi University

Bachelor's degree program
2022 - 2026
  • Majors:
    • Human Biology

High School For Health Careers & Sciences

High School
2018 - 2022

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Bachelor's degree program

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

    • Human Biology
    • Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
  • Planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Medical Practice

    • Dream career goals:

      Entrepreneurship, Medical Doctor

    • Intern lab assistant

      Columbia University Medical Center
      2022 – 2022
    • Cashier, requested orders, served coffee, food and other beverages, and prepared them for customers quickly and effectively. Maintained a clean and professional appearance and dining area for guest's satisfaction.

      El Barrista Cafe
      2021 – 2021

    Finances

    Loans

    • Borrowed: September 9, 2022
      • 16,500

        Principal borrowed
      • 26,000

        Principal remaining
      • Interest rate:

        5.6%
      • Debt collection agency:

        New York Higher Education

    Sports

    Volleyball

    Club
    2018

    Research

    • Biology, General

      Columbia University Medical center — Intern lab assistant
      2022 – 2022
    • Health and Medical Administrative Services

      Ladder for Leaders — Intern
      2020 – 2021

    Arts

    • Art club

      Visual Arts
      Yes I do.
      2021 – 2022

    Public services

    • Advocacy

      Women's Empowerment association — Member
      2021 – 2022
    • Public Service (Politics)

      HS health Careers and sciences — Student Council
      2021 – 2022
    • Volunteering

      High school for Health Careers and sciences — Peer mediator
      2021 – 2022
    • Volunteering

      HS health careers and sciences — Secretary/ Office Manager
      2021 – 2022
    • Volunteering

