It is important to help others because not only do you have the opportunity to foster growth in a person or community, but you can foster growth within yourself. You learn transferable skills, improve your self-esteem, strengthen your communication skills, and feel a sense of accomplishment after serving others. There is nothing wrong with continued growth as we are not perfect. Efforts that come from the heart make the biggest difference in a community. You must do it with your heart because the love of giving can grow into others. Giving back is something that must come from the heart. It is pure. If you have the passion and love to give back, it makes the result so much more worth it. When I first heard about helping others, I thought about tangible items like donations and new books. That is an amazing form of helping others, but money is not a necessity. We as a people help others all the time. Giving advice, voicing your opinions, volunteering, and taking initiative are also forms of helping others. I help others by volunteering at my church and in my community. For example, I volunteered to make care packages for the homeless in Atlanta last winter. This project was run by some of the leaders in my church. Some of the items in those care packages included hot food, toiletries, socks, and other essentials. This was my first time doing anything of the sort. It was raining that day, and it was a total of seven people participated in that project. The turnout was small, but fourteen hands are better than none. We were able to make over fifty care packages. It took a lot of time and energy, but the goal was to put a smile on their faces. We wanted those in need to know that they are heard and that we care for them. Even though the city of Atlanta worked hard to eliminate homelessness, the problem still exists and will continue to exist until there is no one living on the streets. It felt good to participate in this project because I was able to give back and serve my community. Dedicating my time to community service has made it imperative that I need to continue helping others in the future. Serving others creates a sense of fulfillment and purpose in my life. As Martin Luther King Jr. once asked, “Life's most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?”

Greetings. My name is Cynthia Thomas. I am currently a sophomore biology major at Tennessee State University. One interesting thing about me is that I am a first-generation American and college student. My mother immigrated from Togo, a country in West Africa, in 2001 in hopes of giving her future children a better life. She, unfortunately, did not have the opportunity to attend college. I knew from a young age that I had to work harder than others academically so that my mom’s wishes could be fulfilled. The drive I had/have allowed me to receive many accolades such as being my high school’s valedictorian for the 2021-2022 school year, being nominated for Alpha Lambda Delta and the National Society of Leadership and Success, and making the dean’s list my first year at TSU. After obtaining my B.S. in biology at TSU, I will go to dental school to receive a Doctor of Dental Medicine degree and complete a residency program so that I will be one step closer to achieving my dream career: being an orthodontist. Currently, only 3.8% of dentists are Black according to the American Dental Association, and that number is reduced when it comes to black women. I hope to make that number increase, even if it is just slightly. With my career in STEM, I want to continue to volunteer in my community. Just recently, I volunteered at my church's annual Senior Bingo last month. The Senior Bingo made its comeback in 2021, after the Covid-19 Pandemic. The pandemic caused a lot of elders to be isolated and/or neglected. In fact, according to the Keck School of Medicine, elder abuse increased during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Members of the church, including myself, wanted to allow our local elders to enjoy their community with a classic game. We also wanted to show our appreciation for the elders because of the work they provided for us. After establishing myself as an orthodontist, I plan to make healthcare, specifically dental care, more affordable and accessible by opening up a dental clinic in a low-income neighborhood. The American Academy of Family Physicians states, “Poverty affects health by limiting access to proper nutrition and healthy foods; shelter; safe neighborhoods to learn, live, and work; clean air and water; utilities; and other elements that define an individual’s standard of living. Individuals who live in low-income or high-poverty neighborhoods are likely to experience poor health due to a combination of these factors.” To place some type of affordable dental clinic in every single low-income area will take a village and hard work, but I at least want to start in one area and create a domino effect for others to follow. Everyone deserves access to good oral health and a great smile. Creating a better life for myself means creating better lives for others. With this scholarship, I will be able to obtain the education I need to make a positive impact in our world. I do not want that dream to simply be just a dream for me because I cannot afford it financially. This scholarship would put me on the path to success by not only paying for my education but also paying for the life experiences and learning lessons I learn in college to become a better person and woman in my community.

My biggest accomplishment to date is making the Georgia All-State Band in my senior year of high school. The Georgia All-State Band is an elite honor group consisting of top instrumentalists from all over Georgia. The all-state audition is considered “the second round of auditions.” There is a round of auditions before you are allowed to audition for the Georgia All-State band. It is called the district honor band auditions. This round of auditions consists of musicians within your local district. If you obtain a high enough score in your district audition, you then advance to the all-state auditions. I auditioned for this every year in high school. I remember my freshman year audition like it was yesterday. I have never done anything like this before, so I was nervous. When I walked out of the audition room, I burst into tears. I felt as if what I did was not enough (and it was not, lol). I did not score high enough to make the second round, but I did make the district honor band. I made some adjustments in my sophomore year. I practiced a lot more and was a little bit familiar with the idea of the audition. I, unfortunately, remember telling myself that I would not make the group the day before, and I had a breakdown. However, I walked out of the audition room knowing I did better than last year. I made the district honor band and the second round, but I did not do well enough to make the all-state band. I auditioned on two instruments in my junior year of high school. My main instrument is the Bb Soprano clarinet, but I also picked up a bass clarinet. I can assure you that the work was almost straining, but I was determined to make the all-state band. The auditions were video-based this particular year because of COVID-19. I thought it would be easier because I could re-record, but it was not. I made the district honor band on both instruments, and I was on top of the world. However, I only made the second round on the bass clarinet. I practiced and practiced hard. I became an alternate my junior year in high school which was great, but I knew I could push myself further. I decided to make a change my senior year. I would practice from sunup to sunset on my clarinets and would not stop until I got it right. I also maintained a positive attitude compared to years prior. January 8, 2022, was probably one of the most important days of my life. When I walked into the practice room, all I could see were masses of Asian and white students. There weren’t many that looked like me, a black girl. A lot of black students qualify for their respective districts, but not many make it to this round of auditions. I remember one of my teachers telling me he got denied from registering for the audition 40 years ago because he was a black man. When I walked into the audition room, I saw this large black sheet that served as a buffer between me and the judges. This is put into place to prevent a biased audition and to audition students based on their talent, not their skin color. I found out that I made the All-State band the same day, and I was very proud of myself because I felt as if I broke a barrier. I learned that making a change may take time but will pay off eventually. I also learned that with positive mindsets come positive results. My presence in that group felt like a crack in the glass of discrimination. I was blessed to receive this opportunity and am glad to say that the black community has become one step closer to breaking barriers in classical settings. In the future, I continue to push the presence of black individuals in the dental field as I want to become an orthodontist. Currently, only 3.8% of dentists are Black according to the American Dental Association, and that number is reduced when it comes to black women. I hope to make that number increase, even if it is just slightly. After establishing myself as an orthodontist, I plan to make healthcare, specifically dental care, more affordable and accessible by opening dental clinics in low-income neighborhoods. Everyone deserves access to good oral health and a great smile, not just those who can afford it.

