My reason for targeting finance is that I understand its power to change lives and empower communities. Having grown up in a household where financial stability was often a struggle, the way money works and how financial literacy can transform someone's future interests me. I want to make an impactful difference in my community, where one day, through finance, I can use my knowledge to help others with struggles similar to what I've been going through. Participating in a virtual enterprise program has been a experience that fueled my passion for pursuing a career in finance at West Virginia University. The nature of the program provided me with a comprehensive understanding of business operations, financial management, and strategic planning. By simulating real-world business scenarios, I was able to develop critical skills and gain insights that have pushed my desire to look deeper into the field of finance. One of the key aspects of the virtual enterprise program was the opportunity to manage a simulated company. This experience required me to make financial decisions that impacted the overall success of the business. From budgeting to analyzing financial statements, I learned the importance of strategic financial planning and its impact on a business's growth and sustainability. These hands-on experiences allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations, enhancing my problem-solving abilities and learning a deeper understanding of financial concepts. A significant aspect of the virtual enterprise program is its focus on networking. The program encourages students to connect with industry professionals, attend business conferences, and participate in networking events. These opportunities allowed me to build valuable connections with mentors, potential employers, and like-minded peers. Networking within the virtual enterprise program taught me the importance of establishing and maintaining professional relationships, which is crucial for career advancement in finance. The experience highlighted the value of a strong professional network in gaining insights, finding opportunities, and navigating the complexities of the finance industry. The collaborative nature of the virtual enterprise program played a significant role in shaping my passion for finance. Working alongside peers with diverse perspectives and skill sets taught me the value of teamwork and effective communication in achieving common goals. This experience not only showed my leadership and social skills but also ignited a passion for continuous learning and professional growth. The virtual enterprise program has been instrumental in fueling my passion for a career in finance. the practical experiences, combined with the collaborative environment, have equipped me with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the field. As I look forward to pursuing a finance degree at West Virginia University, I am confident that the foundation built through the virtual enterprise program will serve as a strong catalyst for my future success in the finance industry.

I am planning to study finance in higher education because it aligns with my passion for understanding how money works, the dynamics of the economy, and the strategies behind successful financial management. Finance is a field that offers opportunities, from investment banking to financial planning, and it plays a crucial role in the success of businesses and individuals. By studying finance, I aim to gain the skills and knowledge necessary to make informed financial decisions, manage risks, and create value, which are useful of any entrepreneur. I have planned an entrepreneurial career because I am driven by the desire to create an. The idea of building something from the ground up and seeing my vision come to life is incredibly motivating. Entrepreneurship allows me to be my own boss, make strategic decisions, and have a direct impact on the success of my business. It also provides the flexibility to adapt when necessary, which is essential in a constantly changing market. I believe I will be successful in my future in business because of my strong foundation in finance, my commitment to continuous learning, and my ability to adapt to challenges. While many entrepreneurs face difficulties, my background in finance will help me make sound financial decisions, manage resources efficiently, and minimize risks. My experience as a student-athlete has taught me the importance of time management, planning ahead, and staying disciplined, which are critical skills for any entrepreneur. A successful life to me is one where I can achieve my professional goals, make a positive impact on others, and maintain a healthy work-life balance. It involves not only financial success but also the ability to give back to the community. In the world of finance, I am interested in investment strategies and financial planning. These areas require a deep understanding of market trends and the ability to forecast future financial scenarios. By mastering these skills, I can help businesses and individuals make informed decisions that lead to growth and financial stability.Finance is a dynamic field that constantly evolves, providing opportunities for learning and growth. Success in business, to me, is not just about financial gain but also about making a meaningful impact. I aspire to create a business that not only generates profit but also contributes positively to society. This could be through providing valuable services, creating job opportunities, or supporting charitable causes. A successful life, therefore, is one where I can look back and see that I have made a difference in the lives of others while achieving my personal and professional goals.

