Mental health has been an ever-present aspect of my life, shaping my perspective and inspiring my goals. Growing up in a household deeply affected by mental health challenges, I witnessed firsthand the toll it can take on individuals and families. My father struggled with depression and suicidal thoughts, and my mother faced the emotional weight of navigating a toxic relationship while trying to create a stable environment for our family. These experiences profoundly shaped my understanding of mental health struggles and the urgent need for accessible, compassionate care. Watching my mom’s resilience and determination to break free from toxic circumstances fueled my passion for mental health advocacy. I saw how the lack of proper support systems and the stigma surrounding mental health prevented many from seeking help, further compounding the difficulties they faced. These experiences became the foundation for my desire to pursue a career in psychology. As a freshman majoring in psychology at North Carolina A&T, I am deeply committed to becoming a mental health professional who addresses the systemic barriers that hinder individuals from accessing care. My goal is to earn a Ph.D. in psychology, specializing in behavioral or abnormal psychology, to better understand the factors that contribute to mental health challenges. I aspire to use my expertise to develop innovative, culturally sensitive interventions that empower individuals and families to heal and thrive. Beyond my academic aspirations, I aim to create a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting single Black mothers and their children who face unique challenges stemming from absent, abusive, or struggling fathers. This mission reflects my desire to address cycles of trauma and create opportunities for underserved families. By providing counseling, mentorship, and educational resources, I hope to make mental health care more accessible and tailored to the needs of marginalized communities. My experiences have taught me the importance of compassion, resilience, and advocacy. They have also instilled in me a drive to be part of the change I want to see in the world—where mental health is treated with the same urgency and care as physical health, and no one feels alone in their struggles. This scholarship would not only support my education but also fuel my ambition to make a meaningful impact in the mental health field, honoring the memory of individuals like Daniel V. Marrano and countless others who have faced mental health challenges. By pursuing this path, I hope to be a source of encouragement, understanding, and empowerment for others, helping to dismantle stigma and create a future where mental health care is both accessible and effective for all.

Success, to me, is not defined by societal standards or conventional milestones but by growth, resilience, and the positive impact I create for others. It is about overcoming challenges, staying committed to my goals, and using my journey to inspire and uplift those around me. My definition of success is rooted in my personal experiences and the unwavering belief that I can transform hardships into opportunities for growth and empowerment. As a psychology major at North Carolina A&T, I am driven by a passion for understanding human behavior and addressing the mental health inequities that disproportionately affect Black communities. Growing up, I saw firsthand the struggles of single mothers and children, especially those who faced the challenges of absent, abusive, or alcoholic fathers. These experiences shaped my desire to not only break cycles of trauma but also to create a safe space for healing and growth for others. Success, for me, means achieving my academic and career goals while actively contributing to the betterment of my community. My ultimate aspiration is to earn a Ph.D. in psychology with a focus on behavioral and abnormal psychology. With this knowledge, I aim to establish a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting single Black mothers and their children. This organization will provide counseling, mentorship, and educational resources to empower families to thrive, despite systemic challenges and personal hardships. In addition to academic excellence, success also means completing my education with as little debt as possible. I am determined to graduate debt-free so that I can invest those savings into building my nonprofit and ensuring its sustainability. This scholarship would play a pivotal role in helping me achieve this financial goal, allowing me to focus on my studies and community work without the added stress of financial burdens. This scholarship would provide me with the financial support needed to pursue my education with focus and determination. It would alleviate the pressures of tuition costs, enabling me to dedicate more time to excelling academically, volunteering in my community, and laying the groundwork for my nonprofit organization. The financial relief would also allow me to pursue opportunities that enrich my learning experience, such as internships, research projects, and community outreach initiatives. Beyond the financial support, receiving this scholarship would serve as a testament to my perseverance and commitment to making a difference. It would be a reminder that my hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed and that my vision for creating systemic change is worth pursuing. My journey thus far has been marked by resilience and a commitment to personal and professional growth. I have participated in initiatives such as food bank volunteering, creating care packages for the homeless, and mentoring youth through educational programs. Each of these experiences has reinforced my belief that success is not about personal gain but about the collective growth of the communities we serve. In addition to my academic and professional goals, I am committed to my personal growth. I have embraced opportunities to learn from every experience, whether it be navigating the challenges of being a first-year college student or finding ways to balance my studies, volunteering, and personal development. Success, for me, is about continuously striving to be the best version of myself while uplifting others along the way. This scholarship will not only bring me closer to achieving my academic and career goals but also empower me to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others. By investing in my education and vision, this opportunity would enable me to fulfill my definition of success: creating a legacy of resilience, empowerment, and hope for underserved families.

