Scorenavigator Financial Literacy Scholarship

One week before my sophomore year of high school, I lost my dad to Parkinson's disease. He taught me to persevere and to be able to adapt to struggles. Ten months after losing my father, we had a tornado and lost half our home. It took 7 months to move into our home and we only did it with my dad's life insurance money. My mom knew it would take time, but that she would be reimbursed for the life insurance. However, after two years we are still fighting for our money. Mom was debt free with an 830 credit rating. Now, she owes everyone and her credit rating is now less than 500. Because of the two tragedies back to back, she may never have a good credit rating again. After seeing everything my mother has been through financially, I plan to work hard to have a large savings for emergencies to hopefully prevent this in my future. I am working to get a student credit card, so I can begin building my credit. My mom is low vision and has many health issues. our family income is less than $20,000 a year for the three of us. I'm applying for every scholarship I can in hopes to cover college, a computer, and supplies because there will be no other way to get them. When applying for financial assistance, I use my cell phone since I don't have a computer. I am also working to raise my ACT score, so that will help financially with my college well. Most people do not even know that I have high functioning autism and ADHD, because I have worked so very hard to overcome achieve my goals. Currently, I have a 3.987 grade point average and I'm ranked number twenty in my senior classof 320 at Pearl High School. I have enjoyed the archery team since 6th grade. Many students have lots of community service hours and when my church has special activities in the community, of course, I help. However, since my dad did not have nursing care, we had to take care of his needs. As a sophomore, I started a 2-year construction program at Hinds Community College. I learned quickly and became very passionate about Construction Management. Now, I am helping my grandfather build his own repair shop and gaining even more experience. My goal is to obtain a Bachelor's degree in Construction Management with a minor in business. My father was diagnosed with an aggressive form of Parkinson's disease when I was 8 years old. Before this day, my dad participated in every single activity with my brother and myself. By the time I was twelve, I had to help care for my dad, so he could live and die at home. Although I know this does not count as volunteering, I am grateful for the time I was allowed to spend with my father. One week before my sophomore year in high school, my dad passed away. So when it comes to volunteering, I know I do not have huge numbers of volunteer hours. However, I know as a son I was where I needed to be for my dad and the rest of my family. Now, my grandmother has Parkinson's disease and I use my experiences caring for my father, to care for my grandmother. Now that I'm older, I can help with caregiving for her and my grandfather, but I can also help with driving, lifting, repairs, and so much more.

I hope you never feel the pain of fighting for your life, the sheer exhaustion, the fear, the hopelessness. I hope most of all you don't go so long without oxygen, it scars and damages your brain. I wasn't dealt a fair hand of cards in life; at 15, I made a conscious decision. A decision to stand and fight or to give up and succumb to the pressure that surrounded me. I am the side of Covid no one sees, knows, or even remembers. My heart stays in Tachycardia, to Bradycardia, then out. The unshockable rhythm, code blue. Asystole. I required a pacemaker. The lack of oxygen prior to stabilizing my heart caused brain damage then Epilepsy as well as short term memory loss. My parents were terrified to allow me back into school. I couldn’t remember my own school layout. My short term memory made it beyond difficult to retain information, to learn it, to pass exams. I only worked harder. My heart still continues its tachycardic rage. I wake every morning to a medicine caddy that looks like that for an eighty year old. Even with my heart medication, getting to the classrooms and around school with a heart rate of 160 wears out even the strongest. I am healing and have just recovered from my third, yes third, pacemaker surgery in two years. Most of my high school years were spent in the children's hospital or too weak to get out of bed. Everyone always said, I had a heart of Gold-Now and now I do. The first Golden Pacemaker installed in our Children’s Hospital due to pacemaker allergy. The life saving device to my almost unbelievable Covid story, I was allergic to the Titanium. I believe we are all here on earth with purpose. My purpose doesn't end at the document I just received from the hospital- "Severely Disabled-Stage IV". No thank you. I have fought and will continue to fight through college, too. Whatever it takes, I will succeed. I am proud of who I am today, and have learned much of myself I never knew. I am strong, I am resilient, a fighter. I possess the empathy and compassion most will never know, because I know how fragile life is, how precious it is, and to never take for granted. My parents say everything is okay; they say we are financially stable. I know better. I know that alongside the credit cards, they have emptied their accounts. I can only imagine how deep the medical debt goes, a debt they will never tell me the amount of. They say that's what parents do. They fight for their children. I will spend all day, any spare moment I have, writing, and fighting now for scholarships to help remove the educational burden from them. My dad works hard, but his income is only enough to barely make it through. We lost my moms income following Covid and the damage it did to my heart and brain. It's hard to watch, and not feel like a burden. My entire life, they have always been adamant on education. That they did not want to see me struggle the way they have through life. I am excited to not only graduate with my walking class on time, but also with honors. Most would have given up. I fought. Thank you for being there to ease the financial burden of a family in need. To allow them a moment in time to not worry, a moment to smile instead of fight. From my golden heart to yours, Jayden Gross