      New york church of christ — child care provider
      2014 – 2017

    Future Interests

    Advocacy

    Volunteering

    Philanthropy

    Entrepreneurship

    Cheryl Twilley Outreach Memorial Scholarship
    As a student at Adelphi University, I am on the Dean's list in the second semester, with a 3.5 gpa Currently majoring in Biology, I plan to work in the health field with a track toward medical school. The courses I have taken and will complete in the future will help to address health issues that will allow me to research and explore all possibilities. There is a lot to look forward to learning from professors regarding a holistic approach to healthcare used for student training to learn about community health, health maintenance, management, and environmental health. I am interested in working in the health field to help people in my community. I have wanted to be a medical provider since I was a small child. I have never desired to pursue any other career. The most important is advocating for healthy living. The goal is to spread awareness about healthy eating, regular exercise, and stress management. The volunteer experience I chose because of my experience with my grandmother. I am currently encouraging others to choose healthy lifestyles by providing resources and support at the Riverbay Corp senior program in the Bronx, where I volunteer. I have been creating healthier meal options for West Indian and African dishes with a great taste without palm oil, excess salt, and preservatives I also have been assisting with fun dance routines for healthy exercise. Having people with whom they can relate is essential. I have great potential and the willingness to demonstrate my commitment to excellence and determination to overcome any obstacles I face. In addition, I am passionate about my education and want to impact the world positively. I desire to be a part of a community that believes in your potential and invests in your future success. I aim to develop my leadership skills and continue giving back to my community before, during, and after reaching my goals. My grandmother was a role model, teacher, and hero to me, and her strength and resilience in the face of serious illness have been a significant factor in my decision to pursue a career in the health field. Her battle with her conditions was a challenging experience for her and our family; however, this experience has motivated me to cultivate a fierce determination and ambition to pursue a career with a higher purpose from strong female mentors in my life that encouraged me to pursue my dreams to experiences that it gave me. Life is full of unexpected hardships and adversities. My grandma's illness has been one of the most challenging experiences of my life, yet it has also been one of the most transformative. My perspective on life changed drastically. I began focusing on the things that truly mattered to me, such as spending quality time with my family and my career aspirations. I took on a sense of responsibility and prioritized my goals and dreams. This newfound sense of purpose and resilience has been the driving force in my life. It has enabled me to take on new challenges and navigate difficult situations gracefully and with strength. I am grateful for the strength and resilience I have gained through this experience and am confident it will benefit my future endeavors. Through her battle with her illnesses, I learned invaluable lessons. This experience motivated me to cultivate a fierce determination and ambition to pursue a career with a higher purpose. It is in memory of my grandmother and in honor of those other families who have faced similar challenges that I have chosen to pursue a career in the field of health.
    Maxwell Tuan Nguyen Memorial Scholarship
    When I was in elementary school, I had a lot of challenges with academic issues. I remember feeling that I constantly let my parents down when it was time for parent-teacher meetings. I felt no matter how hard I tried; I didn't understand the lesson plans in several classes. I was discouraged and did not have much motivation. My mother was always attentive, as she was there to help me with my homework, even though she had my brother to help as well. We would stay up late going over lesson after lesson even though she had to get to work in the early mornings. She was constantly at the principal's office discussing different plans to help me to improve. The principal suggested that my mother goes to the department of education to get me evaluated. My mother was very much against those options because of the stigma attached but finally agreed. Some teachers played pivotal roles in my life. They became my mentor, for which I will forever be grateful. I will never forget my middle school teacher Ms. Simmonds, who always encouraged and motivated me. I had some insecurities, and she would constantly build up my confidence and praise me based on my work in her class. She would invite me to her office to have academic discussions, share firsthand experiences and give real-world advice. I will never forget a time when I was feeling ill during her class. She allowed me to rest on her office couch for the rest of the class. She was a great mentor who encouraged me to move beyond my comfort zone. Around the holidays, birthdays, and Christmas, I would get lots of gifts from my family members. But the one that I remember and cherish the most to this day is my grandmother's gift. A Doc McStuffins doll, a character from an animated cartoon, is a nurturing 6-year-old girl who cared for her stuffed animals and toys in her playhouse clinic. She wore a stethoscope that had magical powers that cured her patients. I have always dreamed of being a doctor ever since then. As far as I can remember, my grandmother was in and out of the hospital constantly. I did not understand at the time, but she suffered from many illnesses, including renal failure. She was diagnosed by her medical doctor with cancer, which made my family very devastated. She was always optimistic with a positive attitude. She fought long and hard, but God had another plan for her. I vowed to be a part of a team that would ll fight to cure illnesses and keep families together. I am incredibly grateful for all the time I spent with her. I watched the doctors who showed compassion and cared for her at the lowest point in her life. It is something that I aspire to be like in the future. I am so thankful for the positive relationships with strong women who mentored and taught me to handle situations with grace. The experiences gave me motivation. I have been on the honor roll every year. Looking back and remembering where I was, I am glad that I had supportive people at such a pivotal time in my life. It is a constant reminder to persevere and always be optimistic in pursuing my goals, aspirations, and dreams.
    Financial Literacy Scholarship Award
    I grew up in Harlem New York. When I was 14 years old, I moved to Coop City with my mother and brother, when she and my father divorced. My mother is a hard worker and always worked several jobs. She even worked multiple jobs while completing her master’s degree. She always taught us to be focused on our future. Her favorite words are “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” She works as a financial advisor part-time selling life insurance, and as a full-time academic advisor where she motivates college students to complete their degrees and achieve their careers and future aspirations. My brother and I would go to her presentations, so she didn’t have to pay a babysitter. At age 16, I learned about the importance of financial freedom. I have learned about credit scores, budgeting my bank account, and creating a budget. My mother opened investment and college savings accounts for my brother and I, and explained how to grow our money. I have always saved all my allowance, birthday, and Christmas funds. I even saved all the money I made on my summer jobs from 2020 to 2022. I am focused on saving for my future because of all the lessons I learned from my mother and her influences. My motivation behind financial freedom is having a sense of self-worth. Another saying is “God bless the child that has his own. “ Instead of buying expensive clothes, my mother taught us how to invest in Nike, Amazon, and others so we could own shares in their companies. I used to listen to the speakers talk about how blacks and Hispanics are behind, and how we should invest in our neighborhoods. Some people would spend their money on expensive sneakers when clearly, they are not financially set. He spoke about how other races invest in their children, buy houses, and set their children up for success in the future. I remember most of my family members telling their children they must leave at eighteen years old, I don’t have it all figured out, and I need my family’s guidance and support. Most people do not have an opportunity to follow their dreams because they are focused on the responsibility of paying their rent and bills. Some that attend college, must pay large sums of school debts. It is important to have positive influences. In conclusion, financial advice can come from many sources and can have a profound impact on our lives. Whether it is from a family member, friend, or financial planner, the best piece of advice I received will help me achieve my financial goals. From saving for emergencies to investing in our future, the right advice can provide a sense of security and peace of mind.
    Bright Lights Scholarship
    As a student at Adelphi University, I am on the Dean's list in the second semester, with a 3.5 gpa Currently majoring in Biology, I plan to work in the health field with a track toward medical school. The courses I have taken and will complete in the future will help to address health issues that will allow me to research and explore all possibilities. There is a lot to look forward to learning from professors regarding a holistic approach to healthcare used for student training to learn about community health, health maintenance, management, and environmental health. I am interested in working in the health field to help people in my community. I have wanted to be a medical provider since I was a small child. I have never desired to pursue any other career. The most important is advocating for healthy living. The goal is to spread awareness about healthy eating, regular exercise, and stress management. The volunteer experience I chose because of my experience with my grandmother. I am currently encouraging others to choose healthy lifestyles by providing resources and support at the Riverbay Corp senior program in the Bronx, where I volunteer. I have been creating healthier meal options for West Indian and African dishes with a great taste without palm oil, excess salt, and preservatives I also have been assisting with fun dance routines for healthy exercise. Having people with whom they can relate is essential. I have great potential and the willingness to demonstrate my commitment to excellence and determination to overcome any obstacles I face. In addition, I am passionate about my education and want to impact the world positively. I desire to be a part of a community that believes in your potential and invests in your future success. I aim to develop my leadership skills and continue giving back to my community before, during, and after reaching my goals. My grandmother was a role model, teacher, and hero to me, and her strength and resilience in the face of serious illness have been a significant factor in my decision to pursue a career in the health field. Her battle with her conditions was a challenging experience for her and our family; however, this experience has motivated me to cultivate a fierce determination and ambition to pursue a career with a higher purpose from strong female mentors in my life that encouraged me to pursue my dreams to experiences that it gave me. Life is full of unexpected hardships and adversities. My grandma's illness has been one of the most challenging experiences of my life, yet it has also been one of the most transformative. My perspective on life changed drastically. I began focusing on the things that truly mattered to me, such as spending quality time with my family and my career aspirations. I took on a sense of responsibility and prioritized my goals and dreams. This newfound sense of purpose and resilience has been the driving force in my life. It has enabled me to take on new challenges and navigate difficult situations gracefully and with strength. I am grateful for the strength and resilience I have gained through this experience and am confident it will benefit my future endeavors. Through her battle with her illnesses, I learned invaluable lessons. This experience motivated me to cultivate a fierce determination and ambition to pursue a career with a higher purpose. It is in memory of my grandmother and in honor of those other families who have faced similar challenges that I have chosen to pursue a career in the field of health.
    Young Women in STEM Scholarship
    I am currently attending Adelphi University. I am on the Dean's list in the second semester, with a 3.5 g.p.a. Currently majoring in Biology, STEM. I plan to work in the health field with a track toward medical school. The courses I have taken and will complete in the future will help to address health issues that will allow me to research and explore all possibilities. There is a lot to look forward to learning from professors regarding a holistic approach to health care used for student training to learn about community health, health maintenance, management, and environmental health. I am interested in working in the health field to help people in my community. I have wanted to be a medical provider since I was a small child. I have never desired to pursue any other career. My goals are to contribute to improving the health of others. The most important is advocating for healthy living. The goal is to spread awareness about healthy eating, regular exercise, and stress management. Having people with whom they can relate is essential. I have great potential and the willingness to demonstrate my commitment to excellence and determination to overcome any obstacles I face. In addition, I am passionate about my education and want to impact the world positively. I desire to be a part of a community that believes in your potential and invests in future success. I aim to develop my leadership skills and continue giving back to my community before, during, and after reaching my goals. My grandmother was a role model, teacher, and hero to me, and her strength and resilience in the face of serious illness have been a significant factor in my decision to pursue a career in the health field. Her battle with her conditions was a challenging experience for her and our family; however, this experience has motivated me to cultivate a fierce determination and ambition to pursue a career with a higher purpose from strong female mentors in my life that encouraged me to pursue my dreams to experiences that it gave me. Growing up in a household that valued education and encouraged exploration, I was surrounded by inspiring role models, one of the most influential being my grandmother. My grandmother was a strong, independent woman who worked hard to provide for her family. She was an entrepreneur and business owner. She was a source of inspiration and a role model in many ways. She instilled in me a sense of confidence and encouraged me to explore my passions and take risks. She taught me that hard work and dedication could help you achieve your dreams. Her influence was instrumental in my decision to pursue a career in the health field. Her example showed me that anything was possible and that I could conquer any obstacle. I am forever grateful for her support and guidance, and I will continue to strive to make her proud. In my own life, I experienced the power of resilience when my grandmother was diagnosed with a terminal illness. While this was a challenging time for our family, I was able to draw upon my inner strength to help me cope. I refused to give in to the fear and sadness of the situation and instead determined to cherish the time with my grandmother. I found strength in knowing that although her illness was terminal, I could still make our time together meaningful. I found comfort in the resilience I discovered within myself, and I am grateful for the lessons that my grandmother's illness taught me. Life is full of unexpected hardships and adversities. My grandmother's illness has been one of the most challenging experiences of my life, yet it has also been one of the most transformative. My perspective on life changed drastically. I began focusing on the things that truly mattered to me, such as spending quality time with my family and career aspirations. I took on a sense of responsibility and prioritized my goals and dreams. This newfound sense of purpose and resilience has been the driving force in my life. It has enabled me to take on new challenges and navigate difficult situations gracefully and with strength. I am grateful for the strength and resilience I have gained through this experience and am confident it will benefit my future endeavors. Through her battle with her illnesses, I learned invaluable lessons. This experience has motivated me to cultivate a fierce determination and ambition to pursue a career with a higher purpose. My decision to pursue a career in the health field and STEM is dedicated to the memory of my grandmother and those other families who have gone through similar challenges.