Growing up in a generation that is often far from the Lord and attending a large HBCU as an out-of-state student has truly tested my faith in ways I never anticipated. Being in college, I am constantly faced with challenges and worldly experiences that could easily lead me astray. However, my relationship with God has been my anchor, helping me navigate these situations with strength and clarity. Knowing God and what His Word says allows me to stay grounded in my morals and values. Temptations are everywhere, but because of my faith, I am able to avoid the things that go against what I believe in, such as engaging in behaviors that would pull me away from my purpose. Scriptures like 1 Corinthians 10:13, which says, "No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it," remind me to trust in God's guidance even in moments of difficulty. One of the greatest lessons I've learned is why God calls us to live with love, kindness, and patience. Ephesians 4:32 reminds us to “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” These principles have shaped how I interact with others, even in challenging situations. They have also taught me the value of waiting, whether it’s waiting for the right relationship or for blessings to unfold in God’s perfect timing, as seen in Isaiah 40:31: “But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” As I pursue a career in psychology, I see many ways in which my faith will play a role. Faith helps me understand people not just as physical beings but as spiritual ones, which allows me to provide holistic care to my future clients. This perspective is particularly valuable for clients who are guided by their faith because it helps them feel fully understood and supported in their journey. My faith also teaches me to approach every person with love, kindness, and patience, creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can feel valued as individuals. In addition, faith gives me a strong moral compass that will guide me in making ethical decisions, ensuring that I handle complex situations with integrity and compassion. My faith has shaped not only my personal life but also my aspirations. By integrating faith and science, I hope to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. God’s Word and His love have been a source of strength and direction for me, and I know they will continue to guide me as I help others find peace, healing, and purpose in their lives.

Coming from a single-parent household has profoundly shaped my educational journey and life perspective. My mother raised me and my siblings on her own while enduring significant challenges, including the emotional and financial toll of being in a relationship with an abusive partner. Watching her resilience taught me the true meaning of strength and perseverance. Despite the struggles she faced, she always prioritized our well-being, encouraging me to dream big and aim for a better future. Her sacrifices inspired me to work hard, stay focused, and pursue higher education as a way to honor her efforts and provide a brighter future for myself and others. Growing up, I witnessed the toll that financial hardship and emotional stress took on my mother’s mental health. This experience illuminated the importance of mental well-being and opened my eyes to the critical need for better mental health support systems, particularly for single mothers. Seeing her navigate these challenges planted a seed in me—a desire to understand and help others who might be experiencing similar struggles. This is why I’ve chosen to study psychology. My ultimate goal is to earn a Ph.D. and specialize in behavioral psychology, with a focus on helping underserved communities. One of my biggest dreams is to start a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting single mothers and their children. This organization would offer counseling, mentorship, and access to educational resources that many families lack. I want to create a space where mothers can feel empowered, supported, and equipped to overcome the challenges of raising children on their own. Additionally, I aim to break cycles of trauma that often occur in single-parent households by addressing mental health needs early and effectively. Volunteering has been a central part of my life and a way for me to give back to my community. I’ve had the privilege of working at food banks, creating care packages for the homeless, and participating in holiday drives for low-income families. These experiences have taught me that even small acts of kindness can create significant ripple effects in people’s lives. They’ve also reinforced my commitment to serving others and using my education as a tool to uplift my community. My educational journey hasn’t been easy, but it has been deeply rewarding. The lessons I’ve learned from my mother’s example have shaped my character, teaching me resilience, compassion, and the importance of giving back. I’ve carried those lessons into every area of my life, from my academics to my volunteer work. In the future, I hope to use my education and experiences to make a tangible difference in the lives of families like mine. By providing mental health resources and fostering a sense of community, I aim to create opportunities for others to thrive, just as my mother’s sacrifices gave me the chance to do so. Being raised in a single-parent household has been a challenging yet transformative experience, and I am committed to using those lessons to empower others and give back in meaningful ways.