Greetings. My name is Cynthia Thomas. I am currently a sophomore biology major at Tennessee State University. One interesting thing about me is that I am a first-generation American and college student. My mother immigrated from Togo, a country in West Africa, in 2001 in hopes of giving her future children a better life. She, unfortunately, did not have the opportunity to attend college. I knew from a young age that I had to work harder than others academically so that my mom’s wishes could be fulfilled. The drive I had/have allowed me to receive many accolades such as being my high school’s valedictorian for the 2021-2022 school year, being nominated for Alpha Lambda Delta and the National Society of Leadership and Success, and making the dean’s list my first year at TSU. After obtaining my B.S. in biology at TSU, I will go to dental school to receive a Doctor of Dental Medicine degree and complete a residency program so that I will be one step closer to achieving my dream career: being an orthodontist. Currently, only 3.8% of dentists are Black according to the American Dental Association, and that number is reduced when it comes to black women. I hope to make that number increase, even if it is just slightly. I am a woman of my community. I recently volunteered at my church's annual Senior Bingo last month. The Senior Bingo made its comeback in 2021, after the Covid-19 Pandemic. The pandemic caused a lot of elders to be isolated and/or neglected. In fact, according to the Keck School of Medicine, elder abuse increased during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Members of the church, including myself, wanted to allow our local elders to enjoy their community with a classic game. We also wanted to show our appreciation for the elders because of the work they provided for us. After establishing myself as an orthodontist, I plan to make healthcare, specifically dental care, more affordable and accessible by opening up a dental clinic in a low-income neighborhood. The American Academy of Family Physicians states, “Poverty affects health by limiting access to proper nutrition and healthy foods; shelter; safe neighborhoods to learn, live, and work; clean air and water; utilities; and other elements that define an individual’s standard of living. Individuals who live in low-income or high-poverty neighborhoods are likely to experience poor health due to a combination of these factors.” To place some type of affordable dental clinic in every single low-income area will take a village and hard work, but I at least want to start in one area and create a domino effect for others to follow. Everyone deserves access to good oral health and a great smile. I will use my education to contribute to the STEM and business community by advocating for a diverse workforce in the medical and dental fields. I will join organizations and continue to research ways to ensure health equity. Obtaining a higher education is a dream for me. It will allow me to achieve my career goals and break the cycle of not going to college. However, obtaining a higher education is not free. I do not want that dream to simply be just a dream for me because I cannot afford it financially. This scholarship would put me on the path to success by not only paying for my education but also paying for the life experiences and learning lessons I learn in college to become a better person and woman in my community.

One important time when I had to overcome adversity was when I had to audition for the Georgia All-State Band every year in high school. The Georgia All-State Band is an elite honor group consisting of top instrumentalists from all over Georgia. I auditioned for this every year in high school. I remember my freshman year audition like it was yesterday. I was very nervous. When I walked out of the audition room, I burst into tears. I felt as if what I did was not enough (and it was not, lol). I did not score high enough to make the second round, but I did make the district honor band. I made some adjustments in my sophomore year. I practiced a lot more and was a little bit familiar with the idea of the audition. I, unfortunately, remember telling myself that I would not make the group the day before, and I had a breakdown. However, I walked out of the audition room knowing I did better than last year. I made the district honor band and the second round, but I did not do well enough to make the all-state band. I auditioned on two instruments in my junior year of high school. My main instrument is the Bb Soprano clarinet, but I also picked up a bass clarinet. I can assure you that the work was almost straining, but I was determined to make the all-state band. The auditions were video-based this particular year because of COVID-19. I made the district honor band on both instruments, and I was on top of the world. However, I only made the second round on the bass clarinet. I became an alternate my junior year in high school which was great, but I knew I could push myself further. I decided to make a change my senior year. I would practice from sunup to sunset on my clarinets and would not stop until I got it right. I also maintained a positive attitude compared to years prior. January 8, 2022 was probably one of the most important days of my life. When I walked into the practice room, all I could see were masses of Asian and white students. There weren’t many that looked like me, a black girl. When I walked into the audition room, I saw this large black sheet that served as a buffer between me and the judges. This is put into place to prevent a biased audition and to audition students based on their talent, not their skin color. I found out that I made the All-State band the same day, and I was very proud of myself because I felt as if I broke a barrier. I learned that making a change may take time but will pay off eventually. I was blessed to receive this opportunity and am glad to say that the black community has become one step closer to breaking barriers in classical settings. Although it is not music related, I wish to help my community in the future by establishing dental clinics in low-income neighborhoods. The American Academy of Family Physicians states, “Poverty affects health by limiting access to proper nutrition and healthy foods; shelter; safe neighborhoods to learn, live, and work; clean air and water; utilities; and other elements that define an individual’s standard of living.” To place some type of affordable dental clinic in every single low-income area will take a village and hard work, but I at least want to start in one area and create a domino effect for others to follow.

I embody selflessness by constantly volunteering in my community. I have helped multiple people in need y providing my services for my church’s annual Senior Bingo two years in a row and creating care packages for the homeless in downtown Atlanta. The care package project was run by some of the leaders in my church. Some of the items in those care packages included hot food, toiletries, socks, and other essentials. The volunteer turnout was small, but fourteen hands are better than none. We were able to make over fifty care packages. It took a lot of time and energy, but the goal was to put a smile on everyone's face. We wanted those in need to know that they are heard and that we care for them. Even though the city of Atlanta worked hard to eliminate homelessness, the problem still exists and will continue to exist until there is no one living on the streets. Because of this project, we expect a higher turnout of volunteers to aid with this year's assignment. We must continue to love our communities and care for those in it. The Senior Bingo made its comeback in 2021, after the Covid-19 Pandemic. The pandemic caused a lot of elders to be isolated and/or neglected. In fact, according to the Keck School of Medicine, elder abuse increased during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Members of the church, including myself, wanted to allow our local elders to enjoy their community with a classic game. We also wanted to show our appreciation for the elders because of the work they provided for us. For both bingos, I was responsible for decorations, food prep, bringing gifts, and serving the guests. Both bingos were a success and the guests had a great time. It was great to see a smile on their faces. I will continue to help communities in need by providing basic needs to areas that need it most. After obtaining my B.S. and my D.M.D. and establishing myself as an orthodontist, I plan to make healthcare, specifically dental care, more affordable and accessible by opening up a dental clinic in a low-income neighborhood. The American Academy of Family Physicians states, “Poverty affects health by limiting access to proper nutrition and healthy foods; shelter; safe neighborhoods to learn, live, and work; clean air and water; utilities; and other elements that define an individual’s standard of living. Individuals who live in low-income or high-poverty neighborhoods are likely to experience poor health due to a combination of these factors.” To place some type of affordable dental clinic in every single low-income area will take a village and hard work, but I at least want to start in one area and create a domino effect for others to follow. Everyone deserves access to good oral health and a great smile.