    Lauren Czebatul Scholarship
    Volunteering is a powerful tool that can transform an individual's mindset. Giving selflessly can instill a sense of purpose and fulfillment that cannot be found elsewhere. this has changed my mindset. Volunteering gives me a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction, leading to a more positive outlook. Moreover, volunteering helped me to develop empathy and compassion towards others, resulting in a more compassionate and understanding mindset. However, as a student, my finances can be a significant hurdle to overcome when pursuing higher education. This is where the need for a scholarship comes in, as it can provide the necessary financial support to offset the cost of tuition and books. The cost of higher education has been increasing steadily over the past few decades, making it harder for students to afford college. As a result, scholarships have become a necessity for me students to offset tuition and book costs. Without them I wouldn't be able to attend school. This highlights the importance of financial aid, especially for low-income students who may not have the means to attend college without it. Scholarships can make a significant difference in a student's ability to afford higher education, allowing them to focus on their studies and achieve their academic goals. In addition, scholarships can also provide students with a sense of motivation and recognition for their hard work, further encouraging them to succeed academically. Therefore, scholarships are not only essential in providing financial assistance but also in promoting academic success and increasing access to higher education. With this scholarship, I aim to use my unique attributes to give back to my community through volunteering at a local homeless shelter and continuing at the river bay senior center. In addition, I can significantly impact and help those in need by teaching cooking classes and organizing fundraiser concerts. Volunteering is a selfless act of dedicating time and effort to help others without expecting anything in return. It has multiple benefits for individuals, including enhancing social skills, increasing self-esteem, and improving overall well-being. Volunteering can also transform an individual's mindset, leading to a more positive outlook. The transformative effects of volunteering on mindset highlight the importance of volunteering as an activity that benefits the community and positively impacts the individual's well-being. In conclusion, volunteering has significantly shaped my mindset and understanding of the importance of giving back to the community. Every individual has unique attributes to utilize to make a positive impact. However, financial constraints can limit one's ability to participate in volunteer activities or pursue higher education. As someone passionate about volunteering and plans to give back to my community, I need this scholarship to help offset my financial burden. Thus, investing in education and volunteerism can lead to a positive ripple effect that benefits both individuals and society.
    Goobie-Ramlal Education Scholarship
    As a college-bound student of an immigrant family, my journey has not been without its challenges. Growing up with a father born in Kinshasha, Africa but raised in France and a mother born and raised in the United States, I have had a unique perspective on the world. Despite the obstacles, my goal is positively to impact the world through my experience and education. Pursuing a career in medicine is one way that I plan to do this. Education is the key to achieving personal and familial goals. I am pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Biology at Adelphi University, hoping to attend medical school. I will discuss the challenges of being a college-bound student from an immigrant family, pursuing a career in medicine to impact globally positively, and the significance of education in achieving personal and familial goals. Immigrant students face various challenges when it comes to pursuing higher education. These students may be the first in their families to attend college and may lack the resources and guide their peers with American-born parents have. Immigrant students often face financial barriers to college, as their families may have different financial means than their peers. Additionally, language barriers can make it difficult for immigrant students to navigate the college application process and understand financial aid options. As a student with an immigrant parent, I experience cultural barriers, feeling pressure to conform to my father's expectations and values rather than pursue my goals and aspirations. These challenges have led to feelings of isolation and a lack of support, making it difficult for me to succeed in college. However, my mother gives me much support and provides resources to help me overcome these challenges. By recognizing and addressing the unique challenges that I have experienced, I lean on my mother to help ensure that I have an equal opportunity to pursue higher education and achieve my goals. I choose to pursue a career in medicine to make a positive impact on a global scale. I have recognized the health disparities that exist both locally and globally, and I am determined to make a difference. My grandmother died of cancer, and due to that experience, I would like to work with underserved communities to help to improve access to healthcare, reduce healthcare disparities, and address the root causes of poor health outcomes. In addition, I plan to contribute to research efforts to advance medical knowledge and improve healthcare delivery systems. Pursuing a career in medicine with a global focus requires a commitment to lifelong learning, cultural humility, and collaboration with individuals from diverse backgrounds. However, the potential impact of this work is significant, as healthcare professionals can positively impact the health and well-being of individuals and communities worldwide. In conclusion, being a college-bound student of an immigrant family has molded me into a resilient, determined, and hardworking individual. My father's journey from Africa to France and my experiences as a first-generation American have instilled in me a deep appreciation for the value of education and the opportunities it can provide. My plan to become a medical doctor and positively impact the world is fueled by my desire to honor my family's sacrifices and create a better future for myself and others. Attending Adelphi University as a Biology major is just the first step in achieving this goal, and I am eager to continue on this path to success. I am grateful for the opportunity to pursue my dreams and am committed to using my education and experiences to make a meaningful difference in the world.
    Dema Dimbaya Humanitarianism and Disaster Relief Scholarship
    Community service and disaster relief are critical aspects of our society that require individuals to unite and support each other. Many, including myself, are driven by personal motivations to give back to our communities and help those in need. My involvement in community service and disaster relief has been shaped by specific examples, such as volunteering at community centers for the elderly, providing food to the homeless, and performing for the elderly in nursing homes. These experiences have inspired me to contribute more in this area, and I plan to do so by volunteering at community centers, donating supplies, and actively seeking out opportunities to impact those in need positively. In this essay, I will detail how I plan to contribute to community service and disaster relief and the importance of these efforts in society. Community service and disaster relief are forms of volunteering essential in promoting societal welfare. Additionally, people who participated in disaster relief were motivated by compassion and empathy toward the victims. They believed their responsibility was to assist those in need and alleviate their suffering. People motivated by the desire to help others and positively impact society are more likely to participate in these activities and contribute to societal welfare. Community service and disaster relief are two essential aspects of social responsibility that individuals and organizations must participate in. There are many specific examples of community service and disaster relief, such as volunteering at a local food bank, donating to a disaster relief fund, or participating in a cleanup effort after a natural disaster. These activities provide immediate aid to those in need and contribute to the community's long-term well-being by building relationships and promoting social cohesion. Additionally, involvement in community service and disaster relief can positively impact an individual's personal and professional development. For example, it can improve leadership skills, enhance problem-solving abilities, and increase awareness of societal issues. Community service and disaster relief are vital components of social responsibility that can benefit individuals and communities. Community service and disaster relief efforts are crucial for the well-being of society. The importance of community service lies in its ability to bring people together and foster a sense of unity and cooperation. Similarly, disaster relief efforts are critical in mitigating the devastating impact of natural disasters on communities, such as hurricanes, earthquakes, and floods. As a responsible citizen, one must actively contribute to community service and disaster relief efforts. I believe that volunteering is the most effective way to contribute meaningfully to community service and disaster relief efforts. Volunteering allows individuals to leverage their skills, knowledge, and resources to impact their community positively. Additionally, volunteering provides a sense of personal fulfillment and satisfaction that can be hard to find elsewhere. Going forward, I plan to contribute to community service and disaster relief efforts by volunteering my time and resources to organizations that focus on these areas. By doing so, I can positively impact my community and help those in need. In conclusion, community service and disaster relief have been a significant part of my life, and I am determined to continue contributing to these areas in the future. My experiences as a volunteer at community centers, nursing homes, and homeless shelters have taught me the importance of giving back to society, especially during difficult times like the 2020 pandemic. Through my contributions, I have positively impacted the lives of others and brought joy to those in need. Moving forward, I plan to expand my efforts and seek new ways to assist those affected by disasters and contribute to my community's well-being.
    Maverick Grill and Saloon Scholarship
    As humans, we all have something that sets us apart from others, making us unique. In addition, our background and experiences often shape the attributes that make us stand out. In this essay, I will share some unique qualities that make me who I am and how these traits can contribute to my community. Additionally, I will discuss my plan to give back to the community using these unique attributes. Through this essay, I aim to inspire others to embrace their uniqueness and find ways to use their talents to impact their community positively. Personal background and experiences play a significant role in shaping one’s uniqueness. According to Rees, people’s experiences shape their personalities and identity, making them unique individuals. Family background, culture, education, and life events are significant factors that shape a person’s uniqueness. For example, family background and upbringing can shape values, beliefs, and behavior. In addition, culture influences the way people perceive and interact with the world around them. Education also plays a crucial role in shaping one’s uniqueness. It helps people develop skills, knowledge, and values that make them stand out. Life events, such as traumatic experiences, can also shape one’s uniqueness by changing their perspective on life. Therefore, people’s backgrounds and experiences are crucial in shaping their uniqueness, making them different. Every individual has unique traits that make them stand out, and these characteristics can contribute significantly to their community. Empathy, for example, allows individuals to understand and share the feelings of others, which can help build stronger relationships and promote a sense of unity within the community. Conversely, agreeableness enables individuals to be more cooperative and helpful, which can lead to a more collaborative and supportive community. Similarly, conscientiousness is associated with responsibility and dependability, which are essential for building community trust and reliability. Therefore, recognizing one’s unique traits and how one can contribute to the community is crucial for individuals looking to impact their surroundings positively. By utilizing their strengths and contributing to the community, individuals can foster a sense of belonging and create a more inclusive and supportive environment for themselves and others. Giving back to the community is a noble goal that significantly impacts society. Every person has unique attributes that they can use to give back to their community. My plan to give back to the community using my unique attributes involves volunteering at a local homeless shelter. As someone skilled in cooking, I plan to teach cooking classes to the homeless individuals at the shelter. This will provide them with practical skills and help them eat healthier and save money on food. Additionally, I plan to use my passion for music to organize a fundraiser concert to raise money for the shelter’s operations. This will help the shelter provide better care for homeless individuals and fund new projects. In conclusion, giving back to the community is a fulfilling experience that benefits all parties involved. By using my unique attributes to teach cooking classes and organize a fundraiser concert, I can positively impact the community around me. In conclusion, everyone has unique attributes that make them stand out. Recognizing and embracing these qualities is essential because they make us who we are. By giving back to our community, we can use our unique attributes to make a positive impact. Whether volunteering, donating, or simply spreading kindness, we all have the power to make a difference. Let us strive to celebrate our uniqueness and use it to make our communities a better place.
    GD Sandeford Memorial Scholarship
    As a student at Adelphi University, I am on the Dean's list in the second semester, with a 3.5 g.p.a. Currently majoring in Biology, I plan to work in the health field with a track toward medical school. The courses I have taken and will complete in the future will help to address health issues that will allow me to research and explore all possibilities. There is a lot to look forward to learning from professors regarding a holistic approach to healthcare used for student training to learn about community health, health maintenance, management, and environmental health. I am interested in working in the health field to help people in my community. I have wanted to be a medical provider since I was a small child. I have never desired to pursue any other career. The most important is advocating for healthy living. The goal is to spread awareness about healthy eating, regular exercise, and stress management. I chose to volunteer at a senior program because of the influence of my grandmother. I am currently encouraging others to choose healthy lifestyles by providing resources and support at the Riverbay Corp senior program in the Bronx, where I volunteer services. I have been creating healthier meal options for West Indian and African dishes with a great taste without palm oil, excess salt, and preservatives I also have been assisting with fun dance routines for healthy exercise. Having people with whom they can relate is essential. I have great potential and the willingness to demonstrate my commitment to excellence and determination to overcome any obstacles I face. In addition, I am passionate about my education and want to impact the world positively. I desire to be a part of a community that believes in your potential and invests in your future success. I aim to develop my leadership skills and continue giving back to my community before, during, and after reaching my goals. Growing up in a household that valued education and encouraged exploration, there were many inspiring role models in my life, one of the most influential being my grandmother. For instance, my grandmother was a teacher who spent her life enhancing the lives of others by teaching and mentoring students from all walks of life. She was an incredible role model for me and I was inspired by her passion for learning and her commitment to helping others. Her example encouraged me to strive for excellence, both academically and in my personal life. My grandmother was a strong, independent woman who worked hard to provide for her family. She was an entrepreneur and a business owner. She was a source of inspiration and a role model in many ways. She instilled confidence and encouragement to explore passions and take risks. She taught me that hard work and dedication could help me achieve my dreams. Her influence was instrumental in my decision to pursue a career in the health field. I experienced the power of resilience when my grandmother was diagnosed with a terminal illness. While this was a challenging time for our family, I was able to draw upon my inner strength to help me cope. I refused to give in to the fear and sadness of the situation and instead determined to cherish the time with my grandmother. I found strength in knowing that although her illness was terminal, I could still make our time together meaningful. I found comfort in the resilience I discovered within myself, and I am grateful for the lessons that my grandmother's illness taught me.
