Being a black male in the most segregated city in the United States, hardwork and perseverance is what determines my fate, but ultimately my destiny. That because of the stigma aimed toward black males, I am obligated to work twice as hard, to withstand the sticks and stones that tries to oppress me. That my best is not good enough, whether I received a 4.0 my whole sophomore year, or me thriving to be the salutatorian of my class, I need more than perseverance to make my life meaningful. That is why my mother who didn’t go to college, knows the struggles and obstacles that withheld her from pursuing her dreams. As a result, she knows what is best for me, and how hard it will be to achieve my goals. She wants me to have a better life for not