Throughout my life, I’ve been inspired by many influential figures, but none have had a greater impact on me than my mother. She is the embodiment of perseverance, strength, and unconditional love. By the age of 21, my mom was raising three daughters on her own while enduring the challenges of an abusive relationship with an alcoholic partner who was often absent. Despite the hardships she faced, she made it her mission to provide a stable and loving home for us, ensuring we had everything we needed to thrive. Growing up, I witnessed her struggles—both external and internal. While she battled depression and carried the weight of the world on her shoulders, she never let it affect her role as a mother. She hid her pain so well that, as a child, I didn’t fully understand the depth of what she was going through. Looking back, I now see the incredible strength it took for her to wake up every day, go to work, care for us, and face the challenges life threw her way, all while managing her mental health. Her resilience is the reason I am who I am today. Watching her navigate life’s challenges with grace and determination inspired me to pursue a career in psychology. I want to help people like my mom—individuals who are silently battling mental health issues while carrying the weight of their families and communities. Mental health is a topic that remains underrepresented in the Black community. Too often, struggles with depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions are dismissed or stigmatized. My mother’s story has taught me that these struggles are real and that there is strength in seeking help and healing. This inspiration has shaped my career goals. I plan to earn a doctorate in psychology and establish a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting single Black mothers. My vision is to provide them with access to mental health resources, counseling, and community support, recognizing that their well-being is essential not only for themselves but also for the children they are raising. My mom has shown me what it means to be a true leader. A leader doesn’t have to be perfect—they just have to show up, push through the hard times, and inspire others through their actions. She is proof that even in the darkest moments, there is hope, resilience, and the potential for a better future. Her strength has left an indelible mark on my life, and I hope to carry her legacy forward by helping others find their strength, just as she found hers.

Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of addiction and mental health struggles. My father was an alcoholic, and his abusive behavior created an unstable and painful environment for my family. My mother, burdened by the weight of this hardship, suffered from depression for many years. Watching her struggle to keep our family together while battling her inner pain left a lasting impression on me. These experiences shaped my understanding of mental health and fueled my passion for wanting to help others. As a child, I often felt helpless. I saw the toll my father’s addiction took on my family and the way my mother’s depression dimmed her vibrant spirit. Despite these challenges, my mother was a source of strength and resilience, even on her hardest days. Her determination to persevere inspired me to believe in the power of recovery and healing. These experiences are part of the reason I chose psychology as my major at North Carolina A&T State University. I want to understand the complexities of mental health and addiction so I can support individuals and families who face challenges similar to what I experienced growing up. My ultimate goal is to earn a Ph.D. in psychology and use my education to create a nonprofit organization that serves single Black mothers and their children. I want to provide counseling, mentorship, and resources to help families break free from cycles of trauma and build healthier, more fulfilling lives. While I didn’t personally struggle with substance abuse, living in an environment shaped by addiction made me acutely aware of its impact. It also motivated me to prioritize my mental health and to cultivate personal growth. In college, I’ve worked hard to create a strong foundation for myself, focusing on my relationship with God, practicing self-care, and surrounding myself with supportive people. These choices have helped me navigate life’s challenges and stay on track academically and emotionally. My educational goals are deeply tied to my desire to make a difference. I am determined to graduate from college with as little debt as possible, pursue graduate school, and dedicate my career to addressing mental health disparities in underserved communities. My nonprofit will not only offer services to families in need but also work to reduce the stigma around mental health, particularly in Black communities. I want to empower others to seek help without fear of judgment and to know that recovery and healing are possible. Managing recovery from the challenges of my upbringing has been an ongoing journey. I rely on my faith, therapy, and a strong support network to stay grounded and focused. I have learned that healing is not a linear process, but with determination and the right resources, it is achievable. By staying connected to my goals and prioritizing my well-being, I am confident in my ability to continue growing personally and professionally. This scholarship would help me achieve my educational goals and bring me closer to fulfilling my dream of making a meaningful impact. I want to honor the resilience I’ve seen in my mother, the lessons I’ve learned from my past, and the memory of individuals like Ella, who faced their challenges with courage. With this support, I will continue to work toward creating a brighter future for families affected by mental health struggles and addiction.