    SmartAsset College SmartStart Personal Finance Scholarship
    I grew up in Harlem New York. When I was 14 years old, I moved to coop city with my mother and brother, when she and my father divorced. My mother is a hard worker and always worked several jobs. She even worked multiple jobs while completing her master’s degree. She always taught us to be focused on our future. Her favorite words are “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” She works as a financial advisor part-time selling life insurance, and as a full-time academic advisor where she motivates college students to complete their degrees, and achieve their careers and future aspirations. My brother and I would go to her presentations, so she didn’t have to pay a babysitter. At age 16, I learned about the importance of financial freedom. I have learned about credit scores, budgeting my bank account, and creating a budget. My mother opened investment and college savings accounts for my brother and me and explained how to grow our money. I have always saved all my allowance, birthday, and Christmas funds. I even saved all the money I made on my summer jobs from 2020 to 2022. I am focused on saving for my future because of all the lessons I learned from my mother, and her influences. My motivation behind financial freedom is having a sense of self-worth. Another saying is “God bless the child that has his own. “ Instead of buying expensive clothes, my mother taught us how to invest in Nike, amazon, and others so we can own shares in their companies. I used to listen to the speakers talk about how black and Hispanics are behind, and how we should invest in our neighborhoods. Some people would spend their money on expensive sneakers when clearly, they are not financially set. He spoke about how other races invest in their children, buy houses, and set their children up for success in the future. I remember most of my family members telling their children they must leave at eighteen years old, which right now at 18, I don’t have it all figured out, and I need my family’s guidance and support. Most people do not have an opportunity to follow their dreams because they are focused on the responsibility of paying their rent and bills. Some that attend college, must pay large sums of school debts. It is important to have positive influences. Managing finances can be an overwhelming task for many individuals, but it is an essential part of our daily lives. In today's world, financial security is a top priority for most people. One of the best ways to achieve financial stability is by following sound financial advice. When seeking advice, it's important to remember that everyone's situation is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. However, some universal principles can be applied to achieve financial success. The best piece of financial advice that I have received are popular supporting points include living below your means, investing in yourself, and starting early and investing often. Living below your means is an essential aspect of financial stability, and it requires developing a habit of budgeting and saving. Budgeting involves tracking and planning expenses, while saving entails putting aside money for future needs or emergencies. A budget helps individuals distinguish between wants and needs, enabling them to cut back on unnecessary expenses and redirect their resources toward more critical matters. In addition, saving is crucial because it provides a buffer against financial emergencies and enables individuals to achieve long-term financial goals. Developing a habit of saving requires discipline and consistency. One approach to saving is adopting the "pay yourself first" principle, where individuals prioritize saving by setting aside a portion of their income before handling any other expenses. In conclusion, living below your means is vital to financial stability, and it requires developing a habit of budgeting and saving. By creating a budget and prioritizing savings, individuals can avoid debt, build an emergency fund and achieve their long-term financial objectives. Investing in oneself is a crucial aspect of personal development, and it can take many forms, including education and self-improvement. Education is a powerful tool that can help individuals acquire knowledge and skills that can help them achieve their goals and navigate different aspects of life. Furthermore, education can lead to higher earnings, better job opportunities, and increased social mobility. In addition to formal education, engaging in self-improvement activities can also be a valuable investment in oneself. Self-improvement encompasses a wide range of activities, including physical fitness, mental well-being, and personal growth. Engaging in self-improvement activities can help individuals build confidence, improve their relationships, and achieve their goals. Ultimately, investing in oneself through education and self-improvement can lead to personal fulfillment and success in various aspects of life. The concept of compound interest has been around for centuries, yet it remains a mystery to many individuals. When individuals begin investing at an early age, they give themselves more time to accumulate wealth through compound interest. Compound interest is the interest that is earned on both the principal investment and the interest that has been accumulated over time. Compound interest can be thought of as a snowball effect, where small contributions made over time, grow into a larger sum due to the interest earned on the principal investment as well as the accumulated interest" In summary, investing early and often while planning for the long-term is critical to achieving financial goals and building wealth through compound interest. In conclusion, financial advice can come from many sources and can have a profound impact on our lives. Whether it is from a family member, friend, or financial planner, the best piece of advice I received will help me achieve my financial goals. From saving for emergencies, to investing in our future, the right advice can provide a sense of security and peace of mind.
    Taylor Swift ‘1989’ Fan Scholarship
    Taylor Swift's '1989' album is a masterpiece that swept the world with its catchy beats, clever lyrics, and impressive storytelling. The album features a collection of unforgettable songs that have left an indelible mark on music lovers' hearts. Among these tracks, there are a few that stand out and have become favorites for many listeners. In this essay, we will explore the three most popular songs on the album, namely "Shake it off," "Out of the Woods," and "Wildest Dreams." The popular song "Shake it off" by Taylor Swift has been well-received by audiences worldwide due to its catchy beats and upbeat lyrics. The song's chorus, which repeats the phrase "shake it off" multiple times, promotes a message of resilience and encourages listeners to brush off negative experiences and move on. The song's lyrics also touch on the theme of self-love and acceptance, encouraging listeners to embrace their unique qualities and not let others' opinions bring them down. One of the most notable elements of Taylor Swift's 2014 hit single 'Out of the Woods' is its emotional storytelling. The song tells the story of a tumultuous relationship, utilizing vivid imagery and metaphors to create a sense of urgency and intensity. The lyrics describe a relationship that is constantly on the brink of collapse, with lines such as "we were built to fall apart, then fall back together" (Swift). in the song Out of the Woods', Swift's use of emotional storytelling serves to create a sense of familiarity and relatability for listeners who have experienced similarly turbulent relationships. The use of repetition in the chorus, with the lyrics "are we out of the woods yet?" also contributes to the emotional impact of the song, as it emphasizes the uncertainty and insecurity of the relationship. Overall, the emotional storytelling in 'Out of the Woods' is a powerful tool that allows listeners to connect with the song on a personal level. "Wildest Dreams" by Taylor Swift has a nostalgic vibe and dreamy melody that takes the listener on a journey to a bygone era. The song's production is reminiscent of the 80s pop sound, with its heavy use of synthesizers and reverb. The nostalgic feel of the song is amplified by the lyrics, which tell the story of a past love that the narrator is longing for. Many of her early songs, such as "Tim McGraw" and "Teardrops on My Guitar", were heavily influenced by traditional country music themes of love and heartbreak. However, with "Wildest Dreams", Swift expands her musical palette to incorporate elements of pop and electronica, while still maintaining the emotional depth of her earlier work. The dreamy melody of the song, with its soaring chorus and lush instrumentation, adds to the overall sense of longing and nostalgia. Overall, "Wildest Dreams" is a masterful blend of past and present that showcases Swift's growth as an artist and her ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level. In conclusion, Taylor Swift's '1989' album is a masterpiece that showcases her growth as an artist. Choosing a favorite song from this album can be a challenging task because each track has its unique charm. However, after careful consideration, I have to say that "Blank Space" is my favorite song from this album. The song's catchy melody, clever lyrics, and Taylor's impeccable vocals make it a timeless classic. Overall, '1989' is an album that will always hold a special place in the hearts of Taylor Swift fans, and it's a testament to her talent and versatility as an artist.
    Robert F. Lawson Fund for Careers that Care
    Entrepreneurship is more than just starting a business; it is a mindset that can benefit individuals in all aspects of their careers. Entrepreneurship is essential to my success as someone interested in becoming a dermatologist. In addition, my experience with eczema as a child has given me a passion for helping others suffering from the same condition. This is where entrepreneurship comes in. In this essay, I will discuss the importance of entrepreneurship in career development, my experience with eczema and its impact on my entrepreneurial goals, and how entrepreneurship can address health concerns and improve lives. Entrepreneurship has become an increasingly important aspect of career development for individuals seeking professional success in today's dynamic business environment. Entrepreneurs possess unique skills and traits, such as creativity, risk-taking, and perseverance, that enable them to overcome challenges and capitalize on opportunities. Through pursuing entrepreneurial activities, individuals can acquire valuable experience in areas such as marketing, finance, and operations and develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that employers highly value. Moreover, entrepreneurship can provide individuals with a sense of autonomy and personal fulfillment, as they can shape their careers and positively impact society. Therefore, individuals need to recognize the significance of entrepreneurship in career development, as it can lead to greater job satisfaction, financial rewards, and personal growth. Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects approximately 10% to 20% of the population worldwide. The symptoms of eczema include redness, itching, and dryness of the skin, which can be highly uncomfortable and even painful for those who suffer from it. As a result, eczema can significantly impact an individual's quality of life, including their ability to pursue entrepreneurial goals. Additionally, the visible symptoms of eczema, such as redness and scaly patches, can be embarrassing and make individuals feel self-conscious in professional settings. Despite these challenges, however, individuals with eczema can still pursue entrepreneurial goals. Individuals with eczema can improve their quality of life and achieve entrepreneurial aspirations by managing their symptoms, such as using moisturizers and avoiding triggers. Therefore, eczema individuals need to seek support and resources to help them manage their condition and pursue their goals. Entrepreneurship plays a crucial role in addressing health concerns and improving lives. For instance, entrepreneurs in the healthcare industry have developed mobile health applications that can help patients monitor their health conditions, access medical information, and communicate with healthcare providers remotely, saving time and reducing healthcare costs. Moreover, entrepreneurs have also developed medical devices that can help diagnose and treat diseases more effectively, such as wearable sensors that detect abnormal heart rhythms and alert patients and healthcare providers in real-time. In addition, entrepreneurship can also address health concerns in underserved communities by creating jobs and economic opportunities, which can improve access to healthcare and promote better health outcomes. Finally, by leveraging entrepreneurial skills and resources, entrepreneurs can create sustainable solutions that address health concerns and positively impact individuals and communities. In conclusion, entrepreneurship is a crucial aspect of one's career that can enable individuals to achieve their goals and positively impact society. As illustrated by the example of a future dermatologist who aims to provide products for individuals suffering from eczema, entrepreneurship enables individuals to address emotional issues and create solutions that can make a real difference in people's lives. Furthermore, by taking the initiative to start a business venture, individuals can create new opportunities for themselves and contribute to the economy's growth. Therefore, entrepreneurship should be encouraged and supported as an essential part of career development.
    Humanize LLC Gives In Honor of Shirley Kelley Scholarship
    My grandmother was a role model, teacher, and hero to me, and her strength and resilience in the face of serious illnesses have been a significant factor in my decision to pursue a career in the STEM field. My grandmother's influence was the first time I discovered I wanted to be a doctor. Growing up in a household that valued education and encouraged exploration, I was surrounded by inspiring role models, one of the most influential being my grandmother. She instilled in me a sense of confidence and encouraged me to explore my passions and take risks. She always took the time to explain things, answer my questions, and provide emotional support. Her nurturing and encouraging attitude nurtured my interest in science and technology and, ultimately, inspired me to pursue a career in STEM. She showed me that hard work and dedication could result in success, no matter my path. Her wisdom, support, and encouragement continue to motivate me to this day, and I am grateful for all she has done for me. My grandmother was constantly in and out of the hospital. I did not understand then, but she suffered from many illnesses, including renal failure. Her medical doctor diagnosed her with Cancer, and my family was devastated. I am incredibly grateful for all the time I spent with her. I watched the doctors who showed compassion and cared for her at the lowest point in her life. It is something that I aspire to be like in the future. She was always optimistic with a positive attitude. She fought long and hard, but God had another plan for her. I vowed to join a team that would fight to cure illnesses and keep families together. The experience gave me motivation. Looking back and remembering where I was, I am glad I had supportive people at such a pivotal time. My grandmother's resilience gave me the confidence to pursue a career in the STEM field and enabled me to cope with the challenges and adversities of life. Through her example and experiences, I have learned to be optimistic and confident in my decisions and strive to achieve my goals and dreams. I am forever grateful for her impact on my life, and I will always remember and respect the lessons she taught me. I am grateful for the people who motivated me and the positive relationships with strong women who mentored and taught me to handle situations gracefully and bravely. Experiences I endured throughout my life have given me tough skin and the motivation to strive for more. Looking back and remembering where I was, I am glad I had supportive people at such a pivotal time. It is a constant reminder to persevere and always be optimistic in pursuing my goals, aspirations, and dreams.
