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Kenneth Armstrong

3,725

Bold Points

6x

Nominee

2x

Finalist

1x

Winner

Bio

My goal is to become a Clinical Psychologist. I am passionate about service and giving. I am always looking for ways to be helpful and considerate. I do not help others for personal gain. I freely give of myself to benefit and uplift others. The satisfaction which stems from unselfishness is a reward in and of itself. I use my gift of public speaking and singing to serve others. One time I participated in Christmas Caroling and food distribution. On another occasion, I went to a nursing home to sing. While there, I gave a motivational speech. In my daily life, I try to make a positive impact. This can be seen throughout my profile. I graduated from High School with the highest honors. My final GPA was a 4.0. I finished early due to skipping 10th grade. I was ranked 21 out of 138 students after my 9th-grade year. I recently graduated with my Associate of Science in Biology, with a 3.5 GPA. Thus, I received the honor of Cum Laude. I completed the program in less than two years and was named the "Distinguished Graduate of the Year". Also, I made the President's List or Dean's List for all but two terms while at Georgia Military College. I was a Student Ambassador. I am a member of the Honor Society, by invitation. I will transfer to a 4-year University this summer to complete my undergraduate degree. I am willing to learn from my mistakes and improve as a student and individual. Along with excelling and reaching my full potential, I want to inspire others. I hope that my journey can encourage someone to continue pursuing their dreams. Thanks for viewing my profile!

Education

Valdosta State University

Bachelor's degree program
2023 - 2025
  • Majors:
    • Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology

Georgia Military College - Valdosta

Associate's degree program
2021 - 2022
  • Majors:
    • Biological and Physical Sciences

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

    • Psychology, Other
    • Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Mental Health Care

    • Dream career goals:

      Clinical Psychologist

    • Cashier

      Zaxby's
      2024 – Present10 months
    • Work Study-Admissions Office

      Georgia Military College
      2021 – 20221 year
    • Library Assistant

      Georgia Military College
      2022 – Present2 years
    • Cashier

      Diggidees
      2020 – 20211 year
    • Videographer Assistant/Producer

      Three Angels Consulting LLC
      2018 – Present6 years
    • Shipping Clerk

      It's High Time Ministry
      2016 – 20171 year
    • Stocker

      Country Natural Foods Store
      2015 – 20161 year

    Research

    • Foreign Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, Other

      Three Angels Academy — Purchase Christian Literature published in Spanish; Develop a Spanish script for introducing myself and the book I was offering; Collect results and report my personal experience
      2020 – 2020
    • Alternative and Complementary Medicine and Medical Systems, General

      Georgia Military College-Valdosta — Research and present data about the benefits and downsides of Natural Remedies; discussed ways that alternative medicine can replace some conventional practices
      2021 – 2021
    • Behavioral Sciences

      Georgia Military College-Valdosta — Research symptoms of Schizophrenia, psychological effects, and ways to manage it
      2022 – 2022
    • Agricultural and Food Products Processing

      Georgia Military College-Valdosta — Worked with a group to research and understand the environmental effects of pesticides; weighed pros vs cons and offered alternative methods
      2022 – 2022
    • Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other

      Georgia Military College-Valdosta — Research causes of Asthma, complications, treatments and prevalence
      2022 – 2022
    • Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other

      Georgia Military College-Valdosta — Researched the effects of Hypotension on the body, how it can be prevented and treated, and its commonality to Hypertension
      2022 – 2022
    • Biological and Physical Sciences

      Georgia Military College-Valdosta — Determining the efficacy of sanitizing wipes on hard, non-porous surfaces----Conduct multiple trial runs using sanitizing wipes on hard, non-porous surfaces; document any differences with applied surface area, drying time, and active ingredients
      2021 – 2021

    Arts

    • Three Angels Consulting LLC

      Music
      Facebook Livestreaming, Youtube Videos, Singing Trio-three-part harmony(My two younger sibilings and I have been singing together for about 5-7 years), Sing for church services, youtube channels, spontaneous singing
      2018 – Present
    • Three Angels Consulting LLC

      Videography
      Facebook Livestreaming, Youtube Videos, Videographer Assistant/Producer(manage audio, camera, livestream broadcast, web conference meeting controls, run powerpoint slides)
      2018 – Present
    • Laurelbrook Academy-Elementary

      Music
      Beginner Recorder Learner
      2013 – 2013
    • Oakwood Academy-Violin Class

      Music
      Beginner Learner Violinist
      2011 – 2012
    • Oklahoma Academy-Elementary

      Music
      Children's Choir; Choir Member; participated in multiple concerts
      2015 – 2016
    • Oakwood Academy

      Music
      Sang in an organized children's choir; traveled to perform at different venues
      2011 – 2012

    Public services

    • Volunteering

      Christian Collegiate Fellowship Club — Drop-off books, cleaning supplies, and water at a local homeless shelter; interact with residents
      2023 – 2023
    • Volunteering

      Honor Society — Complete comprehensive profile; scholarships; leadership and career opportunities; membership rewards
      2022 – Present
    • Volunteering

      Christian Collegiate Fellowship Club---Christmas Toy Drive--- — Delivered toys to kids at a local elementary school and the Boys & Girls Club; Delivered baked goods and Christmas cards to the Police Department; Christmas Caroling and further distribution of cards and toys to individuals at stores and a restaurant
      2022 – 2022
    • Volunteering

      Rescue the Perishing Church — Sing with Nursing Home Residents; I presented an impromptu "motivational speech"
      2018 – 2018
    • Volunteering

      Oklahoma Academy — Conduct Bible Studies and distributing Christian Literature
      2015 – 2016
    • Volunteering

      Oklahoma Academy — Go to different homes and deliver boxes of food; Christmas Caroling
      2015 – 2015
    • Volunteering

      Georgia Military College-Valdosta — I was featured in photos to promote the school. I was selected as the cover photo of a First-Term Scholarship
      2021 – 2021
    • Volunteering

      Belleville SDA Church — Lead out in interactive songs; assist with recreational activities
      2016 – 2016
    • Advocacy

      Student Honor Council — Assign remedial tasks for students guilty of academic dishonesty-Membership is by invitation only
      2022 – 2022
    • Volunteering

      Student Government Association — Plan and manage events teaching students about the U.S. Government
      2021 – Present
    • Volunteering

      Messiah's Mansion — Tour Guide; Construction & Maintenance; Conduct tours of a a life-size replica of an ancient temple
      2016 – 2016
    • Volunteering

      Talent Club — Showcase Talents: Singing, Instrumental, Poetry etc.--- Student Involvement: singing and playing instruments for charity
      2022 – Present
    • Volunteering

      Christian Collegiate Fellowship Club — Manage interactive events for students: encouragement notes, free baked goods, prayer, raffles etc. ---Community Events: Christmas Toy Drive, Worship Events, etc.
      2022 – Present
    • Volunteering

      Biology Club — Plan events to improve the academic experience of Biology/Medical students
      2022 – 2022

