Jesus Baez-Santos Memorial Scholarship

One of the most profound moments I shared with my mother happened during a particularly challenging time in our lives. It was the night I came home from the hospital after spending ten days on life support. As I lay in bed, still weak and frail, my mother sat beside me, holding my hand. She spoke to me softly about the strength she saw in me and how proud she was of my fight. Her words that night resonated deeply within me, instilling a sense of resilience and determination that has stayed with me ever since. My mother holds a significant place in my life for countless reasons. Her journey as a first-generation American, coupled with the adversities she faced, has shaped her into the incredible woman she is today. She grew up without parental support after her own mother was deported to Jamaica, forcing her to navigate life in America on her own. Despite these hardships, she used them as a stepping stone to build a life of purpose and compassion, qualities she has passed down to me. One of the most impactful ways my mother has influenced me is through her unwavering faith and drive. By the age of 25, she was raising four children while working full-time in social services at a homeless shelter. Even with such a demanding role, she decided to return to school full-time, pursuing a degree that she couldn’t afford when she was younger. Her ability to balance work, education, and family responsibilities left a lasting impression on me. Beyond her professional and academic pursuits, my mother’s dedication to helping others has also been a source of inspiration. Despite her busy schedule, she volunteered as a wish granter for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, bringing joy and hope to children facing life-threatening illnesses. Her compassion and selflessness have taught me the importance of giving back to the community and making a positive impact on others’ lives. Being a first-generation student has its own set of challenges and rewards. Like my mother, I have had to navigate the complexities of higher education without the familial support that many of my peers take for granted. This experience has taught me the value of perseverance and self-reliance. There have been times when I felt overwhelmed by the demands of my studies, but remembering my mother’s journey and the sacrifices she made for our family has always been a source of motivation. One of the most significant challenges I faced as a first-generation student was the lack of guidance and understanding about the college application process. I had to learn everything on my own, from filling out financial aid forms to writing personal statements. However, this journey has also been incredibly rewarding. It has taught me the importance of seeking out resources and support systems, whether through academic advisors, mentors, or student organizations. These experiences have not only helped me succeed academically but also fostered a sense of resilience and independence. My mother’s unwavering support and belief in me have been instrumental in my journey as a first-generation student. She's my biggest cheerleader, encouraging me to pursue my dreams and never give up, no matter how tough things get. Her strength and determination have shown me that anything is possible with hard work and perseverance. In conclusion, her journey and dedication to helping others have inspired me to strive for excellence and giving back to my community. As a first-generation student, I have faced my own set of challenges, but my mother’s example has taught me the importance of resilience, determination, and the power of unwavering support.