    Hilliard L. "Tack" Gibbs Jr. Memorial Scholarship
    .My career aspiration since I was six years old was to be a physician. My grandmother inspired my goals. One contributing motivation is the experience of visiting her in the hospital when she received dialysis treatment. I did not understand then, but she suffered from many illnesses, including renal failure. She was diagnosed by her medical doctor with Cancer, which devastated my family. However, she was always optimistic and tried to make her family not worry about her. My grandmother gave me a gift that I will always cherish. She gave me a Doc McStuffins doll, a character from an animated cartoon that was a nurturing 6-year-old girl who cared for her stuffed animals and toys in her playhouse clinic. As a child, I wished I could have helped my grandmother and would try to make her comfortable by tending to her every need. I would assist the doctor by taking her blood pressure and temperature, which was my favorite part of the visit. My grandmother fought long and hard, but God had another plan. I vowed to join a team that would fight to cure illnesses and keep families together. I am incredibly grateful for all the time I spent with her. I watched the doctors who showed compassion and cared for her at the lowest point in her life. It is something that I aspire to become. I aim to utilize all opportunities to help the people in my community. I chose Adelphi University to study because it is a reputable institution that can assist me in undergraduate study and an opportunity for pre-med. As a Black woman in New York City, I am confident I can help pay it forward and have a unique perspective on improving underserved communities. I aim to be a medical provider who will make healthcare convenient and accessible for underserved communities. I will use my college degree in health to learn more about nutrition to help people and provide preventive services to ensure they are educated on food and nutrition to help them stay healthy. I will continue to volunteer and expand my social advocacy and community outreach skills to prepare me to serve in the best interest of my community. My grandmother was a role model, teacher, and hero to me, and her strength and resilience in the face of serious illnesses have been a significant factor in my decision to pursue a career in the STEM field. My grandmother's influence was the first time I discovered I wanted to be a doctor. Growing up in a household that valued education and encouraged exploration, I was surrounded by inspiring role models, one of the most influential being my grandmother. She instilled in me a sense of confidence and encouraged me to explore my passions and take risks. She always took the time to explain things, answer my questions, and provide emotional support. Her nurturing and encouraging attitude nurtured my interest in science and technology and, ultimately, inspired me to pursue a career in STEM. She showed me that hard work and dedication could result in success, no matter my path. Her wisdom, support, and encouragement continue to motivate me to this day, and I am grateful for all she has done for me. The experience gave me motivation. Looking back and remembering where I was, I am glad I had supportive people at such a pivotal time.
    Ginny Biada Memorial Scholarship
    My mother has been essential to my life, especially in achieving my goals. Parental involvement was a significant predictor of academic success. My mother has been actively involved in my studies, helping me with my homework, offering motivation and guidance when I feel overwhelmed and discouraged, and providing me with resources such as books, technology, and other materials. She has also encouraged me to explore my interests and has always been there to celebrate my successes. Without her support and encouragement, I would not have been able to reach my goals. My mother was also a role model, showing me the importance of hard work, dedication, and resilience. In addition, she taught me the value of education as an essential foundation for success. I am grateful for my mother's role in my life, and I am sure that without her, I would not have achieved my goals. My mother has taught me the importance of hard work, taking responsibility for my actions, and showing kindness to others. She has also shown me the power of resilience and standing up for what I believe in, even in the face of adversity. Moreover, she has been an unwavering source of support and encouragement, inspiring me to constantly strive for growth and improvement. Her words of wisdom and guidance have been invaluable to me, and I am deeply grateful for all that I have learned from her. She has always been a major source of advice and support throughout my life, and I often reflect on the lessons I have learned from her. Moreover, she has been an unwavering source of support and encouragement, inspiring me to constantly strive for growth and improvement. Her words of wisdom and guidance have been invaluable to me, and I am deeply grateful for all that I have learned from her. My mother has been instrumental in shaping and molding me into the person I am today. She has instilled in me the values of hard work, respect, self-discipline, and service to others. Her diligent commitment to raising me to become the best version of myself is one of the primary sources of my success in life. She provided the guidance and support that I needed to lead me on the path toward achieving all of my goals. Through her tireless dedication to excellence, she encouraged me to reach my highest potential and become a better person. As a result of my mother's influence in my life, I have become more confident, passionate, and inspired individual, capable of achieving all of my aspirations with grace and determination. In conclusion, it is clear that women around us—from the past, the present, and our own homes—have played a significant role in helping us achieve success. They have provided us with guidance, inspiration, and support to live our dreams. Thus, it is essential to honor and appreciate the contribution of these women in our lives and always to remember that we owe much of our accomplishments to them. Women everywhere have touched our lives in big and small ways and should be celebrated. But ultimately, the bond of love that a mother has for her child can not be replaced or ever forgotten.
    STAR Scholarship - Students Taking Alternative Routes
    For many, a medical career is both rewarding and challenging. With the advantages of a medical profession, such as helping those in need, providing a steady income, and making a lasting impact, I am drawn to pursue a career as a physician. While the challenges of pursuing a career in medicine, such as the demanding nature of the job and the financial commitment of medical school, can be intimidating, I am confident that I have the ability and dedication to complete my training successfully and A career in medicine is an admirable and rewarding choice. The advantages of a medical career are numerous. Not only can physicians make a significant difference in the lives of their patients, but they also enjoy a high degree of professional autonomy, job security, and financial stability. In addition, a career in medicine also provides its practitioners with the opportunity to gain a deep understanding of human anatomy and physiology and develop the skills needed to diagnose and treat a wide range of medical conditions. Moreover, those in the medical field can experience the satisfaction of knowing that their work is positively impacting their patients' health and well-being. Furthermore, medical professionals can influence the healthcare system as a whole. By researching and developing new treatments, they can help shape the future of medicine. All these factors make a career in medicine a desirable and fulfilling choice. Medical school is a highly rigorous and competitive process; even students who have achieved excellent academic performance in college may find it challenging to gain admission. Additionally, the cost of medical school can be prohibitive for many individuals, leading to a significant amount of debt for those who are accepted. Once accepted, the medical school provides a steep learning curve, with intense competition for grades and research opportunities. Furthermore, the field of medicine is ever-evolving, and physicians must stay up to date with the latest research and techniques. After medical school, physicians are expected to complete additional training in a residency program, where they will gain experience in their field of specialty. In addition, they are often expected to work long hours with little pay during this time. Finally, the stress of the medical profession can be challenging to manage, leading to burnout and even depression in some cases. Despite these challenges, many individuals still pursue a career in medicine, as the rewards of helping others and significantly impacting the world are worth the effort. Aside from the academic requirements, various other aspects of the process, such as the application process, interviews, and medical school admissions tests, can be overwhelming. The pathway to a career in medicine is challenging and requires a high level of commitment and dedication from aspiring physicians. Moreover, he stresses that hard work and dedication will pay off in the end, ultimately leading to a successful and rewarding career in medicine. Pursuing a career in healthcare as a physician is an exciting and rewarding opportunity. It will allow you to be a part of a unique and specialized field and change your life trajectory in many positive and meaningful ways. From providing vital medical services to those in need to offering exceptional educational opportunities to those around you, becoming a physician can have a tremendous impact on your life and the lives of others. Furthermore, you can develop meaningful and long-lasting relationships with other healthcare professionals and patients, allowing you to pursue your passions and goals further. Still, the potential rewards of doing so, both tangible and intangible, could make all the difference in your future.
    Christina Taylese Singh Memorial Scholarship
    With a lifelong passion for helping others, I have decided to pursue a career in the medical field. Growing up, I witnessed friends and family members being positively impacted by the care and attention they received from healthcare professionals. This experience inspired me to understand the complexities of the medical field and to pursue a career within it. Having grown up in a small rural town, my experiences with healthcare and medicine were limited. I knew very little of the advances in the field and was often left feeling helpless when a family member or friend was ill. This feeling has driven my passion to learn more about healthcare and medicine, and to understand the complexities and nuances of the field. My interest in this field has grown exponentially. The Centre provides a variety of resources, including a wide range of publications, seminars, lectures, and conferences. Through their publications, I have been able to deepen my understanding of the current and emerging trends in the field of healthcare and medicine. The seminars and lectures have also been invaluable, providing me with an opportunity to interact with experts in the field and to learn from their collective experiences. The conferences have been especially beneficial, allowing me to explore the various topics and ideas being discussed in the field. With the help of the Centre, I have been able to cultivate my interests in healthcare and medicine, and I am excited to continue my journey of learning and discovery. After researching the article AO Fakolade, AM AlAbdulKader, DP White… - Preventive Medicine …, 2022 - Elsevier, my motivation for pursuing a career in the healthcare/medicine field is further cemented. Throughout my life, I have been passionate about helping others and advocating for patient care. This article discusses the importance of preventive medicine and how it can help reduce risk factors for illnesses and diseases. I am motivated by the potential that preventive medicine offers in improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs. Furthermore, I am motivated by the fact that preventive medicine can help to reduce health disparities among different communities. I am inspired to play a role in helping to reduce these disparities and promote access to quality healthcare for all. Ultimately, my motivation for pursuing a career in medicine stems from my passion for helping others and contributing to a healthier world. My goals for the future in the healthcare/medicine field are to continue to improve upon the quality of care and treatment that is available to patients and to remain current with the latest technological advancements. In particular, I want to utilize new technologies to advance the quality of care and to promote greater efficiency. By capitalizing on new innovations like nanotechnology, I hope to improve the efficacy of medical treatment, reduce medical costs, and help more people gain access to quality healthcare. Additionally, I aspire to drive and encourage more research and development in the healthcare/medicine field to provide better treatments and a better future for society as a whole. I am passionate about pursuing a career in the healthcare field, specifically in the field of medicine. I believe that a career as a physician will allow me to apply my experiences and skills within the health care system. While helping to provide quality care for patients, I also want to make an impact on the health and wellbeing of my community. With the right education, experience and training, I feel confident that I can excel in this field and ultimately make a positive contribution to the medical community.
    Margalie Jean-Baptiste Scholarship
    My brother and I went to a French charter school in Harlem. Living with my parents and brother growing up, I had to become responsible at a very young age. As the oldest child, I was responsible for my younger brother and did most of the chores. It was difficult for me at such a young age. In elementary school, I had a lot of challenges with academic issues. I remember feeling that I constantly let my parents down when it was time for parent-teacher meetings. No matter how much I studied, I needed help understanding the lesson plans in several classes. As a result, I felt discouraged and lacked motivation. My mother was always attentive, as she was there to help me with my homework, even though she had my brother to help. We would stay up late going over lesson after lesson, even though she had to get to work in the early mornings. She was constantly at the principal's office discussing different plans to help me to improve. Finally, the principal suggested that my mother goes to the department of education to get me evaluated. My mother was very much against those options because of the stigma attached, but she finally agreed. I moved to a classroom with fewer students and two teachers, which gave us individualized attention. My teachers created an educational plan which I had to follow with daily tasks. At this time, I started showing more progress, attending tutoring and getting more involved in extracurricular activities. I joined dance clubs, volleyball, and cooking classes at the YMCA in the Bronx. My parents got a divorce when I started middle school. It had taken a significant toll on my brother and me emotionally. The situation had caused my brother's relationship to go downhill at home and school. My mother saved up money on the side to purchase a co-op to get out of her toxic relationship with my father. I was excited to move to Co-op city in the Bronx. The neighborhood was beautiful compared to where my father lived in Harlem. I started going to church with my mother. I volunteered in church as a teacher's aide taught bible study, and played games with the children. My performance and social skills increased tremendously in school. I realized who I wanted to be, which helped develop my personality. Throughout all of my childhood experiences, I loved visiting my grandmother, who lived near Bronx Community College. She used to take my brother and me to run in the school track, parks, Bronx zoo, and the Botanical gardens. I cherished the weekly lunch dates with my grandmother and family at the Gyro King on Fordham road, where we had gyros, pizza, and soda. One contributing motivation to be a medical doctor is the experience of visiting her in the hospital when she receives dialysis treatment. I did not understand then, but she suffered from many illnesses, including renal failure. She was diagnosed by her medical doctor with cancer, which made my family very devastated. However, she was always optimistic with a positive attitude. My grandmother fought long and hard, but God had another plan. I vowed to be a part of a team that would fight to cure illnesses and keep families together. I am incredibly grateful for all the time I spent with her. I watched the doctors who showed compassion and cared for her at the lowest point in her life. It is something that I aspire to become.