I've always been passionate about giving back and making a difference in my community. I've been involved in various volunteer activities, such as helping in charity events, participating in community clean-ups, and tutoring younger students. It's important to me to contribute positively and help those around me. As I enter higher education, I do have some financial needs to consider. Scholarships and financial aid are crucial for me to afford tuition, books, and other expenses. Balancing these financial aspects with my academic and athletic commitments can be a challenge, but I'm determined to find ways to make it work. As a student-athlete, I face the additional challenge of managing my time effectively to ensure that I can excel both in my studies and in my athletic pursuits. This requires a lot of planning ahead and staying disciplined, especially when dealing with the physical and mental fatigue from regular training. When it comes to keeping children and youth safe in my community and online, I believe education and awareness are key. In person bullying and cyberbullying are serious issues that can have lasting effects on kids. I try to promote kindness, empathy, and inclusivity among with the people around me to create a supportive environment. It's essential to teach children the importance of treating others with respect and standing up against bullying when they see it happening. By fostering a culture of empathy and understanding, we can help reduce the incidence of bullying and create a safer environment for everyone. Online safety is also a top priority. I encourage children and youth to be cautious about what they share online, to be mindful of their digital footprint, and to speak up if they experience or witness any form of bullying. Open communication with parents, teachers, and trusted adults is crucial in preventing bullying both in person and online. It's important for young people to feel that they have a support system they can turn to if they need help or advice. I believe in the importance of implementing measures to protect children and youth from bullying. This can include setting up anonymous reporting systems in schools, providing training for teachers and staff on how to handle bullying incidents, and creating safe spaces where students can talk about their experiences and receive support. It's all about creating a safe and supportive community where everyone feels respected and valued. By working together and raising awareness about these important issues, we can help protect children and youth from the harmful effects of bullying, whether it's in person or online. It's an effort that requires the involvement of parents, teachers, community leaders, and young people themselves. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that our community is a place where everyone can thrive and feel safe.

Being a person who doesn’t let their environment and situation depict the direction they want to go in is one of the most valuable skills to have, But allowing your faith in god to take control will push you over the edge from good to great. People say growing up hard builds character but I believe it's how you allow yourself to be shaped that matters. From 6 to 12 years old I’ve attended 10 different elementary schools, from Suffolk, to Nassau and even to Virginia. But I never allowed that or other issues in my life to divert me from my goal of being a first-generation college student, and even a first-generation high school graduate. This dream not only represents personal success but also breaks the cycle of limited opportunities. The lack of guidance in this situation from family members can ultimately lead you to feel confused and uncertain, while people around you may be supportive they may not understand the full idea. It’s a lot easier to not work hard and not persevere and blame your situation as to why you cannot succeed, but it’s harder to hold yourself accountable and decide that you're gonna take the initiative to keep a level head and be who you want to be regardless of your situation. Having faith in god and having faith in myself ultimately gave me the perseverance to not succumb to my environment. There’s nothing that sets you back as hitting the reset button over and over, it can affect how your development socially and emotionally. The constant do-over or the poverty life could have constantly forced me to give up and start to let my priorities shift into afterthoughts in my mind. But I chose to be able to get over that hump and not allow myself to succumb to those challenges. In January of 2022, I knew I needed to be better. I could start to see my priorities shift from school and basketball to partying and hanging out. I ordered a poster of a bible quote that sits above my bed and hangs on the ceiling, James 1:12 which states “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him”. Since following this quote I've never allowed myself to harmonize with the wrong group of people, I was always told to strive to be better than the ones that came before me and that I don’t have to go down the wrong path, but that decision comes down to myself.

Last year, I was in a situation that made me reevaluate my priorities. I had recently seen major success in my basketball season, going on a 5-0 stretch with me averaging multiple 20+ point games during that stretch. I had been put under a lot of pressure. The new popularity and hype was exciting, but it also came with a lot of stress and pressure. I was having difficulty finding time for my faith and the people I care about in the middle of the chaos. I had this strong conviction in my heart one evening while sitting alone in my room. The values of prioritizing God, others, and oneself came back to me. I needed to be reminded that my priorities had become unbalanced. I began by concentrating on God. I read the Bible and prayed. I realized I had been so caught up in focusing on basketball and our team’s recent success that I had neglected to make the lord the center of my decisions. I asked God to help me find a better way to live out my faith daily and to give me wisdom in serving others while balancing my priorities. With that clarity, I reached out to a close friend who had been struggling with their own challenges. I had been so consumed with things of my own that deemed to make me “too busy”, that I hadn't noticed how much they needed someone to talk to. I invited them over, listened, and offered support and encouragement as they shared what they were going through. Putting them second, after God, reminded me that relationships matter, and being there for others is a calling that should never be neglected. I also reflected on my own needs. I had been so focused on baskketball that I had forgotten to care for myself physically, emotionally, and spiritually. I started setting boundaries, dedicating time for self-care, and remembering that taking care of myself wasn’t selfish, it was necessary to serve God and others well. That season of my life taught me the power of recalibrating my priorities. Putting God first, others second, and myself third didn’t make life easier, but it brought a peace and fulfillment I hadn’t experienced before. Moving forward, I plan to continue living with this balance, seeking God’s guidance, serving those around me, and being mindful of my own well-being.