Greetings. My name is Cynthia Thomas. I am currently a sophomore biology major from Snellville, Georgia and I attend Tennessee State University. This scholarship will help me pay for the education I need to pursue my career path. After obtaining my B.S. in biology at TSU, I will go to dental school to receive a Doctor of Dental Medicine degree and complete a residency program so that I will be one step closer to achieving my dream career: being an orthodontist. Currently, only 3.8% of dentists are Black according to the American Dental Association, and that number is reduced when it comes to black women. I hope to make that number increase, even if it is just slightly. After establishing myself as an orthodontist, I plan to make healthcare, specifically dental care, more affordable and accessible by opening up a dental clinic in a low-income neighborhood. The American Academy of Family Physicians states, “Poverty affects health by limiting access to proper nutrition and healthy foods; shelter; safe neighborhoods to learn, live, and work; clean air and water; utilities; and other elements that define an individual’s standard of living. Individuals who live in low-income or high-poverty neighborhoods are likely to experience poor health due to a combination of these factors.” To place some type of affordable dental clinic in every single low-income area will take a village and hard work, but I at least want to start in one area and create a domino effect for others to follow. Everyone deserves access to good oral health and a great smile. Doing so is important to me because I come from a low-income family. I am the oldest of three siblings in a single-parent household. My mother immigrated from Togo in 2001, and it has not been easy for her. I understand how it is to be worried about making payments on time such as rent and utilities. I understand the worry of being able to afford decent clothing. I would not wish that on anyone. As I stated before, everyone deserves to have a great smile and great oral health, not just those who can afford and access it easily. This scholarship will also help me pay for the opportunity to gain skills in college that will help my community. If there is nothing else I can provide for this world, I want to leave a legacy of giving back. I will continue to volunteer as much as I can while I am in college. Philanthropy and service are important to me because I am allowed to give back and help others. It is also important because not only do you have the opportunity to foster growth in a community, but you can foster growth within yourself.

I have exhibited a commitment to service by providing my services for my church’s annual Senior Bingo two years in a row and creating care packages for the homeless in downtown Atlanta. The care package project was run by some of the leaders in my church. Some of the items in those care packages included hot food, toiletries, socks, and other essentials. The volunteer turnout was small, but fourteen hands are better than none. We were able to make over fifty care packages. It took a lot of time and energy, but the goal was to put a smile on everyone's face. We wanted those in need to know that they are heard and that we care for them. Even though the city of Atlanta worked hard to eliminate homelessness, the problem still exists and will continue to exist until there is no one living on the streets. Because of this project, we expect a higher turnout of volunteers to aid with this year's assignment. We must continue to love our communities and care for those in it. The Senior Bingo made its comeback in 2021, after the Covid-19 Pandemic. The pandemic caused a lot of elders to be isolated and/or neglected. In fact, according to the Keck School of Medicine, elder abuse increased during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Members of the church, including myself, wanted to allow our local elders to enjoy their community with a classic game. We also wanted to show our appreciation for the elders because of the work they provided for us. For both bingos, I was responsible for decorations, food prep, bringing gifts, and serving the guests. Both bingos were a success and the guests had a great time. It was great to see a smile on their faces. I will make the world a better place by providing basic needs to areas that need it most. After obtaining my B.S. and my D.M.D. and establishing myself as an orthodontist, I plan to make healthcare, specifically dental care, more affordable and accessible by opening up a dental clinic in a low-income neighborhood. The American Academy of Family Physicians states, “Poverty affects health by limiting access to proper nutrition and healthy foods; shelter; safe neighborhoods to learn, live, and work; clean air and water; utilities; and other elements that define an individual’s standard of living. Individuals who live in low-income or high-poverty neighborhoods are likely to experience poor health due to a combination of these factors.” To place some type of affordable dental clinic in every single low-income area will take a village and hard work, but I at least want to start in one area and create a domino effect for others to follow. Everyone deserves access to good oral health and a great smile.

College is important to me for two reasons. First, obtaining an education is necessary for me to achieve my career goals. I would like to become an orthodontist and own my practice. Currently, only 3.8% of dentists are Black according to the American Dental Association, and that number is reduced when it comes to black women. I hope to make that number increase, even if it is just slightly. I want people that look like me to know that it is possible. I also plan to open up a dental clinic in a low-income neighborhood because everyone deserves access to good oral health and a great smile. Second, going to college is important to me because my family did not have the opportunity to do as such. I am the oldest of three siblings in a single-parent low-income household. My mother immigrated from Togo in 2001, and it has not been easy for her. She, unfortunately, did not have the opportunity to attend college, so I knew from a young age that I had to work harder than others academically so that my mom’s wishes could be fulfilled. The most important (and maybe most obvious) thing I would like to gain out of my college experience is a degree. I will be the first in my family to obtain a college degree. I am currently working on getting my Bachelor of Science in Biology. I will also like to gain life skills that will help me not only in my career and personal life. For me, college was my first experience with independence. I had to make not just decisions on my own, but the best decisions. College comes with good and bad influences, and it is one's job to filter right from wrong. It can be tough, but at the end of the day, it is a learning experience, and it will make you stronger as a person. Finally, I want to gain skills that will help my community. If there is nothing else I can provide for this world, I want to leave a legacy of giving back. I will continue to volunteer as much as I can while I am in college. Philanthropy and service are important to me because I am allowed to give back and help others. It is also important because not only do you have the opportunity to foster growth in a community, but you can foster growth within yourself.

Greetings. My name is Cynthia Thomas. I am currently a sophomore biology major at Tennessee State University. One interesting thing about me is that I am a first-generation American and college student. My mother immigrated from Togo, a country in West Africa, in 2001 in hopes of giving her future children a better life. She, unfortunately, did not have the opportunity to attend college. I knew from a young age that I had to work harder than others academically so that my mom’s wishes could be fulfilled. The drive I had/have allowed me to receive many accolades such as being my high school’s valedictorian for the 2021-2022 school year, being nominated for Alpha Lambda Delta and the National Society of Leadership and Success, and making the dean’s list my first year at TSU. I chose to pursue a degree in biology because as corny as this may sound, I always found life interesting. I always wanted to understand how simple organisms operate the way that they do. The ways that organisms can interact with one another is very interesting to me. I have always had a curious mind, and I found biology to be the perfect major that digs into that. After obtaining my B.S. in biology at TSU, I will go to dental school to receive a Doctor of Dental Medicine degree and complete a residency program so that I will be one step closer to achieving my dream career: being an orthodontist. Currently, only 3.8% of dentists are Black according to the American Dental Association, and that number is reduced when it comes to black women. I hope to make that number increase, even if it is just slightly. After establishing myself as an orthodontist, I plan to make healthcare, specifically dental care, more affordable and accessible by opening up a dental clinic in a low-income neighborhood. The American Academy of Family Physicians states, “Poverty affects health by limiting access to proper nutrition and healthy foods; shelter; safe neighborhoods to learn, live, and work; clean air and water; utilities; and other elements that define an individual’s standard of living. Individuals who live in low-income or high-poverty neighborhoods are likely to experience poor health due to a combination of these factors.” To place some type of affordable dental clinic in every single low-income area will take a village and hard work, but I at least want to start in one area and create a domino effect for others to follow. Everyone deserves access to good oral health and a great smile.

