One of my favorite concert memories was attending the Beyoncé concert in 2018, an unforgettable experience that left me in awe of her talent, stage presence, and ability to captivate an audience. The concert took place at a stadium filled with excited fans, all eagerly anticipating the arrival of the iconic performer. As the lights dimmed and the music began, the atmosphere was electric, with a sense of anticipation and excitement filling the air. Beyoncé took the stage with a powerful presence, commanding attention from the moment she appeared. Her flawless vocals, mesmerizing dance moves, and stunning visuals created a spectacle that was both awe-inspiring and emotionally resonant. From high-energy dance tracks to soulful ballads, Beyoncé's performance was a masterclass in artistry, showcasing her versatility and range as a performer. One of the highlights of the concert was when Beyoncé performed some of her most iconic hits, including "Single Ladies," "Crazy in Love," and "Formation." The stadium erupted in cheers and applause as fans sang along to every word, creating a sense of unity and connection among the audience. The energy in the venue was palpable, with everyone coming together to celebrate the music and the moment. The concert was not only a feast for the senses but also a deeply emotional experience. Beyoncé's powerful vocals and heartfelt delivery touched the hearts of everyone in attendance, leaving a lasting impression that resonated long after the final notes faded away. It was a night filled with joy, inspiration, and pure musical magic, and one that I will always treasure as a cherished memory. Reflecting on my first concert experience in Albany, Georgia, where I had the opportunity to see Rick Ross and Jeezy perform live, I am transported back to a time of excitement, anticipation, and youthful exuberance. The concert took place at a local venue, with a diverse crowd of music enthusiasts coming together to celebrate the artistry of two iconic hip-hop artists. As I entered the venue, the air was alive with anticipation and energy, with fans buzzing with excitement for the upcoming performances. The stage was set with elaborate lighting and sound equipment, creating a dynamic and immersive atmosphere that set the stage for an unforgettable evening of music and entertainment. Rick Ross took the stage first, captivating the audience with his charismatic presence and commanding stage presence. His smooth flow, catchy hooks, and larger-than-life persona had the crowd on their feet, dancing and singing along to his biggest hits. The energy in the venue was infectious, with fans feeding off the performer's energy and enthusiasm. Jeezy's performance was equally electrifying, with the rapper delivering a high-energy set filled with anthemic tracks and crowd-pleasing favorites. His dynamic stage presence, raw lyricism, and infectious energy had the audience fully engaged and immersed in the music, creating a sense of unity and camaraderie among fans of all backgrounds. As the concert came to a close, the crowd erupted in cheers and applause, grateful for the unforgettable experience of seeing two hip-hop legends perform live. The memories of that night in Albany, Georgia, where music transcended barriers and brought people together in celebration of art and creativity, will forever hold a special place in my heart as a cherished first concert experience filled with joy, excitement, and lasting memories.

My experience with disability has profoundly shaped my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations, influencing every aspect of my life in profound ways. As a disabled mother with pulmonary fibrosis and a survivor of trigeminal neuralgia, I have learned valuable lessons about resilience, empathy, and the power of perseverance. These experiences have not only strengthened my resolve but have also deepened my commitment to advocating for others and making a positive impact in the world. My journey with disability has instilled in me a profound belief in the inherent strength and resilience of the human spirit. Despite facing numerous physical and emotional challenges, I have learned to embrace my vulnerabilities and transform them into sources of strength and courage. Through my struggles, I have come to understand the importance of self-acceptance, self-care, and the power of positivity in overcoming adversity. In terms of relationships, my experience with disability has deepened my connections with others and fostered a greater sense of empathy and compassion. My interactions with healthcare providers, family, friends, and community members have taught me the importance of open communication, understanding, and mutual support. I have found that vulnerability can be a powerful tool for building authentic relationships and fostering a sense of connection and belonging. Career aspirations have also been significantly influenced by my experience with disability. As someone who has navigated the challenges of chronic illness and physical limitations, I am passionate about advocating for individuals with disabilities and marginalized communities. My personal struggles have fueled my desire to work in the field of social work, where I can use my lived experiences to support and empower others facing similar challenges. I am committed to promoting inclusivity, accessibility, and social justice in all aspects of my professional endeavors. Throughout my journey, I have had the opportunity to develop my leadership skills and contribute to meaningful initiatives within my community. As a volunteer at church and various outreach programs, I have organized events, facilitated discussions, and provided support to individuals in need. These experiences have taught me the importance of effective communication, teamwork, and collaboration in driving positive change and inspiring others to take action. In my roles as a mother, advocate, and student, I have embraced leadership opportunities that have allowed me to make a difference in the lives of those around me. Whether it's advocating for disability rights, raising awareness about chronic illnesses, or supporting fellow students in their academic pursuits, I strive to lead by example and embody the values of compassion, resilience, and integrity in all that I do. In conclusion, my experience with disability has not only shaped my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations but has also empowered me to embrace my unique journey and use it as a catalyst for personal and professional growth. Through my resilience, empathy, and leadership experiences, I am committed to creating a more inclusive and compassionate world where individuals with disabilities are valued, supported, and empowered to thrive.

