When I think about the way I show up in the world, I try to start with the basics, focusing on how I take care of myself. Every day, I commit to a hygiene and skincare routine because it helps me feel refreshed and ready to take on whatever I have planned for the day. I get my hair braided regularly and take the time to care for it when it is out naturally and curly. For me, these things are not just about appearance, they are about feeling confident and taking pride in how I present myself. I also make time to work out every day, not only to stay physically fit but because it helps me clear my head and manage stress. Movement is a way for me to reset. Music is another big part of my daily routine. It helps to keep me grounded and brings joy. I also try to stay on top of things like chores, assignments, and other responsibilities. When I keep things in order and stay ahead of my tasks, it helps prevent unnecessary stress and gives me peace of mind.
Taking care of myself in these ways allows me to be more present for others. When I feel stable and centered, I show up more intentionally for the people in my life. For my inner circle, which includes my family, close friends, and mentors, I try to be someone who shows up consistently. I check in regularly, even if it is just a quick “thinking of you” text or a short conversation. These small moments help keep connections strong. I make a habit of sharing any opportunities, scholarships, or helpful resources I come across because I believe that success should be shared, not kept to myself. I also try to make sure the people around me feel seen and appreciated. Sometimes that looks like writing a note of encouragement, speaking affirmations out loud, or just telling someone directly that I am proud of them. These actions may seem small, but they build trust and support within my circle. I have learned that consistency matters more than big gestures. Being there, checking in, and following through all show people that they matter.
In my broader community, I try to take that same energy and apply it to the spaces I am part of. On campus, I serve as Vice President of both the Black Student Union and the Caribbean Student Association. These roles allow me to advocate for students, plan events, and help create space for cultural expression, community building, and dialogue. I have also held other leadership positions that pushed me to step up and serve. This year, I helped bring the Black Student Union to Florida’s Capitol for a day of civic engagement and education, giving students the chance to connect directly with lawmakers and learn more about the legislative process. One experience I am especially proud of is being part of the APPLE Project, the Applied Politics and Policy Learning Experience. Through this program, I had the chance to meet with city commissioners and advocate for more equitable access to public space, particularly on the Southside of Tallahassee. I believe that students, especially students of color, deserve to feel like their voices matter in local government. Working on a project that combined policy, advocacy, and community impact was something that helped me grow as a leader.
Beyond campus and my immediate community, I try to stay mindful of my impact on the world as a whole. I believe that even if I am not in a position to change the world overnight, I can still be intentional about how I show up in it. In the long run, I want to work in international law and use that career path to fight for human rights and justice across borders. Whether that is through policy, advocacy, or legal work, I want to contribute to systems that help people and hold those in power accountable. That global focus begins now, with the way I treat people, serve my community, and grow in my personal habits.
This summer, I am taking a big step forward by heading to Washington, D.C. to intern in the U.S. House of Representatives with Congressman Darren Soto. I see this opportunity as a way to expand my impact beyond campus and into national policymaking. While I am there, I want to hold on to the habits that keep me grounded, including working out, listening to music, staying organized, and reflecting through journaling. I also want to develop new routines, like reading more about legal issues and paying close attention to the behind-the-scenes work that goes into crafting policy. I plan to be open to mentorship, ask questions, and take in everything I can from this experience. My goal is to take what I learn this summer and bring it back to the communities I care about, while continuing to grow into the kind of person who can make a real difference. – Josiah Rivette
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