After obtaining my B.S. in biology at TSU, I will go to dental school to receive a Doctor of Dental Medicine degree and complete a residency program so that I will be one step closer to achieving my dream career: being an orthodontist. Currently, only 3.8% of dentists are Black according to the American Dental Association, and that number is reduced when it comes to black women. I hope to make that number increase, even if it is just slightly. After establishing myself as an orthodontist, I plan to make healthcare, specifically dental care, more affordable and accessible by opening up a dental clinic in a low-income neighborhood. The American Academy of Family Physicians states, “Poverty affects health by limiting access to proper nutrition and healthy foods; shelter; safe neighborhoods to learn, live, and work; clean air and water; utilities; and other elements that define an individual’s standard of living. Individuals who live in low-income or high-poverty neighborhoods are likely to experience poor health due to a combination of these factors.” To place some type of affordable dental clinic in every single low-income area will take a village and hard work, but I at least want to start in one area and create a domino effect for others to follow. Everyone deserves access to good oral health and a great smile. My experiences in coming from a low-income family pushed me onto this career path. I am the oldest of three siblings in a single-parent household. My mother immigrated from Togo in 2001, and it has not been easy for her. I understand how it is to be worried about making payments on time such as rent and utilities. I understand the worry of being able to afford decent clothing. I would not wish that on anyone. As I stated before, everyone deserves to have a great smile and great oral health, not just those who can afford and access it easily. My identity has also contributed to my passion for dentistry. I am a black woman. As a young black woman, I understand the health disparities associated with race and gender. The lives of minorities are just as valuable as any other demographic but are not treated as such. This is why I will create spaces that value the health and safety of people that look like me, spaces where people that look like me feel comfortable and will not have to worry if it is their last destination.

The world just considers me a black woman. I consider myself to be a proud black woman. My ability to be creative and show my expression through my beautiful afro or my long nails is a joy. However, as a black woman, there is an expectation to be strong and push our emotions under the rug. As black women, we are expected to contain our emotions, or we will be depicted as "angry." With all that I have been through, I do not have a choice but to stay strong, but there are times when I want to let it all out and scream until I can not scream anymore. The stigma surrounding this is unfortunate, but this is the world that we live in. Being a black woman has motivated me to keep pushing and stay focused, especially in the career that I will enter: orthodontics. Currently, only 3.8% of dentists are Black according to the American Dental Association, and that number is reduced when it comes to black women. I hope to make that number increase, even if it is just slightly. I want other black girls to know that they can do it. After establishing myself as an orthodontist, I plan to make healthcare, specifically dental care, more affordable and accessible by opening up a dental clinic in a low-income neighborhood. The American Academy of Family Physicians states, “Poverty affects health by limiting access to proper nutrition and healthy foods; shelter; safe neighborhoods to learn, live, and work; clean air and water; utilities; and other elements that define an individual’s standard of living. Individuals who live in low-income or high-poverty neighborhoods are likely to experience poor health due to a combination of these factors.” To place some type of affordable dental clinic in every single low-income area will take a village and hard work, but I at least want to start in one area and create a domino effect for others to follow. Everyone deserves access to good oral health and a great smile. This is something that I am committed to doing because I am a black woman. As a young black woman, I understand the health disparities associated with race and gender. The lives of minorities are just as valuable as any other demographic but are not treated as such. This is why I will create spaces that value the health and safety of people that look like me, spaces where people that look like me feel comfortable and will not have to worry if it is their last destination.

I am passionate about being a nurse because I am a black woman. As a young black woman, I understand the health disparities associated with race and gender. It is a common fact that black women are 3-4x as likely to die in labor compared to their white counterparts. My teachers always told me stories about what they had to go through as black women in a delivery room and how painful it was simply supposed the nurses and doctors would not listen to their concerns. This is unacceptable and disturbing, to say the least. The lives of black women are just as valuable as any other demographic but are not treated as such. This is why I will create spaces that value the health and safety of people that look like me. I want to create spaces where people that look like me feel comfortable and will not have to worry if it is their last destination. I plan to carry on the values exemplified by Cindy through giving back. It is important to give back because you may hold the knowledge and resources that someone else is seeking. It is also important because not only do you have the opportunity to foster growth in a group of people, but you have the ability to foster growth within yourself. There is nothing wrong with continued growth as we are not perfect. I want to be able to create health and dental clinics in low-income areas. I want to expand on the idea of the affordability of healthcare and dental care. It is known that many low-income and marginalized communities do not have access to such resources because of two things: proximity and cost. I have witnessed several instances where families have lacked basic resources in their neighborhoods and the toll it has taken on their health. The American Academy of Family Physicians states, “Poverty affects health by limiting access to proper nutrition and healthy foods; shelter; safe neighborhoods to learn, live, and work; clean air and water; utilities; and other elements that define an individual’s standard of living. Individuals who live in low-income or high-poverty neighborhoods are likely to experience poor health due to a combination of these factors.” To place some type of affordable health and dental clinic in every single low-income area will take a village and hard work, but I at least want to start in one area and create a domino effect for others to follow. I also plan to work with organizations, especially those that target hunger. Famine is a worldwide issue, and while people in the U.S. are so fortunate to have the resources available to buy food such as food stamps and government assistance, people in developing countries do not have those same privileges. It should never have to come to a point where a child or an adult has to choose between putting food on the table or buying simple clothing. I will work to eliminate that problem, and it is possible because I have been blessed with so many resources that I can use to give back to those who need them most.

