Personal Statement

Before I was old enough to know the word, I wanted to be a changemaker. Our campus defines changemaking as someone who’s committed to innovating social systems to further equity and inclusion for those around them. As a woman of color, I have had many experiences with bias and injustices. This has given me the desire to bring forth long-lasting change for many of us in marginalized communities. In college, I traveled to the National Memorial for Peace and Justice and learned about systems that perpetuate mass incarceration for people of color. Through that, I became passionate about activism and began to utilize design thinking, a method of changemaking, as I expanded my social justice work. I used my leadership positions on campus to help others turn their ideas into action. As a leader in the Black Student Association, I not only created a safe community for students on campus, but also a scholarship fund for Black students. At our Center for Social Impact, I created a resource center for allies and activists to become more involved and socially aware leaders. Through these endeavors, I look forward to continue growing in my activism and empowering others to do the same.