I grew up middle-class. My mom was a teacher, and my dad worked a blue-collar job. For a while, I didn’t think much about money — it was just something adults worried about. But when my parents divorced, I watched everything change. My mom was left with debt, a mortgage she couldn’t afford, and two young kids to raise on a teacher’s salary. Suddenly, I was aware of what we didn’t have: the newest shoes, the popular coat, the vacations my friends took. We made ends meet, but just barely. I didn’t truly begin to understand money until 7th grade, when my mom handed me a surprising birthday gift. Compared to all of the others that were wrapped in pretty paper and mailed in from my relatives, it was small. Just an envelope with my name on it, inside was a login to a Dave Ramsey personal finance course. She told me, “The greatest gift I can give you is knowledge.” At first, I thought it was a strange present. But as I worked through the lessons, I realized how much power there is in understanding how money works. Budgeting, saving, debt — these weren’t just abstract concepts; they were the difference between security and struggle. That experience sparked something in me. I wanted to understand not just personal finance, but the bigger picture. Why do so many families stay trapped in the same cycle? Why do some people get ahead while others never seem to catch up? I started reading about the economy, taxation, inflation, and the education gap. I sought out older people who had lived through economic highs and lows and asked them what they had learned. I read about the housing market and how homeownership is one of the biggest drivers of generational wealth — but also a barrier for families who can’t afford it. Learning about these topics changed the way I saw my own family’s story. I realized our struggles weren’t unique. Millions of families face the same challenges: trying to pay bills on time, worrying about unexpected expenses, feeling like they’re running just to stay in place. At first, that thought made me feel powerless. But over time, it became motivating. It showed me that economics isn’t just about money — it’s about people’s lives, their futures, and their ability to thrive. Through this process, I learned that I’m someone who refuses to accept the world as it is without asking why. I like to dig deeper, to find patterns, and to understand the systems behind what I see. This journey has also made me more empathetic. When I see someone struggling financially, I no longer assume it’s because of bad decisions — I recognize the structural obstacles that might be holding them back. This new perspective has shaped my future in a very tangible way. I’ve decided to pursue education as my college major because I believe understanding behaviors and the systems that shape our lives shouldn’t be something kids only learn after they’re already struggling. I want to teach not just reading or math, but also the foundations of problem solving and critical thinking, so children can grow up better prepared than I was. If we can teach the next generation how the world works, we can help them break cycles of inequality before they start.

