Inspired by Family, Driven by Purpose This fall, I will begin my journey at Alabama A&M University, majoring in psychology- a field that first sparked my interest not in a classroom, but at home. My younger brother has ADHD and struggles with anxiety, and over the years, walking beside him through his challenges has shaped not only my understanding of mental health, but also my sense of purpose. Growing up as the older brother of someone who sees and feels the world differently has taught me patience, empathy, and the power of presence. There are days when my brother becomes overwhelmed- his thoughts race faster than he can manage, or his emotions boil over. In those moments, I’ve learned how to just be present. I sit with him in silence when words feel too heavy, I listen without judgment when he vents his frustrations, and I offer calm. I’ve found that a simple, steady voice saying, “You’re okay. I’m right here. You’ve got this,” can be more helpful to him than anything else. Faith has also played a huge role in how I support him. We pray together before school or when he feels anxious, asking God for peace and strength. I remind him of scriptures like Isaiah 41:10: “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.” These words have brought him comfort—and me, a deeper sense of calling. Through these personal experiences, I’ve realized that I want to spend my life helping others who feel overwhelmed by their minds. Psychology gives me the tools to understand what’s happening beneath the surface and to offer the kind of support that can truly change lives. At Alabama A&M, I plan to immerse myself in the study of psychology, with the goal of specializing in forensic psychology. I’m particularly interested in working alongside state or federal law enforcement to better support individuals in crisis and to advocate for mental health awareness in the criminal justice system. Too often, people with mental health struggles are misunderstood or misjudged. I want to be part of changing that- bringing compassion into spaces that need it most. Whether that means helping law enforcement de-escalate situations, supporting individuals through evaluations, or simply being a voice for those who go unheard, I know this is where I’m meant to be. My journey began with a little brother who needed someone to understand him. Now, it continues at Alabama A&M University, where I’ll work to turn that understanding into action. I’m excited to grow in knowledge, deepen my faith, and become the kind of professional who leads with both skill and heart. This is more than a major—it’s a mission. And I’m ready.

Finding My Purpose Through Passion and Perseverance My name is Derrick Darden Jr., and I’m a senior at New Century Technology High School, a STEM-focused magnet school where I’ve spent the past four years balancing rigorous academic demands with a deep passion for making a difference—both now and in the future. In the fall, I will be attending Alabama A&M University to pursue a degree in psychology with a specialization in forensic psychology. I plan to use this career path to advocate for justice, mental health awareness, and rehabilitation in underserved communities. My interest in forensic psychology stems from a desire to understand the “why” behind human behavior, especially in the context of crime and trauma. I believe mental health is often overlooked in the criminal justice system, and I hope to be part of a new wave of professionals who approach justice with empathy, science, and fairness. Whether it’s working with victims, evaluating criminal behavior, or helping to shape policies rooted in psychological research, I plan to use my education to create meaningful changes in the lives of others. Getting to this point hasn’t been easy by any stretch of the imagination. Attending a STEM magnet school like New Century Technology High School means my daily schedule is packed with advanced coursework in science, technology, engineering, and math. On top of that, I’ve remained committed to being an active member of our school’s Environmental Club and Rho Kappa Social Studies Honor Society. These organizations have helped me build leadership skills, explore civic engagement, and stay connected to causes I care about, such as environmental sustainability and historical awareness. Adding to the challenge, my school doesn’t offer athletics, but baseball has always been a huge part of my life. To continue playing, I joined the baseball team at Columbia High School, which required even more discipline and time management. Between afternoon practices, late-night homework sessions, club meetings, and weekday and weekend games, there were many moments I felt stretched thin, but instead of letting that pressure overwhelm me, I learned how to prioritize, stay organized, and push through even when things became difficult. That ability to juggle multiple responsibilities is something I know will serve me well in college and beyond. Through all of this, I’ve come to see adversity not as a roadblock, but as a opportunity for growth. Every time I’ve had to choose between comfort and commitment, I’ve chosen to show up and keep pushing. I know that the path I’ve chosen won’t always be easy—mental health and criminal justice reform are complex, emotionally charged fields—but I also know that change doesn’t come from standing still. It comes from stepping up. As I am preparing to enter the next chapter of my life at Alabama A&M, I do so with a clear vision: to be a force for good in a world that needs more compassion, understanding, and justice. I’m ready to put in the work to not only become a forensic psychologist, but to become a voice for those who aren’t always heard.