    Future Interests

    Advocacy

    Volunteering

    Philanthropy

    Entrepreneurship

    Mental Health Profession Scholarship
    I have always been thoughtful, compassionate, and helpful. These qualities have produced success in work, school, and social interactions. I also have good listening skills. That is a part of my personality. During conversations, I am usually the quiet one. I allow the other individual to talk more. Whenever my friends have issues, I encourage them to share, if they are comfortable. I take note of every detail and put myself in their shoes. If I have a similar experience, I will share. When people have experiences that are relatable to me, I feel so much more encouraged and supported. That is why I freely share personal things that are relatable. My past volunteering experiences have helped me to be more compassionate. It is easy to make assumptions about people. However, you have to interact with those who you want to understand. In my career, I must excel in understanding someone's perspective. I have to put myself in their shoes. My interactions within the community have helped me to develop creativity. Problems require creative solutions. Throughout my life experiences, I have learned the importance of perseverance. My mindset has matured. My advice is to examine my habits and methods of doing things. When my actions take me down the wrong path, I should make changes. Otherwise, I will continue to get the same results. I can't have a closed mindset. My belief should always be that I can and will overcome any obstacles. Success will follow hard work and sacrifice. Excellence is the culmination of small steps. Daily progress gradually amounts to success. Past experiences hold valuable lessons. When I make mistakes, I must be patient with myself. Next, I recall those failures and plan to avoid them by setting realistic, attainable goals. I have always been an individual with very high standards. Whenever I fail to meet those standards, I am hyper-critical of myself. In every aspect of life, I have an intense fear of failure. In the past, this characteristic has produced low self-esteem. I determine my worth based on how I perform the task in front of me. This guilt lingers until I talk with my family to gain reassurance. I struggle with this, but I understand and appreciate having someone to share my feelings with. That keeps me from going to an extremely dark place. That is why I want to be a Clinical Psychologist. I have chosen this field because I am interested in understanding the physiology of the brain. As the master organ, it regulates every single operation throughout the body. As it relates to behavior, I find it interesting to pinpoint the reason for particular actions. I believe I will make a huge impact because I had a beginning interest in my eighth-grade year. My interest in this field will motivate me to work hard and learn everything I can. I am passionate about helping others. Understanding the root causes of behavior will allow me to offer therapy to clients. I have always been compassionate and possess excellent listening skills. I could put myself in an individual's shoes and offer legitimate solutions. My one goal is to make a difference in people's lives. Psychology is a field that I am serious about. That love is enough to motivate me to work towards this dream. Throughout this journey, I will enjoy learning everything and encountering different personalities. I have come this far due to hard work. I will continue grinding until I reach the finish line.
    Elevate Mental Health Awareness Scholarship
    I have always been thoughtful, compassionate, and helpful. These qualities have produced success in work, school, and social interactions. I also have good listening skills. That is a part of my personality. During conversations, I am usually the quiet one. I allow the other individual to talk more. Whenever my friends have issues, I encourage them to share, if they are comfortable. I take note of every detail and put myself in their shoes. If I have a similar experience, I will share. When people have experiences that are relatable to me, I feel so much more encouraged and supported. That is why I freely share personal things that are relatable. My past volunteering experiences have helped me to be more compassionate. It is easy to make assumptions about people. However, you have to interact with those who you want to understand. In my career, I must excel in understanding someone's perspective. I have to put myself in their shoes. My interactions within the community have helped me to develop creativity. Problems require creative solutions. Throughout my life experiences, I have learned the importance of perseverance. My mindset has matured. My advice is to examine my habits and methods of doing things. When my actions take me down the wrong path, I should make changes. Otherwise, I will continue to get the same results. I can't have a closed mindset. My belief should always be that I can and will overcome any obstacles. Success will follow hard work and sacrifice. Excellence is the culmination of small steps. Daily progress gradually amounts to success. Past experiences hold valuable lessons. When I make mistakes, I must be patient with myself. Next, I recall those failures and plan to avoid them by setting realistic, attainable goals. I have always been an individual with very high standards. Whenever I fail to meet those standards, I am hyper-critical of myself. In every aspect of life, I have an intense fear of failure. In the past, this characteristic has produced low self-esteem. I determine my worth based on how I perform the task in front of me. This guilt lingers until I talk with my family to gain reassurance. I struggle with this, but I understand and appreciate having someone to share my feelings with. That keeps me from going to an extremely dark place. That is why I want to be a Clinical Psychologist. I have chosen this field because I am interested in understanding the physiology of the brain. As the master organ, it regulates every single operation throughout the body. As it relates to behavior, I find it interesting to pinpoint the reason for particular actions. I believe I will make a huge impact because I had a beginning interest in my eighth-grade year. My interest in this field will motivate me to work hard and learn everything I can. I am passionate about helping others. Understanding the root causes of behavior will allow me to offer therapy to clients. I have always been compassionate and possess excellent listening skills. I could put myself in an individual's shoes and offer legitimate solutions. My one goal is to make a difference in people's lives. Psychology is a field that I am serious about. That love is enough to motivate me to work towards this dream. Throughout this journey, I will enjoy learning everything and encountering different personalities. I have come this far due to hard work. I will continue grinding until I reach the finish line.
    Ethel Hayes Destigmatization of Mental Health Scholarship
    I have always been thoughtful, compassionate, and helpful. These qualities have produced success in work, school, and social interactions. I also have good listening skills. That is a part of my personality. During conversations, I am usually the quiet one. I allow the other individual to talk more. Whenever my friends have issues, I encourage them to share, if they are comfortable. I take note of every detail and put myself in their shoes. If I have a similar experience, I will share. When people have experiences that are relatable to me, I feel so much more encouraged and supported. That is why I freely share personal things that are relatable. My past volunteering experiences have helped me to be more compassionate. It is easy to make assumptions about people. However, you have to interact with those who you want to understand. In my career, I must excel in understanding someone's perspective. I have to put myself in their shoes. My interactions within the community have helped me to develop creativity. Problems require creative solutions. Throughout my life experiences, I have learned the importance of perseverance. My mindset has matured. My advice is to examine my habits and methods of doing things. When my actions take me down the wrong path, I should make changes. Otherwise, I will continue to get the same results. I can't have a closed mindset. My belief should always be that I can and will overcome any obstacles. Success will follow hard work and sacrifice. Excellence is the culmination of small steps. Daily progress gradually amounts to success. Past experiences hold valuable lessons. When I make mistakes, I must be patient with myself. Next, I recall those failures and plan to avoid them by setting realistic, attainable goals. I have always been an individual with very high standards. Whenever I fail to meet those standards, I am hyper-critical of myself. In every aspect of life, I have an intense fear of failure. In the past, this characteristic has produced low self-esteem. I determine my worth based on how I perform the task in front of me. This guilt lingers until I talk with my family to gain reassurance. I struggle with this, but I understand and appreciate having someone to share my feelings with. That keeps me from going to an extremely dark place. That is why I want to be a Clinical Psychologist. I have chosen this field because I am interested in understanding the physiology of the brain. As the master organ, it regulates every single operation throughout the body. As it relates to behavior, I find it interesting to pinpoint the reason for particular actions. I believe I will make a huge impact because I had a beginning interest in my eighth-grade year. My interest in this field will motivate me to work hard and learn everything I can. I am passionate about helping others. Understanding the root causes of behavior will allow me to offer therapy to clients. I have always been compassionate and possess excellent listening skills. I could put myself in an individual's shoes and offer legitimate solutions. My one goal is to make a difference in people's lives. Psychology is a field that I am serious about. That love is enough to motivate me to work towards this dream. Throughout this journey, I will enjoy learning everything and encountering different personalities. I have come this far due to hard work. I will continue grinding until I reach the finish line.
    Bulkthreads.com's "Let's Build Together" Scholarship
    Hello! My name is Kenneth Armstrong Jr. I am a Valdosta State University senior. I am majoring in Psychology. I am very passionate about service and giving. I am always looking for ways to be helpful and considerate of others. My career focus is Clinical Psychology. I have chosen this field because I am interested in understanding the physiology of the brain. As the master organ, it regulates every single operation throughout the body. As it relates to behavior, I find it interesting to pinpoint the reason for particular actions. I believe that I will make a huge impact because I had an interest beginning in my eighth-grade year. My intrigue with this field will motivate me to work hard and learn everything I can. Understanding the root causes of behavior will allow me to offer therapy to clients. I have always been compassionate and possess excellent listening skills. I can put myself in an individual's shoes and offer legitimate solutions. While completing undergraduate studies, I plan to complete internships. These opportunities will allow me to understand the inner workings of my target field. This will allow me to determine if this pathway is compatible for me. Also, internships are valuable experiences for job applicants to possess. This is due to skill development. I have contacts that can guide me in the right direction. I spoke to a Psychology professor about my plans, who then referred me to a current Psychology major. I spoke with this student about internships he completed as an undergraduate. My final contact is a practicing Neuropsychologist. I had a conversation with him about his journey and what his job entails. His line of work is my goal, so our dialogue was very enlightening. I am also searching for clubs and organizations relevant to my major. Those memberships will allow me to build connections with fellow Psychology students. That collaboration will foster a sense of community and relatability. It is a mutual support system that will teach me how to be more compassionate and team-oriented. Furthermore, there are faculty and staff who can speak from their experiences. These are proactive steps that will help me to make a positive impact in this field. My one goal is to make a difference in people's lives. Psychology is a field that I am passionate about. That enthusiasm is enough to motivate me to work towards this dream. During this journey, I will enjoy learning everything that comes my way. I have come this far due to hard work and will continue grinding until I reach the finish line.
    Trees for Tuition Scholarship Fund
    I have always been thoughtful, compassionate, and helpful. These qualities have produced success in work, school, and social interactions. I also have good listening skills. That is a part of my personality. During conversations, I am usually the quiet one. I allow the other individual to talk more. Whenever my friends have issues, I encourage them to share, if they are comfortable. I take note of every detail and put myself in their shoes. If I have a similar experience, I will share. When people have experiences that are relatable to me, I feel so much more encouraged and supported. That is why I freely share personal things that are relatable. My past volunteering experiences have helped me to be more compassionate. It is easy to make assumptions about people. However, you have to interact with those who you want to understand. In my career, I must excel in understanding someone's perspective. I have to put myself in their shoes. My interactions within the community have helped me to develop creativity. Problems require creative solutions. Throughout my life experiences, I have learned the importance of perseverance. My mindset has matured. My advice is to examine my habits and methods of doing things. When my actions take me down the wrong path, I should make changes. Otherwise, I will continue to get the same results. I can't have a closed mindset. My belief should always be that I can and will overcome any obstacles. Success will follow hard work and sacrifice. Excellence is the culmination of small steps. Daily progress gradually amounts to success. Past experiences hold valuable lessons. When I make mistakes, I must be patient with myself. Next, I recall those failures and plan to avoid them by setting realistic, attainable goals. I have always been an individual with very high standards. Whenever I fail to meet those standards, I am hyper-critical of myself. In every aspect of life, I have an intense fear of failure. In the past, this characteristic has produced low self-esteem. I determine my worth based on how I perform the task in front of me. This guilt lingers until I talk with my family to gain reassurance. I struggle with this, but I understand and appreciate having someone to share my feelings with. That keeps me from going to an extremely dark place. That is why I want to be a Clinical Psychologist. I have chosen this field because I am interested in understanding the physiology of the brain. As the master organ, it regulates every single operation throughout the body. As it relates to behavior, I find it interesting to pinpoint the reason for particular actions. I believe I will make a huge impact because I had a beginning interest in my eighth-grade year. My interest in this field will motivate me to work hard and learn everything I can. I am passionate about helping others. Understanding the root causes of behavior will allow me to offer therapy to clients. I have always been compassionate and possess excellent listening skills. I could put myself in an individual's shoes and offer legitimate solutions. My one goal is to make a difference in people's lives. Psychology is a field that I am serious about. That love is enough to motivate me to work towards this dream. Throughout this journey, I will enjoy learning everything and encountering different personalities. I have come this far due to hard work. I will continue grinding until I reach the finish line.
    Autumn Davis Memorial Scholarship
    I have always been thoughtful, compassionate, and helpful. These qualities have produced success in work, school, and social skills. I also have good listening skills. That is a part of my personality. During conversations, I am usually the quiet one. I allow the other individual to talk more. Whenever my friends have issues, I encourage them to share, if they are comfortable. I take note of every detail and put myself in their shoes. If I have a similar experience, I will share. When people have experiences relatable to me, I feel so much more encouraged and supported. That is why I freely share personal things relatable to the other person. My past volunteering experiences have helped me to be more compassionate. It is easy to make assumptions about people. However, you have to interact with those who you want to understand. In my career, I will have to excel in the art of understanding someone's perspective. I have to put myself in their shoes. My interactions within the community have helped me to develop creativity. Problems require creative solutions. Throughout my life experiences, I have learned the importance of perseverance. My mindset has matured. My advice to self is to examine my habits and methods of doing things. If my actions take me down the wrong path, I should make changes. Otherwise, I will continue to get the same results. I can't have a closed mindset. My belief should always be that I can and will overcome any obstacles. Success will follow hard work and sacrifice. Excellence is the culmination of small steps. Daily progress gradually amounts to success. Past experiences hold valuable lessons. When I make mistakes, I must be patient with myself. Shortcomings are a part of humanity. I recall mistakes I made and plan to avoid them. Then, I set realistic, attainable goals. I have always been an individual with very high standards. Whenever I fail to meet those standards, I am hyper-critical of myself. In every aspect of life, I have an intense fear of failure. In the past, this characteristic has produced low self-esteem. I determine my worth based upon how I perform with the task in front of me. There is this guilt that lingers until I talk with my family to gain reassurance. I still struggle with this but I understand and appreciate having someone to share my feelings with. That keeps from going to an extremely dark place. That is why I want to be a Clinical Psychologist. I have chosen this field because I am interested in understanding the physiology of the brain. As the master organ, it regulates every single operation throughout the body. As it relates to behavior, I find it interesting to pinpoint the reason for particular actions. I believe I will make a huge impact because I had a beginning interest in my eighth-grade year. My interest in this field will motivate me to work hard and learn everything I can. I am passionate about helping others. Understanding the root causes of behavior will allow me to offer therapy to clients. I have always been compassionate and possess excellent listening skills. I could put myself in an individual's shoes and offer legitimate solutions. My one goal is to make a difference in people's lives. Psychology is a field that I am serious about. That love is enough to motivate me to work towards this dream. Throughout this journey, I will enjoy learning everything and encountering different personalities. I have come this far due to hard work. I will continue grinding until I reach the finish line.
    Theresa Lord Future Leader Scholarship
