As a senior at Florida Gulf Coast University majoring in Entrepreneurship, my journey toward pursuing a business degree is deeply rooted in my personal experience, values, and aspirations. Hi, my name is Cameron Daniels, I'm a first-generation college student from a low-income African-American background, and I have a passion for finance. My journey through higher education has been far from typical, most importantly it has shaped my determination to make a positive impact on my community through my education. Growing up in a generation of low-income African Americans, I witnessed the socioeconomic disparities that persist in our communities. Specifically, my very own home. These disparities ignited a desire within me to seek opportunities to break the cycle of poverty, ignorance, and lack of financial literacy. That has plagued my family and many others for generations. It became evident that education was the key to opening doors that had been previously closed, and I am determined to seize that opportunity. My pursuit of a business degree, specifically in entrepreneurship, is a strategic choice. I believe that entrepreneurship empowers individuals and communities to create their economic opportunities and that finance is the language of business. Equipping myself with the knowledge and skills in these fields allows me to not only secure my future but also to be a catalyst for change in my family and community. My goal is not only to achieve personal success but also to extend a helping hand to those who also want change and face similar challenges. I plan to make a positive impact on my community through my educational experiences. For example, I will be offering Financial Literacy to low-income communities. Informing my community on how to generate more money, create cash flow, invest, and expand. Most importantly, I aim to create businesses and job opportunities in underserved communities. By Fostering economic growth, hope to contribute to the reduction of unemployment and poverty my community faces daily. As I progress in my career and accumulate resources, I intend to give back to my community through scholarships, community development projects, and initiatives that directly benefit those who are less fortunate. In conclusion, my pursuit of a business degree is not solely for personal gain but driven by a strong sense of purpose. I am determined to make a positive impact on my family and community. Through my education, I will empower individuals, create opportunities, enhance financial literacy, advocate for greatness, and give back. As a first-generation college student from a low-income African-American background, I believe that my journey can serve as an inspiration and a testament to the transformative power of education and determination.

As a senior at Florida Gulf Coast University majoring in Entrepreneurship, my journey toward pursuing a business degree is deeply rooted in my personal experience, values, and aspirations. Hi, my name is Cameron Daniels, I'm a first-generation college student from a low-income African-American background, and I have a passion for finance. My journey through higher education has been far from typical, most importantly it has shaped my determination to make a positive impact on my community through my education. Growing up in a generation of low-income African Americans, I witnessed the socioeconomic disparities that persist in our communities. Specifically, my very own home. These disparities ignited a desire within me to seek opportunities to break the cycle of poverty, ignorance, and lack of financial literacy. That has plagued my family and many others for generations. It became evident that education was the key to opening doors that had been previously closed, and I am determined to seize that opportunity. My pursuit of a business degree, specifically in entrepreneurship, is a strategic choice. I believe that entrepreneurship empowers individuals and communities to create their economic opportunities and that finance is the language of business. Equipping myself with the knowledge and skills in these fields allows me to not only secure my future but also to be a catalyst for change in my family and community. My goal is not only to achieve personal success but also to extend a helping hand to those who also want change and face similar challenges. I plan to make a positive impact on my community through my educational experiences. For example, I will be offering Financial Literacy to low-income communities. Informing my community on how to generate more money, create cash flow, invest, and expand. Most importantly, I aim to create businesses and job opportunities in underserved communities. By Fostering economic growth, hope to contribute to the reduction of unemployment and poverty my community faces daily. As I progress in my career and accumulate resources, I intend to give back to my community through scholarships, community development projects, and initiatives that directly benefit those who are less fortunate. In conclusion, my pursuit of a business degree is not solely for personal gain but driven by a strong sense of purpose. I am determined to make a positive impact on my family and community. Through my education, I will empower individuals, create opportunities, enhance financial literacy, advocate for greatness, and give back. As a first-generation college student from a low-income African-American background, I believe that my journey can serve as an inspiration and a testament to the transformative power of education and determination.