I am certain that every child has faced his or her fair share of challenges. My parents divorce happened when I was two years old, but navigating the nuances of visitation, holidays, athletics, school events, and new relationships were definitely a learning curve for all three of us. At the heart of it all were two individuals who loved me unconditionally, and no matter what the disagreement or challenge, their focus was on being the best parents they could be for me. For that I am truly grateful. As a young child, both of my parents lived in the same city, so splitting time between their two households was easier. My mom had me through the week, and my dad had me every other weekend. Holidays were alternated each year, which allowed me time with both sides of my family, and if any important events came up that conflicted with the schedule, my parents adjusted the schedule together. Every Mother's Day was spent with my mom, and Father's Day with my dad. When I turned four my mother received a job offer in a town two hours away from my father and we had to move. My father was not happy with his only child moving, and there was bit of push back, but eventually things got ironed out. My mom was determined, no matter the distance, to maintain the custody and visitation agreement that was in place. Every other weekend she drove either half the distance or completely back to our home town to ensure that my time with my father was nurtured. If she drove half the distance to my father, she met him on Sunday afternoons to pick me up. If she traveled the entire distance to our hometown, she stayed at my grandmother's house through the weekend until my father returned with me on Sunday. Birthdays were always a collaborative endeavor with both of my parents planning the event. At around four years old, my mother began dating again, and met my now stepfather. They dated for several years, and even had my younger brother, Ayden. My mom moved back to our home town to complete her master's degree, and I remained there through my third grade year. My now stepfather, lived three hours from us due to his new job at the time, but frequently came back to spend time with us. At the close of my third grade year, my mother completed her master's degree, received several job offers, and planned to relocate to my stepfather's town. My father knowing that my mom was committed to supporting my relationship with my father, understood and we moved. My mom continued to travel every other weekend to meet my father halfway, or drove completely back to our hometown so that I continued to spend time with my father. They also continued to alternate holidays with me. My father met my now stepmother four years ago, and I am now fortunate to have siblings on both my mother and father's side of the family. When there are special events in my life, both families come together in support of me. Homecoming, prom, sports, and birthdays have always been warm, welcoming, and full of love and laughter. It has not been easy for my parents to navigate life and raising a child after divorce, but they have remained steadfast in their effort to making my life the best that it can be. Navigating stepparents has been a new but wonderful experience. My stepfather has always regarded me has his "son", never his "stepson" both privately and publicly, so I have never felt different or excluded in any way. I know I can always count on his wisdom, guidance, and understanding. My stepmother is and will always be a mom to me, and my siblings are never regarded as half or step-siblings. I have a wonderful blended family who I know love me without question. Divorce, while may not be the ideal situation for others, only allowed my family to grow not only in size but also in love, understanding, and cooperation. I feel blessed and so fortunate to be a part of such a family, and I know it is their love for me that will carry me throughout life's peaks, valleys, and winding roads ahead. Now, as I embark on my upcoming college journey, I know that I have their full encouragement and support. It truly means the world to me.

I am a high school senior, standing at the threshold of an exciting new chapter in my life. Having been accepted to Alabama A&M University to pursue a degree in Psychology with and specialization in forensic psychology, I am determined to turn my passion for understanding the human mind and behavior into a meaningful career. My journey thus far, is deeply rooted in the values instilled in me by my mother, an educator who has always emphasized the transformative power of knowledge; and my father and stepfather, who have instilled in me the value of dedication and hard work. I understand that education is not simply a tool for success but a vehicle for change, one that can open the door to endless possibilities. As the oldest of two sons, I carry the pivotal responsibility of setting an example for my younger brother Ayden- a responsibility that I do not take lightly. My dedication to academic success and commitment to higher education are not just personal aspirations but also a source of inspiration for those who look up to me. Pursuing a college education, especially in today's world, comes with significant financial challenges. The rising cost of tuition, books, and living expenses presents a considerable burden for me as well as my family. This makes scholarships, grants, work, and financial aid crucial in my pursuit of higher education, so that I can achieve my dreams without being weighed down by crippling debt. My passion for forensic psychology stems from a deep-seated interest in making a difference in the world. I aspire to use the knowledge obtained to work closely with law enforcement at either the federal or state agency level, providing psychological insights that can help improve the legal system and support those affected by crime.

