My parents migrated from Guerrero, Mexico, seeking better opportunities and escaping economic struggles. They demonstrated immense love and care in raising my siblings and me, ensuring we had endless opportunities and instilling the values of hard work and dedication. Witnessing their journey from having nothing to starting a business has made them incredible role models in my life. Their perseverance inspires me to excel in my studies and strive for excellence. Their sacrifices have instilled in me the desire to serve as a positive example not just for my siblings but also for the aspiring generations of Atlantic City.

I am determined to positively impact the community's mental health, empowering individuals to pursue higher education and fostering a sense of security and hope. Like my parents, I aim to extend a helping hand to those facing adversities, enabling them to discover their strengths and talents, regardless of their background.

As a sophomore at Stockton, pursuing a biology degree with dreams of becoming a pediatric doctor, I recognize the significance of fostering hope and healing in young lives. Just as my parents have been my role models, I aspire to inspire others to become catalysts for positive change. Together we can build a brighter, more inclusive future for all, where endless opportunities await, leaving no one behind. 

We all know about the joke of Pagliacci, right? That’s the one where a man goes to a doctor and says, "Doctor, I’ve been unhappy and depressed and lost the will to live." The doctor suggests that the famous clown Pagliacci is in town, and he should go and watch him and that should make him happy and bring him back to life. And the man replies, "But doctor, I am Pagliacci".

 Atlantic City, with its inviting embrace, instantly makes you feel at home as soon as you set foot on its surface. The prospect of leaving behind a secure life for an unknown future provoked deep contemplation when I migrated from Bangladesh to the U.S. However, after spending a short time here, I realized that the decision was one I would never regret. Like Pagliacci, the beloved home of thousands in need also requires our helping hand to heal and reach its full potential. I firmly believe that by working together, we can guide the city to be the best version of itself.

My name is Sadia Mihi and I am a Criminal Justice student at Stockton University. Ever since I was a young child, I have always found this field to be interesting. I would find myself drawn to true crime videos like a moth to a flame. I find the nature of crime to be both disturbing, yet an interesting field of study. Not only is the crime itself of importance, but the perpetrator’s motivations, relation with the victim(s) and the circumstances leading up to the incident are pivotal. It is more than what meets the eye which is why I chose this field of study and with this degree, I hope to help as many people as I can! Especially within the community of Atlantic City.

 

This city is home for me. All throughout my nineteen years of life, Atlantic City has provided me with countless opportunities and I want to pay it forward. I want to help the people in my community using the knowledge and skills I gain throughout my college career. In the future, I hope to work alongside law enforcement to not only apprehend criminals, but also be able to support victims of crimes who are often forgotten in the Criminal Justice System. This system is built around the protection of the perpetrators which often leaves the victim(s) with nothing. This is something I want to change within my community. Victims deserve to be heard. And since I am fortunate enough to be in a position where I can attend college, I will do my due diligence to make a positive impact in the world!

 

At age three my family and I immigrated to the United States from Haiti. In 2008 we decided to move to Atlantic City. I learned a lot living in the city, both the good and the bad. What I like about the city is how diverse the people are. This allows me to see people from all walks of life. What upsets me about the city is how the children have less opportunities than children living in different, less diverse counties. I grew up in the city and did all of my learning in the Atlantic City education system. I was never a great student, but I always tried my best with what I had to work with. Growing up with immigrant parents who didn't speak the best English meant my older siblings and I were tasked with doing everything ourselves. We weren't aware that it was okay to ask for help and only relied on each other. As I grew older and allowed more people into my life this mindsetgradually went away.

Stockton University played an integral part in this change because the school makes sure that its students know that they have access to everything they need to become successful. The reason I chose to go to Stockton was because it was affordable and closest to home. The reason I stay at Stockton is because they care about my education and as a school want me to become a well-rounded and successful member of society. Because school played a major role in my life, I chose to become a liberal arts major with a concentration in elementary education. Teachers are the unsung heroes of many of our lives and ever since I was young I wanted to be an educator. I want to play a positive role in young people's lives, just as my teachers have done.