    Hello! My name is Kenneth Armstrong Jr. I am a Valdosta State University senior. I am majoring in Psychology. I have always been thoughtful, compassionate, and helpful. These qualities have produced success in work, school, and social skills. I also have good listening skills. That is a part of my personality. During conversations, I am usually the quiet one. I allow the other individual to talk more. Whenever my friends have issues, I encourage them to share, if they are comfortable. I take note of every detail and put myself in their shoes. If I have a similar experience, I will share. When people have experiences relatable to me, I feel so much more encouraged and supported. That is why I freely share personal things relatable to the other person. That is why I want to be a Clinical Psychologist. I have chosen this field because I am interested in understanding the physiology of the brain. As the master organ, it regulates every single operation throughout the body. As it relates to behavior, I find it interesting to pinpoint the reason for particular actions. I believe I will make a huge impact because I had a beginning interest in my eighth-grade year. My interest in this field will motivate me to work hard and learn everything I can. I am passionate about helping others. Understanding the root causes of behavior will allow me to offer therapy to clients. I have always been compassionate and possess excellent listening skills. I could put myself in an individual's shoes and offer legitimate solutions. A difficult experience occurred while I attended a community college. They operated on a quarter system. One of my classes was challenging. Also, the fast learning pace was a struggle. I never had problems with tests. However, I was not finishing these exams on time. The time crunch was hurting me. I concluded the term with two A's and a C. I was upset. That was my first time making a C in a class, and my overall GPA dropped to 3.1. That hurt because I graduated high school with a 4.0 GPA. I was ranked 21st out of 138 students after my 9th-grade year. I knew that I had to implement new strategies. My habits from high school were not working. During the next term, I began advocating for myself. If I was confused, I would ask questions. If I underachieved on an assignment, I would ask for tips on improving. I would take note of how my instructors tested. I am also a visual learner. If I needed further instruction, I watched YouTube videos. I asked other students about my instructors and classes. These strategies helped in building strong connections with teachers. Each quarter, I had to learn a new skill. Every teacher brought a unique challenge. I also learned to be adaptable. Everyone is not the same. I had to adjust to new learning styles. Overall, communication made me more successful. I finished my Associate's Degree with a 3.5 GPA. Thus I graduated with Cum Laude Honors. I exhibited determination by not quitting after that first term of college. I was willing to try again. After that setback, I had a newfound respect for the difficulty of the journey. I had to change my mindset. Thirdly, I had to innovate new strategies because I was struggling. I had to speak up for myself and search for outside instruction. My adjustment proves my ability to adapt to new environments. Otherwise, I would not have found success.
    Sherman S. Howard Legacy Foundation Scholarship
    I believe involvement in a local church is a great way to grow my relationship with God. Having a connection with God is not only about personal enrichment. The flip side is improving the lives of people in the community. This can be done both physically and spiritually. I believe that Jesus was sensitive to the needs of people, while He walked this earth. He manifested genuine compassion for all those who came seeking His help. There are multiple cases where He met the biological needs of an individual first. This prompted a willingness to be spiritually enriched. One example of this was the woman who had an issue of blood for twelve years. While Jesus traveled through a crowd, on his way to heal the daughter of Jairus, he suddenly sensed a peculiar touch. He then stopped and asked who had touched Him. In that crowd, there was constant pressing and bumping between everyone. Understandably, his disciples were confused by the question Jesus asked. Christ then clarifies the question by saying that He felt healing power leave His body. There was a certain reason for that feeling. Jesus was preoccupied with a mission of healing. It was no easy feat for this diseased woman to press through, much less get the attention of Christ. Her faith was firm. Without a word being spoken, she confidently reached out, touching the hem of Christ's garment. At this point, she was immediately healed. Back to where Jesus was, he looked around noticing a woman among the crowd. He knew that she stretched forth the hand of faith. He pronounced her physically restored and praised her for having such faith. This account reminds me how important it is to be sensitive to the needs of people I encounter. Compassion can go a long way. My Christian beliefs inspire me to be active in the community. I believe that everyone is equally important. In God's eyes, all people are valuable. As a believer, I must treat others with respect and kindness. I would desire help from someone if I were in trouble. It is the simple life principle that we should do to others what we expect in return. Looking at current circumstances, I realize there are disadvantaged people. I want to be more unselfish. I want to find ways to be more involved in community service. The suffering in this world motivates me to reach others. I should practice more kindness to counteract the evil in this world. This past December, I participated in a Christmas Toy Drive. The program was a way to reach out to children in the community. As a part of a Christian Organization, I helped with fundraising for the event. We did raffles, bake sales, and hot cocoa bars to raise money for the cause. The proceeds purchased toys for boys and girls. We organized the toys into size groups. We signed and decorated Christmas cards, giving them to people. The local police and sheriff's department received baked goods and cards. Customers at local stores and restaurants also received Christmas cards. Our group visited the Boys & Girls Club and an Elementary School. They were the drop-off sites for the toys. I was satisfied to see the joy on the faces of everyone served, especially the children. I had an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. The time spent in the community was 5-6 hours. Donating food, clothes, and other essentials to the less fortunate goes a long way. I am sure that the toy donation made an impact. It likely alleviated the burden of purchasing toys for Christmas presents.
    Arnetha V. Bishop Memorial Scholarship
    I have always been thoughtful, compassionate, and helpful. These qualities have produced success in work, school, and social skills. I also have good listening skills. That is a part of my personality. During conversations, I am usually the quiet one. I allow the other individual to talk more. Whenever my friends have issues, I encourage them to share, if they are comfortable. I take note of every detail and put myself in their shoes. If I have a similar experience, I will share. When people have experiences relatable to me, I feel so much more encouraged and supported. That is why I freely share personal things relatable to the other person. My past volunteering experiences have helped me to be more compassionate. It is easy to make assumptions about people. However, you have to interact with those who you want to understand. In my career, I will have to excel in the art of understanding someone's perspective. I have to put myself in their shoes. My interactions within the community have helped me to develop creativity. Problems require creative solutions. Throughout my life experiences, I have learned the importance of perseverance. My mindset has matured. My advice to self is to examine my habits and methods of doing things. If my actions take me down the wrong path, I should make changes. Otherwise, I will continue to get the same results. I can't have a closed mindset. My belief should always be that I can and will overcome any obstacles. Success will follow hard work and sacrifice. Excellence is the culmination of small steps. Daily progress gradually amounts to success. Past experiences hold valuable lessons. When I make mistakes, I must be patient with myself. Shortcomings are a part of humanity. I recall mistakes I made and plan to avoid them. Then, I set realistic, attainable goals. I have always been an individual with very high standards. Whenever I fail to meet those standards, I am hyper-critical of myself. In every aspect of life, I have an intense fear of failure. In the past, this characteristic has produced low self-esteem. I determine my worth based upon how I perform with the task in front of me. There is this guilt that lingers until I talk with my family to gain reassurance. I still struggle with this but I understand and appreciate having someone to share my feelings with. That keeps from going to an extremely dark place. That is why I want to be a Clinical Psychologist. I have chosen this field because I am interested in understanding the physiology of the brain. As the master organ, it regulates every single operation throughout the body. As it relates to behavior, I find it interesting to pinpoint the reason for particular actions. I believe I will make a huge impact because I had a beginning interest in my eighth-grade year. My interest in this field will motivate me to work hard and learn everything I can. I am passionate about helping others. Understanding the root causes of behavior will allow me to offer therapy to clients. I have always been compassionate and possess excellent listening skills. I could put myself in an individual's shoes and offer legitimate solutions. My one goal is to make a difference in people's lives. Psychology is a field that I am serious about. That love is enough to motivate me to work towards this dream. Throughout this journey, I will enjoy learning everything and encountering different personalities. I have come this far due to hard work. I will continue grinding until I reach the finish line.
    Christina Taylese Singh Memorial Scholarship
    I have always been thoughtful, compassionate, and helpful. These qualities have produced success in work, school, and social skills. I also have good listening skills. That is a part of my personality. During conversations, I am usually the quiet one. I allow the other individual to talk more. Whenever my friends have issues, I encourage them to share, if they are comfortable. I take note of every detail and put myself in their shoes. If I have a similar experience, I will share. When people have experiences relatable to me, I feel so much more encouraged and supported. That is why I freely share personal things relatable to the other person. My past volunteering experiences have helped me to be more compassionate. It is easy to make assumptions about people. However, you have to interact with those who you want to understand. In my career, I will have to excel in the art of understanding someone's perspective. I have to put myself in their shoes. My interactions within the community have helped me to develop creativity. Problems require creative solutions. Throughout my life experiences, I have learned the importance of perseverance. My mindset has matured. My advice to self is to examine my habits and methods of doing things. If my actions take me down the wrong path, I should make changes. Otherwise, I will continue to get the same results. I can't have a closed mindset. My belief should always be that I can and will overcome any obstacles. Success will follow hard work and sacrifice. Excellence is the culmination of small steps. Daily progress gradually amounts to success. Past experiences hold valuable lessons. When I make mistakes, I must be patient with myself. Shortcomings are a part of humanity. I recall mistakes I made and plan to avoid them. Then, I set realistic, attainable goals. That is why I want to be a Clinical Psychologist. I have chosen this field because I am interested in understanding the physiology of the brain. As the master organ, it regulates every single operation throughout the body. As it relates to behavior, I find it interesting to pinpoint the reason for particular actions. I believe I will make a huge impact because I had a beginning interest in my eighth-grade year. My interest in this field will motivate me to work hard and learn everything I can. I am passionate about helping others. Understanding the root causes of behavior will allow me to offer therapy to clients. I have always been compassionate and possess excellent listening skills. I could put myself in an individual's shoes and offer legitimate solutions. My one goal is to make a difference in people's lives. Psychology is a field that I am serious about. That love is enough to motivate me to work towards this dream. Throughout this journey, I will enjoy learning everything and encountering different personalities. I have come this far due to hard work. I will continue grinding until I reach the finish line.
    Bright Lights Scholarship
    Hello! My name is Kenneth Armstrong Jr. I am a Valdosta State University senior. I am majoring in Psychology. I am very passionate about service and giving. I am always looking for ways to be helpful and considerate of others. My career focus is Clinical Psychology. I have chosen this field because I am interested in understanding the physiology of the brain. As the master organ, it regulates every single operation throughout the body. As it relates to behavior, I find it interesting to pinpoint the reason for particular actions. I believe that I will make a huge impact because I had an interest beginning in my eighth-grade year. My intrigue with this field will motivate me to work hard and learn everything I can. Understanding the root causes of behavior will allow me to offer therapy to clients. I have always been compassionate and possess excellent listening skills. I can put myself in an individual's shoes and offer legitimate solutions. While completing undergraduate studies, I plan to complete internships. These opportunities will allow me to understand the inner workings of my target field. This will allow me to determine if this pathway is compatible for me. Also, internships are valuable experiences for job applicants to possess. This is due to skill development. I have contacts that can guide me in the right direction. I spoke to a Psychology professor about my plans, who then referred me to a current Psychology major. I will speak with this student about internships he completed as an undergraduate. My final contact is a practicing Neuropsychologist. I will be having a conversation with him about his journey and what his job entails. His line of work is my goal, so our dialogue should be very enlightening. I am also searching for clubs and organizations relevant to my major. Those memberships will allow me to build connections with fellow Psychology students. That collaboration will foster a sense of community and relatability. It is a mutual support system that will teach me how to be more compassionate and team-oriented. Furthermore, there are faculty and staff who can speak from their experiences. These are proactive steps that will help me to make a positive impact in this field. My one goal is to make a difference in people's lives. Psychology is a field that I am passionate about. That enthusiasm is enough to motivate me to work towards this dream. During this journey, I will enjoy learning everything that comes my way. I have come this far due to hard work and will continue grinding until I reach the finish line. My goal is to get as far as I can without taking student loans. When my educational journey is complete, I want to have little to no debt. In that case, less money will go towards debt, freeing me to better serve my local community. This scholarship will be a step toward the goal of my education.
    ADHDAdvisor's Mental Health Advocate Scholarship for Health Students
    I have always been thoughtful, compassionate, and helpful. These qualities have produced success in work, school, and social skills. I also have good listening skills. That is a part of my personality. During conversations, I am usually the quiet one. I allow the other individual to talk more. Whenever my friends have issues, I encourage them to share, if they are comfortable. I take note of every detail and put myself in their shoes. If I have a similar experience, I will share. When people have experiences relatable to me, I feel so much more encouraged and supported. That is why I freely share personal things relatable to the other person. That is why I want to be a Clinical Psychologist. I have chosen this field because I am interested in understanding the physiology of the brain. As the master organ, it regulates every single operation throughout the body. As it relates to behavior, I find it interesting to pinpoint the reason for particular actions. I believe I will make a huge impact because I had a beginning interest in my eighth-grade year. My interest in this field will motivate me to work hard and learn everything I can. I am passionate about helping others. Understanding the root causes of behavior will allow me to offer therapy to clients. I have always been compassionate and possess excellent listening skills. I could put myself in an individual's shoes and offer legitimate solutions. My one goal is to make a difference in people's lives. Psychology is a field that I am serious about. That love is enough to motivate me to work towards this dream. Throughout this journey, I will enjoy learning everything and encountering different personalities. I have come this far due to hard work. I will continue grinding until I reach the finish line.
    Joy Of Life Inspire’s AAA Scholarship
    Three years ago, I began attending a community college. They operated on a quarter system. One of my classes was challenging. Also, the fast learning pace was a struggle. I never had problems with tests. However, I was not finishing them on time. The time crunch was hurting me. I concluded the term with two A's and a C. I was upset. That was my first time making a C in a class, and my overall GPA dropped to 3.1. That hurt because I graduated high school with a 4.0 GPA. I was ranked 21st out of 138 students after my 9th-grade year. I knew that I had to implement new strategies. My habits from high school were not working. During the next term, I began advocating for myself. If I were confused, I would ask questions. If I underachieved on an assignment, I would ask for tips on improving. I would take note of how my instructors tested. I am also a visual learner. If I needed further instruction, I watched YouTube videos. I asked other students about my instructors and classes. These strategies helped in building strong connections with teachers. Each quarter, I had to learn a new skill. Every teacher brought a unique challenge. I also learned to be adaptable. Everyone is not the same. I had to adjust to new learning styles. Overall, communication made me more successful. I finished my Associate's Degree with a 3.5 GPA. Thus I graduated with Cum Laude Honors. I exhibited determination by not quitting after that first term of college. I was willing to try again. After that setback, I had a newfound respect for the difficulty of the journey. I had to change my mindset. Thirdly, I had to innovate new strategies because I was struggling. I had to speak up for myself and search for outside instruction. Ever since a child, I have been very passionate about service and giving. I am always looking for ways to be helpful and considerate of others. I have devoted personal time to volunteering in several ventures. I am a member of the Christian Collegiate Fellowship Club at GMC, where we conduct fundraising endeavors, community service events, clothing and food drives, and host an annual Christmas Toy Drive. I can recall a couple of instances when we delivered toys to kids at a local elementary school and at the Boys & Girls Club. I really enjoyed singing Christmas Carols as we served the children during the holiday season. It was a privilege to also deliver baked goods and Christmas cards to the local Police Department. Putting smiles on all of their faces was quite exhilarating and definitely rewarding. That experience was one of many instances where I have done community service. My past volunteering experiences have helped me to be more compassionate. It is easy to make assumptions about people. However, you have to interact with those who you want to understand. In my career, I will have to excel in the art of understanding someone's perspective. I have to put myself in their shoes. My interactions within my community help me to develop creativity. Problems require creative solutions.