Although I hold many achievements such as being the valedictorian and STAR Student of my school for the 2021-2022 school year, my biggest accomplishment was making Georgia All-State Band my senior year of high school. The Georgia All-State Band is an elite honor group consisting of top instrumentalists from all over Georgia. The all-state audition is actually considered “the second round of auditions.” There is a round of auditions before you are allowed to audition for the Georgia All-State band. It is called the district honor band auditions. This round of auditions consists of musicians within your local district. If you obtain a high enough score on your district honor band audition, you then advance to the all-state auditions. I auditioned for this every year in high school. I remember my freshman year audition like it was yesterday. I have never done anything like this before, so I was nervous. When I walked out of the audition room, I burst into tears. I felt as if what I did was not enough (and it was not, lol). I did not score high enough to make the second round, but I did make the district honor band. I made some adjustments my sophomore year. I practiced a lot more and was a little bit familiar with the idea of the audition. I, unfortunately, remember telling myself that I would not make the group the day before, and I had a breakdown. However, I walked out of the audition room knowing I did better than last year. I made the district honor band and the second round, but I did not do well enough to make the all-state band. I actually auditioned on two instruments in my junior year of high school. My main instrument is the Bb Soprano clarinet, but I also picked up a bass clarinet. I can assure you that the work was almost straining, but I was determined to make the all-state band. The auditions were video-based this particular year because of COVID-19. I thought it would be easier because I had the ability to re-record, but it was not. I made the district honor band on both instruments, and I was on top of the world. However, I only made the second round on the bass clarinet. I practiced and practiced hard. I became an alternate my junior year in high school which was great, but I knew I could push myself further. I decided to make a change my senior year. I would practice from sunup to sunset on my clarinets and would not stop until I got it right. I also maintained a positive attitude compared to the years prior. January 8, 2022, was probably one of the most important days of my life. When I walked into the practice room, all I could see were masses of Asian and white students. There weren’t many that looked like me, a black girl. A lot of black students qualify for their respective districts, but not many make it to this round of auditions. I remember one of my teachers telling me he got denied from registering for the audition 40 years ago because he was a black man. When I walked into the audition room, I saw this large black sheet that served as a buffer between me and the judges. This is put into place to prevent a biased audition and to audition students based on their talent, not their skin color. I found out that I made the All-State band the same day, and I was very proud of myself because I felt as if I broke a barrier. I learned that making a change may take time but will pay off eventually. I also learned that with positive mindsets come positive results. My presence in that group felt like a crack in the glass of discrimination. I was blessed to receive this opportunity and am glad to say that the black community has become one step closer to breaking barriers in classical settings.

One of my biggest stories of being optimistic was auditioning for the Georgia All-State Band, an honor band consisting of top instrumentalists from all over Georgia. I auditioned for this every year in high school. The all state audition was considered the second round of auditions. I did not make the second round my freshman year. I made the second round my sophomore year, but I did not make the group. I became an alternate my junior year in high school which was great, but I knew I could push myself further. I decided to make a change my senior year. I would practice from sunup to sunset on my clarinet and would not stop until I got it right. I also maintained a positive attitude compared to years prior. When I walked into the practice room, all I could see were masses of Asian and white students. There weren’t many that looked like me, a black girl. A lot of black students qualify for their respective districts, but not many make it to this round of auditions. I remember one of my teachers telling me he got denied from registering for the audition 40 years ago because he was a black man. When I walked into the audition room, I saw this large black sheet that served as a buffer between me and the judges. This is put into place to prevent a biased audition and to audition students based on their talent, not their skin color. I found out that I made the All State band the same day, and I was very proud of myself because I felt as if I broke a barrier. I also learned that with positive mindsets come positive results. Optimism starts with the power of the mind.

I am very active within my community. Some of the things I have done in terms of community service include growing plants in my schools greenhouse, cleaning up my school's greenhouse, serving as an usher for the church, volunteering at a "Pumpkin Spice" themed Senior Bingo at my church. During my undergraduate years, I will study and major in nursing. After my four-year undergraduate period, I will explore orthodontics as I will become an orthodontist in the future. After all of my schooling, I will complete an orthodontist residency. Ironic, right? I do not know if this has been accomplished before, but if not, I would like to be the first to hold a nursing degree and become a licensed orthodontist. As a young black woman, I want to make a difference in the world of healthcare. I think everyone deserves a great smile, and I will make that happen. While studying both academic areas, I want to learn how to make the world of orthodontics and nursing affordable to all. Everyone should have access to great healthcare and dental care. I want to expand on the idea of the affordability of healthcare and dental care. It is known that many low-income and marginalized communities do not have access to such resources because of two things: proximity and cost. The American Academy of Family Physicians states, “Poverty affects health by limiting access to proper nutrition and healthy foods; shelter; safe neighborhoods to learn, live, and work; clean air and water; utilities; and other elements that define an individual’s standard of living. Individuals who live in low-income or high-poverty neighborhoods are likely to experience poor health due to a combination of these factors.” To place some type of affordable health and dental clinic in every single low-income area will take a village and hard work, but I at least want to start in one area and create a domino effect for others to follow. This is something that I am interested in because I am a black woman. As a young black woman, I understand the health disparities associated with race and gender. It is a common fact that black women are 3-4x as likely to die in labor compared to their white counterparts. My teachers always told me stories about what they had to go through as a black women in a delivery room and how painful it was simply supposed the nurses and doctors would not listen to their concerns. The lives of black women are just as valuable as any other demographic but are not treated as such. This is why I will create spaces that value the health and safety of people that look like me. I want to create spaces where people that look like me feel comfortable and will not have to worry if it is their last destination. Apart from my career, I plan to work with organizations, especially those that target hunger. Famine is a worldwide issue, and while people in the U.S. are so fortunate to have the resources available to buy food such as food stamps and government assistance, people in developing countries do not have those same privileges. It should never have to come to a point where a child or an adult has to choose between putting food on the table or buying simple clothing. I will work to eliminate that problem, and it is possible because I have been blessed with so many resources that I can use to give back to those who need them most.