When it comes to relaying in writing my journey to realizing my professional goals, to say it has been nothing short of an adventure fails to articulate the twists and turns along the way. In my final year of middle school, I knew that I wanted to attend New Century Technology High School, a local magnet high school. I was accepted, and destined to pursue the cybertechnology strand there, and one day work in cybersecurity, or so I thought. Freshman and sophomore year showed me that while I had an interest, I did not have that "ah-ha" moment many of my classmates had that told them that this was what they wanted to one day pursue a career in. It was then that switched strands from cybertechnology to health sciences. After countless conversations with my parents, teachers, and academic counselors, I discovered that I had taken a keen interest in the human mind and criminology. After a conversation with my teacher, Mrs. Johnson, about my interests, she introduced me to forensic psychology. She urged me I to research the field to see if it is of interest to me. Over the next few weeks, I researched the field, possible career paths, educational requirements, and prospective universities. I was hooked! I began taking classes in biology, psychology, and forensics, and finally I had my "ah-ha" moment. As a high school student actively involved in the Environmental Club, HOSA, Rho Kappa Social Studies Honor Society, and Black Student Union, I have committed myself to leadership, service, and academic excellence. Through the Environmental Club, I advocate for sustainability and environmental awareness, striving to make a positive impact on my community, through service projects such as clean up at the local botanical garden. My involvement in HOSA fuels my passion for healthcare, allowing me to gain valuable knowledge and skills that will help me pursue a future in the medical field. As a member, I have participated in blood drives, and students with exceptionalities during their sporting events. As a member of Rho Kappa, I deepen my understanding of history and social issues, reinforcing my commitment to civic engagement and informed leadership. Being part of the Black Student Union empowers me to celebrate diversity, promote inclusion, and support my peers. Balancing these organizations has strengthened my ability to lead, collaborate, and think critically, preparing me for success in both academics and my future career. My academic plan post high school has been carefully mapped out since the end of my first semester of senior year. I have been accepted to Alabama A&M University's psychology program starting in Fall 2025. I plan to pursue a bachelor's degree in psychology with a concentration in criminal justice. After that, it is my plan to pursue and obtain a master's degree in forensic psychology. My personal career goal is to work as a forensic psychologist, working to bridge the gap between psychology and the criminal justice system, assessing criminal behavior, providing expert testimony, and assisting in criminal investigations. Being a black male, I also hope to utilize my education to advocate for rehabilitation over punishment, develop programs that reduce re-offenses, and assist others better understand mental health as it relates to minority communities and its impact on law enforcement and citizen interactions.

High school has undoubtedly been one of the most transformative periods of my life thus far. It has set me on the path of self-discovery, personal growth, and learning. For me, the most significant high school educator along that journey has been Mrs. Julie Johnson, my history teacher. Mrs. Johnson saw more in me than I was able to see in myself at the time, and with her encouragement and high expectations, she has shaped me into the person that I am today. From the first year she arrived at the school my sophomore year, she expected no less than excellence of me, and I admit, that was not what I was demonstrating. Mrs. Johnson somehow knew that I was capable of so much more. When my grade in her U.S. History class was in severe jeopardy, she called a meeting with my parents, principal, and myself to discuss how important it was to put forth my best effort in her classroom, as well as in general. It was certainly a wakeup call for me. I had the honor of being accepted to one of the state's top public magnet high schools, and I was wasting an opportunity that many did not have. From that point on, I made my education a priority. My grade in her class turned around almost immediately. I went on to have Mrs. Johnson as my social studies teacher the following year. I learned that she contacted my mother to tell me how much I had grown from the previous school year, and how well I was doing in school. I found myself enjoying her classes, and actively engaging in discussions, and group projects. I truly enjoyed being in her classroom. Mrs. Johnson didn't stop there. This year, she started our school's Rho Kappa Social Studies Honor Society, and I was offered induction. I am now a member, and I knew that it was my efforts in her classroom that led her to consider me for this honor. As I prepare to graduate and move on to college, I think about Mrs. Johnson and the impact she’s had on my life. She didn’t just teach history she taught me to be reflective, become a stronger writer, and public speaker. True educators are able to see the potential in their students and bring out the best in them. I would like to think that is what Mrs. Johnson did for me. I will forever be grateful for her pushing and believing in me.