Growing up as a young African American from a poverty stricken environment and household, basketball became more than just a game to me—it became a lifeline. It was the one thing that allowed me to dream big, to escape the confinement of my circumstances, and to prove to myself that everyone isn’t given the same opportunities because god gives his toughest battles to his strongest soldiers. Basketball shaped me in ways that go beyond the court, It taught me discipline, resilience, and the power of hard work, and it filled me with a sense of pride that no trophy or accolade can fully represent. Being named Freshman of the Year in 2022 was an early validation of the sacrifices I had made and the work I had put in. I had spent countless hours in the gym, hooping at the town courts, and to see those efforts recognized was a powerful reminder that, despite the odds, I could make a name for myself. But the journey didn’t stop there. Earning All-Conference honors two years in a row only fueled my determination. I knew that each success was not just for me but for my family, my community, and every young person who might look up to me and think, “If he can do it, so can I.” For me, it was more than just a recognition of my skills it was a statement about perseverance, about the idea that a young kid from a not so bright background can rise above and be counted among the best in his area. As I approach 1,000 career points, I hope that every kid who sees my name hung up in that gym gives them motivation that they can do the same just like the confidence the ones before me gave me. I can’t help but reflect on how much this game has shaped me. Each point represents a piece of my journey each dribble, each shot, each win, and each defeat has been a lesson. I know that I didn’t get here alone. My mother’s sacrifices, the support of my coaches and teammates, and the struggles I faced growing up have all shaped me into not only the player I am today but also the man I have become. More than the accolades, more than the points, more than people from the city knowing my name, what I’m most proud of is how basketball has taught me to overcome adversity, Basketball isn’t just a game it’s a reflection of who I am a young African American man from humble beginnings who refuses to let his circumstances define his future.

The Jorian Kuran Harris (Shugg) Helping Heart Foundation Scholarship represents far more than just a financial opportunity it serves as a pivotal stepping stone toward achieving a brighter future for both myself and my immediate family. Growing up as an only child in a single-parent household, I have faced numerous challenges, but these problems have also shaped me into the person I am today. Over the years, I have developed the perseverance, focus, and determination needed to overcome obstacles and push forward in search of bettering my life. This scholarship would not only help get rid of some of the financial burdens, but it would also give me a vital chance to further my academic and professional aspirations in a way that would ultimately help the status of my family as well. One of the most defining parts of my character is my ability to rise above adversity. From an early age, I recognized that the world wasn’t going to make things easy for me, and that I would need to rely on my own strength, resilience, and determination to move forward. My mother, the only person who has been there for me throughout my life, worked tirelessly, often juggling multiple jobs to ensure that I had what I needed. Despite the financial strain we faced, she made sure that I never lacked in any area that truly mattered whether it was love, support, and encouragement. She instilled in me a powerful sense of purpose that, no matter the circumstances, I could achieve anything if I put my mind to it. This belief became my driving force, and it pushed me to apply myself far more than most of my peers. While many others had the luxury of extra support, I knew that if I wanted to create a different future for us, I would need to work much harder than anyone else. This mindset has helped me excel both academically and athletically, areas where I continually strive to outdo myself and reach my full potential. As an only child, I understand that it is up to me to break the cycle and pave a path that leads to a brighter future. By securing this scholarship, I am not just investing in my own future but in the future of my entire family. It would allow me to pursue my academic and career goals with a renewed sense of purpose, knowing that the rewards of my efforts would help those who have supported me most. I am deeply committed to using the opportunities provided by this scholarship to become a successful finance professional. My ultimate goal is not only to improve my family’s situation but also to give back to my community in meaningful ways. I want to use the skills I acquire through my education to help others who are facing similar struggles. Through my success, I hope to be an example that hard work, determination, and the support of loved ones can transform lives. This scholarship is more than just an opportunity for me it is enabling me to unlock a better future for my family.