    Charity's Alumnus Erudition Award
    My career aspiration since I was six years old was to be a physician. My goals were inspired by my grandmother. One contributing motivation is the experience of visiting her in the hospital when she received dialysis treatment. I did not understand then, but she suffered from many illnesses, including renal failure. She was diagnosed by her medical doctor with cancer, which made my family very devastated. However, she was always optimistic with a positive attitude and tried to make her family not worry about her. I vowed to be a part of a team that would fight to cure illnesses and keep families together. I am incredibly grateful for all the time I spent with her. I watched the doctors who showed compassion and cared for her at the lowest point in her life. It is something that I aspire to become. My goal is to utilize all opportunities to help the people in my community. I chose Adelphi University to study because it is a reputable institution that can assist me in undergraduate study and an opportunity for pre-med. As a Black woman in New York City, I am confident I can help pay it forward and have a unique perspective on improving underserved communities. I aim to be a medical provider who will make healthcare convenient and accessible for underserved communities. I will use my college degree in health to learn more about nutrition to help people and provide preventive services to ensure they are educated on food and nutrition to help them stay healthy. I will continue to volunteer and expand my social advocacy and community outreach skills to prepare me to serve in the best interest of my community. There are many ways that I can contribute to improving the health of others. The most important is advocating for healthy living. I can spread awareness about the importance of healthy eating, regular exercise, and stress management. I can also encourage others to make healthy lifestyle choices by providing them with resources and support. I can also improve the health of others by volunteering my time and energy to organizations dedicated to promoting health and wellness. For example, I can volunteer at a local health clinic, help at a health fair, or even participate in a health-related fundraiser. By doing this, I can spread the message of health and wellness to those who might not have access to information. I can also contribute to improving the health of others by educating myself on health-related topics. By ensuring I am up-to-date with the latest health news and trends, I can inform others about the importance of taking care of their health. I can also use my knowledge to help others make informed decisions about their health and lifestyle. Finally, I can contribute to improving the health of others by being a role model. By leading a healthy lifestyle, I can show others that making healthy choices and still fulfilling life is possible. I can also encourage others to make healthy changes by setting a good example. By taking these steps, I can help to improve the health of others and to make a significant impact on the people around me.
    Ojeda Multi-County Youth Scholarship
    The environment I grew up in in the Bronx, New York, strongly influenced my aspirations. Bronx living can be challenging, and finding exceptional opportunities requires strenuous efforts. Resources that provide education are minimal. My brother and I went to a French charter school in Harlem. Living with my parents and brother growing up, I had to become responsible at a very young age. As the oldest child, I was responsible for my younger brother and did most of the chores. It was difficult for me at such a young age. In elementary school, I had a lot of challenges with academic issues. I remember feeling that I constantly let my parents down when it was time for parent-teacher meetings. No matter how hard I tried, I couldn't understand the lesson plans in several classes. As a result, I felt discouraged and lacked motivation. My mother was always attentive, as she was there to help me with my homework, even though she had my brother to help. We would stay up late going over lesson after lesson, even though she had to get to work in the early mornings. She was constantly at the principal's office discussing different plans to help me to improve. Finally, the principal suggested that my mother goes to the department of education to get me evaluated. My mother was very much against those options because of the stigma attached, but she finally agreed. My parents got a divorce when I started middle school. It had taken a significant toll on my brother and me emotionally. The situation had caused my brother's relationship to go downhill at home and school. My mother saved up money on the side to purchase a co-op to get out of her toxic relationship with my father. I was excited to move to Co-op city in the Bronx. The neighborhood was beautiful compared to where my father lived in Harlem. I started going to church with my mother. I volunteered in church as a teacher's aide taught bible study, and played games with the children. I assisted in creating lesson plans for the pre-k and kindergarten students. My performance and social skills increased tremendously in school. I realized who I wanted to be, which helped develop my personality. I was more mature and pleasant and established relationships with classmates and friends. I was able to focus and no longer had issues with concentrating. I had the opportunity to express my creativity which improved my confidence levels. My teacher in middle school Miss Simmonds played a pivotal role in my life. She was my mentor, and I will forever be grateful. She encouraged me to move beyond my comfort zone. Throughout all of my childhood experiences, I loved visiting my grandmother, who lived near Bronx Community College. She used to take my brother and me to run in the school track, parks, Bronx zoo, and the Botanical gardens. I cherished the weekly lunch dates with my grandmother and family at the Gyro King on Fordham road, where we had gyros, pizza, and soda. One contributing motivation to be a medical doctor is the experience of visiting her in the hospital when she receives dialysis treatment. I did not understand then, but she suffered from many illnesses, including renal failure. She was diagnosed by her medical doctor with cancer, which made my family very devastated. However, she was always optimistic with a positive attitude. My grandmother gave me a gift that I will always cherish. She gave me a Doc McStuffins doll, a character from an animated cartoon that was a nurturing 6-year-old girl who cared for her stuffed animals and toys in her playhouse clinic. As a child, I wished I could have helped my grandmother. She went through a lot of pain. My grandmother fought long and hard, but God had another plan. I vowed to be a part of a team that would fight to cure illnesses and keep families together. I am incredibly grateful for all the time I spent with her. I watched the doctors who showed compassion and cared for her at the lowest point in her life. It is something that I aspire to become.
    Elevate Women in Technology Scholarship
    IPhone Calendar is my #1 favorite app. The app helps daily to improve the quality of life and productivity. It has become a natural part of my daily routine, and it would not be easy to function without it. The app is a great way to organize school tasks, schedule assignments, plan upcoming events, exercise reminders, and prioritize to-do lists. It has been an excellent tool for helping me manage time efficiently and has improved my daily life. In addition, the app allows check emails, set reminders, and check my calendar. This makes it easier to stay organized and prioritize tasks. Additionally, the app has allowed me to keep in touch with contacts and stay connected to peers and family with iMessage. This has been particularly useful in school, as I can quickly and easily communicate and coordinate with classmates and professors. Having access to this app has made life easier and more productive. IPhone also has a feature called Health. Using mobile apps to improve health outcomes has become an increasingly popular form of health care. It allowed users to be more aware of their physical and mental health, which led to improved health outcomes. Additionally, the app gave users a sense of control over their health and helped them stay on track with their health goals. I use the iPhone apple ovulation tracker flo. It helps in tracking when the next period or fertile window is approaching. In addition, it helps to keep track of my cycle. I used to have embarrassing accidents while in class, but now I have an approximate time of what date my cycle will come. My third favorite app is the Google Maps app. it can be accessed anywhere and helps me get to my destinations on time. Google maps have improved tremendously over the years. The app is a map on your phone or device that directs the user with a similar digital road map. If someone misses their exit, the app recalculates the destination to get back on track. I am thankful for the app's assistance and recommend it to anyone. Google map is a reliable app to help avoid traffic jams and find the best routes around the world. The best thing about google maps is you can use a bike, walk, public transportation, or drive setting. This app is one of the best since the turn of the century.
    Cat Zingano Overcoming Loss Scholarship
    My career aspiration since I was six years old was to be a physician. My goals were inspired by my grandmother. One contributing motivation is the experience of visiting her in the hospital when she received dialysis treatment. I did not understand then, but she suffered from many illnesses, including renal failure. She was diagnosed by her medical doctor with cancer, which made my family very devastated. However, she was always optimistic with a positive attitude and tried to make her family not worry about her. My grandmother gave me a gift that I will always cherish. She gave me a Doc McStuffins doll, a character from an animated cartoon, who was a nurturing 6-year-old girl who cared for her stuffed animals and toys in her playhouse clinic. As a child, I wished I could have helped my grandmother and would try to make her comfortable by tending to her every need. I would assist the doctor by taking her blood pressure and temperature, which was my favorite part of the visit. My grandmother fought long and hard, but God had another plan. I vowed to be a part of a team that would fight to cure illnesses and keep families together. I am incredibly grateful for all the time I spent with her. I watched the doctors who showed compassion and cared for her at the lowest point in her life. It is something that I aspire to become. My goal is to utilize all opportunities to help the people in my community. I chose Adelphi University to study because it is a reputable institution that can assist me in undergraduate study and an opportunity for pre-med. As a Black woman in New York City, I am confident I can help pay it forward and have a unique perspective on improving underserved communities. I aim to be a medical provider who will make healthcare convenient and accessible for underserved communities. I will use my college degree in health to learn more about nutrition to help people and provide preventive services to ensure they are educated on food and nutrition to help them stay healthy. I will continue to volunteer and expand my social advocacy and community outreach skills to prepare me to serve in the best interest of my community.
    Andrea M Taylor Future Doctors Scholarship
    When I was in elementary school, I had a lot of challenges with academic issues. I remember feeling that I constantly let my parents down when it was time for parent-teacher meetings. I felt no matter how hard I tried; I didn't understand the lesson plans in several classes. I was discouraged and did not have much motivation. My mother was always attentive, as she was there to help me with my homework, even though she had my brother to help as well. We would stay up late going over lesson after lesson even though she had to get to work in the early mornings. She was constantly at the principal's office discussing different plans to help me to improve. The principal suggested that my mother goes to the department of education to get me evaluated. My mother was very much against those options because of the stigma attached but finally agreed. Some teachers played pivotal roles in my life. They became my mentor, for which I will forever be grateful. I will never forget my middle school teacher Ms. Simmonds, who always encouraged and motivated me. I had some insecurities, and she would constantly build up my confidence and praise me based on my work in her class. She would invite me to her office to have academic discussions, share firsthand experiences and give real-world advice. I will never forget a time when I was feeling ill during her class. She allowed me to rest on her office couch for the rest of the class. She was a great mentor who encouraged me to move beyond my comfort zone. Around the holidays, birthdays, and Christmas, I would get lots of gifts from my family members. But the one that I remember and cherish the most to this day is my grandmother's gift. A Doc McStuffins doll, a character from an animated cartoon, is a nurturing 6-year-old girl who cared for her stuffed animals and toys in her playhouse clinic. She wore a stethoscope that had magical powers that cured her patients. I have always dreamed of being a doctor ever since then. As far as I can remember, my grandmother was in and out of the hospital constantly. I did not understand at the time, but she suffered from many illnesses, including renal failure. She was diagnosed by her medical doctor with cancer, which made my family very devastated. She was always optimistic with a positive attitude. She fought long and hard, but God had another plan for her. I vowed to be a part of a team that will fight to cure illnesses and keep families together. I am incredibly grateful for all the time I spent with her. I watched the doctors who showed compassion and cared for her at the lowest point in her life. It is something that I aspire to be like in the future. I am so thankful for the positive relationships with strong women who mentored and taught me to handle situations with grace. The experiences gave me motivation. I have been on the honor roll every year. Looking back and remembering where I was, I am glad that I had supportive people at such a pivotal time in my life. It is a constant reminder to persevere and always be optimistic in pursuing my goals, aspirations, and dreams.
    HM Family Scholarship
    When I was in elementary school, I had a lot of challenges with academic issues. I remember feeling that I constantly let my parents down when it was time for parent-teacher meetings. I felt no matter how hard I tried; I didn't understand the lesson plans in several classes. I was discouraged and did not have much motivation. My mother was always attentive, as she was there to help me with my homework, even though she had my brother to help as well. We would stay up late going over lesson after lesson even though she had to get to work in the early mornings. She was constantly at the principal's office discussing different plans to help me to improve. The principal suggested that my mother goes to the department of education to get me evaluated. My mother was very much against those options because of the stigma attached but finally agreed. I moved to a classroom with fewer students and two teachers, which gave us individualized attention. My teachers created an educational plan which I had to follow with daily tasks. At this time, I started showing more progress, and I started going to tutoring and getting more involved in extracurricular activities. I joined dance clubs, volleyball, and cooking classes. Some teachers played pivotal roles in my life. They became my mentor, for which I will forever be grateful. I will never forget my middle school teacher Ms. Simmonds, who always encouraged and motivated me. I had some insecurities, and she would constantly build up my confidence and praise me based on my work in her class. She would invite me to her office to have academic discussions, share firsthand experiences and give real-world advice. I will never forget a time when I was feeling ill during her class. She allowed me to rest on her office couch for the rest of the class. She was a great mentor who encouraged me to move beyond my comfort zone. Around the holidays, birthdays, and Christmas, I would get lots of gifts from my family members. But the one that I remember and cherish the most to this day is my grandmother's gift. A Doc McStuffins doll, is a nurturing 6-year-old girl who cared for her stuffed animals and toys in her playhouse clinic. I have always dreamed of being a doctor ever since then. As far as I can remember, my grandmother was in and out of the hospital constantly. I did not understand at the time, but she suffered from many illnesses, including renal failure. She was diagnosed by her medical doctor with cancer, which made my family very devastated. She was always optimistic with a positive attitude. She fought long and hard, but God had another plan for her. I vowed to be a part of a team that will fight to cure illnesses and keep families together. I am incredibly grateful for all the time I spent with her. I watched the doctors who showed compassion and cared for her at the lowest point in her life. It is something that I aspire to be like in the future. I am so thankful for the positive relationships with strong women who mentored and taught me to handle situations with grace. The experiences gave me motivation. I have been on the honor roll every year. Looking back and remembering where I was, I am glad that I had supportive people at such a pivotal time in my life. It is a constant reminder to persevere and always be optimistic in pursuing my goals, aspirations, and dreams.