Athletics has facilitated innumerable life lessons that have shaped me into who I am today. It has played a profound role in my life and journey throughout my school years. Participation in sports has afforded me many opportunities to lead, encourage, be challenged, and persevere. The opportunity to participate in sports has shaped who I am as a son, sibling, student, and young man. Being a student-athlete has been one of my greatest challenges. I have been a magnet school student since middle school, attending both a public performing arts middle school, and a public science and technology high school. Athletics, while playing a major role in my journey, has not been easily accessible to me. Being a middle and high school student interested in athletics in my district requires much dedication, sacrifice, and drive because the magnet programs do not offer athletics. To participate in sports, I would have to try out and join the teams of my originally zoned schools. In middle school, when I played basketball, my parents were solely responsible for transporting me to tryouts, practices, and games. My parents sacrificed their time to ensure my full participation in the sport. My middle school was nearly 45 minutes away from my magnet school, but throughout all of the challenges, they made it happen for me. In my sophomore year of high school, I joined my zoned high school's cross-country team. My parents and other team parents of magnet students teamed up to transport us from the magnet high school to our zoned high school's practices and event meets. I earned the role of team captain that year, and through that role I learned the importance of leadership, motivating and encouraging others. The fact that the coaches entrusted me with that responsibility helped me to find my voice, and realize that what I say and do has the power to impact others. My experience on the cross-country team allowed me to be the first magnet high school student from my school to hold a record in cross-country. After cross-country season ended, I joined the track team, competing in the 800 and 400 meters. When I was encouraged to compete in these events, I often doubted myself. As I competed more regularly, I gained self-confidence and learned that my only competition, at that time, was me. Throughout the season I improved, even earning a few medals for my efforts. Today, I continue participating in athletics as a right-fielder on the school baseball team. Participation in athletics taught me the value of commitment and enduring challenges. The encouragement of my family, coaches, and teammates throughout the years has pushed me to excel in the classroom, and on the field. I continue to pay it forward as I dedicate that same responsibility, perseverance, and dedication to my college studies; being a positive role model for my younger brother, an honorable and god-fearing son and grandson, and one day soon, a forensic psychologist. It is my profound hope that I may take the many life lessons that I have learned to continue my education in college, and use the knowledge gained to help others.

As a student enrolled in a public magnet school, access to athletics has always been challenging. My school, New Century Technology High School, a STEM program, does not offer athletics, so students interested participating in sports join teams in the schools we are zoned for within the district. For many of us, this means that once the school day ends, we must travel by bus or personal vehicle to our originally zoned schools for try-outs, practices, and games, often joining in slightly later than the student athletes who are zoned for that school. An additional challenge as a student athlete has been creating balance between academics, athetics, and service organization obligations. As a magnet student in the biomedical strand of my high school program, I have to devote a great deal of time to my studies. I am also a member of my school's environmenal club, Rho Kappa Social Studies Honor Society, and black student union, so participation in meetings and service project opportunities is a pivotal part of membership. Being a magnet student in one of the state's highest performing schools is a privilege and honor that i do not take lightly. While it has been by no means easy, I am proud to say that this is one of my greatest accomplishments thus far. I am looking forward to graduating in May, and attending Alabama A&M University to study psychology with a concentration in criminal justice. My first student athlete experience began in my sophomore year. I became a member of the Columbia High School cross-country team. Each afternoon of the season, I boarded the bus and traveled from my school, to participate in practice and events. Because the district did not transport cross-country athletes to meets, the responsibility fell to my mother, coaches, and other parents to get me to meets. I was fortunate to be able to fully participate on the team, serving as that season's team captain. I was the first cross-country student athlete from my magnet program, so I also am the first record holder representing New Century Technology High School. When the cross-country season came to a close, I joined the indoor track team, and later the track & field teams. Much like cross-country, i traveled by bus to practices four days per week, and was transported to meets by my mom or coach to participate. I earned three bronze medals for track in the boys relays, 400 meters, and 800 meters in the Huntsville City Classic meet that season. I learned through all of these challenges, the value of hard work, perseverance, and most importantly the sacrifices that families make to support their children's dreams. I am forever grateful for that experience. In my junior and now senior year, I have been a member of Columbia High School's baseball team. The baseball team experience has by far been the most impactful. Baseball is a sport in which each member of the team plays a part, and their interdependence on the field is only effective when there is effective teamwork. Much like the other teams i have been a part of, I traveled from my school each afternoon to participate in practices. I was and continue to travel by car to games. This experience has by far been the best. Last season was the first season in the school's history that we made the playoffs, and we look forward to greater success in the upcoming season. Being a student athlete had posed many challenges for me, but through persistence and dedication, it has been worth the effort.