My journey as a disabled mother with pulmonary fibrosis has been a challenging yet transformative experience that has greatly shaped my career goals and aspirations. Being diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis and having to rely on oxygen for the past four years, along with becoming disabled in 2012, marked a turning point in my life, forcing me to adapt to a new reality and redefine my path forward. Despite these challenges, I have persevered, seeking new opportunities for personal and professional growth while continuing to prioritize my role as a mother, wife, and community advocate. As a married non-traditional student, I am committed to pursuing my education and expanding my knowledge in the field of social work. My experiences with disability and chronic illness have inspired me to advocate for marginalized communities and individuals facing similar challenges. I am driven by a deep sense of empathy and a desire to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others, particularly those who may be struggling with health issues or disabilities. Having to leave my full-time job as a family and health advocate and parent aide with the Department of Family and Children Services due to seizures and trigeminal neuralgia was a difficult decision, but one that ultimately led me to rediscover my passion for social work and community service. These health challenges forced me to reevaluate my career goals and find new ways to contribute to society, despite the limitations imposed by my disabilities. Learning to talk, walk, and perform daily functions independently again was a humbling and arduous process, one that required immense strength and resilience. Throughout this journey, I leaned on my family for emotional support and guidance, drawing strength from their unwavering love and encouragement. Their presence has been a constant source of comfort and motivation, inspiring me to push past my physical limitations and pursue my dreams with determination and perseverance. Despite the obstacles I have faced, I remain actively engaged in my community, volunteering at church and participating in various outreach programs. These experiences have allowed me to connect with others, share my story, and offer support to those in need. By giving back to my community and advocating for vulnerable populations, I am able to channel my personal struggles into a force for positive change, inspiring others to persevere in the face of adversity. Spending time with my family holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of the importance of love, connection, and resilience in the face of life's challenges. As a disabled mother, I am constantly inspired by the strength and courage of my children, who serve as a source of motivation and joy in my life. Their unwavering support and understanding have been instrumental in my recovery and have fueled my determination to pursue my career goals with passion and purpose. In conclusion, my disability has not defined me, but rather empowered me to embrace new opportunities, advocate for others, and make a lasting impact in the world. Through my experiences as a disabled mother, student, and advocate, I have discovered a renewed sense of purpose and resilience, guiding me towards a future filled with hope, compassion, and endless possibilities.