My name is Davine Valentine, and my journey through college has been a testament to the power of faith. When I decided to attend North Carolina A&T State University, I was taking a leap of faith. I moved seven and a half hours away from home to a place where I knew no one—not even a friend. The decision was a big one, and I had no idea what to expect, but I trusted that God had a plan for me. Leaving home was difficult. It meant stepping away from the comfort of my family and the familiarity of my small town. At times, the fear of the unknown seemed overwhelming. I wondered if I had made the right choice, or if I would be able to thrive in this new environment. Arriving at a large HBCU brought its own set of challenges. I was exposed to many new ideas, different people, and worldly temptations that I had never encountered before. It would have been easy to get swept up in the excitement of college life, but I knew I had to remain focused on my faith and relationship with God. Throughout this experience, I learned to rely on God more than ever. I made the conscious decision to stay true to my values, even when there were pressures to do otherwise. I stayed committed to my relationship with God by maintaining regular prayer and reflection, and by seeking out Christian communities on campus to support me. I was involved in Bible study groups, and I found peace in knowing that I wasn’t walking this path alone. My faith reminded me that no matter how far I was from home, God was always with me, guiding me through every challenge. One of the most impactful lessons I’ve learned through this faith walk is the importance of trusting God’s plan, even when things seem uncertain. Moving to a new place, where everything was unfamiliar, was a test of my courage and belief in God’s promises. But as time passed, I grew more confident and found a stronger sense of belonging. I no longer felt lost or disconnected from the world, because I knew I had a higher purpose. My faith allowed me to not only survive but thrive in this new environment. Now, as I continue my college journey, I can see how much stronger my relationship with God has become. I’ve learned that faith isn’t just about asking for help in difficult times—it’s about trusting God with every step of the journey. The obstacles I faced when I first came to college, from the loneliness to the temptation to stray from my values, only strengthened my faith. I know that God has a plan for my life, and I am committed to walking with Him every step of the way. This experience has made me more resilient and more dedicated to my mission of helping others. Just as God has guided me through these challenges, I hope to offer the same guidance and support to others who face obstacles. With faith as my foundation, I am confident that I will continue to overcome challenges and live out the purpose that God has for me.