My name is Princess Mae Pingkian Russell, and I was born on May 21, 2008, in the Capital of the Philippines, Manila. I lived half my life there with my big family, although we did not have much, we were grateful to be together. Life was simple in the Philippines. I still remember the faint smell of the ocean and the food that I had longed for. As a little kid, I was very curious. I always asked questions: “What is this? What is that? Why?” My curiosity always led me to new places and new friends. As someone who was born in the Philippines, I am fluent in Tagalog, Cebuano, and English. Being trilingual is a valuable asset in the healthcare field because you never know who you’ll be caring for. Clear communication can prevent complications and help patients feel more at ease, especially when you speak their language. I know what it’s like to feel confused and disconnected. When I moved to the United States from a third-world country at a young age, where healthcare was often a privilege rather than a right, my perspective shifted. That experience taught me empathy and fueled my passion for accessible and compassionate care. I've had many ups and downs throughout my seventeen years of life, but that hasn't stopped me from putting myself out there. By doing that, I am now the current Cadet Command Master Chief of our school, NDCC, and by being involved in so many extracurricular activities, such as track or HOSA/SkillsUSA, where I competed at the national level in Atlanta, Georgia, for two consecutive years. I spend time volunteering throughout the community, whether it is at a nursing home or a flag ceremony for NJORTC. I am a very determined and loyal person, especially when I set my mind on something, because I want my parents to know that their daughter has made it through life. My friends say that I am a very free-spirited person, and because of that, I always try to be a pillar of support for them, because I cherish each one of them. I plan to attend East Tennessee State University and enroll in its ROTC program. With this scholarship, I aim to acquire the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to become a competent and compassionate healthcare professional. This would also lessen the financial burden on my parents. My father, who is a retired Army Drill Sergeant, has given his full dedication to the country so I may walk on freely. My mom, who works in the healthcare field, has helped me understand the importance of human connection. Although we may not have much, we look forward to the blessings we have. No matter how much money you have, at the end of the day, the people around you matter most. Ultimately, my goal is to attend medical school, obtain a medical degree, and fulfill all the requirements to practice medicine, particularly in a military environment where I can give back to those who serve our country. I love Tennessee, and the area that I live in, and I want to give back to the community in every way possible. I would not be where I am today without the support of my family and friends and the welcoming community of Elizabethton.

Grace Through the Storm By Grace Caneus When I was six years old, I first understood what it meant to be homeless. While most kids wondered about snack time or recess, I wondered where I would sleep that night. Sometimes it was the backseat of a car. Other times it was a hotel room we could barely afford. Some nights there wasn’t even a bed. “Home” was something we carried with us, not something we lived in. Even through we struggled, my parents did their best. They had every reason to give up, but they didn’t. They refused to become the results of their environment and taught us to fight for what we believe in and to strive for excellence in everything we do. My siblings and I were young my little brother was a newborn yet we were living out of a small car or relying on the kindness of others who opened their homes to us. Up until fourth grade, we moved constantly. My parents didn’t have a car, so every morning we woke up at 5:00 AM and took three to four buses just to get to school. Both my parents worked, so my oldest sister, only a ninth grader, picked us up every afternoon After COVID-19, my dad found a better job, and my parents purchased our first car. We eventually moved into a three-bedroom home which was a huge blessing for our family of seven. But as we grew older, we outgrew the space. My dad received another job opportunity in a different state, meaning we needed to move again. I was supposed to attend Boone High School, but instead enrolled at Timber Creek. At first, I was sad and frustrated. I had to start over again. But life taught me you have to push forward and trust that God can make the impossible possible. So I kept pushing. I stopped being the shy girl who worried about people’s opinions. I joined sports, got involved in clubs, and built friendships with people who motivate each other toward greatness. I didn’t share my struggles with classmates or teachers, not out of shame, but because I didn’t want sympathy. Instead, my challenges fueled me. School became my place of consistency, discipline, and dreaming where I could imagine a life beyond what I saw every day. From elementary school to my senior year, I worked hard. I made honor roll, joined clubs, did community service, and focused on building a future that would make my parents proud. In my family, no one had ever attended a four-year college. The expectation was community college because it was affordable. But I wanted more not just for myself, but for the little girl who dreamed big even when life was small. I studied for hours, chose classes that aligned with my goals, and created an environment centered on hard work. The process was overwhelming, but I reminded myself: I had already overcome more than most people realized. Getting accepted to a four-year university wasn’t just an accomplishment it changed my family’s story. I became the first. And I know I will not be the last. My goal is to inspire my siblings to believe that with hard work anything is possible. Being homeless at six years old didn’t break me. It ignited something powerful inside me. It taught me resilience, gratitude, and the importance of standing out in a world that wants everyone to blend in. I know where I come from, but more importantly, I know where I’m going. And I know my future is bright.