    Emma Jane Hastie Scholarship
    Winner
    Hello! My name is Kenneth Armstrong Jr. I am a senior currently attending Valdosta State University. I am majoring in Psychology. I am very passionate about service and giving. I am always looking for ways to be helpful and considerate of others. I have been eager to help others since childhood. My focus is on Clinical Psychology. I have chosen this field because I am interested in understanding the physiology of the brain. As the master organ, it regulates every single operation throughout the body. As it relates to behavior, I find it interesting to pinpoint the reason for particular actions. I believe I will make a huge impact because I had a beginning interest in my eighth-grade year. My interest in this field will motivate me to work hard and learn everything I can. I am passionate about helping others. Understanding the root causes of behavior will allow me to offer therapy to clients. I have always been compassionate and possess excellent listening skills. I could put myself in an individual's shoes and offer legitimate solutions. My one goal is to make a difference in people's lives. Psychology is a field that I am serious about. That love is enough to motivate me to work towards this dream. I have devoted personal time to volunteering in several ventures. I am a member of the Christian Collegiate Fellowship Club at GMC, where we conduct fundraising endeavors, community service events, clothing and food drives, and host an annual Christmas Toy Drive. I can recall a couple of instances when we delivered toys to kids at a local elementary school and at the Boys & Girls Club. I really enjoyed singing Christmas Carols as we served the children during the holiday season. It was a privilege to also deliver baked goods and Christmas cards to the local Police Department. Putting smiles on all of their faces was quite exhilarating and definitely rewarding. That experience was one of many instances where I have done community service. My past volunteering experiences have helped me to be more compassionate. It is easy to make assumptions about people. However, you have to interact with those who you want to understand. In my career, I will have to excel in the art of understanding someone's perspective. I have to put myself in their shoes. My interactions within my community help me to develop creativity. Problems require creative solutions.
    So You Want to Be a Mental Health Professional Scholarship
    Hello! My name is Kenneth Armstrong Jr. I am a Valdosta State University senior. I am majoring in Psychology. I am very passionate about service and giving. I am always looking for ways to be helpful and considerate of others. My career focus is Clinical Psychology. I have chosen this field because I am interested in understanding the physiology of the brain. As the master organ, it regulates every single operation throughout the body. As it relates to behavior, I find it interesting to pinpoint the reason for particular actions. I believe that I will make a huge impact because I had an interest beginning in my eighth-grade year. My intrigue with this field will motivate me to work hard and learn everything I can. Understanding the root causes of behavior will allow me to offer therapy to clients. I have always been compassionate and possess excellent listening skills. I can put myself in an individual's shoes and offer legitimate solutions. While completing undergraduate studies, I plan to complete internships. These opportunities will allow me to understand the inner workings of my target field. This will allow me to determine if this pathway is compatible for me. Also, internships are valuable experiences for job applicants to possess. This is due to skill development. I have contacts that can guide me in the right direction. I spoke to a Psychology professor about my plans, who then referred me to a current Psychology major. I will speak with this student about internships he completed as an undergraduate. My final contact is a practicing Neuropsychologist. I will be having a conversation with him about his journey and what his job entails. His line of work is my goal, so our dialogue should be very enlightening. I am also searching for clubs and organizations relevant to my major. Those memberships will allow me to build connections with fellow Psychology students. That collaboration will foster a sense of community and relatability. It is a mutual support system that will teach me how to be more compassionate and team-oriented. Furthermore, there are faculty and staff who can speak from their experiences. These are proactive steps that will help me to make a positive impact in this field. My one goal is to make a difference in people's lives. Psychology is a field that I am passionate about. That enthusiasm is enough to motivate me to work towards this dream. During this journey, I will enjoy learning everything that comes my way. I have come this far due to hard work and will continue grinding until I reach the finish line.
    Schmid Memorial Scholarship
    Hello! My name is Kenneth Armstrong Jr. I am a senior currently attending Valdosta State University. I am majoring in Psychology. I am very passionate about service and giving. I am always looking for ways to be helpful and considerate of others. Ever since I was a child, I have been eager to help. My parents encouraged me to be active with chores and responsibilities. Aside from my upbringing, thoughtfulness and compassion have always come naturally. As I have grown older, this quality has produced success in work, school, and social skills. Currently, I am a member of a Christian Organization on my college campus. We manage interactive events for students like encouragement notes, free baked goods, prayer, and raffles. We also do community events such as Christmas Toy Drives, Worship Events, and student outreach. I always look for opportunities to serve others. My focus is on Clinical Psychology. I have chosen this field because I am interested in understanding the physiology of the brain. As the master organ, it regulates every single operation throughout the body. As it relates to behavior, I find it interesting to pinpoint the reason for particular actions. I believe I will make a huge impact because I had a beginning interest in my eighth-grade year. My interest in this field will motivate me to work hard and learn everything I can. I am passionate about helping others. Understanding the root causes of behavior will allow me to offer therapy to clients. I have always been compassionate and possess excellent listening skills. I could put myself in an individual's shoes and offer legitimate solutions. My one goal is to make a difference in people's lives. This scholarship will help me to continue my path throughout my undergraduate studies. My goal is eventually obtain a doctorate degree. I am trying to get as far as I can before taking out loans. This scholarship will be a step towards that goal of my education. Psychology is a field that I am serious about. That love is enough to motivate me to work towards this dream. Throughout this journey, I will enjoy learning everything and encountering different personalities. I have come this far due to hard work. I will continue grinding until I reach the finish line.
    Simon Strong Scholarship
    Hello! My name is Kenneth Armstrong Jr. I am a Valdosta State University senior. I am majoring in Psychology. I am very passionate about service and giving. I am always looking for ways to be helpful and considerate of others. My career goal is Clinical Psychology. I have chosen this field because I am interested in understanding the physiology of the brain. As the master organ, it regulates every single operation throughout the body. As it relates to behavior, I find it interesting to pinpoint the reason for particular actions. I believe I will make a huge impact because I had a beginning interest in my eighth-grade year. A difficult experience occurred while I attended a community college. They operated on a quarter system. One of my classes was challenging. Also, the fast learning pace was a struggle. I never had problems with tests. However, I was not finishing them on time. The time crunch was hurting me. I concluded the term with two A's and a C. I was upset. That was my first time making a C in a class, and my overall GPA dropped to 3.1. That hurt because I graduated high school with a 4.0 GPA. I was ranked 21st out of 138 students after my 9th-grade year. I knew that I had to implement new strategies. My habits from high school were not working. During the next term, I began advocating for myself. If I were confused, I would ask questions. If I underachieved on an assignment, I would ask for tips on improving. I would take note of how my instructors tested. I am also a visual learner. If I needed further instruction, I watched YouTube videos. I asked other students about my instructors and classes. These strategies helped in building strong connections with teachers. Each quarter, I had to learn a new skill. Every teacher brought a unique challenge. I also learned to be adaptable. Everyone is not the same. I had to adjust to new learning styles. Overall, communication made me more successful. I finished my Associate's Degree with a 3.5 GPA. Thus I graduated with Cum Laude Honors. I exhibited determination by not quitting after that first term of college. I was willing to try again. After that setback, I had a newfound respect for the difficulty of the journey. I had to change my mindset. Thirdly, I had to innovate new strategies because I was struggling. I had to speak up for myself and search for outside instruction. My adjustment proves my ability to adapt to new environments. Otherwise, I would not have found success. I realized that everyone is equal because of their potential to succeed. Thus, we can all learn from each other. Often, I asked students how they were thriving, and I received invaluable advice. With nurturing, I have trained myself to redefine perfectionism. I manipulate it to help me improve. Accordingly, my mindset has matured. My advice would be to examine your habits and methods of doing things. If your actions take you down the wrong path, make changes. Otherwise, you will continue to get the same results. Don't have a closed mindset. Always have the belief that you can overcome any obstacles. Success will follow hard work and sacrifice. Excellence is the culmination of small steps. Daily progress gradually amounts to success. Past experiences hold valuable lessons. When you make mistakes, be patient with yourself. Shortcomings are a part of humanity. Recall mistakes you made and plan to avoid them. Set realistic, attainable goals.
    Rev. and Mrs. E B Dunbar Scholarship
    I attended a community college. They operated on a quarter system. One of my classes was challenging. Also, the fast learning pace was a struggle. I never had problems with tests. However, I was not finishing them on time. The time crunch was hurting me. I concluded the term with two A's and a C. I was upset. That was my first time making a C in a class, and my overall GPA dropped to 3.1. That hurt because I graduated high school with a 4.0 GPA. I was ranked 21st out of 138 students after my 9th-grade year. I knew that I had to implement new strategies. My habits from high school were not working. During the next term, I began advocating for myself. If I were confused, I would ask questions. If I underachieved on an assignment, I would ask for tips on improving. I would take note of how my instructors tested. I am also a visual learner. If I needed further instruction, I watched YouTube videos. I asked other students about my instructors and classes. These strategies helped in building strong connections with teachers. Each quarter, I had to learn a new skill. Every teacher brought a unique challenge. I also learned to be adaptable. Everyone is not the same. I had to adjust to new learning styles. Overall, communication made me more successful. I finished my Associate's Degree with a 3.5 GPA. Thus I graduated with Cum Laude Honors. I exhibited determination by not quitting after that first term of college. I was willing to try again. After that setback, I had a newfound respect for the difficulty of the journey. I had to change my mindset. Thirdly, I had to innovate new strategies because I was struggling. I had to speak up for myself and search for outside instruction. My focus is on Clinical Psychology. I have chosen this field because I am interested in understanding the physiology of the brain. As the master organ, it regulates every single operation throughout the body. As it relates to behavior, I find it interesting to pinpoint the reason for particular actions. I believe I will make a huge impact because I had a beginning interest in my eighth-grade year. My interest in this field will motivate me to work hard and learn everything I can. I am passionate about helping others. Understanding the root causes of behavior will allow me to offer therapy to clients. I have always been compassionate and possess excellent listening skills. I could put myself in an individual's shoes and offer legitimate solutions. My one goal is to make a difference in people's lives. Psychology is a field that I am serious about. That love is enough to motivate me to work towards this dream. Throughout this journey, I will enjoy learning everything and encountering different personalities. I have come this far due to hard work. I will continue grinding until I reach the finish line.
    Priscilla Shireen Luke Scholarship
    Hello! My name is Kenneth Armstrong Jr. I am a senior currently attending Valdosta State University. I am majoring in Psychology. I am very passionate about service and giving. I am always looking for ways to be helpful and considerate of others. I have devoted personal time to volunteering in several ventures. I am a member of the Christian Collegiate Fellowship Club at GMC, where we conduct fundraising endeavors, community service events, clothing and food drives, and host an annual Christmas Toy Drive. I can recall a couple of instances when we delivered toys to kids at a local elementary school and at the Boys & Girls Club. I really enjoyed singing Christmas Carols as we served the children during the holiday season. It was a privilege to also deliver baked goods and Christmas cards to the local Police Department. Putting smiles on all of their faces was quite exhilarating and definitely rewarding. That experience was one of many instances where I have done community service. My past volunteering experiences have helped me to be more compassionate. It is easy to make assumptions about people. However, you have to interact with those who you want to understand. In my career, I will have to excel in the art of understanding someone's perspective. I have to put myself in their shoes. My interactions within my community help me to develop creativity. Problems require creative solutions. My focus is on Clinical Psychology. I have chosen this field because I am interested in understanding the physiology of the brain. As the master organ, it regulates every single operation throughout the body. As it relates to behavior, I find it interesting to pinpoint the reason for particular actions. I believe I will make a huge impact because I had a beginning interest in my eighth-grade year. My interest in this field will motivate me to work hard and learn everything I can. I am passionate about helping others. Understanding the root causes of behavior will allow me to offer therapy to clients. I have always been compassionate and possess excellent listening skills. I could put myself in an individual's shoes and offer legitimate solutions. My one goal is to make a difference in people's lives. Psychology is a field that I am serious about. That love is enough to motivate me to work towards this dream. Throughout this journey, I will enjoy learning everything and encountering different personalities. I have come this far due to hard work. I will continue grinding until I reach the finish line.
    Sewing Seeds: Lena B. Davis Memorial Scholarship
    Hello! My name is Kenneth Armstrong Jr. I am a senior currently attending Valdosta State University. I am majoring in Psychology. I am very passionate about service and giving. I am always looking for ways to be helpful and considerate of others. I have devoted personal time to volunteering in several ventures. I am a member of the Christian Collegiate Fellowship Club at GMC, where we conduct fundraising endeavors, community service events, clothing and food drives, and host an annual Christmas Toy Drive. I can recall a couple of instances when we delivered toys to kids at a local elementary school and at the Boys & Girls Club. I really enjoyed singing Christmas Carols as we served the children during the holiday season. It was a privilege to also deliver baked goods and Christmas cards to the local Police Department. Putting smiles on all of their faces was quite exhilarating and definitely rewarding. That experience was one of many instances where I have done community service. My past volunteering experiences have helped me to be more compassionate. It is easy to make assumptions about people. However, you have to interact with those who you want to understand. In my career, I will have to excel in the art of understanding someone's perspective. I have to put myself in their shoes. My interactions within my community help me to develop creativity. Problems require creative solutions. My focus is on Clinical Psychology. I have chosen this field because I am interested in understanding the physiology of the brain. As the master organ, it regulates every single operation throughout the body. As it relates to behavior, I find it interesting to pinpoint the reason for particular actions. I believe I will make a huge impact because I had a beginning interest in my eighth-grade year. My interest in this field will motivate me to work hard and learn everything I can. I am passionate about helping others. Understanding the root causes of behavior will allow me to offer therapy to clients. I have always been compassionate and possess excellent listening skills. I could put myself in an individual's shoes and offer legitimate solutions. My one goal is to make a difference in people's lives. Psychology is a field that I am serious about. That love is enough to motivate me to work towards this dream. Throughout this journey, I will enjoy learning everything and encountering different personalities. I have come this far due to hard work. I will continue grinding until I reach the finish line.
    John Young 'Pursue Your Passion' Scholarship
    I am an undergraduate student, going into my senior year of college. I am pursuing a B.S. degree in Psychology. I have chosen this field because I am interested in understanding the physiology of the brain. As the master organ, it regulates every single operation throughout the body. As it relates to behavior, I find it interesting to pinpoint the reason for particular actions. I believe I will make a huge impact because I had a beginning interest in my eighth-grade year. My interest in this field will motivate me to work hard and learn everything I can. I am passionate about helping others. Understanding the root causes of behavior will allow me to offer therapy to clients. I have always been compassionate and possess excellent listening skills. I could put myself in an individual's shoes and offer legitimate solutions. My one goal is to make a difference in people's lives. Psychology is a field that I am serious about. That love is enough to motivate me to work towards this dream. Throughout this journey, I will enjoy learning everything and encountering different personalities. I have come this far due to hard work. I will continue grinding until I reach the finish line.