My name is Davine Valentine, and I am a freshman at North Carolina A&T State University, majoring in psychology. My educational goal is to earn a Ph.D. in psychology with a focus on mental health and behavioral psychology. I aim to establish a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting single Black mothers and their children, providing them with resources, mentorship, and counseling to break cycles of trauma and empower them to thrive. Growing up in Cleveland, Ohio, I faced the challenge of living in a household with an absent father. This experience deeply impacted my understanding of resilience, mental health, and the strength of community support. As a child, I often dealt with feelings of abandonment and questioned my self-worth. I wondered why my father wasn’t present, and his absence created emotional struggles that affected my confidence and sense of belonging. However, despite these challenges, my mother’s unwavering love and sacrifices served as a source of hope and strength for me. She instilled in me the value of perseverance, the importance of education, and the belief that faith in God could guide me through any obstacle. One of the most significant challenges I have faced has been the financial burden of pursuing higher education. As the first in my immediate family to attend college, I knew I carried the responsibility of paving the way for future generations. During high school, I worked two jobs to help save for college while balancing rigorous coursework and extracurricular activities. Despite my efforts, the cost of higher education remains a challenge. This obstacle has taught me to be resourceful, determined, and proactive. By seeking scholarships, budgeting wisely, and maintaining a strong academic record, I am committed to graduating debt-free while achieving academic excellence. Through this journey, I have learned that challenges are not just barriers; they are opportunities for growth. My experiences have fueled my passion for helping underserved communities, particularly Black families, to access the mental health resources and educational opportunities they need to thrive. I firmly believe that mental health care is a crucial element in breaking cycles of trauma and creating brighter futures for individuals and families. Beyond financial challenges, I have faced societal pressures and stereotypes as a dark-skinned Black woman. These experiences have motivated me to advocate for mental health awareness and self-love within Black communities. I want to inspire others to embrace their identities, overcome adversity, and build a better future for themselves and their families. Receiving this scholarship would not only alleviate some of the financial strain of pursuing my education but also honor Theresa Lord’s legacy of valuing education, faith, and self-belief. It would empower me to continue my education and use my experiences to inspire others to overcome their challenges and fulfill their destinies. I am committed to carrying forward her belief in the transformative power of education and faith, creating a legacy that uplifts and empowers future generations.

I have chosen to pursue a degree in healthcare because I am deeply passionate about improving the lives of others and addressing the healthcare disparities that disproportionately affect marginalized communities. From a young age, I have been fascinated by the human body, how it functions, and how various factors—physical, mental, and social—interact to influence a person’s overall well-being. As I grew older, I became acutely aware of the significant inequities in healthcare, particularly within communities of color. These disparities, ranging from unequal access to care to the underrepresentation of diverse voices in the healthcare workforce, motivated me to pursue a career in healthcare and make a difference where it is most needed. One of the main reasons I chose healthcare is because it offers an opportunity to impact people’s lives in meaningful ways. Whether through direct patient care, health education, or advocating for better health policies, healthcare professionals have the power to improve health outcomes and enhance the quality of life for individuals. As a woman, I feel a deep responsibility to not only contribute to the healthcare field but to also be a voice for those who are often overlooked or underserved, particularly women of color and marginalized communities. I hope to make a positive impact in the healthcare field by addressing these systemic disparities. One of my main goals is to work toward greater health equity, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their race, gender, or socioeconomic status, have access to high-quality care. I am particularly focused on mental health, an area that is often under-addressed in many communities, especially among people of color. I plan to use my healthcare degree to provide culturally competent care that meets the unique needs of diverse populations, ensuring that individuals from all walks of life feel heard, understood, and supported in their health journeys. In addition, I want to be part of the movement to increase diversity within the healthcare workforce. Representation matters, especially in fields like healthcare, where diverse perspectives can lead to better patient care and outcomes. As a Black woman, I understand the challenges that come with being underrepresented in many fields, and I hope to serve as an inspiration for others to pursue careers in healthcare. By sharing my story and advocating for diversity, I want to encourage more young women of color to follow their passions in this field, showing them that they too can make a difference and thrive in healthcare. Through my education and future career, I plan to break down the barriers that prevent underserved communities from accessing the healthcare they need. I am committed to improving health outcomes, promoting wellness, and ensuring that all individuals have the opportunity to live healthy and fulfilling lives. This scholarship will help me advance in my journey, allowing me to continue my studies and pursue a career where I can make a meaningful, lasting impact. As a woman in healthcare, I hope to be a catalyst for change, both within the field and in the communities I serve.