My passion to become a pediatrician. My personal strength and motivation guide me towards my long term goals to make medicine for children more accessible and push the bounds of what's possible.This fall, I will be attending- Stevens Institute of Technology with a major in Biology on the pre-med track. Medicine takes dedication and grit to be successful, a challenge I am fully committed to. The reward for me is being able to see the meaningful and lasting impact I could make on children and families. My personal strength and motivation guide me towards my long term goals to make medicine for children more accessible and push the bounds of what's possible. Starting 2024, I have 100+ of volunteering hours at the Houston Food Bank. I loved my time there- from arranging and packaging food to sorting donations,I could see firsthand the impact of the work we were doing. Being part of a community coming together to support others was both powerful and meaningful. A few years ago,I experienced food insecurities in my own family. So, I understand how meaningful it is to receive help during difficult times. My experience taught and reminded me that behind every box of food is a family, a child, or someone going through a difficult time. It motivates me to continue helping others, especially children, because I know how much even small acts of support can matter. I am planning to continue to volunteer at a food bank. Serving and volunteering at a food bank become something I look forward to and will plan to keep. This community service is important because it directly impacts families and children who rely on that support, and it reminds me that even small actions can make a difference. I’ve been given the opportunity to grow, pursue my education, and serve others, and I believe it is my duty to use those opportunities to give back and strengthen my community. My passion for medicine is also driven by my personal experiences. My family has faced growing financial hardship, while my mother currently fights stage 4B chronic kidney disease. These challenges taught me sacrifice and perseverance. I understand what it means to move forward, even when the circumstances are uncertain. This summer, I am planning on training for college basketball while working. I want to generate income while improving my time management skills. By developing my discipline now, I will be able to take that with me into my freshman year and be more prepared. I am building habits that will allow me to be effective in managing the rigorous biology curriculum while performing at a higher athletic level. Beyond preparing for university, I am also planning on volunteering with youth sports in my area. I want to give back to my local community while learning from the new generation. In giving back, I am also reminding myself what I am working towards as I prepare for the challenges of college and beyond. As a future pediatrician, I want to ensure that children in underserved communities have an equal opportunity to lead a healthy and happy life. My lived experiences have instilled a deep desire to feed into my community. By supporting my education with this scholarship, it will help alleviate the financial burden needed for my undergraduate education while dedicating my focus to academics and athletics. In investing in me, I hope to invest in the health and resiliency of the communities I am determined to serve in the future.

“Rich people stay rich by living like they’re broke. Broke people stay broke by living like they’re rich.” My parents have taught me to live frugally with the little money we have. My parents make a combined income of around $25,000, and for four people, that’s nothing. We rely on AHCCCS, our community food bank, and any freebies we can get, so we look like we can afford a lot. Almost all of my clothes are from the discount rack at Ross or Walmart or are hand-me-downs. I appreciate the wisdom that my parents have passed down to me through them being financially open and honest with me. Along with the lessons that my parents taught me, I also took Marketing and Business as a Dual Enrollment class my junior year. This class taught me the basics of personal economy and fiscal policy before I took AP Economics, and gave me access to getting the Seal of Personal Finance from the State of Arizona. To get the Seal of Personal Finance, I had to enroll in a set of courses on Personal Finance that I studied independently from school and I also had to participate in the Stock Market Game. Learning the highs and lows of the business cycle and how the economy stretches and shrinks really helped me understand how consumers should participate in the economy. The Seal of Personal Finance lessons also taught me about credit, debit, loans, interest, and different ways to budget. My experience in Marketing, the Seal of Personal Finance Program, and AP Macroeconomics and Microeconomics has taught me how to be responsible and frugal with my money. I am planning on becoming a Neurosurgeon which has a salary much higher than any level of income my family has ever experienced. Without these lessons in my high school career, I wouldn’t be able to handle the amount of money I am going to get in the future but with the preparation I have received, I am confident in my ability to manage my money well when the time comes. I’ll have to manage expenses I’ve never had to before, like all the insurance, house, and credit card bills. The other big topic I learned about in my economy related classes was investment. Putting money into stocks to get back a certain amount for retirement, or even just to receive dividends or sell later is what I learned through participating in the Stock Market Game. My team never lost money and we actually ranked pretty high in the Stock Market Game out of 400 teams throughout the state of Arizona. We prioritized buying composite stocks like the SMP500, Dow Jones, and the Nasdaq index stocks. I learned that it was more beneficial to buy from indexes and composites instead of individual companies because indexes are steadier and less likely to lose value than individual company stocks. The high value of all the individual stocks helps balance out the few that might be losing value in the market. All these lessons have taught me to be responsible with my money and to not impulsively spend it, and that is what I plan to also do with the money I get from this scholarship. Stretching every penny is my goal with every dollar I earn.

