Brianna Foy

January 20, 2015

Scholarship Essay
Lean, young, and full of ambition was he. A man by the name of Carrol
Washington traversed from Waterproof, Louisiana to New Orleans in 1950. While he
had intentions on attending Dillard University on a music scholar ship, life took him
somewhere else. He became a family man and had five kids- my mother being his
only daughter. While balancing his family and chasing his dreams, he helped to birth
a whole record label. He and two men by the names of Joseph Broussard and Ralph
Williams formed the writing trio named CaralJo Music.
Today, CaralJo Music boast a catalog of over thirty copywrited songs with the
most popular being Mr. Big Stuff. It was recorded by music artist Jean Knight. Mr.
Big Stuff went platinum and was nominated for a Grammy in 1972. This was one of
the most popular R & B songs of our elders times. My grandfather-who is currently
82 years old- still managed to take care of his family while achieving countless
musical endeavors.
Throughout my life, he has always been that driving force that keeps me
going when things get rough. Scholastically, he has encouraged me to be intelligent
and to educate myself. My grandfather also proved to me that even with a GED you
can rise above and be great. Who wouldve known a man with a very general
education would be part owner of a company? He always says, Grit is something
that cant be expected unless it is instilled into an individual.
As a spiritual advisor, he has always told me to treat others with fairness and
dignity. No matter the situation, I should practice discipline and resilience. Growing

closer to God is something that hes urged me to do as a young girl. My grandfather

has strong faith when it comes to God calling us home at any time. He has had
many opportunities to question Gods presence in his life during his many loses.

His wisdom and humbleness are the two characteristics I am most envious of. He
has taken care of two sickly wives and is neither bitter nor resentful. He is wise
enough to know that every challenge set in front of him is something that he can
over come. I often wonder if hes ever felt unsure or upset about his loved ones
being sick but his humbleness doesnt allow him to. In many situations he has told
me to humble myself and let everything be what it must be because it will anyhow.
Those words have saved me in countless circumstances.

Last but not least, I have my grandfather to thank for being a constant support of
my mom even as an Adult. He still nurtures her with information only a father can
give, and for that he is the greatest person a grandchild can have. Spiritually,
mentally, and emotionally Carrol Washington has played a huge role in my life. His
legacy should, and will be continued. I am proud to say that a proud black man has
helped to raise a proud black young woman.