I am passionate about creating a positive impact on marginalized communities, and my background and interests have shaped my dedication to addressing the complex issues of mental health, economic disparity, and systemic inequities. My experience has led me to recognize how interconnected these challenges are, particularly in the context of underserved urban environments. Growing up, I saw firsthand the challenges faced by families in low-income neighborhoods, including financial hardship, lack of access to quality healthcare, and inadequate support systems. These experiences have ignited my passion for mental health, as I realized how economic and social disparities directly impact an individual's emotional and psychological well-being. While my academic focus is in psychology, I am deeply motivated to combine this knowledge with my commitment to advocating for equitable, sustainable solutions in urban communities. I want to contribute to efforts that combat homelessness, gentrification, and the lack of affordable housing—issues that disproportionately affect Black and other marginalized communities. Mental health struggles often stem from these very social and economic issues, making it crucial to tackle these challenges together. I believe that addressing both the emotional and practical aspects of people’s lives is essential to creating lasting change in these communities. One of my long-term goals is to establish a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting single Black mothers and their children in overcoming mental health challenges. This goal is rooted in my belief that mental health struggles, compounded by issues like homelessness and financial instability, can perpetuate cycles of trauma and poverty. My nonprofit would aim to provide not only mental health services but also mentorship, resources, and community support to break the cycle of poverty and help families regain their stability. I would focus on providing culturally competent mental health care, which is often lacking in many marginalized communities, ensuring that people get the help they need in ways that are relevant to their experiences and backgrounds. While my primary goal is to support mental health in underserved communities, I am also deeply aware of the larger systemic factors that contribute to these challenges. Homelessness, lack of affordable housing, and economic inequality all play a role in shaping the mental health of individuals and families. Addressing these broader urban issues will be essential in creating the foundation for sustainable, long-term solutions. I believe that mental health support, when paired with economic empowerment, can foster stronger communities and give individuals the tools they need to break free from cycles of poverty and instability. I am motivated by the idea of helping others navigate and overcome the barriers they face, particularly in urban environments where resources can be limited. By combining my background in psychology with a commitment to health equity, I aim to contribute to a broader movement that addresses both the immediate challenges and the long-term systemic issues affecting underserved communities. My work in the field of psychology, coupled with my nonprofit vision, will allow me to help create environments where families, especially those facing systemic barriers, can thrive emotionally, economically, and socially.

I have chosen to pursue a degree in STEM because I’ve always been deeply fascinated by the question of why people think, feel, and act the way they do. Understanding human behavior on a deeper level has been a passion of mine for as long as I can remember. Psychology, as a branch of STEM, offers a unique opportunity to explore the complexities of the human mind using scientific methods. This field allows me to combine my curiosity about human behavior with evidence-based research to gain insights that can make a real difference in people’s lives. Psychology provides a way to better understand the factors that influence mental health, decision-making, relationships, and overall well-being, and it’s this understanding that drives my desire to pursue a career in this field. As a person of color, I hope to have a significant impact in the STEM field by using my understanding of psychology to address the disparities faced by marginalized communities, particularly in mental health. In many communities of color, mental health issues are often under-addressed or misunderstood, and there is a lack of culturally competent care. These communities often face systemic barriers to accessing quality mental health care, leading to a cycle of untreated mental health issues that affect individuals and families. I want to be a part of the movement to change this by conducting research, advocating for policy change, and providing care that better reflects the diverse needs of these communities. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the impact of mental health issues within my own community. I saw how mental health challenges were often stigmatized or dismissed, and how the lack of culturally competent care made it difficult for people to get the help they needed. These experiences have shaped my belief that diversity is crucial to advancing the field of psychology. Having diverse perspectives in the field ensures that mental health care is more inclusive and can address the unique experiences of people from various cultural backgrounds. I want to be a voice for those whose mental health needs are often overlooked or misunderstood, particularly in communities of color, where stigma and lack of access are common barriers to care. In the long term, I also aspire to create a nonprofit organization focused on supporting single Black mothers and their children in overcoming mental health challenges. Many Black families, especially those headed by single mothers, face additional stressors, including financial instability, societal pressures, and lack of support. This nonprofit would provide counseling, mentorship, and resources tailored to the specific needs of Black families, helping them break cycles of trauma and build healthier, more resilient futures. By doing so, I hope to not only contribute to the advancement of mental health services but also to encourage more young people of color to pursue careers in STEM. I want to show them that they too can make a difference in fields like psychology, which have traditionally lacked diversity. By combining my passion for psychology with a dedication to health equity, I hope to create lasting, positive change. Through my education and career, I plan to be a part of the solution to the mental health disparities that affect marginalized communities, empowering them to thrive in the face of adversity.