As a senior at Florida Gulf Coast University majoring in Entrepreneurship, my journey toward pursuing a business degree is deeply rooted in my personal experience, values, and aspirations. Hi, my name is Cameron Daniels, I'm a first-generation college student from a low-income African-American background, and I have a passion for finance. My journey through higher education has been far from typical, most importantly it has shaped my determination to make a positive impact on my community through my education. Growing up in a generation of low-income African Americans, I witnessed the socioeconomic disparities that persist in our communities. Specifically, my very own home. These disparities ignited a desire within me to seek opportunities to break the cycle of poverty, ignorance, and lack of financial literacy. That has plagued my family and many others for generations. It became evident that education was the key to opening doors that had been previously closed, and I am determined to seize that opportunity. My pursuit of a business degree, specifically in entrepreneurship, is a strategic choice. I believe that entrepreneurship empowers individuals and communities to create their economic opportunities and that finance is the language of business. Equipping myself with the knowledge and skills in these fields allows me to not only secure my future but also to be a catalyst for change in my family and community. My goal is not only to achieve personal success but also to extend a helping hand to those who also want change and face similar challenges. I plan to make a positive impact on my community through my educational experiences. For example, I will be offering Financial Literacy to low-income communities. Informing my community on how to generate more money, create cash flow, invest, and expand. Most importantly, I aim to create businesses and job opportunities in underserved communities. By Fostering economic growth, hope to contribute to the reduction of unemployment and poverty my community faces daily. As I progress in my career and accumulate resources, I intend to give back to my community through scholarships, community development projects, and initiatives that directly benefit those who are less fortunate. In conclusion, my pursuit of a business degree is not solely for personal gain but driven by a strong sense of purpose. I am determined to make a positive impact on my family and community. Through my education, I will empower individuals, create opportunities, enhance financial literacy, advocate for greatness, and give back. As a first-generation college student from a low-income African-American background, I believe that my journey can serve as an inspiration and a testament to the transformative power of education and determination.

As a senior at Florida Gulf Coast University majoring in Entrepreneurship, my journey toward pursuing a business degree is deeply rooted in my personal experience, values, and aspirations. Hi, my name is Cameron Daniels, I'm a first-generation college student from a low-income African-American background, and I have a passion for finance. My journey through higher education has been far from typical, most importantly it has shaped my determination to make a positive impact on my community through my education. Growing up in a generation of low-income African Americans, I witnessed the socioeconomic disparities that persist in our communities. Specifically, my very own home. These disparities ignited a desire within me to seek opportunities to break the cycle of poverty, ignorance, and lack of financial literacy. That has plagued my family and many others for generations. It became evident that education was the key to opening doors that had been previously closed, and I am determined to seize that opportunity. My pursuit of a business degree, specifically in entrepreneurship, is a strategic choice. I believe that entrepreneurship empowers individuals and communities to create their economic opportunities and that finance is the language of business. Equipping myself with the knowledge and skills in these fields allows me to not only secure my future but also to be a catalyst for change in my family and community. My goal is not only to achieve personal success but also to extend a helping hand to those who also want change and face similar challenges. I plan to make a positive impact on my community through my educational experiences. For example, I will be offering Financial Literacy to low-income communities. Informing my community on how to generate more money, create cash flow, invest, and expand. Most importantly, I aim to create businesses and job opportunities in underserved communities. By Fostering economic growth, hope to contribute to the reduction of unemployment and poverty my community faces daily. As I progress in my career and accumulate resources, I intend to give back to my community through scholarships, community development projects, and initiatives that directly benefit those who are less fortunate. In conclusion, my pursuit of a business degree is not solely for personal gain but driven by a strong sense of purpose. I am determined to make a positive impact on my family and community. Through my education, I will empower individuals, create opportunities, enhance financial literacy, advocate for greatness, and give back. As a first-generation college student from a low-income African-American background, I believe that my journey can serve as an inspiration and a testament to the transformative power of education and determination.

As a first generation student in my family to go to college, I feel uplifted. Throughout my collegiate studies; being the first male, and also the first person to attend college is an opportunity from God. I even earned an athletic scholarship during the process, making me the first athlete to obtain a scholarship and play at the collegiate level. Until recently it dawned on me that I have set and broken generational barriers. Since then I developed a new perspective on life. When you want something so bad, you'll risk it all. I wanted to go to college so bad I made sure my GPA was above 3.0. Playing football was an option if given the opportunity. God gifted me the ability to achieve both a student lifestyle and a collegiate athlete lifestyle. Being the first in my family did not come with a ton of pressure because I wanted success for my own satisfaction. I've witnessed what success provides when you strive for excellence. The level of happiness you feel when you completed your life mission. A life with no regrets, just fulfillment and the ability to pass on knowledge. Therefore, you can't get back time, so take advantage of the moment. There's a quote by A.R Lucas that states, "If there's even a slight chance at getting something that will make you happy, risk it. Life's too short and happiness is too rare.” I am the future, because of my milestones, my kids will have to evolve better than me. They'll have to find their own niche and fulfill it. I believe my journey has a purpose. That purpose was to break through the generational barriers that were set. Soon I'll be graduating with my bachelor's degree. Then I'll be in graduate school, a new standard that I'll set for my own family. Life is about choices, for every choice, there's an outcome. Additionally, in life, you have to make a sacrifice. For the future of who you are soon to become. Happiness is rare, not many people experience happiness. The majority of people are just surviving, without much fulfillment. I dedicated my teenage years to my academics, leaving out experiences such as partying, adventures, and other adolescence experiences. So that I could get into college. Eventually, there's going to be a time when I'd have to sacrifice a period in my 20s to enjoy my 40s. In order to experience happiness, you'll have to give up something. You'll have to risk it. My mother and father are beyond proud of me. As previously stated, I wanted this lifestyle for my own satisfaction. Deep down I did it for them because we can all share the experience. My parents want me to be successful, by being the first to go to college. There are parents who had to sacrifice their life for their children. Those were my parents, and although it's my life I took it upon myself to give them something they wish they could've experienced. A selfless act on my behalf, just like how my parents gave me an opportunity. I would like to return the same to other kids who are breaking generational barriers. At the end of the day, life has taught me a lot. Enjoy the process, the good times, and the bad times. Thus, I have no room to complain or feel entitled.So, I leave no stone unturned, there's going to be a time in my journey when I can make people's dreams come true. As mentioned earlier, providing an opportunity for others. To be completely honest I can say hard work pays off. Life proves it in the long run, success isn't a sprint, it's a marathon. There's a checkpoint in every chapter of your life, soon you'll reach the finish line. That's when you know you reached enlightenment. Along the race, you'll see people who were ahead of you in the beginning. you will see people who you passed along the way pass you. The secrete to winning the race is completing the race at your own pace. Knowing you gave it everything you had. As the first person in my family, I had to work hard to get to where I am. There are students whose family members went to college, giving them an advantage. While I had to start from square one. Again, it's about finishing strong, knowing when you look back on your life; you can confidently say I fulfilled my life's purpose. I am thankful for my journey and the blessing handed.