    Ruthie Brown Scholarship
    I grew up in Harlem New York. When I was 14 years old, I moved to coop city with my mother and brother, when she and my father divorced. My mother is a hard worker and always worked several jobs. She even worked multiple jobs while completing her master’s degree. She always taught us to be focused on our future. Her favorite words are “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” She works as a financial advisor part-time selling life insurance, and as a full-time academic advisor where she motivates college students to complete their degrees, and achieve their careers and future aspirations. My brother and I would go to her presentations, so she didn’t have to pay a babysitter. At age 16, I learned about the importance of financial freedom. I have learned about credit scores, budgeting my bank account, and creating a budget. My mother opened investment and college savings accounts for my brother and me and explained how to grow our money. I have always saved all my allowance, birthday, and Christmas funds. I even saved all the money I made on my summer jobs in 2020 and 2021. I am focused on saving for my future because of all the lessons I learned from my mother, and her influences. My motivation behind financial freedom is having a sense of self-worth. Another saying is “God bless the child that has his own. “ Instead of buying expensive clothes, my mother taught us how to invest in Nike, amazon, and others so we can own shares in their companies. I used to listen to the speakers talk about how black and Hispanics are behind, and how we should invest in our neighborhoods. Some people would spend their money on expensive sneakers when clearly, they are not financially set. He spoke about how other races invest in their children, buy houses, and set their children up for success in the future. I remember most of my family members telling their children they must leave at eighteen years old, which right now at 17, I don’t have it all figured out, and I need my family’s guidance and support. Most people don’t get to follow their dreams because they are focused on the responsibility of paying their rent and bills. Some that attend college, must pay large sums of school debts. It is important to have positive influences.
    Theresa Lord Future Leader Scholarship
    When I was in elementary school, I had a lot of challenges with academic issues. I remember feeling that I constantly let my parents down when it was time for parent-teacher meetings. I felt no matter how hard I tried; I didn't understand the lesson plans in several classes. I was discouraged and did not have much motivation. My mother was always attentive, as she was there to help me with my homework, even though she had my brother to help as well. We would stay up late going over lesson after lesson even though she had to get to work in the early mornings. She was constantly at the principal's office discussing different plans to help me to improve. The principal suggested that my mother goes to the department of education to get me evaluated. My mother was very much against those options because of the stigma attached but finally agreed. Some teachers played pivotal roles in my life. They became my mentor, for which I will forever be grateful. I will never forget my middle school teacher Ms. Simmonds, who always encouraged and motivated me. I had some insecurities, and she would constantly build up my confidence and praise me based on my work in her class. She would invite me to her office to have academic discussions, share firsthand experiences and give real-world advice. I will never forget a time when I was feeling ill during her class. She allowed me to rest on her office couch for the rest of the class. She was a great mentor who encouraged me to move beyond my comfort zone. Around the holidays, birthdays, and Christmas, I would get lots of gifts from my family members. But the one that I remember and cherish the most to this day is my grandmother's gift. A Doc McStuffins doll, a character from an animated cartoon, is a nurturing 6-year-old girl who cared for her stuffed animals and toys in her playhouse clinic. She wore a stethoscope that had magical powers that cured her patients. I have always dreamed of being a doctor ever since then. As far as I can remember, my grandmother was in and out of the hospital constantly. I did not understand at the time, but she suffered from many illnesses, including renal failure. She was diagnosed by her medical doctor with cancer, which made my family very devastated. She was always optimistic with a positive attitude. She fought long and hard, but God had another plan for her. I vowed to be a part of a team that will fight to cure illnesses and keep families together. I am incredibly grateful for all the time I spent with her. I watched the doctors who showed compassion and cared for her at the lowest point in her life. It is something that I aspire to be like in the future. I am so thankful for the positive relationships with strong women who mentored and taught me to handle situations with grace. The experiences gave me motivation. I have been on the honor roll every year. Looking back and remembering where I was, I am glad that I had supportive people at such a pivotal time in my life. It is a constant reminder to persevere and always be optimistic in pursuing my goals, aspirations, and dreams.
    Jerome D. Carr Memorial Scholarship for Overcoming Adversity
    When I was in elementary school, I had a lot of challenges with academic issues. I remember feeling that I constantly let my parents down when it was time for parent-teacher meetings. I felt no matter how hard I tried; I didn't understand the lesson plans in several classes. I was discouraged and did not have much motivation. My mother was always attentive, as she was there to help me with my homework, even though she had my brother to help as well. We would stay up late going over lesson after lesson even though she had to get to work in the early mornings. She was constantly at the principal's office discussing different plans to help me to improve. The principal suggested that my mother goes to the department of education to get me evaluated. My mother was very much against those options because of the stigma attached but finally agreed. I started going to church with my mother. I volunteered in church as a teacher’s assistant. I taught bible stories and played games with the children. I assisted in creating lesson plans for the pre-k and kindergarten students. My performance and social skills increased in school tremendously. I realized who I wanted to be, and this helped develop my personality. I was more mature, and sociable, and established relationships with my classmates and friends. I was able to focus, and no longer had issues with concentrating. I had the opportunity to express my creativity which improved my confidence levels. Some teachers played pivotal roles in my life. They became my mentor, for which I will forever be grateful. I will never forget my middle school teacher Ms. Simmonds, who always encouraged and motivated me. I had some insecurities, and she would constantly build up my confidence and praise me based on my work in her class. She would invite me to her office to have academic discussions, share firsthand experiences and give real-world advice. I will never forget a time when I was feeling ill during her class. She allowed me to rest on her office couch for the rest of the class. She was a great mentor who encouraged me to move beyond my comfort zone. Around the holidays, birthdays, and Christmas, I would get lots of gifts from my family members. But the one that I remember and cherish the most to this day is my grandmother's gift. A Doc McStuffins doll, a character from an animated cartoon, is a nurturing 6-year-old girl who cared for her stuffed animals and toys in her playhouse clinic. She wore a stethoscope that had magical powers that cured her patients. I have always dreamed of being a doctor ever since then. As far as I can remember, my grandmother was in and out of the hospital constantly. I did not understand at the time, but she suffered from many illnesses, including renal failure. She was diagnosed by her medical doctor with cancer, which made my family very devastated. She was always optimistic with a positive attitude. She fought long and hard. God had another plan for her. I vowed to be a part of a team that will fight to cure illnesses and keep families together. I am incredibly grateful for all the time I spent with her. I watched the doctors who showed compassion and cared for her at the lowest point in her life. It is something that I aspire to be like in the future. I am so thankful for the positive relationships with strong women who mentored and taught me to handle situations with grace.
    Durham-Dodd Dreams Scholarship
    When I was in elementary school, I had a lot of challenges with academic issues. I remember feeling that I constantly let my parents down when it was time for parent-teacher meetings. I felt no matter how hard I tried; I didn't understand the lesson plans in several classes. I was discouraged and did not have much motivation. My mother was always attentive, as she was there to help me with my homework, even though she had my brother to help as well. We would stay up late going over lesson after lesson even though she had to get to work in the early mornings. She was constantly at the principal's office discussing different plans to help me to improve. The principal suggested that my mother goes to the department of education to get me evaluated. My mother was very much against those options because of the stigma attached but finally agreed. I started going to church with my mother. I volunteered in church as a teacher’s assistant. I taught bible stories and played games with the children. I assisted in creating lesson plans for the pre-k and kindergarten students. My performance and social skills increased in school tremendously. I realized who I wanted to be, and this helped develop my personality. I was more mature, sociable, and established relationships with my classmates and friends. I was able to focus, and no longer had issues with concentrating. I had the opportunity to express my creativity which improved my confidence levels.
    Bold Financial Literacy Scholarship
    I grew up in Harlem New York. When I was 14 years old, I moved to coop city with my mother and brother, when she and my father divorced. My mother is a hard worker and always worked several jobs. She even worked multiple jobs while completing her master’s degree. She always taught us to be focused on our future. Her favorite words are “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” She works as a financial advisor part-time selling life insurance, and a full-time academic advisor where she motivates college students to complete their degrees, achieve their careers and future aspirations. My brother and I would go to her presentations, so she didn’t have to pay a babysitter. At age 16, I learned about the importance of financial freedom. I have learned about credit scores, budgeting my bank account, creating a budget. My mother opened investment and college savings accounts for my brother and I, and explained how to grow our money. I have always saved all my allowance, birthday, and Christmas funds. I even saved all the money I made on my summer jobs of 2020 and 2021. I am focused on saving for my future because of all the lessons I learned from my mother, and her influences. My motivation behind financial freedom is having a sense of self-worth. Another saying is “God bless the child that has his own.” Instead of buying expensive clothes, my mother taught us how to invest in Nike, Amazon, and others so we can own shares in their companies. I don’t have it all figured out, but I need my family’s guidance and support. The most lesson I learned is to have a great work ethic and save for the life you want to live.
    Bold Financial Freedom Scholarship
    I grew up in Harlem New York. When I was 14 years old, I moved to coop city with my mother and brother, when she and my father divorced. My mother is a hard worker and always worked several jobs. She even worked multiple jobs while completing her master’s degree. She always taught us to be focused on our future. Her favorite words are “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” She works as a financial advisor part-time selling life insurance, and a full-time academic advisor where she motivates college students to complete their degrees, achieve their careers and future aspirations. My brother and I would go to her presentations, so she didn’t have to pay a babysitter. At age 16, I learned about the importance of financial freedom. I have learned about credit scores, budgeting my bank account, creating a budget. My mother opened investment and college savings accounts for my brother and me and explained how to grow our money. I have always saved all my allowance, birthday, and Christmas funds. I even saved all the money I made on my summer jobs of 2020 and 2021. I am focused on saving for my future because of all the lessons I learned from my mother, and her influences. My motivation behind financial freedom is having a sense of self-worth. Another saying is “God bless the child that has his own.” Instead of buying expensive clothes, my mother taught us how to invest in Nike, Amazon, and others so we can own shares in their companies. At 17, I don’t have it all figured out, and I need my family’s guidance and support. My financial advice is to save for the life you want.
    Elevate Mental Health Awareness Scholarship