As I reflect on what makes me a leader, I am reminded of the qualities that have driven me to pursue my ambitions and make a lasting impact in the lives of those around me. Ambition, drive, and the desire to create meaningful change are at the core of my leadership philosophy, guiding me in my roles as a mother, wife, family, and health advocate, and aspiring social work professional. These qualities have shaped my journey and continue to fuel my passion for helping others and making a difference in the world. My ambition drives me to set high goals and strive for excellence in all aspects of my life. Whether it is in my personal relationships, my advocacy work, or my academic pursuits, I am constantly seeking ways to challenge myself and grow beyond my comfort zone. This ambition pushes me to dream big, take risks, and pursue opportunities that align with my values and aspirations. Coupled with ambition is my unwavering drive to achieve those goals. I approach every task with determination and perseverance, refusing to let obstacles or setbacks deter me from my path. This drive fuels my commitment to finishing my social work degree, despite the challenges and demands of balancing my roles as a mother, and wife. It pushes me to push through tough times and stay focused on the bigger picture, knowing that the impact I look to make is worth the effort and sacrifice. Impact is at the heart of everything I do. As a mother, I strive to create a nurturing and supportive environment for my children, where they can thrive and grow into compassionate and resilient individuals. As a wife, I prioritize communication, understanding, and mutual respect, fostering a partnership built on love and shared values. As a family and health advocate, I work tirelessly to raise awareness, provide support, and advocate for those in need, with the ultimate goal of creating positive change and empowering others to lead healthier and more fulfilling lives. My passion for helping others is the driving force behind my leadership style. I volunteer my time, lend a listening ear, offer advice, and share my experiences in the hopes of inspiring and uplifting those around me. Whether it is through one-on-one interactions, community initiatives, or advocacy campaigns, I am dedicated to making a positive impact and leaving a legacy of compassion, empathy, and support. In all that I do, I strive to lead by example, embodying the values of ambition, drive, and impact in my everyday actions and decisions. I believe that true leadership is not about titles or authority, but about the ability to inspire, empower, and uplift others towards a common goal. By harnessing my ambition, drive, and passion for helping others, I am able to lead with purpose and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those I touch.

I never imagined that a routine dental procedure in 2012 would change the course of my life forever. The medical malpractice that occurred during that fateful appointment left me with not only physical scars but also deep-rooted mental health challenges that continue to haunt me to this day. Since that traumatic experience, I have been battling with PTSD, anxiety, and depression, struggling to navigate the complexities of my mind while still fulfilling my roles as a mother, a non-traditional student, and an advocate for others. Living with mental health issues has profoundly shaped my goals, relationships, and understanding of the world. At times, it felt like the weight of my struggles was suffocating me, making it difficult to see beyond the darkness that clouded my mind. However, through perseverance and unwavering determination, I refused to let my conditions define me. Instead, I used them as a catalyst for growth, self-discovery, and empathy towards others who may be facing similar battles. My journey with mental health has taught me the importance of self-care and compassion, not only towards myself but also towards those around me. It has shown me the power of vulnerability and the strength that comes from sharing my struggles with others. Through opening up about my experiences, I have forged deeper connections with loved ones and found solace in the understanding and support they offer. As a mother, my mental health challenges have influenced the way I approach parenting. While there have been moments of guilt and self-doubt, I have learned to prioritize my well-being in order to be the best possible caregiver for my children. I strive to create a nurturing and understanding environment for them, where open communication and emotional honesty are valued. My struggles have made me more attuned to their needs and emotions, allowing me to offer them the love and support they require to thrive. As a non-traditional student, my journey with mental health has been both a hindrance and a source of motivation. There were times when my conditions made it difficult to focus on my studies, causing setbacks and moments of despair. However, I refused to let my challenges derail my educational aspirations. Instead, I used them as a driving force to push myself harder, to prove to myself that I am capable of overcoming any obstacle that comes my way. Being an advocate for others has always been a fundamental part of who I am. My experiences with mental health have equipped me with a unique perspective and a deep sense of empathy towards those who are struggling. I have dedicated myself to raising awareness, fighting stigma, and providing support to individuals facing mental health challenges. Through my advocacy work, I have found a sense of purpose and fulfillment, knowing that my voice can make a difference in the lives of others. There were moments along this journey when I felt utterly alone, grappling with the weight of my struggles in silence. However, through perseverance and the unwavering support of loved ones, I found the strength to keep moving forward. I have learned that resilience is not about avoiding challenges, but about facing them head-on, even when it feels impossible. It is about picking oneself up after every fall, dusting off the wounds, and continuing the journey with renewed determination and courage. My experiences with mental health have taught me that healing is not a linear process. It is messy, unpredictable, and often filled with setbacks. But through it all, I have discovered the beauty that lies in vulnerability, the strength that comes from seeking help, and the resilience that blooms from the darkest of places. My journey continues, and though the road may be rocky, I walk it with my head held high, knowing that every step forward is a testament to my courage, my strength, and my unwavering spirit.

