The Enlisted: The Price of Service No One Tells You. In her debut book, Pearson sheds light on the tough realities she faced as a black, enlisted woman serving in the U.S. Navy, and draws attention to what other young women are sure to encounter.

Pearson's book is drawn from a journal she kept during her five years of service in the U.S. Navy and from interviews with women and men who crossed her path during her tours in both Virginia, California, and on the open seas.

"I want to start the controversial conversations that will lead to change," said Pearson, who is currently a University of Alabama student. "I'm focused and determined to help at least one person see the full picture before making a multi-year commitment where the only thing that is truly certain is uncertainty itself."