Personal Statement

I first became involved in addressing issues of educational inequalities at an early age by working at a summer nonprofit organization that worked with at-risk youth of color. The program worked with youth that came from low-income families. The program provided them with educational resources such as computer technology training, gave them meals and school supplies, and organized college visits. As I got older I became more involved in addressing issues regarding the lack of educational opportunities and the correct representation for Black and Brown youth. I came to understand how low educational achievement could lead to lowered economic prospects later in life, perpetuating a lack of social mobility. At Drake University, I am currently a peer mentor for transfer students to help them adjust to college by providing them with adequate resources to successfully get through their first year at the university. I am also involved in community efforts to help high school and college students have access to resources and educational components that help them become student advocates. I work with them to properly advocate about social issues that are going on with in their communities.