Breaking Cycles and Building Futures by Amara

Breaking Cycles and Building Futures by Amara - October 2024 Scholarship Essay

Growing up in the Bronx, New York, I’ve seen the effects of gang violence, crime, and poverty in my community. For many people around me, getting a college degree seems like a distant dream. Instead, the daily realities of struggling to stay safe and make ends meet often take precedence. But even in the face of these challenges, I’ve always believed in the power of education—particularly the transformative power of a college degree—not just for myself but for those around me.

The greatest benefit of a college degree is its ability to break the cycles that often hold communities like mine back. It offers a way out, a way to rise above the violence and crime that many young people in my neighborhood are forced to navigate. A college education provides access to opportunities that can help shape a different future—one where I can uplift others and show them that they don’t have to be defined by their environment.

In my community, it’s rare to see someone pursue higher education, and this lack of representation can create a sense of hopelessness. I want to be a beacon of hope, an example to younger generations that success is possible, no matter how difficult the circumstances. I want to show them that they don’t have to fall victim to the streets, but instead, they can follow a different path—one that leads to growth, empowerment, and lasting change.

Beyond the personal impact, a college degree provides tools that can be used to make a difference in communities like mine. It teaches critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills—things that can help address the systemic issues that contribute to the cycles of violence and poverty. With the knowledge and skills gained from higher education, I plan to return to my community and advocate for safer streets, better resources, and more opportunities for those who feel forgotten or trapped.

Education exposes us to new perspectives and opens our minds to solutions we may not have considered before. It allows us to imagine a future beyond the harsh realities of gang violence and crime. For me, a college degree represents hope—not just for myself, but for the people I care about. It is the key to breaking down the barriers that have held my community back for so long.

In short, the greatest benefit of a college degree is the ability to change lives. It empowers individuals to rise above their circumstances and inspire others to do the same. I want to be the proof that success is possible, and I hope to inspire others to pursue their dreams, no matter where they come from or what challenges they face.