1.) Tell us about yourself. My name is Davine Valentine, and I am a first-year student at North Carolina A&T University, majoring in psychology. I am passionate about mental health, particularly for underserved Black families. My goal is to use my education to support individuals dealing with mental health challenges and break the cycles of trauma in these communities. I have always been committed to service, volunteering at food banks, organizing care packages for the homeless, and participating in Christmas drives for families in need. Growing up in a close-knit family that values education and compassion, I am motivated to excel academically and make a positive impact in my community. 2.) How will this scholarship help you? This scholarship will help reduce the financial burden of my education, allowing me to focus more on my academic and career goals. I aim to graduate without accumulating debt, enabling me to concentrate on my studies and research in psychology. This financial assistance will allow me to continue my path toward earning a Ph.D. in psychology and ultimately starting a nonprofit that supports Black families dealing with mental health challenges. Without the pressure of tuition costs, I will be able to invest more in my education, furthering my ability to make a meaningful difference in the world. 3.) What are your academic and/or career goals? I am committed to earning a Ph.D. in psychology, with a focus on mental health and behavioral psychology. I aim to deepen my understanding of psychological conditions and learn effective ways to provide support to individuals in need. My long-term career goal is to create a nonprofit that provides counseling, mentorship, and resources to single Black mothers and their children who are struggling with mental health issues or trauma. I want to be part of the solution in addressing mental health disparities in underserved communities and contribute to breaking the cycle of trauma. 4.) How have you contributed to your community? I have been actively involved in volunteering throughout my life. I’ve worked at food banks, helped organize care packages for the homeless, and participated in Christmas drives to support low-income families. These experiences have allowed me to make a tangible impact on people’s lives and have strengthened my commitment to serving others. I also offer academic support to my peers and provide emotional support to friends and family when needed. I believe that giving back is a crucial part of creating stronger communities and empowering individuals. 5.) Tell us about a time you failed and what you learned from it. During my senior year of high school, I struggled with balancing work, school, and extracurricular activities. As a result, I missed some important assignments, which impacted my grades. Although it was a disappointing experience, it taught me the importance of time management and setting realistic goals. I learned to prioritize my responsibilities better and developed a stronger work ethic. Since then, I’ve focused on improving my time management skills, ensuring that I can balance my academic and personal commitments effectively. 6.) Describe your greatest strengths. My greatest strengths include empathy, problem-solving, and determination. I’m deeply empathetic, which allows me to connect with others on a personal level and offer support when they need it most. I also take pride in my ability to solve problems creatively, finding solutions even in challenging situations. Additionally, I am highly determined and persistent. When I set a goal, I remain committed to achieving it, regardless of the obstacles I face.