    Reasons To Be - In Memory of Jimmy Watts
    My past volunteering experiences have helped me to be more compassionate. It is easy to make assumptions about people. However, you have to interact with those who you want to understand. I have always been a helpful person. I always try to better others. My interactions within my community help me to develop creativity. Problems require creative solutions. In my daily life, I try to make a positive impact. My choices in the present are shaping what I will be in the future. Unless I take the small steps, I will not reach my goal. Experience has taught me not to underestimate anything that happens. There is always a lesson to learn. We do not have to accomplish tasks that require great skill. We can make an impact by doing little things. Donating food, clothes, and other essentials to the less fortunate goes a long way. I am sure that the toy donation made an impact. It is not harmful to influence change using complex methods. However, we should never overlook the small, simple details. Each puzzle piece seems insignificant, but they all connect to create the big picture. I have always wanted to pursue a career where I could improve people's lives. I considered being an EMT, Photographer, and Counseling Psychologist. More recently, I have been interested in entering the medical field. I still have a remaining interest in psychology. I believe that I could best fulfill those ambitions by becoming a Neurologist. I want to become a Medical Doctor to be among people needing care and representation. I already possess the drive to serve others, but working in a professional field will allow me to impact more people. As a doctor, I will devote my time and attention to understanding the issues that affect patients. I realize that the healthcare system is not perfect. Mistreatment occurs. That is especially true when it comes to minorities. As a black person, I will seek to ascertain the root causes of the medical malpractice affecting African-Americans and other minorities. Racial diversity in healthcare is necessary because it allows equal representation and advocacy of minorities. I would be in an optimal position to advocate for fellow African-Americans. As a black person in America, I am accustomed to inequality. Also, role models can be a source of empowerment. That is especially true of individuals within the same community. As healthcare becomes more diverse, the upcoming generation will know anything is possible. When I become a doctor, I want to be a source of inspiration and courage to the next generation of black Americans.
    Priscilla Shireen Luke Scholarship
    Ever since I was a child, I have been eager to help. My parents encouraged me to be active with chores and responsibilities. Aside from my upbringing, thoughtfulness and compassion have always come naturally. As I have grown older, this quality has produced success in work, school, and social skills. Currently, I am a member of a Christian Organization on my college campus. We manage interactive events for students like encouragement notes, free baked goods, prayer, and raffles. We also do community events such as Christmas Toy Drives, Worship Events, and student outreach. I always look for opportunities to serve others. This past December, I participated in a Christmas Toy Drive. The program was a way to reach out to children in the community. As a part of a Christian Organization, I helped with fundraising for the event. We operated raffles, bake sales, and hot cocoa bars to raise money for the cause. The proceeds purchased toys for boys and girls. We organized the toys into size groups. We signed and decorated Christmas cards, giving them to people. The local police and sheriff's department received baked goods and cards. Customers at local stores and restaurants also received Christmas cards. Our group visited the Boys & Girls Club and an Elementary School. They were the drop-off sites for the toys. I was satisfied to see the joy on the faces of everyone served, especially the children. I had an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. The time spent in the community was about 5-6 hours. However, our impact on each moment superseded the total time spent. As I look to the future, I think about what impact I will have. I want to become a Medical Doctor to be among people needing care and representation. I already possess the drive to serve others, but working in a professional field will allow me to impact more people. As a doctor, I will devote my time and attention to understanding the issues that affect patients. I realize that the healthcare system is not perfect. Mistreatment occurs. That is especially true when it comes to minorities. As a black person, I will seek to ascertain the root causes of the medical malpractice affecting African-Americans and other minorities. Racial diversity in healthcare is necessary because it allows equal representation and advocacy of minorities. I would be in an optimal position to advocate for fellow African-Americans. As a black person in America, I am accustomed to inequality. Also, role models can be a source of empowerment. That is especially true of individuals within the same community. As healthcare becomes more diverse, the upcoming generation will know anything is possible. When I become a doctor, I want to be a source of inspiration and courage to the next generation of black Americans. In my daily life, I try to make a positive impact. My choices in the present are shaping what I will be in the future. Unless I take the small steps, I will not reach my goal. Experience has taught me not to underestimate anything that happens. There is always a lesson to learn. We do not have to accomplish tasks that require great skill. We can make an impact by doing little things. Donating food, clothes, and other essentials to the less fortunate goes a long way. I am sure that the toy donation made an impact. It is not harmful to influence change using complex methods. However, we should never overlook the small, simple details. Each puzzle piece seems insignificant, but they all connect to create the big picture.
    Our Destiny Our Future Scholarship
    Ever since I was a child, I have been eager to help. My parents encouraged me to be active with chores and responsibilities. Aside from my upbringing, thoughtfulness and compassion have always come naturally. As I have grown older, this quality has produced success in work, school, and social skills. I always look for opportunities to serve others. This past December, I participated in a Christmas Toy Drive. The program was a way to reach out to children in the community. As a part of a Christian Organization, I helped with fundraising for the event. We operated raffles, bake sales, and hot cocoa bars to raise money for the cause. The proceeds purchased toys for boys and girls. We organized the toys into size groups. We signed and decorated Christmas cards, giving them to people. The local police and sheriff's department received baked goods and cards. Customers at local stores and restaurants also received Christmas cards. Our group visited the Boys & Girls Club and an Elementary School. They were the drop-off sites for the toys. I was satisfied to see the joy on the faces of everyone served, especially the children. I had an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. The time spent in the community was about 5-6 hours. However, our impact on each moment superseded the total time spent. As I look to the future, I think about what impact I will have. I want to become a Medical Doctor to be among people needing care and representation. I already possess the drive to serve others, but working in a professional field will allow me to impact more people. As a doctor, I will devote my time and attention to understanding the issues that affect patients. I realize that the healthcare system is not perfect. Mistreatment occurs. That is especially true when it comes to minorities. As a black person, I will seek to ascertain the root causes of the medical malpractice affecting African-Americans and other minorities. Racial diversity in healthcare is necessary because it allows equal representation and advocacy of minorities. I would be in an optimal position to advocate for fellow African-Americans. As a black person in America, I am accustomed to inequality. Also, role models can be a source of empowerment. That is especially true of individuals within the same community. As healthcare becomes more diverse, the upcoming generation will know anything is possible. When I become a doctor, I want to be a source of inspiration and courage to the next generation of black Americans. In my daily life, I try to make a positive impact. My choices in the present are shaping what I will be in the future. Unless I take the small steps, I will not reach my goal. Experience has taught me not to underestimate anything that happens. There is always a lesson to learn. We do not have to accomplish tasks that require great skill. We can make an impact by doing little things. Donating food, clothes, and other essentials to the less fortunate goes a long way. I am sure that the toy donation made an impact. It is not harmful to influence change using complex methods. However, we should never overlook the small, simple details. Each puzzle piece seems insignificant, but they all connect to create the big picture.
    Walking In Authority International Ministry Scholarship
    Ever since I was a child, I have been helpful. My parents encouraged me to be useful around the house. Aside from my upbringing, thoughtfulness, and compassion have always come naturally to me. As I have grown older, this quality has produced success at work, school, and in my social life. I truly believe that actions speak louder than words. You can tell someone you care about them, but sharing is caring. My Christian beliefs inspire me to be active in the community. I believe that everyone is equally important. In God's eyes, all people are valuable. As a believer, I must treat others with respect and kindness. I would desire help from someone if I were in trouble. It is the simple life principle that we should do to others what we expect in return. Looking at current circumstances, I realize there are disadvantaged people. I want to be more unselfish. I want to find ways to be more involved in community service. The suffering in this world motivates me to reach others. I should practice more kindness to counteract the evil in this world. This past December, I participated in a Christmas Toy Drive. The program was a way to reach out to children in the community. As a part of a Christian Organization, I helped with fundraising for the event. We operated raffles, bake sales, and hot cocoa bars to raise money for the cause. The proceeds purchased toys for boys and girls. We organized the toys into size groups. We signed and decorated Christmas cards, giving them to people. The local police and sheriff's department received baked goods and cards. Customers at local stores and restaurants also received Christmas cards. Our group visited the Boys & Girls Club and an Elementary School. They were the drop-off sites for the toys. I was satisfied to see the joy on the faces of everyone served, especially the children. I had an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. The time spent in the community was about 5-6 hours. However, our impact on each moment superseded the total time spent. We do not have to accomplish tasks that require great skill. We can make an impact by doing little things. Donating food, clothes, and other essentials to the less fortunate goes a long way. I am sure that the toy donation made an impact. It likely alleviated the burden of purchasing toys for Christmas presents. It is not harmful to influence change using complex methods. However, we should never overlook the small, simple details. Each puzzle piece seems insignificant, but they all connect to create the big picture.
    Kim Moon Bae Underrepresented Students Scholarship
    I am a young African-American man. I realize that I am the minority here in America. My ancestry traces back to many years of oppression and injustice. Thankfully, times are much better. I appreciate the efforts of those who have worked to provide a better future. In particular, I remember the Civil Rights Activists who sacrificed so much. I have a lot to be thankful for. Their example shows the result of standing for the right. I believe that morality will always prevail. There will ever be opposition to what is right. More times than not, evil is in the majority. Nevertheless, I belong to a people defined by resilience and courage. I have noticed that underrepresentation is present in the Medical Field. African-Americans in healthcare are a minority group. I have asked myself these questions. Why are African-Americans so poorly represented in the medical field? Do we have equal access to opportunity? How might a lack of diversity affect the medical treatment of minorities? These thoughts evoke feelings of sadness and dismay. It is crucial to understand these issues and seek to produce better results. I am motivated to chart my path to success. My career will be in the medical field. I want to become a doctor to be among people needing care and attention. I already possess the drive to serve others, but working in a professional field will allow me to impact more people. As a doctor, I will devote my time and attention to understanding the issues that affect patients. I realize that the healthcare system is not perfect. Mistreatment occurs. That is especially true when it comes to minorities. As a black person, I will seek to ascertain the root causes of the medical malpractice affecting African-Americans and other minorities. I want to be there for my patients emotionally. I could become absorbed with making money. However, my patients are not numbers. They are people with legitimate concerns and feelings. Everything I do will be in their best interest. There will be moments when I don't feel my best. When I come to work, I cannot be selfish. Everyone has their struggles. When that reflects in the demeanor of my patients, I have to be patient and manifest empathy. Racial diversity in healthcare is necessary because it allows equal representation and advocacy of minorities. As I mentioned earlier, some disparities affect minorities. With increased racial diversity, people from all backgrounds relate with someone. There are peculiar characteristics associated with each ethnicity. You only relate to others if you are acquainted with their experiences. I would be in an optimal position to advocate for fellow African-Americans. As a black person in America, I am accustomed to inequality. Also, role models can be a source of empowerment. That is especially true of individuals within the same community. As an African-American, I stand on the shoulders of my ancestors. The sacrifices they made for equal opportunity have allowed me to be successful. Likewise, seeing fellow African-Americans defy the odds gives me hope for a successful career. As healthcare becomes more diverse, the upcoming generation will know anything is possible. When I become a doctor, I want to be a source of inspiration and courage to the next generation of black Americans.
    DRIVE an IMPACT Today Scholarship
    One unique attribute about me is perfectionism. Now, I am aware that many people deal with this mindset. However, it helps me to push myself to greater heights. Instead of viewing it negatively, I think of ways to improve. I strive to be flawless in everything I undertake. That is not inherently harmful. However, I become discouraged when I fall short. That occurs because I set unrealistic goals. The same is true of dreams. You might dream that you are invisible, although invisibility is not realistic. Likewise, I have learned that excellence is the culmination of small steps. Daily progress gradually amounts to success. When I am pessimistic, I should remember that success is a journey. I can become more passionate and determined by reflecting upon past milestones. Past experiences hold valuable lessons. I can also recall mistakes I made and plan to avoid them. Furthermore, hearing success stories goes a long way toward motivating and inspiring. When I make mistakes, I will be patient with myself. Shortcomings are a part of humanity. I will write objectives in a planner and calendar to be more organized. Realistic, attainable goals will keep me on track each day. As a Christian, I will call upon the Lord for strength and encouragement. Without Him, nothing is possible. I believe that He is the only source of success. I attended a community college. They operated on a quarter system. One of my classes was challenging. Also, the fast learning pace was a struggle. I never had problems with tests. However, I was not finishing them on time. The time crunch was hurting me. I concluded the term with two A's and a C. I was upset. That was my first time making a C in a class, and my overall GPA dropped to 3.1. That hurt because I graduated high school with a 4.0 GPA. I was ranked 21st out of 138 students after my 9th-grade year. I knew that I had to implement new strategies. My habits from high school were not working. During the next term, I began advocating for myself. If I were confused, I would ask questions. If I underachieved on an assignment, I would ask for tips on improving. I would take note of how my instructors tested. I am also a visual learner. If I needed further instruction, I watched YouTube videos. I asked other students about my instructors and classes. These strategies helped in building strong connections with teachers. Each quarter, I had to learn a new skill. Every teacher brought a unique challenge. I also learned to be adaptable. Everyone is not the same. I had to adjust to new learning styles. Overall, communication made me more successful. I finished my Associate's Degree with a 3.5 GPA. Thus I graduated with Cum Laude Honors. I exhibited determination by not quitting after that first term of college. I was willing to try again. After that setback, I had a newfound respect for the difficulty of the journey. I had to change my mindset. Thirdly, I had to innovate new strategies because I was struggling. I had to speak up for myself and search for outside instruction. My adjustment proves my ability to adapt to new environments. Otherwise, I would not have found success. I realized that everyone is equal because of their potential to succeed. Thus, we can all learn from each other. Often, I asked students how they were thriving, and I received invaluable advice. With nurturing, I have trained myself to redefine perfectionism. I manipulate it to help me improve. Accordingly, my mindset has matured.
    Mohamed Magdi Taha Memorial Scholarship