My grandparents and parents of Chinese descent immigrated to Atlantic City from Vietnam in hopes that they would be able to achieve their dreams and seek opportunities for all of us. My hard-working parents have blessed my siblings and I with a loving and memorable life.  We were taught at a very young age that having good character, manners, family values, self-discipline, and respect for others will bring us far in society.  They always wanted what was best for us, encouraged us to always be our best no matter what we encountered in life, they taught us through hard work and perseverance we can achieve whatever goals and dreams we have for our future, and they make sure to give us every possible opportunity and life experience that they never had growing up so that we can best all around. My siblings and I always appreciated and are very grateful for all that they have done and continue to do for us, and we try our best and work very hard every day to make them proud of us. I have met so many wonderful, loving, and nurturing people throughout my childhood in Atlantic City. I have met some of the best and inspiring people that this world has to offer simply by living and growing up in Atlantic City. I am so appreciative of the place that I've grown up in and the people that I've met along the way. I was given so many great opportunities ever since I was young, and I was extremely blessed to be a part of the great educational system in Atlantic City. I've met countless hardworking and genuine teachers throughout my elementary and high school years. As perfect as it seems, nevertheless my family and I go through struggles in life just like everyone else, but we always remind ourselves to stay positive and our accomplishments are a blessing compared to many other families in the world. My main goal is that I want to give back to the Atlantic City community, especially to the youth of Atlantic City because I was once in their shoes, and I want to be a good role model and young leader for them. Atlantic City is a diverse community infused with people of all different kinds of cultures and backgrounds. It is a melting pot of cultures with endless opportunities for everyone. "The future holds promises and dreams for the youth that can be achieved through hard work, dedication, planning, education and words of wisdom." ~ Unknown

My parent's economic situation forced them both to immigrate here to Atlantic City before starting college in Mexico. Working hard every day, they have paved a beautiful future for my brothers and I and am eternally grateful for every single sacrifice they have made. I am currently working towards my bachelor's degree in Nursing. It is my goal to become an OB/GYN or Pediatrics nurse and become a role model to other first-generation kids in Atlantic City. 

AC is such a diverse community that lacks programs and extracurricular activities for children. I would wish to focus on this problem as I feel it is an important part of one's childhood. Not only is AC the place where my parents met, but it is also the city that took care of me and my family. The casinos always kept my parents employed while I attended great schools that prepared me for my future education. I will always be proud to say I am from Atlantic City and cannot wait to be a part of the wonderful changes in the years ahead. 

At a very young age, I immigrated from Bangladesh to America because my parents wanted to seek a better living. My family and I decided to settle in Atlantic City. We were able to assimilate to the American lifestyle with the support of the Bengali community. Through hard work, I was able to excel very well academically, and also broaden my experience through extracurricular activities. For more than 15 years, I witnessed the many ups and downs in Atlantic City. I believe the city has so much room for improvement and can continue to prosper. I chose Stockton University because of the many opportunities it provided me within the close proximity of my home. Despite being an Undeclared major, I’m interested in exploring the tech industry. Technology is advancing society and revolutionizing the way people live. I’m hoping to put myself in a position in which I’m able to help others through technology.

 

To those reading this, assalamualaikum, (may peace and blessings be upon you). I come from a culture that can be found on the east side of a map, Pakistan. My father, only 19 years old, came to a foreign land with a bucket load of responsibility, a mind full of dreams, and not a penny to his name. He came to America with hope and a sense of optimism for his future generations. He came to earn money and give back to the soil he once stood on. To give back to his community, his lineage, and those in need in Pakistan. Today, as I stand where he once stood, at the age of 19 years old, I have grasped onto my father’s aspirations and created one for my own. As my father gives back to his community, I am dedicated to give back to my own. 

Born and raised in Atlantic City, I’ve seen myself grow within the lively streets of the ancient city of Ducktown. It’s a city where opportunities are endless, programs are accessible, and great choices are but a decision away. I made sure to take advantage of every one of those opportunities. One of my biggest accomplishments was to be able to get on the Press of Atlantic City newspaper. This was through my accomplishment of winning 1st and 3rd place for the Atlantic City district-wide Oratorical Contest. This is not including the countless other appearances within the papers for miniscule accomplishments. One of my biggest contributions to my city lies within the extensive hours I give back to my community. I have completed more than 92 hours in the last three years! My volunteer work will only continue to expand in the upcoming years. Despite the stigma people create about Atlantic City, I strive to show and be an example of truth- Atlantic City is a diverse nest of bright optimistic individuals and with a small extra push, individuals will prosper.