The Anthony B. Davis Scholarship represents not just a financial opportunity, but a pivotal step toward building a better future for myself and my immediate family. Growing up as an only child in a single-parent household, I’ve faced many challenges, but I’ve also developed the perseverance, focus, and determination necessary to overcome them. This scholarship would alleviate my financial burden and, importantly, give me a chance to enhance my academic and professional pursuits in ways that would ultimately help uplift the welfare status of my family as well. One of the biggest things about me is my ability to rise above adversity. My mother, my only support, worked day and night to give me what I needed, even with her finances being a problem. She instilled in me the values of hard work, resiliency, and the importance of education. Early on, I realized that if I ever wanted to make a change for us and create a better life, I would need to apply myself much more than others. It's this same drive that has allowed me to excel in both academics and athletics. I have always taken great pride in the fact that I can absorb and apply quality information so fast. Whatever it is, in class or on the field, my attention and focus are constantly honed, finding ways to do better. Excellence has been my commitment, which helped me to shine through, not only in academics but also as an athlete. Being team captain in both varsity football and basketball for three years serves as good proof of my leadership and also my ability to inspire others. This position as captain required not only leading by example but also taking the fore in ensuring teammates remained focused, united, and working toward their common goals. I was recognized as one of the top players on Long Island in football and basketball, a huge honor considering the level of competition at this level. To date, my role on the team has demanded discipline, strategic thinking, and a commitment to excellence qualities that I will carry with me into my future career. All this has been taught to me through a perfect blend of academics and sports: time management, teamwork, and the way to overcome pressure will help in my finance career. My reason for targeting finance is that I understand the power it holds to change lives and empower communities. Having grown up in a household where financial stability was often a struggle, the way money works and how financial literacy can transform someone's future interests me. I want to make an impactful difference in my community, where one day, through finance, I can use my knowledge to help others with struggles similar to what I've been going through. The Anthony B. Davis Scholarship will enable me to attend college without the overwhelming burden of student debt, allowing me to focus on my studies and seek out valuable internships and networking opportunities that position me for entry into the finance field. Being the only child, the responsibility to create a better future for my family rests squarely on my shoulders. This scholarship would give me the tools to follow my dream while lessening my mother's financial burden, affording her a sense of relief and accomplishment in knowing her hard work has led up to this moment. I am committed to using the opportunities that this scholarship will provide to become a successful finance professional, return the favor to my family, and ultimately give back to my community.

Growing up as a young African American from a poverty stricken environment and household, basketball became more than just a game to me—it became a lifeline. It was the one thing that allowed me to dream big, to escape the confinement of my circumstances, and to prove to myself that everyone isn’t given the same opportunities because god gives his toughest battles to his strongest soldiers. Basketball shaped me in ways that go beyond the court, It taught me discipline, resilience, and the power of hard work, and it filled me with a sense of pride that no trophy or accolade can fully represent. Being named Freshman of the Year in 2022 was an early validation of the sacrifices I had made and the work I had put in. I had spent countless hours in the gym, hooping at the town courts, skipping hanging out with f,riends to be a step ahead, and to see those efforts recognized was a powerful reminder that, despite the odds, I could make a name for myself. But the journey didn’t stop there. Earning All-Conference honors two years in a row only fueled my determination. I knew that each success was not just for me but for my family, my community, and every young person who might look up to me and think, “If he can do it, so can I.” For me, it was more than just a recognition of my skills it was a statement about perseverance, about the idea that a young kid from a not so bright background can rise above and be counted among the best in his area. As I approach 1,000 career points, I hope that every kid who sees my name hung up in that gym gives them motivation that they can do the same just like the confidence the ones before me gave me. I can’t help but reflect on how much this game has shaped me. Each point represents a piece of my journey each dribble, each shot, each win, and each defeat has been a lesson. I know that I didn’t get here alone. My mother’s sacrifices, the support of my coaches and teammates, and the struggles I faced growing up have all shaped me into not only the player I am today but also the man I have become. More than the accolades, more than the points, more than people from the city knowing my name, what I’m most proud of is how basketball has taught me to overcome adversity, Basketball isn’t just a game it’s a reflection of who I am a young African American man from humble beginnings who refuses to let his circumstances define his future.