    I am an upstander because I do not appreciate injustice. I hate to see inequality in the world. In certain instances, it is true that some benefit at the expense of others. If someone needs help, I will seek to be of service. I have always been the type to help without being asked. Consider this scenario. There is a clear need, and I fail to offer assistance. Am I an upstander? Maybe I consent to be of service only if someone asks. Is that genuine compassion? I don't believe so. Recently, I performed charity work in my community. This past December, I participated in a Christmas Toy Drive. The program was a way to reach out to children in the community. As a part of a Christian Organization, I helped with fundraising for the event. We operated raffles, bake sales, and hot cocoa bars to raise money for the cause. The proceeds purchased toys for boys and girls. We organized the toys into size groups. We signed and decorated Christmas cards, giving them to people. The local police and sheriff's department received baked goods and cards. Customers at local stores and restaurants also received Christmas cards. Our group visited the Boys & Girls Club and an Elementary School. They were the drop-off sites for the toys. I was satisfied to see the joy on the faces of everyone served, especially the children. I had an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. The time spent in the community was about 5-6 hours. However, our impact on each moment superseded the total time spent. As I look to the future, I think about what impact I will have. I want to become a Medical Doctor to be among people needing care and representation. I already possess the drive to serve others, but working in a professional field will allow me to impact more people. As a doctor, I will devote my time and attention to understanding the issues that affect patients. I realize that the healthcare system is not perfect. Mistreatment occurs. That is especially true when it comes to minorities. As a black person, I will seek to ascertain the root causes of the medical malpractice affecting African-Americans and other minorities. Racial diversity in healthcare is necessary because it allows equal representation and advocacy of minorities. I would be in an optimal position to advocate for fellow African-Americans. As a black person in America, I am accustomed to inequality. Also, role models can be a source of empowerment. That is especially true of individuals within the same community. As healthcare becomes more diverse, the upcoming generation will know anything is possible. When I become a doctor, I want to be a source of inspiration and courage to the next generation of black Americans. In my daily life, I try to make a positive impact. My choices in the present are shaping what I will be in the future. Unless I take the small steps, I will not reach my goal. Experience has taught me not to underestimate anything that happens. There is always a lesson to learn. We do not have to accomplish tasks that require great skill. We can make an impact by doing little things. Donating food, clothes, and other essentials to the less fortunate goes a long way. I am sure that the toy donation made an impact. It is not harmful to influence change using complex methods. However, we should never overlook the small, simple details. Each puzzle piece seems insignificant, but they all connect to create the big picture.
    Our Destiny Our Future Scholarship
    Ever since I was a child, I have been eager to help. My parents encouraged me to be active with chores and responsibilities. Aside from my upbringing, thoughtfulness, and compassion have always come naturally. As I have grown older, this quality has produced success in work, school, and social skills. I always look for opportunities to serve others. This past December, I participated in a Christmas Toy Drive. The program was a way to reach out to children in the community. As a part of a Christian Organization, I helped with fundraising for the event. We operated raffles, bake sales, and hot cocoa bars to raise money for the cause. The proceeds purchased toys for boys and girls. We organized the toys into size groups. We signed and decorated Christmas cards, giving them to people. The local police and sheriff's department received baked goods and cards. Customers at local stores and restaurants also received Christmas cards. Our group visited the Boys & Girls Club and an Elementary School. They were the drop-off sites for the toys. I was satisfied to see the joy on the faces of everyone served, especially the children. I had an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. The time spent in the community was about 5-6 hours. However, our impact on each moment superseded the total time spent. As I look to the future, I think about what impact I will have. I want to become a Medical Doctor to be among people needing care and representation. I already possess the drive to serve others, but working in a professional field will allow me to impact more people. As a doctor, I will devote my time and attention to understanding the issues that affect patients. I realize that the healthcare system is not perfect. Mistreatment occurs. That is especially true when it comes to minorities. As a black person, I will seek to ascertain the root causes of the medical malpractice affecting African-Americans and other minorities. Racial diversity in healthcare is necessary because it allows equal representation and advocacy of minorities. I would be in an optimal position to advocate for fellow African-Americans. As a black person in America, I am accustomed to inequality. Also, role models can be a source of empowerment. That is especially true of individuals within the same community. As healthcare becomes more diverse, the upcoming generation will know anything is possible. When I become a doctor, I want to be a source of inspiration and courage to the next generation of black Americans. In my daily life, I try to make a positive impact. My choices in the present are shaping what I will be in the future. Unless I take the small steps, I will not reach my goal. Experience has taught me not to underestimate anything that happens. There is always a lesson to learn. We do not have to accomplish tasks that require great skill. We can make an impact by doing little things. Donating food, clothes, and other essentials to the less fortunate goes a long way. I am sure that the toy donation made an impact. It is not harmful to influence change using complex methods. However, we should never overlook the small, simple details. Each puzzle piece seems insignificant, but they all connect to create the big picture.
    Bright Lights Scholarship
    Ever since I was a child, I have been eager to help. My parents encouraged me to be active with chores and responsibilities. Aside from my upbringing, thoughtfulness, and compassion have always come naturally. As I have grown older, this quality has produced success in work, school, and social skills. I wanted to pursue a career where I could improve people's lives. I considered being an EMT, Photographer, and Counseling Psychologist. However, a significant experience revealed my true purpose in life. I was gasping for air. I was at home with my family. Home is where you should always feel protected and safe from harm. Unfortunately, I suffered a health crisis that day. I felt like I was going to die. I was having an asthma attack. I remember struggling to breathe and being fatigued. I was unable to stand or sit up straight. It was a frightening ordeal. My parents rushed me to the hospital. After being stabilized, the doctor said I might have died if my parents lacked urgency. It was one thing to know that I was in distress, but hearing that the attack was a near-death experience was chilling. That asthma attack was pivotal because I developed a new-found appreciation for healthcare professionals. The medical personnel quickly stabilized me, and I was released a week later. That involving experience of being cared for by doctors and nurses is something I will never forget. I always thought of doctors as superheroes, wearing coats instead of capes. My thoughts are still the same. My experience interested me in Medicine. I was intrigued by the equipment utilized. I also had the opportunity to ask questions about the treatments and their usefulness. I learned that healthcare workers should be interested in assisting and interacting with people. They should be willing to make sacrifices and efforts to preserve/restore the health of their patients. I am naturally an extrovert, so I have no problem associating with people. I want to become a Medical Doctor to be among people needing care and representation. I already possess the drive to serve others, but working in a professional field will allow me to impact more people. As a doctor, I will devote my time and attention to understanding the issues that affect patients. I realize that the healthcare system is not perfect. Mistreatment occurs. That is especially true when it comes to minorities. As a black person, I will seek to ascertain the root causes of the medical malpractice affecting African-Americans and other minorities. I am an undergraduate student in my third year. I will graduate in 2025. I want to progress through school debt-free. If I cannot reach that goal, I would love to earn my Bachelor's Degree without student loans. I have been applying for many scholarships. I am saving money for my Fall classes. This scholarship will assist me with school expenses. My main focus is Medical School. Therefore, I would appreciate any financial assistance for these last two years.
    McClendon Leadership Award
    When I think of leadership, I envision inspiring others. A leader is an individual who acknowledges issues relevant to people. Then, they can take responsibility for seeing the situation through. Also, leaders present their ideas and persuade others to adopt their mindset. The goal is not to force their views on the people. Instead, they will cause them to consider different forms of action and change. We can learn much through objective collaboration. As a leader, you cannot be afraid to make mistakes. There are times when your actions will cause disapproval. Again, leadership requires a solid commitment to team values. If you violate that code of conduct, you are accountable. You have to apologize to all those affected. You are one of the people. Your role does not make you better than them. Empathy and compassion are great qualities of a leader. Consider yourself if you were in their shoes. Leaders are servants of the people. The expectation is to use your influence to promote the common good. Leadership is important. Without it, the world would fall apart. Worldwide, some individuals take the stage in health. Others specialize in defense. Still, some work in the economic sector. Those are only a few areas of worldwide influence. Here in the U.S., we have the POTUS and VP. There are Governors, Mayors, and Senators. That does not cover the entire scope of national influence. However, we understand the impact these leaders have on our societal construct. Imagine our country without these individuals. As mentioned earlier, they work on behalf of the people. They advocate for our values. What would happen if everyone was silent about their concerns? What would you do if you had a workplace complaint? What action would you take if you were not performing well in a class? You would consult your manager and instructor, respectively. Those scenarios may seem insignificant, but the minor aspects of life shape who we will become. Earlier in life, I was reserved. In school, I dreaded asking for help. I preferred to "figure things out" on my own. That strategy worked in my favor a few times, but it failed me most times. I needed to take charge of my learning. I had to find my voice and utilize it. A recent experience drove this point home for me. I attended a community college. One of my classes was challenging. Also, the fast learning pace was a struggle. I never had problems with tests before. However, I was not finishing these exams on time. The time crunch was crippling. I concluded the term with two A's and a C. That was my first time making a C in a class, and my overall GPA dropped to 3.1. That hurt because I graduated high school with a 4.0 GPA. During the next term, I began advocating for myself. If I were confused, I would ask questions. If I underachieved on an assignment, I would ask for tips on improving. I would take note of how my instructors tested. Overall, I started speaking up. Communication made me more successful. Eventually, I finished my Associate's Degree with a 3.5 GPA. I graduated with Cum Laude Honors. My Perseverance and Dedication have brought me this far. I have learned that success consists of small steps. I should focus on the present obstacles to progress toward my goal. I cannot rely on others to do the work for me. My choices determine if I will be successful. I must advocate for myself. As an adult, I must voice my concerns and explore ways to solve problems.
    Hector L. Minott Sr. Future Doctor Scholarship
    I attended a community college. One of my classes was challenging. Also, the fast learning pace was a struggle. I never had problems with tests before. However, I was not finishing these exams on time. The time crunch was crippling. I concluded the term with two A's and a C. That was my first time making a C in a class, and my overall GPA dropped to 3.1. That hurt because I graduated high school with a 4.0 GPA. During the next term, I began advocating for myself. If I were confused, I would ask questions. If I underachieved on an assignment, I would ask for tips on improving. I would take note of how my instructors tested. Eventually, I finished my Associate's Degree with a 3.5 GPA. I graduated with Cum Laude Honors. Perseverance and Dedication have brought me this far.
    Maxwell Tuan Nguyen Memorial Scholarship
    Ever since I was a child, I have been eager to help. My parents encouraged me to be active with chores and responsibilities. Aside from my upbringing, thoughtfulness, and compassion have always come naturally. As I have grown older, this quality has produced success at work, school, and social skills. I wanted to pursue a career where I could improve people's lives. I considered being an EMT, Photographer, and Counseling Psychologist. However, a significant experience revealed my true purpose in life. I was gasping for air. I was at home with my family. Home is where you should always feel protected and safe from harm. Unfortunately, I suffered a health crisis that day. I felt like I was going to die. I was having an asthma attack. I remember struggling to breathe and being fatigued. I was unable to stand or sit up straight. It was a frightening ordeal. My parents rushed me to the hospital. After being stabilized, the doctor said I might have died if my parents lacked urgency. It was one thing to know that I was in distress, but hearing that the attack was a near-death experience was chilling. That asthma attack was pivotal because I developed a new-found appreciation for healthcare professionals. The medical personnel quickly stabilized me. I was released a week later. That involving experience of being cared for by doctors and nurses is something I will never forget. I always thought of doctors as superheroes, wearing coats instead of capes. My thoughts are still the same. My experience interested me in Medicine. I was intrigued by the equipment utilized. I also had the opportunity to ask questions about the treatments and their usefulness. I learned that healthcare professionals should be interested in assisting and interacting with people. They should be willing to make sacrifices and efforts to preserve/restore the health of their patients. I am naturally an extrovert, so I have no problem associating with people. I want to become a Medical Doctor to be among people needing care and representation. I already possess the drive to serve others, but working in a professional field will allow me to impact more people. As a doctor, I will devote my time and attention to understanding the issues that affect patients. I realize that the healthcare system is not perfect. Mistreatment occurs. That is especially true when it comes to minorities. As a black person, I will seek to ascertain the root causes of the medical malpractice affecting African-Americans and other minorities. Racial diversity in healthcare is necessary because it allows equal representation and advocacy of minorities. As I mentioned earlier, some disparities affect minorities. With increased racial diversity, people from all backgrounds relate with someone. There are peculiar characteristics associated with each ethnicity. You only relate to others if you are acquainted with their experiences. I would be in an optimal position to advocate for fellow African-Americans. As a black person in America, I am accustomed to inequality. Also, role models can be a source of empowerment. That is especially true of individuals within the same community. As an African-American, I stand on the shoulders of my ancestors. The sacrifices they made for equal opportunity have allowed me to be successful. Likewise, seeing fellow African-Americans defy the odds gives me hope for a successful career. As healthcare becomes more diverse, the upcoming generation will know anything is possible. When I become a doctor, I want to be a source of inspiration and courage to the next generation of black Americans.
    Stephan L. Daniels Lift As We Climb Scholarship
    Ever since I was a child, I have been eager to help. My parents encouraged me to be active with chores and responsibilities. Aside from my upbringing, thoughtfulness, and compassion have always come naturally. As I have grown older, this quality has produced success at work, school, and social skills. I wanted to pursue a career where I could improve people's lives. I considered being an EMT, Photographer, and Counseling Psychologist. However, a significant experience revealed my true purpose in life. I was gasping for air. I was at home with my family. Home is where you should always feel protected and safe from harm. Unfortunately, I suffered a health crisis that day. I felt like I was going to die. I was having an asthma attack. I remember struggling to breathe and being fatigued. I was unable to stand or sit up straight. It was a frightening ordeal. My parents rushed me to the hospital. After being stabilized, the doctor said I might have died if my parents lacked urgency. It was one thing to know that I was in distress, but hearing that the attack was a near-death experience was chilling. That asthma attack was pivotal because I developed a new-found appreciation for healthcare professionals. The medical personnel quickly stabilized me. I was released a week later. That involving experience of being cared for by doctors and nurses is something I will never forget. I always thought of doctors as superheroes, wearing coats instead of capes. My thoughts are still the same. My experience interested me in Medicine. I was intrigued by the equipment utilized. I also had the opportunity to ask questions about the treatments and their usefulness. I learned that healthcare professionals should be interested in assisting and interacting with people. They should be willing to make sacrifices and efforts to preserve/restore the health of their patients. I am naturally an extrovert, so I have no problem associating with people. I want to become a Medical Doctor to be among people needing care and representation. I already possess the drive to serve others, but working in a professional field will allow me to impact more people. As a doctor, I will devote my time and attention to understanding the issues that affect patients. I realize that the healthcare system is not perfect. Mistreatment occurs. That is especially true when it comes to minorities. As a black person, I will seek to ascertain the root causes of the medical malpractice affecting African-Americans and other minorities. Racial diversity in healthcare is necessary because it allows equal representation and advocacy of minorities. As I mentioned earlier, some disparities affect minorities. With increased racial diversity, people from all backgrounds relate with someone. There are peculiar characteristics associated with each ethnicity. You only relate to others if you are acquainted with their experiences. I would be in an optimal position to advocate for fellow African-Americans. As a black person in America, I am accustomed to inequality. Also, role models can be a source of empowerment. That is especially true of individuals within the same community. As an African-American, I stand on the shoulders of my ancestors. The sacrifices they made for equal opportunity have allowed me to be successful. Likewise, seeing fellow African-Americans defy the odds gives me hope for a successful career. As healthcare becomes more diverse, the upcoming generation will know anything is possible. When I become a doctor, I want to be a source of inspiration and courage to the next generation of black Americans.