As a wife, disabled mother of four, community advocate, and a person with a passion for helping others, I display strong leadership and communication skills in various aspects of my life. In my role as a community advocate, I effectively organize and delegate tasks to the people I volunteer with, ensuring that our efforts are coordinated and impactful. Additionally, I advocate for the needs of my family and community members, using my communication skills to effectively convey their concerns and ensure they are heard and addressed. My resilience is a defining trait that shines through in the face of adversity. Despite the challenges posed by my disability, I am able to navigate them with strength and determination, never allowing them to hinder my ability to fulfill my roles as a wife, mother, and advocate for family and health issues. This resilience allows me to persevere through difficult circumstances and continue to make a positive impact in the lives of those around me. Unselfishness is a core value that guides my actions on a daily basis. I am constantly dedicated to putting the needs of others before my own, whether it be my family, friends, or other community members in need. This selfless approach to life allows me to prioritize the well-being and happiness of those around me, contributing to a more supportive and caring environment for all. Staying focused and determined is essential in my everyday routine. By setting clear goals and priorities, I am able to stay on track and work tirelessly to achieve them, even in the face of obstacles and challenges. This unwavering focus and determination enable me to overcome barriers and continue to make progress towards my objectives, both personally and professionally. My strong work ethic is evident in my commitment to juggling multiple roles and responsibilities. Whether it's managing my household, caring for my children, volunteering in the community, or pursuing my own passions, I approach each task with dedication and diligence. I consistently meet deadlines and exceed expectations, driven by a desire to make a positive impact and contribute to the well-being of those around me. My future goal is to become a family service social worker and advocate for health and families. I am deeply committed to making a difference in the lives of individuals and families facing various challenges, and I believe that by pursuing a Master of Social Work degree, I will be better equipped to address their needs and provide them with the support and resources they require to thrive. I am pursuing a MS in social work degree because I am passionate about helping others and believe that obtaining advanced education in this field will enable me to develop a deeper understanding of social issues, enhance my skills in counseling and advocacy, and equip me with the tools necessary to make a lasting impact in the lives of those I serve. To me, leadership goes beyond just directing and guiding others; it involves inspiring and empowering individuals to reach their full potential, fostering a sense of collaboration and teamwork, and leading by example through integrity, empathy, and determination. As a leader, I strive to create a positive and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and supported, and where innovative solutions can be developed to address the complex challenges faced by families in our community.

In recent years, I have prioritized my own mental health and well-being, which has inspired me to become a dedicated advocate for mental health awareness and physical disabilities. I am committed to breaking down barriers and stigma surrounding these issues, and I strive to create a more inclusive and supportive community for individuals facing these challenges. As a volunteer in my community, I actively provide support and resources to individuals who, like myself, are navigating the complexities of mental health and physical disabilities. By sharing my own journey and offering a listening ear, guidance, and empathy, I aim to empower others to embrace their struggles and seek the help they need to thrive. I am passionate about dedicating my social work career to mental health advocacy and raising awareness for individuals struggling with mental health challenges. My goal is to work directly with individuals to provide support and resources to help them navigate their mental health journeys. Through hands-on training and experience, I aim to become a clinical social worker, equipped with the knowledge and skills to offer comprehensive and personalized mental health care. Mental health was often stigmatized and viewed as something to be ashamed of. However, in today's society, with the widespread reach of social media and increased awareness about mental health issues, there is a growing acceptance of seeking help I am committed to using my education and expertise to contribute to this positive shift in attitudes towards mental health. To make a positive impact I will offer therapy, counseling, and support services, I hope to empower individuals to prioritize their mental well-being and seek the help they need. Everyone deserves access to quality mental health care and support, and I am dedicated to advocating for mental health awareness and promoting a culture of acceptance and understanding. Through my work as a clinical social worker, I aim to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals struggling with mental health challenges. Through my advocacy work and volunteer efforts, I hope to make a positive impact, inspire and uplift those around me, fostering a sense of unity and understanding among individuals facing similar obstacles. My ultimate goal is to contribute to a more compassionate and inclusive society where everyone feels supported, accepted, and valued. In summary as a social worker, I can positively impact mental health by providing counseling, raising awareness, collaborating with professionals, and promoting self-care. I aim to empower individuals, reduce stigma, and create a supportive environment for mental health well-being.