    I faced a lot of behavioral and academic challenges when I was in elementary school. I recall feeling like I let my parents down constantly when parent-teacher conferences were coming up. The lesson plans in several classes remained a mystery to me no matter how hard I tried. My motivation was low and I was discouraged. Even though she had my brother to help with my homework, my mother was always available to assist. Despite the fact that she had to leave early in the morning for work, we would spend most nights studying lesson after lesson. At the principal's office, she was constantly discussing ways to help me improve. I was recommended to be evaluated by the department of education by my principal. Due to the stigma attached to those options, my mother was initially opposed but eventually agreed. It was a pleasure to have two teachers and fewer students in my classroom so that we could receive individual attention. I had a daily schedule that I had to follow as directed by my teachers. During these times, I began showing more improvement, and I began tutoring and becoming more involved in extracurricular activities. For instance, I joined a dance club, played volleyball, and I took cooking lessons. Also, my mother and I began attending church together. My task was to watch toddlers while the attending families attended church services and Sunday school. My job was to keep them entertained and help develop activities and lesson plans for the pre-kindergarten and kindergarten students. My performance and social skills in school have improved significantly as a result of this job. Through this job, I’ve discovered who I am and how to channel that into a career. My relationships with classmates and friends improved as I matured and became more sociable. The ability to focus on tasks at hand has greatly improved, and I no longer experience difficulty concentrating. Being given opportunities to show my creativity improved my confidence. Some teachers had a significant influence on my life. In addition to becoming my mentor, they showed a special interest in me, which I will forever remember. I will never forget my middle school teacher Ms. Simmonds who always encouraged and motivated me. I had some insecurities, and she would constantly build up my confidence and praise me based on my work in her class. She would invite me to her office to not only have academic discussions but also share firsthand experiences and give real-world advice. I will never forget a time when I was feeling ill during her class. She was empathetic and allowed me to rest on her office couch for the rest of the class. She was a great mentor who encouraged me to move beyond my comfort zone. I received many gifts from my family during the holidays, my birthday, and Christmas. But the one that I remembered and cherished the most to this day is my grandmother's gift. A Doc McStuffins doll, which is a character from an animated cartoon, is a nurturing 6-year-old girl who cared for her stuffed animals and toys in her playhouse clinic. She wore a stethoscope that had magical powers that cured her patients. I have always dreamed of being a doctor ever since then. As far as I can remember, my grandmother was in and out of the hospital constantly. I did not understand at the time, but she suffered from many illnesses including renal failure. She was diagnosed by her medical doctor with cancer, which made my family very devastated. She was always optimistic with a positive attitude. She fought long and hard, but God had another plan for her. I vowed to be a part of a team that will fight to cure illnesses and keep families together. I am incredibly grateful for all the time I spent with her. While at the hospital, I watched the doctors that had so much compassion and empathy for my family and cared for her while she was at the lowest point in her life. This is something that I aspire to be like in the future. I am so thankful for the positive relationships with strong women who mentored and taught me to handle negative situations with grace. These experiences affected my academics in such a positive way that now as a senior in high school, I have been on the honor roll every year. Looking back and remembering where I was, I am glad that I had supportive people at such a pivotal time. In my life. This constantly reminds me to keep on going and to have perseverance and always be optimistic and pursue my goals, aspirations, and dreams.
    Bold Friendship Matters Scholarship
    Friendship is something very special that not everyone has the privilege to have. People might say that it is rare to have a true friend because it is. Someone that will be there for you no matter what the circumstances might be. Whom you would trust with all of your heart, including your deepest secrets and real-life problems. Someone that I can go to vent to, gossip with, and cry to without being judged. I can say that I have a special friend that I have known for 12 years of my 17 years of life and she is very special to me. Our mothers met at college, started becoming friends, and decided to introduce us to each other. Our mothers would always invite each other to events and occasions. We would go out to have the best of times. Due to her mother having to work, we would have many sleepovers and hangouts when her mother would drop her off at our house to go to work to provide for her family. We would be in our bedroom with my little brother, all having the best time doing fashion shows, talents shows, dance battles, movie nights, and singing competitions. We always kept ourselves occupied with different activities we would come up with. We always had our ups and downs, but we will always remain best friends. Despite all the arguments we had and the disagreements, we remained close and always there for each other. That’s what true friendship means. Even if we might fall off one day, the next day we will rise again and our friendship becomes even stronger.
    Pandemic's Box Scholarship
    The pandemic was a negative experience for my family. I couldn't see my family or friends. For two years, I was confined to my house. Most businesses and were closed. My brother and I argued and fought. My relationship with my family suffered. To deescalate the situation between my sibling and me, my mother had to constantly intervene. This created a stressful environment for me, with anxiety. Several family members died due to covid-19, and I couldn't attend their funerals for fear of getting ill. My grades and behavior began to reflect my problems and I felt unhappy. After my mother saw my grades, I became more anxious, realizing how my mental health affects my life. I would want to sleep, instead of logging on to classes. I wanted to rekindle past relationships and get back on track with my academic goals. My situation improved. Seeing friends and family more. I started jogging and walking outdoors, my mind has been clearer and I have been thinking less about the negative things that happen in life. In this experience, I gained confidence and was reminded to never give up, to love myself, to work hard, and to overcome hard times.
    Bold Friendship Matters Scholarship
    Friendship is a very special gift not everyone has the privilege of experiencing. A true friend is rare, but it is possible. No matter what the circumstances may be, you need someone who is always there for you. Your deepest secrets as well as real-life problems belong to people you can trust. My confidante can listen to my frustrations, gossip, and tears without being judged. It is very special to me to have a friend I have known for 12 years of my 17 years of life. From the beginning, my friend and I grew closer. We soon realized how similar we were and became great friends. We were introduced to each other by our mothers after they met at school and became friends. We have always congregated at parties and events held by our mothers, so we have been able to have the happiest of times. Due to her mother's work schedule, she would often have sleepovers and playdates with me. She would be dropped off at our house by her mother to go to work to support her family. Sleepovers were a regular occurrence. With my little brother, we would have great times doing fashion shows, talent shows, dancing battles, movie nights, and singing contests in our bedroom. We always kept ourselves occupied with different activities we would come up with. There were always going to be ups and downs between us, but we will always be best friends. We remained close despite all of our arguments and disagreements. That's what true friendship is. Even if we fall off one day, we will rise again the next and our friendship will grow even stronger.
    Bold Self-Care Scholarship
    Maintaining one's wellbeing is a daily necessity and very important to maintain health regularly. My health is important from an emotional and physical point of view. A healthy diet is essential for me so that I stay in good shape, feel healthy, and at my best. Being safe around my surroundings makes me feel comfortable. In my sophomore year, I did not consume a healthy diet and didn't consume enough water, I felt tired, dehydrated, constipated, and had severe menstrual cramps. I ate a healthy diet during quarantine but later became depressed. For months, I remained in the same spot in my bedroom. It was difficult for me to get up, cook for myself or even get out of bed. My bedroom was the only place I felt safe. I soon realized that I needed better health. Walking and jogging at least 5 laps around the track has improved my mental clarity and I have thought less about the negative aspects of my life. My physical health has significantly improved since I started following a healthy diet and drinking infused waters to cleanse my body. I have started consuming healthier foods, and feel more confident about myself, but I still need to improve my mental health. During a doctor's appointment, I explained my many late menstrual cycles, depression and found out many other girls had experienced the same thing as I had. Thus, I am spending more time outdoors, meditating, attending personal counseling sessions, and maintaining relationships with family and friends, knowing that I have people around who love and care about me. My physical and mental health are both great as a result. I have confidence following this self-care experience. Reminded to never give up, to love me, to work hard, to overcome challenges, and to live life fully.
    Elevate Mental Health Awareness Scholarship
    There is nothing more serious than mental health problems that can have a negative impact on individuals' emotions as well as their future. Mental health is one of the most important aspects of your life. Although you may be physically healthy, if your brain is not working properly it can adversely affect your social life, family, friends, school, and job. Mental illness has been a part of my life due to experiences with depression and anxiety throughout my life. The longest period of depression I ever experienced was having to stay in quarantine because of Covid without seeing family or friends because they were too afraid to get ill. During those two years, I was confined to my house all day. Having difficulty going anywhere because most businesses and stores were closed. My brother and I continually argued and fought and could never get along. My mother, my brother, and I have suffered serious repercussions in our relationship because of this. In order to deescalate the situation between my brother and me, my mother had to constantly intervene. It would take my mother yelling at my brother and me to get us to stop this behavior. This created a highly stressful environment for me, with more anxiety and stress. Several of my family members passed away, but we did not attend their funerals because we were afraid of getting sick. Despite regretting it, knowing that I wasn't able to spend this difficult time with my family was painful. Due to my extreme depression, my grades and behavior began to reflect my personal problems and felt unhappy. I got poor grades on my progress report. After my mother and I learning how poorly I was doing, I became more anxious, realizing how my mental health affects my grades and my future at an amazing college. I would rather sleep than log on to classes because the pain isn't as sharp. I have noticed that depression has negatively impacted my relationships with my family and friends. As a family, when they were eating dinner and watching movies, I rarely came out of the living room. Since I have become accustomed to staying in my room alone to eat dinner, check my phone, and watch TV, I have made it a habit. Unfortunately, I forgot about my friends and would rarely text them. It's like when you have depression or anxiety. You lose touch with reality because it consumes your whole mind. All you can think about is what is happening at that precise moment. Not being able to move into the future because one is constantly thinking about the past. My academics have been suffering from lack of focus and procrastination. This situation has gotten out of hand and needs to be addressed immediately! Also having been bullied and subjected to constant misogynoir as a black girl also negatively affected my life and confidence. It caused me to fear people would treat me differently. The knowledge that I will forever face racism and misogyny in life, and that I will be denied opportunities and treated unfairly by society. Being caught up in my mother and father's divorce was also difficult for me. I spent a lot of time moving from one house to another every few weeks, which was extremely exhausting. Due to the fact that I was so young and didn't understand, this has affected me personally. The arguments they had about me with school and my behavior made me feel like it was my fault. My first reaction is to blame myself, yet I knew that I should not be blaming myself. The problem of mental health cannot be solved in one day. I knew it would take time for me to recover. I want to rekindle past relationships and get back on course with academics and my academic goals. Eventually, my situation improved! Seeing friends and family more frequently! Since I started jogging and walking outdoors, my mind has been clearer and I have been thinking less about the negative things that happen in life. In this experience, I gained confidence and was reminded to never give up, to love myself, to work hard, and to overcome hard times. My aim in life, my career and my future is to help the world and environment become a healthier, safer and better place! I have been determined to achieve this since I was 5 years old!
    Young Women in STEM Scholarship
    When I was in elementary school, I had a lot of challenges with behavior and academic issues. I remember feeling that I constantly let my parents down when it was time for parent's teacher's meetings. I felt no matter how hard I tried; I just could not get it and didn’t understand the lesson plans in several classes. I was discouraged and did not have much motivation. My mother was always attentive, as she was there to help me with my homework, even though she had my brother to help as well. Most nights, we would stay up late going over lesson after lesson even though she had to get to work in the early mornings. She was constantly at the principal's office discussing different plans to help me to improve. The principal suggested that my mother go to the department of education to get me evaluated. My mother was very much against that choice, but finally agreed. I was moved to a classroom with fewer students and two teachers which gave us individualized attention. My teachers created an educational plan which I had to follow with daily tasks. At this time, I started showing a little more progress, and I started going to tutoring and getting more involved in extracurricular activities. I joined dance clubs, volleyball, and cooking classes. I also started going to church with my mother. I volunteered during church services, and Sunday school to watch the attending families’ toddlers, while they were at the services. I kept them busy with games and helped in creating activities and lesson plans for the pre-k and kindergarten students. This has helped me improve my performance and social skills in school tremendously. I realized who I wanted to be developed my personality. I was more mature, sociable, and established great relationships with my classmates and friends. I was able to focus on tasks at hand, and no longer had issues with concentrating. I had the opportunity to express my creativity which improved my confidence levels. There were some teachers that played a pivotal role in my life. They became my mentor and took a special interest in me, which I will forever be grateful for. I will never forget my middle school teacher Ms. Simmonds which she always encouraged and motivated me. I had some insecurities, and she would constantly build up my confidence and praise me based on my work in her class. She would invite me to her office to not only have academic discussions, but also share firsthand experiences and give real world advice. I will never forget a time when I was feeling ill during her class. She was empathetic and allowed me to rest on her office couch for the rest of the class. She was a great mentor who encouraged me to move beyond my comfort zone. Around the holidays, my birthdays and Christmas I would get lots of gifts from my family members. But the one that I remembered and cherished the most to this day is my grandmother's gift. A Doc McStuffins doll, which is a character from an animated cartoon, a nurturing 6-year-old girl who cared for her stuffed animals and toys in her playhouse clinic. She wore a stethoscope that had magical powers that cured her patients. I have always dreamed of being a doctor ever since then. As far as I can remember, my grandmother was in and out of the hospital constantly. I did not understand at the time, but she suffered from many illnesses including renal failure. She was diagnosed by her medical doctor with cancer, which made my family very devastated. She was always optimistic with a positive attitude. She fought long and hard, but God had another plan for her. I vowed to be a part of a team that will fight to cure illnesses and keep families together. I am incredibly grateful for all the time I spent with her. While at the hospital, I watched the doctors that had so much compassion and empathy for my family and cared for her while she was at her lowest point in her life. This is something that I aspire to be like in the future. I am so thankful for the positive relationships with strong women who mentored and taught me to handle negative situations with grace. These experiences affected me in such a positive way that now as a senior in high school, I have been on the honor roll every year. Looking back and remembering where I was, I know that it is not able where you were, it's about where you are now in the present. This constantly reminds me to keep on going and to have perseverance and always be optimistic and to pursue my goals, aspirations, and dreams.