I have grown up in Atlantic City my whole life with an immigrant mother from Mexico who has worked in different casinos. As I pursue my personal and professional goals, keeping in mind where I come from is a major part of what motivates me. Being mindful of the sacrifices and hardships that allow me the opportunities I have, pushes me to make them worthwhile. The Engelberg Leadership Scholarship Program is looking to create an opportunity for local students who are pursuing higher education while remaining in the community and I am someone that is working very hard to obtain a university education. I also recognize that why I am able to is owed to many people who have invested their time in me, helping and creating different orientation programs. Growing up, I have received help and been responded to my needs through programs like Launch Kids, Family Rec, Goals Gear Up, and EOF. These programs have helped me see it possible for myself to realize all my goals. I could see myself achieving my academic goals of becoming the first college graduate in my family. And beyond that, I saw a chance to fulfill my commitment to help Atlantic City. I am committed to responding to the needs of Atlantic City, being that it has made me who I am and provided me with the opportunities that I have. I plan to be a resource for my community and provide support in whatever way I can. 

 Growing up in Atlantic City, I have had both the pleasure and frustrations of being  presented with great opportunities as well as many adversities. I am the first person in my family to graduate high school and to attend college, it was one of the biggest achievements and proudest moments for me and my family. My parents immigrated from Bangladesh, yearning the “American Dream” for themselves and their children in the hopes of us being successful one day. This success is specifically measured in financial freedom and security. And as with most dreams, the path to achieving them is lined with many vicissitudes. Being a minority, I have faced further obstacles of discrimination, disadvantage, and being underrepresented, such as overcoming many obstacles like learning how to apply for financial aid, how to arrange campus visits, applying to college and scholarships was very difficult. Despite these predicaments that come along the way, I completed my first semester of college with a 4.0 GPA. Additionally, I was also recognized and was listed as one of many students to be part of the Dean’s list. Currently, I also hold the position of Public Relation Chair in the Muslim Student Association. Moving forward, I plan to help my community by being vocal and supportive while obtaining my leadership potential for the better future of Atlantic City.  

My family and I immigrated to Atlantic City from El Salvador because my parents aimed to follow the American Dream. They saw United States as a place filled with opportunities, especially in education. I have lived in Atlantic City for most of my life and it has seen me evolve from a little girl I once used to be-to the woman I am today. I have made wonderful memories and have met so many great mentors. Many of them have helped guide me into the right path and have pushed me to work harder. Atlantic City is filled with potential, but there are areas that need some work. I want to be able to help the children of the city. If we want violence in Atlantic City to slowly decline, we must start with teaching the kids. They are the key to a better future, and they are the ones that need to be encouraged to stop the vicious cycle.

Every day I am thankful for what my parents could provide me with. As the daughter of immigrant parents, I was raised to be an appreciative, humble, and hardworking individual. I believe everything I do in the future will be a gift back not only to them but to myself as well. For a long time, I was not sure what career I wanted to have. This all changed when I applied to Stockton University. Stockton was a perfect option for a lower-middle-class student like myself. I found an interest in behavioral health, mental health awareness, and helping others. My interests led me to major in psychology. I believe the children who reside in Atlantic City are the future of the city’s success. These children should be guided by professionals who want to see them succeed despite their ethnic backgrounds and financial struggles. My role in this city is to effectuate my goals, assist as a potential psychiatrist, and give back to the community. 

 

For me, being raised in Atlantic City was a major opportunity. My parents came to Atlantic City from Mexico. They each left their hometowns at 18 years old to live the American Dream. They sacrificed their comfort and happiness to provide us a better future. Although many people yearn for their “college experience,” I could only think about how unprepared I was for this change. I was fearful when I was starting college, but when I stepped onto Stockton University’s campus, I felt satisfied to be minutes away from home while also feeling I could be self-sufficient. Although it is an ambitious goal, I hope to one day occupy the role of persuading Atlantic City residents to want change. As a community, we need to envision a rebirth for Atlantic City. I hope I am there to witness and be a part of the change.

