Embodying Chidubè’s legacy is a deeply personal journey for me, as I strive to live by the values he stood for: academic excellence, personal and spiritual growth, and a dedication to uplifting my community. Chidubè represented resilience, purpose, and a commitment to the betterment of those around him, and I find great inspiration in his example. These values are not just aspirations for me, but principles that shape the way I live, learn, and interact with the world. Academic excellence is a value that resonates strongly with me, especially as I pursue my education at Tuskegee University. Growing up, I was taught that knowledge is more than just grades or accolades—it’s about the ability to use what you learn to positively impact the world. I apply this mindset to my studies as an aspiring educator, aiming to excel not just academically but with a sense of curiosity and purpose. Despite the challenges I’ve faced—navigating the complexities of being a Black student in spaces that have not always been welcoming and balancing academic demands with personal life—my commitment to excellence has never wavered. I’ve learned to see challenges as opportunities for growth, understanding that the knowledge I gain will equip me to better serve my community. Chidubè valued not only academic success but also personal and spiritual growth, and I strive to do the same. I believe that continuous personal development is essential to making meaningful contributions to the world. My spiritual journey is about cultivating self-discipline, mindfulness, and service, and I dedicate time for reflection, meditation, and practicing gratitude. I recognize that inner peace and strength are vital in navigating life’s complexities, and personal growth comes from embracing both success and failure. It’s about being open to change and understanding that every experience, good or bad, enriches my ability to serve others. Chidubè’s commitment to uplifting the community is a principle I hold deeply. Growing up, I learned that my success is not only for my benefit but for the benefit of others. As an aspiring educator, I plan to use my knowledge and experiences to empower the next generation, particularly in marginalized communities. I’m passionate about increasing literacy rates, especially among Black youth, because education is the key to breaking generational cycles of poverty and inequality. Through teaching, I aim not just to impart knowledge, but to inspire my students to recognize the power within themselves to create change. Like Chidubè, I believe in using education as a tool for social justice, advocating for policies and practices that ensure every child has access to the resources they need to thrive.

I am Mēda Aaliyah Atita Ma'at Simmons, a passionate advocate for education, cultural empowerment, and community engagement. My journey to this point has been shaped by a deep-rooted love for learning and a commitment to uplifting others. Coming from a family of educators, I grew up surrounded by the power of knowledge and its ability to transform lives. My mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother were all teachers, and their dedication to their students inspired me to follow in their footsteps. However, my path has not been solely shaped by tradition—it has also been fueled by my own experiences, interests, and desire to make a lasting impact. Growing up, I dreamed of being a performer—an actor, singer, and dancer. I loved the thrill of storytelling, the emotion in music, and the freedom of movement. Even though my career path has shifted toward education and advocacy, I still incorporate the arts into my life, using them as a tool for expression, connection, and cultural preservation. I believe that creativity and education go hand in hand, and my journey has been about blending these passions to inspire others. Attending an HBCU, especially one as historic and impactful as Tuskegee University, is deeply meaningful to me. It represents more than just a college experience—it is a continuation of a legacy of Black excellence, resilience, and empowerment. HBCUs have long been spaces where Black students can grow academically, culturally, and personally, surrounded by a community that understands and uplifts them. At Tuskegee, I am not just earning a degree; I am immersing myself in a rich tradition of leaders, educators, and changemakers who have paved the way for future generations. It is an honor to be part of this legacy, and it fuels my determination to contribute to the progress of my community. My goal is to make a meaningful difference for my family and community through education and literacy advocacy. I am deeply passionate about increasing child literacy rates in America, especially in Black and underserved communities. Literacy is the foundation of knowledge, opportunity, and empowerment, and I want to ensure that every child has access to the resources and support they need to succeed. Through my studies and future career as an educator, I plan to develop programs, advocate for policy changes, and create culturally relevant educational materials that resonate with young learners. I also aim to mentor and inspire the next generation, showing them that education is not just about academics—it is about self-discovery, empowerment, and breaking barriers. Ultimately, my journey is about using my passion for education, culture, and the arts to uplift my community and create lasting change. Whether in the classroom, through advocacy, or in my everyday interactions, I strive to embody the spirit of excellence and service that defines both my family legacy and the HBCU experience. My goal is to make a meaningful difference for my family and community through education and literacy advocacy. I am deeply passionate about increasing child literacy rates in America, especially in Black and underserved communities. Literacy is the foundation of knowledge, opportunity, and empowerment, and I want to ensure that every child has access to the resources and support they need to succeed. Through my studies and future career as an educator, I plan to develop programs, advocate for policy changes, and create culturally relevant educational materials that resonate with young learners. I also aim to mentor and inspire the next generation, showing them that education is not just about academics—it is about self-discovery, empowerment, and breaking barriers. Ultimately, my journey is about using my passion for education, culture, and the arts to uplift my community and create lasting change. Whether in the classroom, through advocacy, or in my everyday interactions, I strive to embody the spirit of excellence and service that defines both my family legacy and the HBCU experience.

