Maria's Legacy: Alicia's Scholarship

A college degree in accounting, will change my life and the lives of future generations in my family. To me, education is not just a personal goal but a way to create stability and opportunities that my family has never had. Growing up, my mother's sacrifices inspired me to work hard and dream big. She was not able to finish her high school in Mexico out of a necessity and societal norms. Through her persistence and strength, my will was molded to pursue higher education and set a new frontier for my family. Truthfully, this has actually made me quite excited to be the first in my family to pursue college as it challenges me. I have been working my way through the entire process by myself, since no one in my family was there to advise me. Yet this process has made me strong and resourceful. I had to search for resources, ask questions, and learn as I went along, which ultimately made me independent and confident. Someday, I would like to use these experiences to help others in similar situations. I want to show them that they too can accomplish what seems like an impossible or very intimidating process. Earning a degree would mean the world to me personally. It would be an honor to my mother-the sacrifices she has made aren't wasted. She has labored in fields under the harshest of conditions with worsening pain to provide for my sister and me. A college degree would allow me to give my mom the life she deserves-a life where she does not have to be worried about the next bill and can finally rest. This would set a precedent for my family, too, and show the next generation that higher education is achievable and attainable. I am passionate about serving my community and making meaningful connections. Serving as president of Key Club has allowed me to accept the challenge of leading others while continuing to serve alongside them. My favorite event has been visiting an elderly home during the holidays.The time spent with the residents, listening to their stories and bringing joy to them through small acts of kindness, has really reaffirmed my belief in the power of human connection. These experiences have motivated me to continue finding ways of supporting and uplifting those around me. A passion for accounting and finance arguably came through the observation of my family's financial struggles and a personal desire to create a different future. I relate to these areas because they are fundamental tools that would ensure a family or a business thrives. I picture using my degree to support my own family, but also to aid others in managing their personal finances and creating secure futures. To support my interests, I have worked to hold a 4.0 GPA while leading extracurricular organizations and completing community service projects. Leading Key Club has taught me the importance of organization, communication, and empathy. These experiences have only been reinforcing my resolve not just to succeed academically but to utilize the education to create a better existence for others. It's more than a personal accomplishment but a beacon of hope and promise. It's about being the first to break the cycle of struggle, to honor my mother's sacrifices, and to leave behind a legacy of opportunity for my family. I have had my fair share of difficulties in my journey, but these experiences have only made me stronger, and I am determined to use my experiences to inspire others to pursue their dreams and create meaningful change in their lives.