Since I was born my mother installed in me to be a leader, not a follower. She told me that when you follow people, with opposing agendas. You are placing yourself in a terrible situation, and certain situations can be fatal. I took my mother's advice throughout elementary, middle, and high school. I notice a transition within my form of leadership. At first, I was a verbal leader then I became a visual leader. As mentioned, I used verbal communication, being the captain of the football team, I motivated my teammates and demanded respect. As I progressed, I became more of a visual representation of a leader. I tried being verbal but that form of leadership did have as much value than a visual leader. Being a visual leader people can see something in you, they see Passion, hope, meaning, power, and drive. Traits that qualify you as a great leader, however, being a leader comes with challenges. I was face with a challenge, that challenge was peer pressure. Because I gave my all in everything I did, from the classroom, field, and social activities. My peers called me a "Try Hard". If I decided to get up in front of the class and solve a question, I was labeled a "Try Hard". If I put forth any effort towards anything I was labeled a "Try Hard". Regardless of the name they called me. I stayed determined and continued putting forth effort. Because I stayed true to myself, I inspired others to do the same. Also, I built relationships with coaches and teachers. As a Running back I obtained injuries, which caused setbacks in my recruiting process. Nevertheless, I kept pushing through the pain. I had coach doubt me, overlook me, and cast me aside. Again, I stayed true to myself. I took every set back as a lesson and went back to the drawing board to replan my next move. I take pride in the running back position, because not many players can get knocked down and get back up. Playing the game of football unlocked hidden talents. I notice that I am a overall student athlete, I am a student of the game. But what helped me become a student of the game was my academic work ethic in the classroom. I knew once I mastered the offensive playbook or academic chapter, I could teach it. Thus, my goal is to become a teacher, I have patience with students and players. I walked on as a sophomore running back at HBCU in my hometown before transferring. In the summer I learned the playbook faster than majority returners, transfers, and freshman. When my position coach would as who would like to come up to the board and draw out the play, I would volunteer. He would tell me no and say, "I know you know it, let me get someone else." I even took time out of my day to help those players who were struggling learn the offensive playbook. I had a receiver come and ask me to teach him, to reiterate I am a running back. So, I put the clues together that I am natural born teacher. Therefore, I will be teaching at the collegiate level once I obtain my masters.

A college education means a lot to me. When I was in elementary school I attended a Charter School, the name of the school was K.I.P.P impact K-12th school. African-American teachers heavily influenced education to help young African American children succeed in their studies. The First college campus I stepped foot on was the University of North Florida (UNF). Seeing the beauty of the college campus sparked a feeling of emotion to obtain an opportunity. So I excelled in my academics. I had no choice but to succeed in the classroom. Because I was heavily involved in athletics, specifically football. Football supported me along with my academics to achieve my college dream. I will teach college one day. Therefore, my education requires that I must obtain a Masters's degree or Ph.D. College allows students to search for opportunities and unlock hidden talents. Being a full-time student does hinder you from creating an annual income, though it's possible, yet stressful depending on the demand of the job. Having a college degree opens up windows of opportunity versus not having a degree. In other words, a built portfolio has a greater chance of selection than not having one at all. Look at a college degree as a security blanket. If rejected, you have a degree that provides more options. A college education is supposed to challenge you academically. However, allow students to have fun in the process. At times courses can be a headache, but the award is worth it. Overcoming adversity and being victorious is a great feeling. Others may oppose going to college: that it's a waste of time, they can make money, it's a financial setback, etc. Generally speaking, the college has its cons, but there are few. For example, Philip decided to enter the workforce out of high school. The job Philip desires require a form of certification. Philip becomes certified, after five years of experience. Philips ranks up, but for Philip to qualify for the position, he must obtain at least a bachelor's degree. Again, most job or career positions require a college education. Thus, it is best to have some form of degree underneath your belt. Booker T Washington argued for having a trade is beneficial in surviving in the economy of our nation. Whereas, Dr. W.E.D Dubois argued that education has more of an effect on the Afrian- American Community. Overall, a college education can provide students with an opportunity than day-to-day civilians. College shaps and mold students into elite individuals, that knows how to properly maneuver through our nation's economy effectively. College is supposed to be fun, but your responsibilities come first. Again, you're building your portfolio for your survival.