    Eleven Scholarship
    Back in January 2021, I was a 17-year-old. I was signing up to take my first college classes. I graduated high school in May of 2020. I was excited to take the next step. I was anxious. I did not know what to expect. However, my past success pushed me forward. I learned a lot. I had to fail so that I could improve. I attended a community college. They operate on a quarter system. One of my classes was challenging. Also, the fast learning pace was a struggle. I never had problems with tests. However, I was not finishing them on time. The time crunch was hurting me. I concluded the term with two A's and a C. I was upset. That was my first time making a C in a class, and my overall GPA dropped to 3.1. That hurt because I graduated high school with a 4.0 GPA. I was ranked 21st out of 138 students after my 9th-grade year. You can probably understand my disappointment now. I had time to process my feelings. Then, I reflected on my mistakes. I was very disorganized and did not ask enough questions. My time management was also poor. These factors contributed to my setback. I might have said, "College is not for me!" Fortunately, I did not. My parents, success coach, and God were the keys to my comeback. I knew that I had to implement new strategies. My habits from high school were not working. During the next term, I began advocating for myself. If I were confused, I would ask questions. If I underachieved on an assignment, I would ask for tips on improving. I would take note of how my instructors tested. I am also a visual learner. If I needed further instruction, I watched YouTube videos. I asked other students about my instructors and classes. These strategies helped in building strong connections with teachers. Each quarter, I had to learn a new skill. Every teacher brought a unique challenge. I also learned to be adaptable. Everyone is not the same. I had to adjust to new learning styles. Overall, I started speaking up. Communication made me more successful. I finished my Associate's Degree with a 3.5 GPA. Thus I graduated with Cum Laude Honors. Perseverance and Dedication have brought me this far. I have learned that success consists of small steps. I should focus on the present obstacles to progress toward my goal. I cannot rely on others to do the work for me. My choices determine if I will be successful. I must advocate for myself. As an adult, I must voice my concerns and explore ways to solve problems. When I make mistakes, I have to remain positive. A defeated attitude will prevent me from bettering myself. Past experiences are stepping steps towards a brighter future.
    Collaboration & Diversity in Healthcare Scholarship
    In the workplace, we encounter different personalities and ways of thinking. Customers and employees alike differ from each other. This fact causes a job to be a learning experience. Everyone has to focus on building a harmonious environment. Each person should embrace their uniqueness. Yet, they have to accomplish a common goal. A certain degree of compromise is necessary. A team thrives on a commitment to everyone's success. In the medical field, there is a shared responsibility. Healthcare workers exist to serve the community. Unity must be present within the team. Diversity is crucial. Our world is vast. It encompasses many different groups of people. Diversity in healthcare promotes the representation of our society as a whole. With increased diversity, people from all backgrounds relate with someone. There are peculiar characteristics associated with each demographic. You only relate to others if you are acquainted with their experiences. Similarly, the collaboration will bring results. Healthcare workers from different backgrounds can discuss issues. Everyone can share their perspective. With that knowledge, they can implement effective solutions. You have to understand every aspect of the situation. As healthcare diversifies, I believe that social awareness will increase. Thus, people can receive equitable healthcare. When I reach the medical field, I want to blaze a path for others. As a doctor, I will devote my time and attention to understanding the issues that affect my patients. I realize that the healthcare system is not perfect. Mistreatment occurs. That is especially true when it comes to minorities. As a black person, I will seek to ascertain the root causes of the medical malpractice affecting African-Americans and other minorities. Racial diversity in healthcare is necessary because it allows equal representation and advocacy of minorities. I would be in an optimal position to advocate for fellow African-Americans. As a black person in America, I am accustomed to inequality. Also, role models can be a source of empowerment. That is especially true of individuals within the same community. As healthcare becomes more diverse, the upcoming generation will know anything is possible. When I become a doctor, I want to be a source of inspiration and courage to the next generation of black Americans. I will be as equally devoted to creating a positive work environment. A team thrives when each member realizes their accountability to everyone else. Poor etiquette in others is no excuse for me to act similarly. My job is to be consistent in efficiency, compassion, and progression. When I come to work, I will focus on creating the best environment for patients and my co-workers. Also, I will be very approachable toward my colleagues. It is impossible to work with someone who never listens. There will be opportunities for me to share my input. Likewise, I will need to take criticism and thoughts from others. During a Chemistry class, we had a group project. There were three groups. We had to perform research on a scientific topic. The information would be compiled and presented. Our group covered pesticides. We analyzed their uses. Also, we discussed the pros and cons. We had separate responsibilities. However, we assisted each other with duties outside our 'assignments.' We worked in person once or twice. Moving forward, we worked remotely. We communicated through text and Microsoft Word. Staying focused, we completed our project on time. Each of us presented a different segment. Our preparation earned us a high score.
    I Can Do Anything Scholarship
    One day, I envision myself working as a Medical Doctor, changing people's lives through innovative treatments and methods of prevention while valuing each individual as more than just a number.
    NE1 NE-Dream Scholarship
    Life takes us along a unique path allowing us to experience growth. I am a 19-year-old undergraduate student. I earned my Associate's Degree in Biology this past October. My long-term goal is to become a Medical Doctor. At other times, I considered being an EMT, Photographer, and Counseling Psychologist. However, a significant experience revealed my true purpose in life. I was gasping for air. I was at home with my family. Home is where you should always feel protected and safe from harm. Unfortunately, I suffered a health crisis that day. I felt like I was going to die. I was having an asthma attack. I remember struggling to breathe and being fatigued. I was unable to stand or sit up straight. It was a frightening ordeal. My parents rushed me to the hospital. After being stabilized, the doctor said I might have died if my parents lacked urgency. It was one thing to know that I was in distress, but hearing that the attack was a near-death experience was chilling. That asthma attack was pivotal because I developed a new-found appreciation for healthcare professionals. The medical personnel quickly stabilized me. I was released a week later. That involving experience of being cared for by doctors and nurses is something I will never forget. I always thought of doctors as superheroes, wearing coats instead of capes. My thoughts are still the same. My experience interested me in Medicine. I was intrigued by the equipment utilized. I also had the opportunity to ask questions about the treatments and their usefulness. I learned that healthcare professionals should be interested in assisting and interacting with people. They should be willing to make sacrifices and efforts to preserve/restore the health of their patients. I am naturally an extrovert, so I have no problem associating with people. Ever since I was a child, I have been helpful. My parents encouraged me to be useful around the house, although thoughtfulness and compassion have always come naturally to me. As I have grown older, these qualities have produced success at work, school, and in my social life. I truly believe that actions speak louder than words. I realize that the healthcare system is not perfect. Mistreatment occurs. That is especially true when it comes to minorities. As a black person, I will seek to ascertain the root causes of the medical malpractice affecting African-Americans and other minorities. Racial diversity in healthcare is necessary because it allows equal representation and advocacy for minorities. As I mentioned earlier, some disparities affect minorities. With increased racial diversity, people from all backgrounds can relate to someone. There are peculiar characteristics associated with each ethnicity. Also, role models can be a source of empowerment. That is especially true of individuals within the same community. As an African-American, I stand on the shoulders of my ancestors. As healthcare becomes more diverse, the upcoming generation will know anything is possible. When I become a doctor, I want to be a source of inspiration and courage to the next generation of Black Americans. I want to become a doctor to be among people needing care and representation. I already possess the drive to serve others, but working in a professional field will allow me to impact more people. The road to becoming a doctor is going to present challenges. Nevertheless, my near-death experience taught me that life has its share of failures and seeming defeats. However, those difficult moments are not the end of the road. I must always have the mindset of a champion. A champion refuses to quit.
    Sunshine Legall Scholarship
    We set goals to remember things we want to accomplish in life. Anything important to people warrants utmost dedication and preeminence. I want to become a doctor to be among people needing care and attention. I already possess the drive to serve others, but working in a professional field will allow me to impact more people. As a doctor, I will devote my time and attention to understanding the issues that affect patients. I realize that the healthcare system is not perfect. Mistreatment occurs. That is especially true when it comes to minorities. As a black person, I will seek to ascertain the root causes of the medical malpractice affecting African-Americans and other minorities. Racial diversity in healthcare is necessary because it allows equal representation and advocacy of minorities. As I mentioned earlier, some disparities affect minorities. With increased racial diversity, people from all backgrounds relate with someone. There are peculiar characteristics associated with each ethnicity. You only relate to others if you are acquainted with their experiences. I would be in an optimal position to advocate for fellow African-Americans. As a black person in America, I am accustomed to inequality. I want to be there for my patients emotionally. I could become absorbed with making money. However, my patients are not numbers. It is easy to judge someone, but we seldom consider what they are dealing with behind the scenes. I will develop personal connections with patients to build trust. I will also be a patient listener. Thus, I can grasp the full scope of the issue. Also, role models can be a source of empowerment. That is especially true of individuals within the same community. As an African-American, I stand on the shoulders of my ancestors. The sacrifices they made for equal opportunity have allowed me to be successful. Likewise, seeing fellow African-Americans defy the odds gives me hope for a successful career. As healthcare becomes more diverse, the upcoming generation will know anything is possible. When I become a doctor, I want to be a source of inspiration and courage to the next generation of black Americans. This past December, I participated in a Christmas Toy Drive. The program was a way to reach out to children in the community. As a part of a Christian Organization, I helped with fundraising for the event. We operated raffles, bake sales, and hot cocoa bars to raise money for the cause. The proceeds purchased toys for boys and girls. We organized the toys into size groups. We signed and decorated Christmas cards, giving them to people. The local police and sheriff's department received baked goods and cards. Customers at local stores and restaurants also received Christmas cards. Our group visited the Boys & Girls Club and an Elementary School. They were the drop-off sites for the toys. I was satisfied to see the joy on the faces of everyone served, especially the children. I had an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. The time spent in the community was about 5-6 hours. However, our impact on each moment superseded the total time spent. We do not have to accomplish tasks that require great skill. We can make an impact by doing little things. Donating food, clothes, and other essentials to the less fortunate goes a long way. I am sure that the toy donation made an impact. It likely alleviated the burden of purchasing toys for Christmas presents. It is not harmful to influence change using complex methods. However, we should never overlook the small, simple details. Each puzzle piece seems insignificant, but they all connect to create the big picture.
    Maverick Grill and Saloon Scholarship
    In my mind, being unique is a characteristic that is specific to you. It might be a personality trait that others possess. However, you express it in your creative way. Everyone is different. Imagine a world where people were identical. Would that be intriguing? Would you decide to paint a canvas with one color? You probably would not. The reason is that diversity naturally appeals to us. One unique attribute about me is perfectionism. Now, I am aware that many people deal with this mindset. However, it helps me to push myself to greater heights. Instead of viewing it negatively, I think of ways to improve. I strive to be flawless in everything I undertake. That is not inherently harmful. However, I become discouraged when I fall short. That occurs because I set unrealistic goals. The same is true of dreams. You might dream that you are invisible, although invisibility is not realistic. Likewise, I have learned that excellence is the culmination of small steps. Daily progress gradually amounts to success. When I am pessimistic, I should remember that success is a journey. I can become more passionate and determined by reflecting upon past milestones. Past experiences hold valuable lessons. I can also recall mistakes I made and plan to avoid them. Furthermore, hearing success stories goes a long way toward motivating and inspiring. When I make mistakes, I will be patient with myself. Shortcomings are a part of humanity. I will write objectives in a planner and calendar to be more organized. Realistic, attainable goals will keep me on track each day. As a Christian, I will call upon the Lord for strength and encouragement. Without Him, nothing is possible. I believe that He is the only source of success. My community involvement will be in the Medical Field. I want to become a doctor to be among people needing care and attention. I already possess the drive to serve others, but working in a professional field will allow me to impact more people. As a doctor, I will devote my time and attention to understanding the issues that affect patients. I realize that the healthcare system is not perfect. Mistreatment occurs. That is especially true when it comes to minorities. As a black person, I will seek to ascertain the root causes of the medical malpractice affecting African-Americans and other minorities. Racial diversity in healthcare is necessary because it allows equal representation and advocacy of minorities. As I mentioned earlier, some disparities affect minorities. With increased racial diversity, people from all backgrounds relate with someone. There are peculiar characteristics associated with each ethnicity. You only relate to others if you are acquainted with their experiences. I would be in an optimal position to advocate for fellow African-Americans. As a black person in America, I am accustomed to inequality. Also, role models can be a source of empowerment. That is especially true of individuals within the same community. As an African-American, I stand on the shoulders of my ancestors. The sacrifices they made for equal opportunity have allowed me to be successful. Likewise, seeing fellow African-Americans defy the odds gives me hope for a successful career. As healthcare becomes more diverse, the upcoming generation will know anything is possible. When I become a doctor, I want to be a source of inspiration and courage to the next generation of black Americans.
    Trees for Tuition Scholarship Fund
    My ultimate goal is to become a Doctor. Naturally, I am passionate about service and giving. I am always looking for ways to be helpful and considerate. I do not help others for personal gain. I freely give of myself to benefit and uplift others. The satisfaction which stems from unselfishness is a reward in and of itself. I want to become a doctor to be among people needing care and attention. I already possess the drive to serve others, but working in a professional field will allow me to impact more people. As a doctor, I will devote my time and attention to understanding the issues that affect patients. I realize that the healthcare system is not perfect. Mistreatment occurs. That is especially true when it comes to minorities. As a black person, I will seek to ascertain the root causes of the medical malpractice affecting African-Americans and other minorities. I want to be there for my patients emotionally. I could become absorbed with making money. However, my patients are not numbers. They are people with legitimate concerns and feelings. Everything I do will be in their best interest. When I come to work, I cannot be selfish. Everyone has their struggles. When pain reflects in the demeanor of my patients, I have to be patient and manifest empathy. Racial diversity in healthcare is necessary because it allows equal representation and advocacy for minorities. As I mentioned earlier, some disparities affect minorities. With increased racial diversity, people from all backgrounds relate with someone. There are peculiar characteristics associated with each ethnicity. You only relate to others if you are acquainted with their experiences. I would be in an optimal position to advocate for fellow African-Americans. As a black person in America, I am accustomed to inequality. Also, role models can be a source of empowerment. That is especially true of individuals within the same community. As an African-American, I stand on the shoulders of my ancestors. The sacrifices they made for equal opportunity have allowed me to be successful. Likewise, seeing fellow African-Americans defy the odds gives me hope for a successful career. As healthcare becomes more diverse, the upcoming generation will know anything is possible. When I become a doctor, I want to be a source of inspiration and courage to the next generation of black Americans. This past December, I participated in a Christmas Toy Drive. The program was a way to reach out to children in the community. As a part of a Christian Organization, I helped with fundraising for the event. We operated raffles, bake sales, and hot cocoa bars to raise money for the cause. The proceeds purchased toys for boys and girls. We organized the toys into size groups. We signed and decorated Christmas cards, giving them to people. The local police and sheriff's department received baked goods and cards. Customers at local stores and restaurants also received Christmas cards. Our group visited the Boys & Girls Club and an Elementary School. They were the drop-off sites for the toys. I was satisfied to see the joy on the faces of everyone served, especially the children. I had an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. The time spent in the community was about 5-6 hours. However, our impact on each moment superseded the total time spent. After college, I will make an impact by doing the little things. It is not harmful to influence change using complex methods. However, I never overlook the small, simple details. Each puzzle piece seems insignificant, but they all connect to create the big picture.