Greetings. My name is Cynthia Thomas. I am a fresh graduate of Stephenson High School located in Stone Mountain, Georgia. I was born and raised in Georgia for all of the 18 years I have been living. My family, however, consists of immigrants from Togo, a country in West Africa. I was born in the United States and became a byproduct of wanting to start a new life. By being a key to a new life, my parents were stringent, so education has become a major subject in my life. Getting anything lower than an "A" was almost illegal in my household. This probably alludes to the fact that I currently have a 3.9 unweighted GPA, and a 4.2 weighted GPA. After high school, I will attend Tennessee State University in the fall. Tennessee State University is a historically black university that is located in Nashville, Tennessee. Fun fact: none of my parents have been to college or received a degree. This, however, is not due to reasons of their own. My mother has not been given the opportunities I have been blessed to receive today. A lot of people assume that I will follow the same path of not going to college, but I plan to prove them wrong. I also want this to serve as a homage to my mother because she raised me and cared for me when times were tough. During my undergraduate years, I will study and major in nursing. I also plan to participate in the music program at Tennessee State. Music is one of those things that have shaped me into the person I am today, and it is something that I love to do. After my four-year undergraduate period, I will explore orthodontics as I will become an orthodontist in the future. After all of my schooling, I will complete an orthodontist residency. Ironic, right? I do not know if this has been accomplished before, but if not, I would like to be the first to hold a nursing degree and become a licensed orthodontist. As a young black woman, I want to make a difference in the world of healthcare. I think everyone deserves a great smile, and I will make that happen. While studying both academic areas, I want to learn how to make the world of orthodontics and nursing affordable to all. Everyone should have access to great healthcare and dental care. I want to expand on the idea of the affordability of healthcare and dental care. It is known that many low-income and marginalized communities do not have access to such resources because of two things: proximity and cost. I have witnessed several instances where families have lacked basic resources in their neighborhoods and the toll it has taken on their health. The American Academy of Family Physicians states, “Poverty affects health by limiting access to proper nutrition and healthy foods; shelter; safe neighborhoods to learn, live, and work; clean air and water; utilities; and other elements that define an individual’s standard of living. Individuals who live in low-income or high-poverty neighborhoods are likely to experience poor health due to a combination of these factors.” To place some type of affordable health and dental clinic in every single low-income area will take a village and hard work, but I at least want to start in one area and create a domino effect for others to follow. This is something that I am interested in because I am a black woman. As a young black woman, I understand the health disparities associated with race and gender. It is a common fact that black women are 3-4x as likely to die in labor compared to their white counterparts. My teachers always told me stories about what they had to go through as a black women in a delivery room and how painful it was simply supposed the nurses and doctors would not listen to their concerns. This is unacceptable and disturbing, to say the least. The lives of black women are just as valuable as any other demographic but are not treated as such. This is why I will create spaces that value the health and safety of people that look like me. I want to create spaces where people that look like me feel comfortable and will not have to worry if it is their last destination. Apart from my career, I plan to work with organizations, especially those that target hunger. Famine is a worldwide issue, and while people in the U.S. are so fortunate to have the resources available to buy food such as food stamps and government assistance, people in developing countries do not have those same privileges. It should never have to come to a point where a child or an adult has to choose between putting food on the table or buying simple clothing. I will work to eliminate that problem, and it is possible because I have been blessed with so many resources that I can use to give back to those who need them most. Notice how throughout my essay, I say "will" instead of "hope to." I believe that anything is possible if you put your mind to it, and with positive affirmations come positive results. With this scholarship, I WILL be one step closer to achieving my goals! I deserve this scholarship not just because of what it has in store for me, but for what it has in store for the future of communities all around the world. With this scholarship, I will be able to obtain the education I need to make a positive impact in our world.

Education is important to me because it is something that my mom has not been able to obtain since she immigrated here. It has made me realized that education is not as accessible in other ocuntries as it is in the United States. I was born and raised in Georgia for all of the 18 years I have been living. My family, however, consists of immigrants from Togo, a country in West Africa. I was born in the United States and became a byproduct of wanting to start a new life. By being a key to a new life, my parents were stringent, so education has become a major subject in my life. After high school, I will attend Tennessee State University in the fall. Tennessee State University is a historically black university that is located in Nashville, Tennessee. Fun fact: none of my parents have been to college or received a degree. This, however, is not due to reasons of their own. My mother has not been given the opportunities I have been blessed to receive today. A lot of people assume that I will follow the same path of not going to college, but I plan to prove them wrong. I also want this to serve as a homage to my mother because she raised me and cared for me when times were tough. The career path I am choosing is also dependent on receiving a post-secondary education. During my undergraduate years, I will study and major in nursing. I also plan to participate in the music program at Tennessee State. Music is one of those things that have shaped me into the person I am today, and it is something that I love to do. After my four-year undergraduate period, I will explore orthodontics as I will become an orthodontist in the future. After all of my schooling, I will complete an orthodontist residency. Ironic, right? I do not know if this has been accomplished before, but if not, I would like to be the first to hold a nursing degree and become a licensed orthodontist. As a young black woman, I want to make a difference in the world of healthcare. I think everyone deserves a great smile, and I will make that happen. While studying both academic areas, I want to learn how to make the world of orthodontics and nursing affordable to all. Everyone should have access to great healthcare and dental care.

My greatest achievement happened on January 8, 2022. I had to audition for the Georgia All State Band, an elite honor group consisting of top instrumentalists from all over Georgia. When I walked into the practice room, all I could see were masses of Asian and white students. There weren’t many that looked like me, a black girl. A lot of black students qualify for their respective districts, but not many make it to this round of auditions. I remember one of my teachers telling me he got denied from registering for the audition 40 years ago because he was a black man. When I walked into the audition room, I saw this large black sheet that served as a buffer between me and the judges. This is put into place to prevent a biased audition and to audition students based on their talent, not their skin color. I found out that I made the All State band the same day, and I was very proud of myself because I felt as if I broke a barrier. My presence in that group felt like a crack in the glass of discrimination. I have auditioned for the clarinet and bass clarinet position many times, but I did not make it as far as I did this year. I believe I was able to do so well this year because of my mindset. This year, I vowed to stay positive and continue to move forward even if I was bound to make mistakes and face adversity. I learned that positive affirmations produce positive results and that the power of your mind can overtake your actions. I learned that my mind is enclosed but mighty. Finally, I learned that I am valued; my talent is valued and I will continue to make others feel valued. There are many things I plan to achieve in the future. During my undergraduate years, I will study and major in nursing. I also plan to participate in the music program at Tennessee State. Music is one of those things that have shaped me into the person I am today, and it is something that I love to do. After my four-year undergraduate period, I will explore orthodontics as I will become an orthodontist in the future. After all of my schooling, I will complete an orthodontist residency. Ironic, right? I do not know if this has been accomplished before, but if not, I would like to be the first to hold a nursing degree and become a licensed orthodontist. As a young black woman, I want to make a difference in the world of healthcare. I think everyone deserves a great smile, and I will make that happen. While studying both academic areas, I want to learn how to make the world of orthodontics and nursing affordable to all. Everyone should have access to great healthcare and dental care. Apart from my career, I plan to work with organizations, especially those that target hunger. Famine is a worldwide issue, and while people in the U.S. are so fortunate to have the resources available to buy food such as food stamps and government assistance, people in developing countries do not have those same privileges. It should never have to come to a point where a child or an adult has to choose between putting food on the table or buying simple clothing. I will work to eliminate that problem, and it is possible because I have been blessed with so many resources that I can use to give back to those who need them most.