When I was a child, I dreamed of being an actor, singer, and dancer. Performing always excited me—the thrill of storytelling, the emotion in music, and the expression of movement made me feel alive. I imagined myself on grand stages, captivating audiences, and bringing stories to life. I would spend hours singing along to my favorite songs, practicing dance routines in the mirror, and acting out scenes from movies and plays. The stage felt like home, a place where I could express myself freely and transport people to different worlds through the power of performance. When I was a child, I dreamed of being an actor, singer, and dancer. Performing always excited me—the thrill of storytelling, the emotion in music, and the expression of movement made me feel alive. I imagined myself on grand stages, captivating audiences, and bringing stories to life. I would spend hours singing along to my favorite songs, practicing dance routines in the mirror, and acting out scenes from movies and plays. The stage felt like home, a place where I could express myself freely and transport people to different worlds through the power of performance. As I grew older, my passion for the arts remained strong, but I also discovered a deep love for education and community engagement. I realized that storytelling wasn’t just about entertainment—it was also a way to teach, inspire, and connect with others. The more I learned about the world, the more I wanted to use my talents to uplift and educate. While my career path has shifted toward teaching and cultural advocacy, the essence of my childhood dreams still lives on. I may not be performing on Broadway or starring in films, but the creativity and passion that once fueled my artistic aspirations now shape the way I approach education and community work. Even though I’ve chosen a different career path, I still make performing arts a part of my everyday life. Singing remains a personal outlet for me, whether I’m harmonizing with friends, singing while I work, or simply belting out my favorite songs in my room. Dance is still something I love, especially as a form of cultural expression. Whether it’s practicing traditional movements or just dancing for fun, it keeps me connected to my roots and allows me to express myself in a way that words sometimes cannot. I also enjoy acting in small ways, like participating in community theater, spoken word performances, or simply bringing energy and animation into my everyday interactions. Storytelling is an art that transcends the stage, and I bring that same spirit into my teaching and advocacy. I find joy in blending my love for the arts with my passion for education. Whether it’s using music to engage students, incorporating movement into learning, or using storytelling to inspire, I continue to find creative ways to keep performance in my life. My journey may look different from what I once envisioned, but at its core, I am still that child who finds joy in creativity and inspiring others. Whether through the arts, education, or advocacy, I continue to use my voice and talents to leave an impact. Dreams evolve, but their essence remains, guiding us toward purpose in ways we never imagined.

Exemplifying a spirit of excellence means always striving to be the best version of myself, whether in academics, personal growth, or the way I engage with others. Excellence isn’t just about earning good grades—it’s about being intentional, disciplined, and continuously seeking improvement. As a student at Tuskegee University studying elementary education, I hold myself to high standards by staying organized, managing my time well, and fully engaging in my coursework. I want to be more than just a good student; I want to be a great future educator who makes a real impact on children’s lives. This is why I push myself not only to succeed academically but also to gain a deep understanding of what I am learning so that I can apply it effectively in the classroom. A key part of my journey is challenging myself to grow in different ways. For example, I am learning Spanish to better connect with students and their families in the future. Being an effective educator means being able to communicate and relate to students from diverse backgrounds. Excellence is not only about achieving major milestones but also about the small, everyday choices that shape me into the person I aspire to be. Beyond my personal and academic goals, I believe true excellence is about uplifting others. Giving back to my community is just as important to me as my own success. I have a passion for increasing child literacy because I know how fundamental strong reading skills are to a child's future. I actively support literacy initiatives by volunteering, tutoring, and providing resources to ensure that young students have the tools they need to succeed. Another way I contribute to my community is through cultural enrichment. One of my biggest passions is working to bring an Afrikan dance class course option to Tuskegee University. Dance is more than just movement—it is history, storytelling, and a form of cultural connection. Introducing this course would not only celebrate African heritage but also give students a meaningful way to connect with their roots, express themselves, and foster a sense of unity on campus. For me, excellence and service go hand in hand. It is not just about what I can achieve for myself, but how I can use my gifts, knowledge, and experiences to inspire and support those around me. Whether it’s in a classroom, through community service, or on a dance floor, I strive to leave a positive impact wherever I go. My goal is to not only embody excellence in my own life but also to create opportunities for others to thrive alongside me.