I give back by volunteering, and mentor youth in need of guidance and support. I share my knowledge, skills, and experiences to help them navigate challenges, set goals, and build a brighter future. I enjoy volunteering at local food banks, and homeless shelters. I work in the kitchen to help provide meals, and support to senior citizens experiencing food loss or homelessness. My help has made a significant impact on those in need within my community. I enjoy volunteering at community events, and festivals. Contributing my skills and enthusiasm, shows my support in the success of these events and bring joy and entertainment to my community. The big brothers and big sister's non-profit organizations align with my interests and values. Giving my time and skills to this organization allows me to address important social issues and make a positive impact in my city. As a future social worker, I have a desire to positively change the world by advocating for social justice, promoting equality, and empowering individuals and communities to thrive. My plan to make a positive impact in the future as a social worker aligns with my principles of social justice, compassion, empowerment, and collaboration. By working tirelessly to support individuals in need, I hope to contribute to a more just, compassionate, and thriving society for all. I aim to be a vocal advocate for people treated differently, vulnerable populations, individuals with disabilities, racial and ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those experiencing poverty or homelessness. I plan to offer individualized and culturally competent support to clients by recognizing their unique strengths and needs. By providing empathy, understanding, I aim to create a safe and supportive environment for my clients who face struggles in their life. I want to work with people to help build resilience, and work towards positive change in their life. I plan to collaborate with community organizations, and the local social service agencies to provide coordinated care for clients. By working together with other professionals, and using the strengths of community resources, I can maximize the impact of my interventions and support clients in achieving their goals. My plan as a social worker is to promote social justice, compassion, empowerment, and collaboration. By supporting individuals in need, I will contribute to a more just, compassionate, and thriving society for all. By tirelessly advocating for those in need my goal is to play a pivotal role in shaping a society that is not only fair and compassionate but also vibrant and inclusive for all.

My life journey has been filled with positive experiences and challenges. I was a very productive, goal driven individual until I was injured and became disabled. After my injury I was not as active as I had been before. I gave up on my goals and dreams of being a successful advocate for others in need. I had to do a medical withdrawal from school as I was struggling mentally and physically after the injury. I was pursuing my MSW degree. and has dreams of becoming a social worker with the department of human services area. Having been disabled since 2012 these experiences have had me face prejudice and discrimination. Highlighting the importance of equality, inclusion, and acceptance for all individuals has shaped my personal values at this stage in my life. Learning to navigate the world as a disabled person has fostered values of independence, self-reliance, and the importance of adapting to challenges in creative ways while I’m back in school. Being a disabled person pursuing a career as a clinical social worker will provide unique insights and perspectives that will enhance my ability to connect with and support clients. My personal experiences navigating the world with a disability has fostered empathy, understanding, and compassion towards individuals facing similar challenges. This will help me build rapport with clients, establish trust, and create a safe and supportive environment for them to share their struggles and work towards their goals. Life experiences, particularly those as a disabled person, has significantly shaped and strengthened my commitment to community service. As a disabled individual, I have faced various challenges and obstacles that have instilled in me a deep sense of empathy, compassion, and a desire to make a positive difference in the lives of others. As a disabled person, I have experienced firsthand the lack of accessibility and accommodations in various community settings. This has fueled my passion for advocating for equal rights and opportunities for individuals with disabilities, as well as for promoting diversity and inclusivity in all aspects of community life. My resilience in the face of adversity, and my ability to overcome challenges served as a source of inspiration for others in my community. By sharing my story and showing how I have thrived despite obstacles, I have empowered and uplifted those around me. I encourage