During my undergraduate years, I will study and major in nursing. I also plan to participate in the music program at Tennessee State. Music is one of those things that have shaped me into the person I am today, and it is something that I love to do. After my four-year undergraduate period, I will explore orthodontics as I will become an orthodontist in the future. After all of my schooling, I will complete an orthodontist residency. Ironic, right? I do not know if this has been accomplished before, but if not, I would like to be the first to hold a nursing degree and become a licensed orthodontist. As a young black woman, I want to make a difference in the world of healthcare. I think everyone deserves a great smile, and I will make that happen. While studying both academic areas, I want to learn how to make the world of orthodontics and nursing affordable to all. Everyone should have access to great healthcare and dental care. I want to expand on the idea of the affordability of healthcare and dental care. It is known that many low-income and marginalized communities do not have access to such resources because of two things: proximity and cost. I have witnessed several instances where families have lacked basic resources in their neighborhoods and the toll it has taken on their health. The American Academy of Family Physicians states, “Poverty affects health by limiting access to proper nutrition and healthy foods; shelter; safe neighborhoods to learn, live, and work; clean air and water; utilities; and other elements that define an individual’s standard of living. Individuals who live in low-income or high-poverty neighborhoods are likely to experience poor health due to a combination of these factors.” To place some type of affordable health and dental clinic in every single low-income area will take a village and hard work, but I at least want to start in one area and create a domino effect for others to follow. This is something that I am interested in because I am a black woman. As a young black woman, I understand the health disparities associated with race and gender. It is a common fact that black women are 3-4x as likely to die in labor compared to their white counterparts. My teachers always told me stories about what they had to go through as a black women in a delivery room and how painful it was simply supposed the nurses and doctors would not listen to their concerns. This is unacceptable and disturbing, to say the least. The lives of black women are just as valuable as any other demographic but are not treated as such. This is why I will create spaces that value the health and safety of people that look like me. I want to create spaces where people that look like me feel comfortable and will not have to worry if it is their last destination. I have always been an advocate for the rights of marginalized communities, especially black communities. As we have reached heightened times in society including the increase in police brutality, it has become more and more important to fight for what is right. Our ancestors have come a long way and yes we have made extreme progress, but the problem with racism and discrimination has yet to die. Apart from my career, I plan to work with organizations, especially those that target hunger. Famine is a worldwide issue, and while people in the U.S. are so fortunate to have the resources available to buy food such as food stamps and government assistance, people in developing countries do not have those same privileges. It should never have to come to a point where a child or an adult has to choose between putting food on the table or buying simple clothing. I will work to eliminate that problem, and it is possible because I have been blessed with so many resources that I can use to give back to those who need them most.

High School Senior: During my undergraduate years, I will study and major in nursing. I also plan to participate in the music program at Tennessee State. Music is one of those things that have shaped me into the person I am today, and it is something that I love to do. After my four-year undergraduate period, I will explore orthodontics as I will become an orthodontist in the future. After all of my schooling, I will complete an orthodontist residency. Ironic, right? I do not know if this has been accomplished before, but if not, I would like to be the first to hold a nursing degree and become a licensed orthodontist. I find this important because as a young black woman, I want to make a difference in the world of healthcare. I think everyone deserves a great smile, and I will make that happen. While studying both academic areas, I want to learn how to make the world of orthodontics and nursing affordable to all. Everyone should have access to great healthcare and dental care. I want to expand on the idea of the affordability of healthcare and dental care. It is known that many low-income and marginalized communities do not have access to such resources because of two things: proximity and cost. I have witnessed several instances where families have lacked basic resources in their neighborhoods and the toll it has taken on their health. The American Academy of Family Physicians states, “Poverty affects health by limiting access to proper nutrition and healthy foods; shelter; safe neighborhoods to learn, live, and work; clean air and water; utilities; and other elements that define an individual’s standard of living. Individuals who live in low-income or high-poverty neighborhoods are likely to experience poor health due to a combination of these factors.” To place some type of affordable health and dental clinic in every single low-income area will take a village and hard work, but I at least want to start in one area and create a domino effect for others to follow. I have a passion for being a nurse because I am a black woman. As a young black woman, I understand the health disparities associated with race and gender. It is a common fact that black women are 3-4x as likely to die in labor compared to their white counterparts. My teachers always told me stories about what they had to go through as black women in a delivery room and how painful it was simply supposed the nurses and doctors would not listen to their concerns. This is unacceptable and disturbing, to say the least. The lives of black women are just as valuable as any other demographic but are not treated as such. This is why I will create spaces that value the health and safety of people that look like me. I want to create spaces where people that look like me feel comfortable and will not have to worry if it is their last destination. Although I do not have a specific field of nursing I want to go to, I want to be one that makes a difference in the community for the better.

During my undergraduate years, I will study and major in nursing. After my four-year undergraduate period, I will explore orthodontics as I will become an orthodontist in the future. After all of my schooling, I will complete an orthodontist residency. Ironic, right? I do not know if this has been accomplished before, but if not, I would like to be the first to hold a nursing degree and become a licensed orthodontist. As a young black woman, I want to make a difference in the world of healthcare. I think everyone deserves a great smile, and I will make that happen. While studying both academic areas, I want to learn how to make the world of orthodontics and nursing affordable to all. Everyone should have access to great healthcare and dental care. I want to expand on the idea of the affordability of healthcare and dental care. It is known that many low-income and marginalized communities do not have access to such resources because of two things: proximity and cost. I have witnessed several instances where families have lacked basic resources in their neighborhoods and the toll it has taken on their health. The American Academy of Family Physicians states, “Poverty affects health by limiting access to proper nutrition and healthy foods; shelter; safe neighborhoods to learn, live, and work; clean air and water; utilities; and other elements that define an individual’s standard of living. Individuals who live in low-income or high-poverty neighborhoods are likely to experience poor health due to a combination of these factors.” To place some type of affordable health and dental clinic in every single low-income area will take a village and hard work, but I at least want to start in one area and create a domino effect for others to follow. As a young black woman, I understand the health disparities associated with race and gender. It is a common fact that black women are 3-4x as likely to die in labor compared to their white counterparts. My teachers always told me stories about what they had to go through as a black women in a delivery room and how painful it was simply supposed the nurses and doctors would not listen to their concerns. This is unacceptable and disturbing, to say the least. The lives of black women are just as valuable as any other demographic but are not treated as such. This is why I will create spaces that value the health and safety of people that look like me. I want to create spaces where people that look like me feel comfortable and will not have to worry if it is their last destination. Apart from my career, I plan to work with organizations, especially those that target hunger. Famine has been an issue that I have been concerned with. I even helped clean and helped renovate my school's greenhouse with the help of Project G.R.A.P.E. Famine is a worldwide issue, and while people in the U.S. are so fortunate to have the resources available to buy food such as food stamps and government assistance, people in developing countries do not have those same privileges. It should never have to come to a point where a child or an adult has to choose between putting food on the table or buying simple clothing. I will work to eliminate that problem, and it is possible because I have been blessed with so many resources that I can use to give back to those who need them most.

