A Mind Unenlightened by Renee

A Mind Unenlightened by Renee - April 2025 Scholarship Essay

Plato once said that it is "Better to be unborn than untaught, for ignorance is the root of all misfortune." I believe this notion to be irrevocably true. The greatest danger to ourselves is the danger that lies in unenlightenment. For so long marginalized communities have been coerced into ideas of inferiority, incompetence, and inability, as it relates to oneself–stripped of equal education and equal opportunity. In my life I have found that social conditioning has deterred so many people from simply pursuing their goals because they don't believe it plausible. People for too long have been hindered by the epistemic and distributive injustices plagued upon our communities, and the assurance that future generations have access to equity in any sense supersedes awareness and calls for direct action. From a young age I've been inspired to make and promote change when I see inequality or injustice, and have been passionate in learning the best ways to solve these issues. In college I intend to major in business and social policy in college, both of which will give me the foundation necessary to successfully spark reform within our communities.

The way I plan to combat unenlightenment is to foster a space of knowledge and capability. First, making it known that there is not only a possibility for success but portraying it as a tangible and achievable reality. The best way to do this is through creating mentorship and leadership programs. It is imperative that we collaborate with schools and local businesses to develop mentorship pipelines that connect young individuals with experienced professionals. These programs should target our youth ensuring they receive the same networking opportunities and industry insights as their more privileged peers. Additionally, leadership development initiatives such as public speaking workshops, advocacy training, and service-based learning—should be implemented not only in schools but in these community centers I plan to create.
One of the biggest barriers in economic prosperity is financial literacy. It is of the utmost importance that financial literacy is instituted into core curriculum with topics that teach about budgeting, credit, investing, entrepreneurship, taxation, and more. Just as there are so many organizations that teach students the dangers of drunk driving, social media and bullying, and all the negative aspects of life we want to avoid, there needs to be just as many opportunities and organizations coming in to provide students the education necessary for success. I am committed to integrating these programs into schools so that students may be well versed in their knowledge. There needs to be a union within the community that allows for the matriculation and advancement of youth within society. My plan is to establish community centers that partner with schools, local businesses and financial institutions to teach these topics to students, and provide scholarships, internship opportunities, and workforce development programs. All of which provide education and vocational training that ensure equitable access to opportunity.

While youth is a primary target in the demographic that I hope will create change, these opportunities should be accessible to all. Grassroots movement and community led initiatives have played a huge role in reform. True progress is achieved through collaboration and collective effort—the dismantling of systemic divides, and the assurance that every person regardless of their background has the opportunity to thrive.