1) Attribute I Embody Most: “Strive for Servant Leadership” Out of the eight attributes of Black Excellence, I believe I most embody “strive for servant leadership.” To me, servant leadership is about putting the needs of others first and leading by example with humility and empathy. Growing up, I’ve always had a strong desire to help others, whether through volunteering or offering support to my peers. I strive to approach leadership with the mindset of serving those around me. For example, I’ve been actively involved in volunteer work throughout my life, including working at a food bank, helping to create care packages for the homeless, and participating in Christmas drives to provide food and gifts for families in need. In each of these roles, I focused on serving with humility, understanding that the work was bigger than me and that my efforts could make a lasting impact. I aim to ensure that those I serve feel valued and supported, which aligns with my broader goal of empowering individuals, especially in underserved communities. Additionally, I embody servant leadership in my academic and professional life. I aim to uplift my peers by offering help when needed and creating a sense of community and trust. Whether it’s helping others with challenging assignments or providing emotional support during stressful times, I try to be the kind of leader who encourages collaboration and promotes the success of others. As I work toward my goal of earning a Ph.D. in psychology, I hope to continue leading by example, especially in the realm of mental health, where many individuals still lack the support they need. 2) Attribute I Need to Improve: “Dare to Take Calculated Risks” While I have made strides in certain areas, I recognize that I need to improve in the attribute of “daring to take calculated risks.” I’ve always valued security and comfort, which has led me to avoid risks, even when I know they could lead to growth. Coming to college, over seven hours away from home, was one of the biggest risks I’ve taken, and it has forced me to step out of my comfort zone. Although I’ve grown in many ways, I still find myself hesitant to take risks that could lead to significant changes in my academic or personal life. For example, I often hold back from pursuing leadership opportunities or challenging projects because I fear failure or uncertainty. My goal is to earn a Ph.D. in psychology with a focus on mental health, especially for underserved communities, and to start a nonprofit to support Black families who are dealing with mental health challenges. I know that achieving this will require me to take calculated risks—whether that’s applying for competitive internships, seeking leadership roles, or making bold decisions that push me outside my comfort zone. To improve in this area, I plan to start by taking small, manageable risks. I will seek out leadership opportunities in student organizations and take on projects that challenge me. By gradually taking on more risks, I hope to build my confidence in making bigger decisions that align with my larger goals. Additionally, I will look for mentorship from individuals who have successfully navigated risks in their careers, especially in psychology and nonprofit work. By learning from their experiences, I will gain the courage and insight to take actions that will lead to personal growth and help me accomplish my goal of creating a nonprofit focused on mental health support for Black families. Ultimately, I understand that growth comes from discomfort, and I am ready to embrace that discomfort to achieve my goals. By daring to take calculated risks, I believe I will unlock new opportunities and move closer to realizing my aspirations.

Starting my journey at North Carolina A&T State University has been like finding a place I didn’t know I was missing. Coming from a predominantly white high school, I often felt out of place, like I was straddling two worlds without fully belonging to either. I longed for a space where I could feel at ease in my identity as a young Black woman where I could connect with others who understood my background, my goals, and my challenges. At A&T, I’ve finally found that place. Here, I’m surrounded by people who not only look like me but who share similar experiences, struggles, and ambitions. For the first time, I feel completely at home. Being a student at A&T is more than just earning a degree; it means embracing my identity within a community that fosters support, understanding, and empowerment. A&T offers a unique culture where everyone is genuinely invested in each other’s success. Whether it’s faculty members who go the extra mile or classmates who cheer each other on, the atmosphere here is one of unity and acceptance. This university doesn’t just provide an education; it nurtures the whole person. I feel fortunate to be part of such a welcoming environment where everyone has a place. This sense of belonging and support inspires me to carry A&T’s values forward. The university has taught me about resilience, integrity, and the importance of lifting others as I climb. These values extend beyond academics; they define how I want to live and lead. As I move through my academic journey and beyond, I plan to embody these lessons, staying grounded, compassionate, and committed to making a difference in my community. My future goals are deeply personal. I’m determined to pursue a Ph.D. in psychology, with a focus on either behavioral or abnormal psychology. My own experiences growing up in a household with an absent and abusive father have shaped my passion for this field. I want to establish a nonprofit organization that supports single Black mothers and their children, offering resources and a safe haven for those facing similar challenges. This mission isn’t just a professional goal it’s a calling, inspired by my desire to give back and provide hope for families who face adversity. While working toward my academic and career goals, I’m also focused on graduating with as little debt as possible. Financial stability will allow me to focus on building my future without being held back by financial burdens. By being resourceful, applying for scholarships, and making careful financial choices, I’m determined to set myself up for success. Overall, my experience at A&T is shaping me into the person I’ve always aspired to be: a leader, a supporter, and an advocate. This university has given me a sense of belonging, confidence, and a clear path toward my dreams. I’m proud to be part of A&T, and I’m committed to using the values and education I’ve gained here to make a positive impact in the world.