My mental health has a big impact on both my schoolwork and personal life at Tuskegee. When I’m in a good headspace, I can focus better, retain information, and stay on top of my assignments without feeling overwhelmed. I feel more motivated, engaged in class, and confident about what I’m learning. But when stress or anxiety kicks in, everything feels harder. I procrastinate more, struggle to concentrate, and even small tasks start to feel overwhelming. Sometimes, I just shut down instead of tackling things head-on, which only makes the stress pile up even more. Outside of school, my mental health affects how I interact with people. When I feel drained or stressed, I tend to pull away and spend more time alone. I need my quiet moments to recharge, but if I isolate myself too much, I start feeling disconnected from friends and family. Maintaining relationships takes energy, and when I’m overwhelmed, I don’t always have a lot to give. Finding balance between school, personal life, and self-care isn’t easy, but I’ve learned that making my mental health a priority helps me handle it all better. To take care of myself, I set boundaries and avoid overloading my schedule. I know I can’t say yes to everything, so I focus on what really matters and let go of the rest. Time management helps a lot too—I plan ahead, break assignments into smaller tasks, and try not to leave things until the last minute. Of course, I don’t always get it perfect, but having some structure keeps me from feeling totally overwhelmed. Self-care is also a big part of keeping my mental health in check. I try to get enough sleep, eat well, and stay active because I know my body and mind are connected. Exercise helps clear my head, and even something as simple as going for a walk can make a difference. When things get tough, I lean on my support system—whether it’s friends, family, or mentors, I remind myself that I don’t have to figure everything out alone. I also make time for things that bring me joy, like reading, listening to music, or just being outside. Journaling helps me process my thoughts, and practicing mindfulness keeps me from overthinking everything. Taking these small steps makes a huge difference in how I handle stress. At the end of the day, I know that prioritizing my mental health isn’t just about surviving college—it’s about making sure I enjoy the experience and grow into the person I want to be.

My passion for elementary education began long before I officially chose it as my major. As the oldest sibling and cousin in my family, I naturally took on the role of a teacher from a young age. Whether it was helping my younger siblings with their homework, creating fun learning games, or simply explaining new concepts in a way they could understand, I found joy in watching them grasp something new. Seeing their excitement when they finally understood a math problem or learned a new word was a feeling I never got tired of. At the time, I didn’t realize that these small moments were shaping my future career path. One experience that solidified my passion for teaching happened during my senior year of high school when I volunteered at an after-school program for elementary students. I was assigned to work with a group of second graders, and one particular student, a little girl named Amaya, stood out to me. She struggled with reading and would often get frustrated when she couldn’t recognize certain words. I noticed that she would shut down whenever she felt embarrassed or overwhelmed. It wasn’t that she wasn’t capable—she just needed a different approach. Instead of sticking to the usual worksheets and flashcards, I decided to take a different approach. I used storytelling and movement to make reading more engaging for her. We would act out stories together, using hand motions and facial expressions to bring the words to life. I let her choose books that interested her, even if they were slightly challenging, because I wanted her to feel connected to what she was reading. Slowly but surely, she started gaining confidence. By the end of the semester, she was reading aloud in front of the class without hesitation. Seeing her growth and self-confidence bloom was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It made me realize that teaching isn’t just about academics—it’s about empowerment, patience, and helping children see their own potential. My experiences with my own education also played a big role in my decision to become a teacher. I had both good and bad teachers throughout my school years, and I saw firsthand the impact that a caring, passionate teacher could have. My best teachers were the ones who made learning fun, believed in me even when I doubted myself, and took the time to understand my unique learning style. On the other hand, I also had teachers who were dismissive, impatient, or unwilling to adapt their teaching methods. Those experiences made me even more determined to become an educator who truly listens to and supports students. Now, as an elementary education major at an HBCU, I am committed to creating engaging and inclusive learning environments. I want to ensure that every child, regardless of their background, has access to an education that empowers them. My goal is to not only teach core subjects but also to instill confidence, curiosity, and a love for learning in my students. Education is more than just a profession to me—it’s my calling.