When considering adversity, you could say I have faced and overcome many obstacles in my life but none more significant than ME. Self-confidence and focus in my abilities is something I have always been a source of struggle for me. In the past, I have much preferred to fade into the background instead of seeking the spotlight. Fear of failure and judgement have often stifled me. At the end of 5th grade, I was auditioned and was ultimately accepted to attend a performing arts magnet school. I was excited and enjoyed being a part of the stident council, school choir, and musical performance troupes.Unfortunately, toward the this journey, the pandemic hit and I along with the entire U.S. we're impacted in unimaginable ways. The classroom was replaced with Zoom meetings and online media. My parents became my teachers, and I became somewhat of a hermit as we weren't permitted to engage socially outside of the home. When I was not online for classes or completing assignments, I was stuck at home either playing video games, watching television, or sleeping. When the pandemic ended, I was accepted to a top public magnet science and technology high school. I had aspirations of a future in a science or technology field, and looked forward to finding out which path I was most interested in pursuing. I was, in many ways, unaware of the challenges I would face re-acclimmating myself to traditional learning. I faced challenges academically, and found it difficult to involve myself in social and service organizations as I has pre-pandemic. Even when my mom and dad encouraged me to participate in activities such as sports, events, and school organizations, I avoided doing so. I found it difficult to regain that drive and motivation I once had, and ultimately my grades suffered. The moment of realization and clarity came for me when my principal, history teacher, and parents called a meeting with me to discuss what was going on, and their concerns. I realized that I was in a major slump, and I had to turn it around. The realization that everyone in that meeting cared, knew that I was capable of better, and wanted me to be successful ignited something in me. I became more studious, organized, and involved. I joined the cross country team, becoming team captain which helped me in realizing the importance of not only leadership, but setting the standard. I stopped procrastinating, and by the following school year, my history teacher who had such concern for me in the previous school year, told me and my parents how much growth and improvement i had demonstrated in a year's time. This year, I was inducted into Rho Kappa Social Studies Honor Society, which was an honor for me. To further push myself out of the void that the pandemic had me in, I joined the environmental club and have participated in public service such as clean up at our local botanical garden. I am also on the baseball team, for the second year in a row. My next goal is to get my first job to save up for some of the expenses associated with college. I have been accepted to the psychology program at Alabama A&M University, with plans to become a forensic psychologist. I have learned that while we all will face adversity in life, having a strong support system, setting clear goals, and immediate action have turned things around for the better.

I have developed a keen interest in studying the complexities of human behavior, more specifically within the context of crime and law. My ultimate career goal is to one day become a forensic psychologist, but the first step along this journey is to study psychology with a concentration in criminal justice in my undergraduate studies. This goal combines both my passion for understanding the human mind, and my desire to contribute to the field of criminal justice. Forensic psychology offers the opportunity to explore the psychological factors that contribute to criminal behavior, while at the same time using this knowledge to improve legal processes, support the justice system, and criminal rehabilitation. My interest in this field began in high school after taking a course in government. I once considered a career in law, but I wanted a career that merged both my interest in psychology and the law. As I explored my interests and discussed those interests with my school and potential college enrollment counselors, this field of study most piqued my interest. I learned that psychology plays a great role in understanding the criminal mind, such as determining one's motivations, assessing defendant's mental status, and one's competency to stand trial. Forensic psychologists play a profound role in helping shape fair and effective outcomes in criminal law cases. I would like nothing more than to pursue this field of study. I am excited to continue my academic journey in psychology. I am excited to engage in courses in both psychology and criminal justice so that I can develop greater understanding of theories, research, and practical applications within these fields. I am eager to embark in hands-on experiences such as internships and fieldwork, so that I can learn from professionals within the field of forensic psychology and criminal justice. In conclusion, pursing a degree in psychology with a concentration in criminal justice is the first step in pursing my goal of becoming a forensic psychologist. I am motivated and determined to achieve my goal in pursing this field of study. With this opportunity, I am confident that through this career path, I will make a difference in the world.