In High school, I was determined to play college football. I sacrifice my entire high school experience to receive an opportunity to go collegiate. After a hard win, instead of going out with the team and people from school. I went home to a game film and recovered my body for the weekend. I didn't even dress up for school as most kids did, instead, I wore athletic clothes because I had weightlifting last period. I even neglected my love life, I didn't see relationships as important, and trying to manage a love life and make time for football seemed complicated. Education was and still is important to me. I believe in the philosophy that if I continue to keep my grades up, I respect, and show loyalty to my coaches and peers. My collegiate dream will come true. However, the harsh reality is that my philosophy was blinding me from the truth. My grades didn't matter when it came to college football recruitment as long as it was a 2.0. So, busting my rear end to keep a 3.5 GPA felt like a waste of time. If a 4-star athlete with a 2.0 GPA can receive a D1 scholarship with ease. Taking poundings every Friday night, walking away with bruises and cuts. An endless cycle that felt like torment. Having coaches not believe in me yet ask me to go above and beyond. When I was hurt, they cast me aside, but when I prospered, they chant my name. I kept fighting through the mental abuse of being called “Injury prone.” By my teammates and the disappointing looks on my coaches' faces. My first athletic scholarship was stripped from me after I maintained a 3.5 GPA and was NCAA eligible for test scores. And all the coach could say "All we can offer you is a 500-dollar scholarship and a walk-on position." After I tried to fly to the college multiple times and was denied due to a blizzard. Despite all the hypocrisy, I continued to strive for excellence both in the classroom and on the field. It hurt facing the reality of everything, but I didn’t let that change my character. I built bonds with some coaches and teammates, I found love, and I achieve my dream to play college football. I built trust with a ton of teachers because I came to school with great character and integrity. In college, my professors deemed me a great student and took me under their wing. My soulmate stated, “The reason why you went through that much trouble, is because God was showing you the truth and preparing you for the next stage in your life.” I learned that many people want to arrive at the destination, but completely skip the process. I am thankful for the journey I encountered and the people that continue to see greatness in me.

When I was in elementary school, I attended a Charter School, the name of the school was K.I.P.P impact k-12th school. African American teachers heavily influenced it to help young African American children succeed in education. The First college campus I stepped foot on was the University of North Florida (UNF). Seeing the beauty of the college campus sparked a feeling of emotion to obtain an opportunity. So, I excelled in my academics. I had no choice but to succeed in the classroom. Because I was heavily involved in athletics, specifically football. Football supported me along with my academics to achieve my college dream. As a young athlete, I saw NFL draft picks make hundreds of thousands and millions of dollars. However, most elite athletes do not invest their money properly. Many rely simply on the NFL Payroll, ignoring the risks the playing a brutal sport. Suppose they had a small business that generates hundreds of thousands of dollars. Or equivalent to 1st, 2nd, or 3rd round draft picks pay. I still work towards making my NFL dream come true, just like I made my college dream come true. By enrolling as a Business major, I am preparing myself for the league as a businessperson and athlete. I plan on overcoming this trial by staying in school. Attending; a university that is affordable and committed to my education. Being; the first in my family to go to college, especially the first male. Also being the baby boy has sparked inspiration in my family. Already I have set the standard in my family and will continue to achieve more throughout life. The legacy that I would like to leave in my family is a legacy of selflessness. I've been told: by peers, family, and coaches that you must "Step on people's toes to get to the top." For some reason, that phrase never felt right with me. I witness people commit unforgivable acts to achieve success. I told my family member this message, "Anybody can be successful, but not anybody can be blessed." And that "Don't misinterpret success for blessings." I have noticed people tend to confuse the two. I can say, I was honored throughout my journey, I treated people the way I wanted to be treated. This method was supported in high school, and so far, it's built great relationships and formed bonds. Thus, I am confident this way of life will remove any trial that'll come my way.