I plan on becoming an alternate route teacher, but I believe I can make an impact on society outside of the classroom, especially with a math and economics degree. I also believe that if time is dedicated, Atlantic City can once again be held in the same high regard as it once was. Atlantic City has some issues, but nothing that can’t be fixed with time and effort. My parents heavily contributed their time to better Atlantic City and its surrounding areas, and it is simply my turn to do the same. My parent’s dedication to Atlantic City is one of the reasons I am the sole leader of a project which would bring Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library to the Atlantic City area. I believe books are an important aspect of a child’s life and help children learn and grow, which is why over winter break I also wrote and illustrated a children’s book that is to be published on my new website. If I want to better my surroundings, I need to implement a change, and that’s what I hope to do.

Standing up for someone is not the easiest thing to do. However, after hearing about the unfortunate events and the treatment of immigrants in America, I made it my mission to protect my community. I am going to spread awareness while protecting immigrants from being taken advantage of by low wages, discrimination, and countless things. To be the voice of those who don’t have the power to do so is my way to give back to my community. I care about Atlantic City because it provided me with ambition, grit, and awareness. Even though I didn’t have a white-picket fence house, I still learned the essence of being loved by the city. I care about Atlantic City because it provided me with ambition, grit, and awareness. My role in the city’s future is to prove others wrong of their stereotypes by being the exception. I’ll always proudly explain that my success was not from my hard work, but from the place that I grew up; that is Atlantic City.

I knew that Stockton would be a safe space to me, despite being unsure of my choice of major. I felt certain that I could explore all my interests there. I grew determined to not allow my hardships to get in the way of being successful, and I prospered. Despite any adversities that life threw at me, I completed my first semester of college with a perfect 4.0 GPA. My first semester at Stockton was not easy, but I persevered and have since then continued to. I chose to attend the university seeking out a familiar environment that would provide me with peace of mind, and I received that plus more. I have transformed into a resilient young woman, determined to play any bad cards life has dealt me with wit, tenacity, and optimism.

Elena Gonzalez is an Atlantic City native and graduate of Atlantic City High School.  She aspires to become a teacher because she believes that teachers play one of the most formative roles in the lives of young people.

Teaching is about more than the subject matter; it is students learning respect--for themselves and for others. "I care about Atlantic City because I have lived here all my life," Elena wrote in her application essay.

"Atlantic City is a beautiful melting pot of people, all with their own unique cultures and perspectives. I have watched this combined group of people suffer tragic loss, but always recover and bounce back as a community. 

Steven Blythe comes from Ventnor, New Jersey, and graduated from Atlantic City High School.  He was drawn to Computer Science because it is versatile and dynamic, and enjoys both the applied and theoretical possibilities of the field.

Steven has sought to immerse himself in campus culture, joining a variety of student clubs and contributing to the planning of campus activities.  "I chose Stockton University because I wanted to immerse myself in the variety of cultures on campus," he writes. "I have already met many people with different backgrounds and perspectives." 

Bao Pham immigrated with his family to Atlantic City from Vietnam because his parents saw New Jersey as a place of opportunity.  He is interested in serving in law enforcement, either at the local or federal level, as he believes safeguarding communities not only makes them feel safe, but also helps them grow and become more prosperous

He is motivated by a strong sense of family.  "My parents gave everything they could for my sister and me to have better lives here and because of that I will never forget their hard work and determination.  Though their perseverance, we now have a place to call home." 

Loukaia Taylor is from Atlantic City, and chose Stockton University because, she notes, "it prides itself on its distinction." Loukaia is a Communications Studies major with an interest in Public Relations, who is interested in learning more about the interactions between community and government.

She has also become active in To.get.her, a club dedicated to strengthening the position of women of color on campus. "Atlantic City is central to who I am," she writes," I hope to be able to help my community one day, to pay back what it has done for me."