Caring Futures Scholarship

Becoming a mother to my own mom at just twelve years old was an unexpected and life-altering experience. My mother was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, a disease that seemed to grow in severity with time, affecting her mobility and cognitive abilities. I watched as she struggled to walk, to hold even the lightest objects, and to remember routine tasks. It fell to me, a child myself, to become her primary caregiver. I would pick up the pieces—literally and figuratively—helping her navigate each day while wrestling with the fear and confusion that came with her illness. There were many moments when I asked myself, "Why me?" I felt unprepared and overwhelmed by the responsibilities thrust upon me. Yet, seeing my mother smile when I brought her a treat or adjusted her pillows made all the struggles seem worthwhile. Those smiles became my strength, guiding me through the toughest times and teaching me the power of empathy. This empathy carried over into my work in daycare, where I helped children navigate their emotions. I realized that in soothing their hurts, I was also healing my own. As I kept working with children and their families, I noticed how external parts of their lives could affect them. Understanding these connections intrigued an even more passion for helping others. This experience solidified my desire to pursue a career in Social Work, where I could offer the kind of holistic care that addresses not just emotional well-being, but also the practical needs of those I serve. My journey in social work began at The University of Texas at El Paso, where I earned my Bachelor's in Social Work in May 2024. During my Bachelor's I did an internship with the Juvenile Probation Department to expand my own research into the needs of at-risk youth and families, to better understand why so many foster care children end up in prison. One of the needs identified was a significant need for positive recreational opportunities for at-risk youth. This realization led me to create a partnership between the Juvenile Probation Department and an afterschool program where youth could learn valuable skills like graphic design, music production, and 3D printing; and decrease the probability of youth engaging in at-risk activities. This experience also deepened my understanding of the systemic challenges these youth face and reinforced my commitment to making a difference. As I continue my education with a Master's in Social Work, my goal is to become a foster care therapist. I want to provide stability and support for youth who have not had the same resources and opportunities as others. I believe that these children deserve opportunities to heal and thrive, with someone who sees them not just for their trauma, but for the potential within them. This scholarship will not only support my educational journey but will also enable me to better serve the vulnerable communities that need compassionate care the most. It is an investment in a future where I can bring healing and hope to those who need it most.