Supporting early childhood development is crucial for laying a strong foundation for future learning and overall well-being. As an elementary education major, my approach to promoting early childhood development involves several key strategies that emphasize creating engaging learning environments, building strong relationships with families, fostering social-emotional growth, and advocating for equitable access to resources. My passion for nurturing young minds and making a positive impact on their lives has driven me to pursue a career in this field, and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the development of future generations. One of my primary goals is to create engaging, developmentally appropriate learning environments that cater to the diverse needs of young children. I believe that using hands-on activities, play-based learning, and interactive lessons encourages exploration and curiosity among children. By fostering a love for learning from an early age, we can help children develop essential cognitive, social, and emotional skills that will serve them throughout their lives. I plan to incorporate a variety of teaching strategies that address different learning styles, ensuring that every child feels valued and supported in their educational journey. I see a lot of importance in creating engaging learning environments,as well as building strong relationships with families. Involving parents and caregivers in their children's education is vital for supporting early childhood development. I plan to establish open lines of communication with families, providing them with resources and strategies to support their children's learning at home. Hosting workshops and informational sessions on child development, effective parenting techniques, and early literacy can empower families to be active participants in their children's education. By fostering these connections, we can create a supportive network that benefits both children and their families. Supporting social-emotional development is just as important as academic growth in early childhood education. I plan to incorporate activities that promote emotional regulation, empathy, and cooperation among young children. Structured play, group discussions about feelings, and role-playing scenarios can help children navigate social situations and build healthy relationships. Children can develop the skills necessary to manage their emotions and thrive in various social contexts by creating a safe and supportive environment. Advocating for access to quality early childhood education resources is essential for all children, regardless of their background. I intend to promote policies and initiatives that ensure equitable access to early childhood education programs and increased funding for schools serving low-income families. Collaborating with local organizations and community leaders can help ensure that all children have the resources they need to succeed. By working together, we can create a more inclusive educational landscape that supports the needs of every child. My decision to enter this field stems from my deep-seated passion for nurturing young minds and positively impacting their lives. I believe that the early years of a child's life are critical for their overall development and success. Witnessing the transformative power of education in the lives of children has inspired me to dedicate my career to supporting their growth. I am committed to creating inclusive and supportive learning environments that empower children to reach their full potential. In conclusion, supporting early childhood development involves creating engaging learning environments, building strong relationships with families, fostering social-emotional growth, and advocating for equitable access to resources. My passion for nurturing young minds and my desire to make a positive impact on their lives have motivated me to pursue a career in this field. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the development of future generations and believe that, through dedicated effort and collaboration, we can create a brighter future for all children.

My Inspiration for Becoming a Teacher and My Vision for Inspiring Others My decision to become a teacher was deeply influenced by the powerful legacy of educators in my family. Teaching is more than just a career path for me—it is a calling that has been passed down through generations. My mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother dedicated their lives to shaping young minds, and their passion for education instilled in me a profound appreciation for the transformative power of learning. Through their stories, struggles, and triumphs, I learned that education is one of the most effective tools for empowerment, especially for marginalized communities. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand how my mother poured her heart into her students, ensuring that they not only mastered their lessons but also believed in themselves. She often spoke about the systemic barriers that hindered many children, particularly Black children, from receiving a quality education. Yet, she remained steadfast in her commitment to making a difference, working to provide her students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to succeed. My grandmother and great-grandmother did the same in their respective generations, and their efforts shaped my understanding of education as a revolutionary act—one that could dismantle ignorance and create pathways to liberation. I was inspired by the profound works of Marva Collins and Amos Wilson. Inspired by all those examples, I chose to study elementary education at Tuskegee University, a historically Black institution with a rich tradition of producing educators who serve their communities. My studies have only deepened my commitment to teaching, particularly in the area of literacy. I am especially passionate about increasing child literacy rates in America, as I recognize that reading proficiency is the foundation for academic success and lifelong learning. Literacy is more than just the ability to read words on a page—it is the ability to think critically, express oneself, and navigate the world with confidence. Unfortunately, too many children, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds, are not given the tools they need to become strong readers. I plan to change that by implementing engaging, culturally responsive teaching methods that make reading a joyful and meaningful experience for my students. Beyond my work in the classroom, I also hope to inspire others by advocating for systemic changes in education. I believe that teachers have a responsibility not only to educate but also to challenge inequities within the system. Through my involvement with the Malcolm X Grassroots Movement and my ongoing studies, I am committed to becoming more informed about the political and economic factors that shape education. I want to use this knowledge to push for policies that ensure every child, regardless of their background, has access to high-quality education. Ultimately, my goal is not just to teach but to empower. I want my students to see themselves as intelligent, capable, and worthy of success. I want them to know that they can shape their futures and that their voices matter. Teaching is my way of honoring the legacy of those who came before me while building a brighter future for future generations.