them to persevere and pursue their own goals. As a social worker my education will be a powerful tool for making a positive impact in my community. I can use my education to enhance my work and create meaningful change. I will advocate for education and awareness around social issues in my community. I will offer educational resources, and support individuals and families in need. I can do this by providing workshops on parenting skills, financial literacy, job readiness, or mental health coping strategies. Receiving a scholarship from Debra S. Jackson would be a significant opportunity that could help me in achieving my goal of going back to school in my early 40s. This scholarship will provide financial support that will alleviate the burden of tuition costs, textbooks, and other expenses associated with pursuing further education at this stage in my life. The financial help from the scholarship will enable me to focus on my studies and academic pursuits without having to worry about the financial strain that often comes with pursuing higher education later in life. Knowing that someone believes in my potential, and is willing to invest in my education will inspire me to work even harder towards achieving my academic and career goals.

My name is Erica Miller, and at 41 years old, I proudly wear many hats. I am a mother, a wife, and a grandmother. Through my own personal experiences and challenges in life, I have developed a deep passion for helping others who have faced similar difficulties. With an Associate's degree in Human Services and a Bachelor's degree in psychology, I have equipped myself with the knowledge and skills to make a positive impact in the lives of those around me. In recent years, I have prioritized my own mental health and well-being, which has inspired me to become a dedicated advocate for mental health awareness and physical disabilities. I am committed to breaking down barriers and stigma surrounding these issues, and I strive to create a more inclusive and supportive community for individuals facing these challenges. As a volunteer in my community, I actively provide support and resources to individuals who, like myself, are navigating the complexities of mental health and physical disabilities. By sharing my own journey and offering a listening ear, guidance, and empathy, I aim to empower others to embrace their struggles and seek the help they need to thrive. Through my advocacy work and volunteer efforts, I hope to inspire and uplift those around me, fostering a sense of unity and understanding among individuals facing similar obstacles. My ultimate goal is to contribute to a more compassionate and inclusive society where everyone feels supported, accepted, and valued. I am passionate about dedicating my social work career to mental health advocacy and raising awareness for individuals struggling with mental health challenges. My goal is to work directly with individuals to provide support and resources to help them navigate their mental health journeys. Through hands-on training and experience, I aim to become a clinical social worker, equipped with the knowledge and skills to offer comprehensive and personalized mental health care. Mental health was often stigmatized and viewed as something to be ashamed of. However, in today's society, with the widespread reach of social media and increased awareness about mental health issues, there is a growing acceptance of seeking help I am committed to using my education and expertise to contribute to this positive shift in attitudes towards mental health. By offering therapy, counseling, and support services, I hope to empower individuals to prioritize their mental well-being and seek the help they need. I believe that everyone deserves access to quality mental health care and support, and I am dedicated to advocating for mental health awareness and promoting a culture of acceptance and understanding. Through my work as a clinical social worker, I aim to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals struggling with mental health challenges. My personal experiences with a physical disability, chronic pain, and psychological issues have deeply influenced m my perspective on social work. These challenges have provided me with a unique understanding and empathy for individuals who are facing similar struggles. As I navigate my own journey of coping with these issues, I am constantly learning and growing, which will undoubtedly inform and enrich my social work career. I have developed a profound sense of empathy and understanding for others who are going through similar experiences. My personal struggles have fueled my passion for advocacy and empowerment within the social work field. By sharing my own strategies for managing stress, pain, and emotional distress, I can empower clients to build their own toolkit for self-care and well-being. Overall, my experiences with a physical disability, chronic pain, and psychological issues will serve as a guide in my social work career.