Meet the 2024 Mott Family Scholarship Winner: Essence

In the heart of the Bronx, 17-year-old Essence found herself grappling with the consequences of her choices. High school had been a whirlwind of highs and lows, and during her junior year, she had fallen in with a crowd that led her amiss. It was a meeting with the Together for Youth’s Bronx Power Project program in December 2023 that marked the beginning of a better journey ahead.

Essence was always goal-oriented, holding herself to high standards. She thrived on challenges and pushed herself to excel, whether in academics or personal endeavors. But the pressures of school and the influence of her peers took a toll. Her love for reading, a passion she inherited from her father, was her happy escape.

One day, Essence’s mother took her to the Together for Youth office. Initially skeptical, Essence saw it as just another program for troubled teens. She sat on the couch, feeling frustrated, while her mother spoke with the staff. It wasn’t until she met Maury, Emily, and Elizabeth that her perspective began to shift. They welcomed her warmly and made her feel seen and valued.

The Bronx Power Project, a significant part of Together for Youth, became Essence’s sanctuary. About once a week, she would travel from her high school in the East Village to the Bronx for the group sessions. These meetings were more than just therapy; they were a lifeline. In a safe and supportive environment, Essence found her voice and learned to navigate her emotions and anxieties.

Through Together for Youth and a chance meeting with President & CEO, Brian Parchesky, Essence learned about the Mott Family Scholarship opportunity. Despite initial doubts, she applied, reflecting on her journey, challenges, and personal growth.

“I wrote my essay, applied, and hoped for the best. I was so incredibly happy to learn that I had received the scholarship,” says Essence.

She says that this validated her hard work and determination. She decided to use the scholarship toward room and board at Mercy College, addressing a financial concern she initially had. She will be studying Biomedical Sciences which follows a biology medical track. Her career goal is to become a cardiovascular surgeon, and wow are we rooting for her!

Essence’s transformation, supported by the Bronx Power Project and Together for Youth, marked her journey from a struggling high school junior to a confident and ambitious young woman. She is now ready to embrace her future as she begins college with newfound hope and determination.