    Walking In Authority International Ministry Scholarship
    Ever since I was a child, I have been helpful. My parents encouraged me to be useful around the house. Aside from my upbringing, thoughtfulness, and compassion have always come naturally to me. As I have grown older, this quality has produced success at work, school, and in my social life. I truly believe that actions speak louder than words. You can tell someone you care about them, but sharing is caring. My Christian beliefs inspire me to be active in the community. I believe that everyone is equally important. In God's eyes, all people are valuable. As a believer, I must treat others with respect and kindness. I would desire help from someone if I were in trouble. It is the simple life principle that we should do to others what we expect in return. When I look at current circumstances, I realize there are disadvantaged people. One cause of pain is natural disasters. I think about the current situation in Turkey-Syria. A massive earthquake rattled the area, toppling buildings. The debris killed thousands of people, burying them alive. The rescue teams have managed to save others, despite the catastrophic losses. I admire the bravery and self-sacrifice of those individuals. They are risking their lives. I want to be more unselfish. I want to find ways to be more involved in community service. The suffering in this world motivates me to reach others. I should practice more kindness to counteract the evil in this world. This past December, I participated in a Christmas Toy Drive. The program was a way to reach out to children in the community. As a part of a Christian Organization, I helped with fundraising for the event. We operated raffles, bake sales, and hot cocoa bars to raise money for the cause. The proceeds purchased toys for boys and girls. We organized the toys into size groups. We signed and decorated Christmas cards, giving them to people. The local police and sheriff's department received baked goods and cards. Customers at local stores and restaurants also received Christmas cards. Our group visited the Boys & Girls Club and an Elementary School. They were the drop-off sites for the toys. I was satisfied to see the joy on the faces of everyone served, especially the children. I had an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. The time spent in the community was about 5-6 hours. However, our impact on each moment superseded the total time spent. We do not have to accomplish tasks that require great skill. We can make an impact by doing little things. Donating food, clothes, and other essentials to the less fortunate goes a long way. I am sure that the toy donation made an impact. It likely alleviated the burden of purchasing toys for Christmas presents. It is not harmful to influence change using complex methods. However, we should never overlook the small, simple details. Each puzzle piece seems insignificant, but they all connect to create the big picture.
    MedLuxe Representation Matters Scholarship
    I want to become a doctor to be among people needing care and attention. I already possess the drive to serve others, but working in a professional field will allow me to impact more people. As a doctor, I will devote my time and attention to understanding the issues that affect patients. I realize that the healthcare system is not perfect. Mistreatment occurs. That is especially true when it comes to minorities. As a black person, I will seek to ascertain the root causes of the medical malpractice affecting African-Americans and other minorities. I want to be there for my patients emotionally. I could become absorbed with making money. However, my patients are not numbers. They are people with legitimate concerns and feelings. Everything I do will be in their best interest. There will be moments when I don't feel my best. When I come to work, I cannot be selfish. Everyone has their struggles. When that reflects in the demeanor of my patients, I have to be patient and manifest empathy. It is easy to judge someone by what they present. However, we seldom consider what they are dealing with behind the scenes. I will develop personal connections with patients. My goal is to build trust. I will also be a patient listener. Thus, I can grasp the full scope of the issue. Also, I will be very approachable toward my colleagues. It is impossible to work with someone who never listens. There will be opportunities for me to share my input. Likewise, I will need to take criticism and thoughts from others. A team thrives when each member realizes their accountability to everyone else. Poor etiquette in others is no excuse for me to act similarly. My job is to be consistent in efficiency, compassion, and progression. When I come to work, I will focus on creating the best environment for patients and my co-workers. Less selfishness and more selflessness are my mottoes. Racial diversity in healthcare is necessary because it allows equal representation and advocacy of minorities. As I mentioned earlier, some disparities affect minorities. With increased racial diversity, people from all backgrounds relate with someone. There are peculiar characteristics associated with each ethnicity. You only relate to others if you are acquainted with their experiences. I would be in an optimal position to advocate for fellow African-Americans. As a black person in America, I am accustomed to inequality. Also, role models can be a source of empowerment. That is especially true of individuals within the same community. As an African-American, I stand on the shoulders of my ancestors. The sacrifices they made for equal opportunity have allowed me to be successful. Likewise, seeing fellow African-Americans defy the odds gives me hope for a successful career. As healthcare becomes more diverse, the upcoming generation will know anything is possible. When I become a doctor, I want to be a source of inspiration and courage to the next generation of black Americans.
    PAC: Diversity Matters Scholarship
    Ever since I was a child, I have been eager to help. My parents encouraged me to be active with chores and responsibilities. Aside from my upbringing, thoughtfulness and compassion have always come naturally. As I have grown older, this quality has produced success at work, school, and in social skills. I firmly believe that my Christian upbringing has benefitted my growth. I have learned to put God first in my life. My motive for self-improvement is to glorify Him. I find the greatest fulfillment in improving the lives of others. I have many experiences with community service. However, one life-changing incident set me on the path to medicine. I have always been intrigued by the medical equipment and depth of research needed to diagnose and treat patients. I was able to experience specialized treatment as a child. There was a time when I suffered a severe asthma attack. I remember struggling to breathe and being fatigued. I was unable to stand or sit up straight. It was a frightening ordeal. Initially, my parents planned to monitor me throughout the night and take me to the hospital in the morning. Thankfully, they abandoned that idea and decided to transport me to the hospital that same day. I am thankful for the change of plans because the doctor said I might have died before the morning. It was one thing to know that I was struggling, but hearing that the attack was a near-death experience was shocking. Once at the hospital, the medical personnel stabilized and discharged me in less than a week. That involving experience of being cared for by doctors and nurses is something I will never forget. That one time in my life emphasized the medical field. That life-altering experience reminded me of life's brevity. Improving myself and helping others are the only goals in my life. My Christian beliefs will motivate me to be compassionate toward patients. It is easy to judge someone by what they present. However, we seldom consider what they are dealing with behind the scenes. I will develop personal connections with patients. My goal is to build trust. I will also be a patient listener. Thus, I can grasp the full scope of the issue. Also, I will be very approachable toward my colleagues. It is impossible to work with someone who never listens. There will be opportunities for me to share my input. Likewise, I will need to take criticism and thoughts from others. A team thrives when each member realizes their accountability to everyone else. Poor etiquette in others is no excuse for me to act similarly. My job is to be consistent in efficiency, compassion, and progression. When I come to work, I will focus on creating the best environment for patients and my co-workers. Less selfishness and more selflessness are my mottoes.
    @normandiealise #GenWealth Scholarship
    Our actions shape what our future will be. Everyone decides their destiny, but it is necessary to have support. None of us are truly independent. There are times when we need assistance from other people. Generational wealth can brighten someone's future. Education is very costly, especially for low-income and middle-class families. Personally, generational wealth signifies competency in how to spend and grow money. It is financial literacy that is maintained and passed from generation to generation. One generation of people can teach their children how to invest their money. Parents should model wise spending habits and methods of saving. Extended family can also play a role in educating the upcoming generation. Aside from bestowing knowledge, the previous generation can dedicate an amount of money their children can utilize as they start their lives. Setting aside money for your child's education is the first step toward a bright future. It is possible to carve paths to success with limited education. However, there is so much more you can accomplish with a degree. That is why parents should invest in their child's academic journey. Also, children should be allowed to start a banking account to start learning responsibility. I have had a savings account for about 3-5 years now. Having my account was an incentive to be wary of how much I was spending. Now that I have a checking account, I know how often and how much I spend. When I shop, I compare price tags to find the best deal. There is room for improvement, but my price consciousness prevents me from reckless spending. I have my parents to thank for teaching me self-control and common sense. Firstly, I plan to achieve generational wealth by comparing the prices of items. I believe that I can be more thorough in "shopping around." I am not at the point of browsing multiple stores/sites in search of the best deal. A lack of patience as a consumer can cause me to forfeit potential savings. I can also start the habit of tracking every purchase that I make. My banking app automatically keeps track of my card payments. However, I still make purchases with cash. I believe that I will be wiser with my money if I take the time to plan my finances. Along with personal budgeting, I would start early by teaching my children how to be responsible with their finances. It is good to talk about the strategies, but it is even more important to model positive habits. I would allow my children to begin a saving account. As a result, they learn the idea of being resourceful. Also, I would allow them to pay for small things. For example, they could purchase a toy or school supplies. Early in life, I was encouraged to spend my own money. There are things that we need and want. The necessities should always take precedence. However, there is a balance between the financial demand of needs and wants.
    Your Dream Music Scholarship
    When I think about music, I think of its universal influence. Music can impact individuals across different races, languages, and cultures. It is mind-blowing to consider how ideas and emotions are affected by music with and without lyrics. The song with the most compelling message is Oceans by Hillsong United. This song resonates with me because the theme is one of faith and courage to persevere. The meaning is relatable for me because I am a Christian. I remember I am only human, so I trust in Jesus Christ. He alone can bring success and peace throughout the storms of life. When I fall, I can rise again. I have already mentioned the power of music to speak to people from all walks of life. I believe that Oceans is a song that can encourage anyone with life struggles. You do not have to be a Christian to understand and be uplifted by the message. Everyone has challenges. There are moments when we feel discouraged and hopeless. The overarching theme is to keep your goals in mind and to pursue them relentlessly. You will not always have smooth sailing, but an optimistic mindset will keep you grounded. We naturally desire to live a life of ease. However, we cannot undergo growth and development unless we face adversity. When taking an academic exam, your final grade will reflect how good your preparation was. Likewise, real-life setbacks reveal who we are. Then you can improve and become stronger after those hard times. Roadblocks are not the end of your journey but obstacles rerouting you toward your destination.
    Lifelong Learning Scholarship
    How do we expand our knowledge and abilities? How can we create opportunities to fulfill our dreams, thus reaching our highest expectations? We have to learn before we can grow. Life is all about learning new things and making improvements. Throughout my academic journey and day-to-day experiences, I have discovered the importance of having an open mind. Learning is important to me because it keeps me humble and approachable. Whenever I stumble upon a new concept or life lesson, I am able to self-reflect. I can examine the new information and think about how it will help me moving forward. In school, I can use new material to substantiate what I have already learned. The culmination of that information is used to assess my understanding and application, during an exam. When my instructor presents new strategies to improve my performance, I can accept them and test their effectiveness. Also, learning opportunities can show how profitable your current path is. Life lessons do show us where we can improve, but can also exemplify what we are doing correctly. For example, you might have adopted a healthier lifestyle a year ago. You did research on how diet and other lifestyle habits affect your well-being. When you go to the doctor for your physical, you learn that your lifestyle changes have caused major improvements. You are then told what you were at risk for, if you continued your previous habits. You already knew what the risks were, but now you know the extent of how you might have declined. I have not always been receptive to criticism and advice. Over the years, however, I have seen the value of being receptive to improvement. There are always new things to learn. I have learned not to take things personal. I understand that I am imperfect and can always grow as a person. My success in my future career and usefulness as a person, depends upon my attitude. Daily, I must face reality and know that there is so much room for improvement. To be honest, learning should not be seen as a burden. Learning is empowerment. As I continue to learn, I am enabled to achieve greater goals and responsibilities. I will continue to learn by staying in school. My career goal is to become a doctor. I have a long road ahead of me, but I am eager to learn. I will acquire the knowledge of different forms of treatment and research. Eventually, I will have to go through the residency, where I will practice what I have learned. Doctors have to care about people and make sacrifices for the well-being of their patients. My goal of becoming a doctor is partly influenced by a desire to help people. I will definitely acquire a wealth of knowledge and experience during that journey. Even when I am a doctor, I will be involved in research. Thus, I will be able to learn about diseases and effective treatments. There will always be more to uncover because Science is progressive. Outside of my career, I will also be involved in the community. By association with people, I will learn about different challenges and struggles they face. I do not want to be selfish. I will use my money and influence to serve others both on and off the clock.
    Theresa Lord Future Leader Scholarship
    I was gasping for air. I was at home with my family. Home is where you should always feel protected and safe from all harm. Unfortunately, I suffered a health crisis that day. I felt like I was going to die. I was having an asthma attack. I remember struggling to breathe and being fatigued. I was unable to stand or sit up straight. It was a frightening ordeal. My parents rushed me to the hospital. After being stabilized, the doctor said I might have died if my parents lacked urgency. It was one thing to know that I was in distress, but hearing that the attack was a near-death experience was chilling. I know that I am blessed to be alive. God has plans for my life. That experience was a pivotal moment in my life for two reasons. The first reason is that life is short and uncertain. Everyone has a limited amount of time on this earth. Our daily choices determine what lasting impression we leave behind. After death, our legacy is the only thing that will continue to speak for us. I have always pursued self-improvement. However, that event reminded me that life is too short for negativity. It also helped me to re-assess my priorities. Secondly, the asthma attack was pivotal because I developed a new-found appreciation for healthcare professionals. The medical personnel quickly stabilized me. I was released a week later. That involving experience of being cared for by doctors and nurses is something I will never forget. Up to that point, I always thought of doctors as superheroes, wearing coats instead of capes. My thoughts are still the same. My experience interested me in Medicine. I was intrigued by the equipment utilized. I also had the opportunity to ask questions about the treatments and their usefulness. I learned that healthcare professionals should be interested in assisting and interacting with people. They should be willing to make sacrifices and efforts to preserve/restore the health of their patients. I am naturally an extrovert, so I have no problem associating with people. Ever since I was a child, I have been helpful. My parents encouraged me to be useful around the house. Aside from my upbringing, thoughtfulness and compassion have always come naturally to me. As I have grown older, this quality has produced success at work, school, and in my social life. I truly believe that actions speak louder than words. You can tell someone you care about them, but sharing is caring. I want to become a doctor to be among people in need of care and attention. I already possess the drive to serve others, but working in a professional field will allow me to impact more people. The road to becoming a doctor is going to present challenges. That near-death experience has taught me that life has its share of failures and seeming defeats. However, those difficult moments are not the end of the road. I must always have the mindset of a champion. A champion refuses to quit.