1. I deserve this scholarship because my name is Cynthia Thomas. 2. Goals?! Like soccer goals? I love soccer. I was really empowered when I saw the U.S. Women soccer teams set high records. 3. I woke up two minutes before my alarm went off. I went back to sleep, slept through my alarm, and still managed to catch the bus. #GIRLBOSS.

My name is Cynthia Thomas. I am currently in the 12th grade, and I am a senior at Stephenson High School in Stone Mountain, Georgia. I was born and raised in Georgia for all of the 17 years I have been living. My family, however, consists of immigrants from Togo, a country in West Africa. I was born in the United States and became a byproduct of wanting to start a new life. By being a key to a new life, my parents were stringent, so education has become a major subject in my life. Getting anything lower than an "A" was almost illegal in my household. This probably alludes to the fact that I currently have a 3.9 unweighted GPA, and a 4.1 weighted GPA. After high school, I plan on going to a 4-year institution. Fun fact: none of my parents have been to college or received a degree. This, however, are not due to reasons of their own. My mother has not been given the opportunities I have been blessed to receive today. A lot of people assume that I will follow the same path of not going to college, but I plan to prove them wrong. I also want this to serve as a homage to my mother because she raised me and cared for me when times were tough. During my undergraduate years, I plan to study and major in nursing. After my 4-year undergraduate period, I plan to explore orthodontics as I do want to become an orthodontist in the future. Ironic, right? I do not know if this has been accomplished before, but if not, I would like to be the first to hold a nursing degree and become a licensed orthodontist. As a young black woman, I want to make a difference in the world of healthcare. I think everyone deserves a great smile, and I want to make that happen. While studying both academic areas, I want to learn how to make the world of orthodontics and nursing affordable to all. Everyone should have access to great healthcare and dental care. After all of my schooling, I will complete an orthodontist residency. Afterward, I will become an orthodontist and open my own office in the future! While I have not completely overcome this, one of the biggest adversities that I continue to work on is the fact that I overthink. I used to stress over mistakes that I've made in the past and allowed them to define me. That overthinking affected me emotionally and mentally, and I've always felt as if I couldn't do anything right. Confucius once stated, “By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; Second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest.” Everyone makes mistakes, everybody has faults, and everybody has weaknesses. It’s what you do with those things that make you who you are. I had to learn the hard way that you are to grow from your mistakes and that you do not let your mistakes define you or diminish who you are as a person. In the next ten years, you will not even remember half of the mistakes you make now. Today, I try to not dwell on the negativity of the past and use it as a learning mechanism for myself instead of beating myself up about it. I strive to be more positive in my life as well because with positive affirmations come positive results.

While I have not completely overcome this, one of the biggest adversities that I continue to work on is the fact that I overthink. I used to stress over mistakes that I've made in the past and allowed them to define me. That overthinking affected me emotionally and mentally, and I've always felt as if I couldn't do anything right. Confucius once stated, “By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; Second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest.” Everyone makes mistakes, everybody has faults, and everybody has weaknesses. It’s what you do with those things that make you who you are. I had to learn the hard way that you are to grow from your mistakes and that you do not let your mistakes define you or diminish who you are as a person. In the next ten years, you will not even remember half of the mistakes you make now. Today, I try to not dwell on the negativity of the past and use it as a learning mechanism for myself instead of beating myself up about it. I strive to be more positive in my life as well because with positive affirmations come positive results. During my undergraduate years, I plan to study and major in nursing. After my 4-year undergraduate period, I plan to explore orthodontics as I do want to become an orthodontist in the future. Ironic, right? I do not know if this has been accomplished before, but if not, I would like to be the first to hold a nursing degree and become a licensed orthodontist. As a young black woman, I want to make a difference in the world of healthcare. I think everyone deserves a great smile, and I want to make that happen. While studying both academic areas, I want to learn how to make the world of orthodontics and nursing affordable to all. Everyone should have access to great healthcare and dental care. Apart from my career, I plan to work with organizations, especially those that target hunger. Famine is a worldwide issue, and while people in the U.S. are so fortunate to have the resources available to buy food such as food stamps and government assistance, people in developing countries do not have those same privileges. It should never have to come to a point where a child or an adult has to choose between putting food on the table or buying simple clothing. I want to work to eliminate that problem, and it is possible because I have been blessed with so many resources that I can use to give back to those who need it most.

While I have not completely overcome this, one of the biggest adversities that I continue to work on is the fact that I overthink. I used to stress over mistakes that I've made in the past and allowed them to define me. That overthinking affected me emotionally and mentally, and I've always felt as if I couldn't do anything right. Confucius once stated, “By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; Second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest.” Everyone makes mistakes, everybody has faults, and everybody has weaknesses. It’s what you do with those things that make you who you are. I had to learn the hard way that you are to grow from your mistakes and that you do not let your mistakes define you or diminish who you are as a person. In the next ten years, you will not even remember half of the mistakes you make now. Today, I try to not dwell on the negativity of the past and use it as a learning mechanism for myself instead of beating myself up about it. I strive to be more positive in my life as well because with positive affirmations come positive results.

Greetings. My name is Cynthia Thomas. I am currently in the 12th grade, and I am a senior at Stephenson High School in Stone Mountain, Georgia. I was born and raised in Georgia for all of the 17 years I have been living. My family, however, consists of immigrants from Togo, a country in West Africa. I was born in the United States and became a byproduct of wanting to start a new life. By being a key to a new life, my parents were stringent, so education has become a major subject in my life. Getting anything lower than an "A" was almost illegal in my household. This probably alludes to the fact that I currently have a 3.9 unweighted GPA, and a 4.1 weighted GPA. After high school, I plan on going to a 4-year institution. Fun fact: none of my parents have been to college or received a degree. This, however, are not due to reasons of their own. My mother has not been given the opportunities I have been blessed to receive today. A lot of people assume that I will follow the same path of not going to college, but I plan to prove them wrong. I also want this to serve as a homage to my mother because she raised me and cared for me when times were tough. During my undergraduate years, I plan to study and major in nursing. After my 4 year undergraduate period, I plan to explore orthodontics as I do want to become an orthodontist in the future. Irpnic, right? I do not know if this has been accomplished before, but if not, I would like to be the first to hold a nursing degree and become a licensed orthodontist. As a young black woman, I want to make a difference in the world of healthcare. I think everyone deserves a great smile, and I want to make that happen. While studying both academic areas, I want to learn how to make the world of orthodontics and nursing affordable to all. Everyone should have access to great healthcare and dental care. After all of my schooling, I will complete an orthodontist residency. Afterwords, I will become an orthodontist and open my own office in the future! Notice how I say "will" instead of "hope to." I believe that anything is possible if you put your mind to it, and with positive affirmations come positive results. With this scholarship, I WILL be one step closer to achieving my goals!