If I had the opportunity to improve my community, I would establish a Community Empowerment Initiative (CEI) focused on providing mental health support, academic assistance, and safe spaces for growth and creativity. These structured programs would empower individuals to reach their full potential and strengthen the community as a whole. The first component of CEI would be Mind Matters, designed to break the stigma surrounding mental health and increase access to professional resources. Many individuals, especially in Black communities, hesitate to seek therapy due to financial barriers and cultural stigma. To address this, Mind Matters would partner with licensed therapists and counselors to provide free or low-cost therapy sessions. Additionally, the program would host monthly workshops covering topics such as anxiety management, trauma healing, and self-care strategies. Peer support groups would also be established, creating a safe space for individuals to share experiences and receive encouragement. By prioritizing mental health, we can foster a culture of healing and self-improvement in the community. The second component of the initiative, Scholars Rising, would focus on academic assistance and career preparation. Many students in underfunded schools lack access to tutoring and mentorship opportunities. Scholars Rising would provide free after-school tutoring sessions led by college students and professionals, ensuring that students receive the academic support they need to excel. The program would also offer workshops on college and scholarship applications, helping students navigate the often-confusing process of pursuing higher education. To further prepare students for their futures, Scholars Rising would include internship and job shadowing opportunities, connecting students with professionals in various fields. Financial literacy classes would also be provided to teach students about budgeting, saving, and managing college expenses. By equipping young people with these resources, we can help them break cycles of financial instability and pursue successful careers. The final component of the Community Empowerment Initiative would be The Haven, a dedicated safe space for personal growth, creativity, and community building. This center would be open to individuals of all ages, offering a study and resource lounge equipped with computers, books, and study materials. Additionally, The Haven would host creative arts programs such as poetry nights, music production workshops, and visual arts classes to encourage artistic expression. To promote overall well-being, the center would include wellness activities like yoga, meditation, and fitness classes. Community-building events, including open mic nights and leadership development workshops, would foster a sense of belonging and empowerment within the community. I would seek funding through grants, community fundraising efforts, and partnerships with local businesses and colleges to bring this vision to life. Volunteers would play a key role in running programs, ensuring that the initiative remains sustainable and accessible to all. By involving local leaders and community members, CEI would be a collaborative effort that reflects the needs and strengths of the people it serves. This initiative is important to me because I believe that when people have access to mental health support, educational guidance, and safe spaces, they are empowered to break cycles of struggle and create better futures for themselves and future generations. A strong community is built on its individuals' success and well-being; through CEI, we can create a foundation for lasting growth and empowerment. By taking action and investing in these resources, we can work towards a future where everyone in the community has the opportunity to thrive.

Growing up, the walls of my mother's classroom were my playground, and the pages of textbooks were my bedtime stories. My name is Aaliyah, and I am an 18-year-old girl who has chosen to follow in the footsteps of my mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother by becoming a teacher. This decision is not just a career choice but a calling, deeply rooted in a legacy of education and a profound desire to make a difference in the lives of children. From a young age, I watched my mother transform her classroom into a sanctuary of learning, curiosity, and growth. She opened her own school, a testament to her dedication and passion. Her school wasn't just a building; it was a beacon of hope and opportunity for so many children. I remember the twinkle in her eyes as she shared stories of her students' successes and the joy she felt when a struggling child finally understood a difficult concept. It was in those moments that I realized the true power of teaching – the ability to shape minds and change lives. My grandmother and her mother before her were also teachers, each passing down their wisdom and love for education through the generations. They taught me that being a teacher is more than imparting knowledge; it is about nurturing, inspiring, and believing in each child's potential. They showed me that a teacher's influence extends far beyond the classroom walls, impacting the community and the future. As I embark on this journey to become a teacher, my heart swells with the desire to carry forward this legacy. I am determined to create a classroom environment where every child feels valued, understood, and capable of achieving greatness. I plan to integrate innovative teaching methods that cater to diverse learning styles, ensuring that each student has the opportunity to thrive. One of my core goals is to instill a love of learning in my students. I want them to see education not as a chore but as a gateway to endless possibilities. By fostering a culture of curiosity and encouraging critical thinking, I hope to empower my students to become lifelong learners who are confident in their abilities and eager to explore the world around them. Moreover, I aim to be a source of support and guidance for my students, much like my mother was for hers. I want to be the teacher who notices when a child is struggling and provides the extra help they need. I aspire to be the mentor who listens, the advocate who speaks up for those who cannot, and the role model who demonstrates kindness, resilience, and perseverance. In choosing to become a teacher, I am not just honoring a family tradition; I am committing to making a meaningful impact on the lives of the next generation. I believe that every child deserves a champion, someone who believes in them and helps them realize their potential. I am ready to be that champion, to inspire, to nurture, and to make a difference, one student at a time.