While attending school from middle until now, I've always wondered if I was going to make it through life and pass all my classes. This feeling is one that I can’t explain. Maybe it was just typically doubting myself. I’ve not had much confidence in myself even though I've made it through every class and obstacle in school I've faced. It has just always been something that has bothered me in school. As a little kid taking tests and quizzes made me develop test anxiety. It used to bother me real bad to the point where I hated the class and I didn't want to go. I took more tests and quizzes and that changed for me. I got more and more used to taking the tests and quizzes. I found myself being more confident. I became more eager to push myself and to do better. Then my train of thoughts changed to wondering what I would like to do in life, what career I wanted to go into, and what will make me happy long term in life. Just thinking about the long term effects on each decision made me really think harder. This is the part that really gets me scared and still scares me. I'm just terrified that if I make decisions, it might end up very bad or cause unfortunate events for me in my life. I second guess myself which is a bad attribute for me.I just don’t want to lose what I have built up for so long after going to school, learning, and gaining all this knowledge over the years. I’d just hate to see all my hard work and potential go to waste. I've always had a high passion for learning, wanting to do great, and being successful in life. My main priorities have been to go to school everyday, do all my work in every class, and keep my grades above a high B or A if possible. This means applying myself to do the work given and get it done before it is due. I will always work hard to excel in school and in life. I will do what is necessary to get the education that I need to go on in my career and to achieve what I'm most passionate about in life. A good education will also help create a foundation and platform to start me off in the real world and my future. It would further my education in my career and create many more opportunities in my life along the way. This has always been my goal overall. However, in the end I realized I should just calm down and relax. I pray things will definitely work out in my favor because I have purpose in life and will excel. Just do what you need to do, believe in yourself, and things will go according to how you planned.

My name is Alexander Overton (Xander) and I am a high school senior graduating this May (2026). I have dreamed of being a physician since I was four years old. I am from a financially challenged area (GA) and family. I pray that you will consider me for your scholarship opportunity. Being a student of color in a community that is 99.98% Caucasian has been more than an average challenge. Having to overcome an enormous racial presence has become a huge part of who I am today. The normal challenges most teens face plus the endless endurance I have experienced have shaped me into someone who wants to help the underprivileged and underserved communities. Medicine is a field that I feel will allow me to make the biggest impact for those individuals. Pre-professional medicine involves intensive coursework, hands-on assignments, and research projects that require significant academic commitment, rigor, and workload for which I am prepared. Tackling complex challenges often requires working in diverse teams and adapting to various professional approaches as I have been throughout my high school career. Having been an apprentice with our local surgical group has been a blessing! STEM success in pre-professional medicine requires a willingness to engage in lifelong learning and stay updated with emerging technologies and innovations. This is why I know medicine is my future and helping people heal is my mission. Being able to attend college in the STEM field requires enormous financial resources that I simply do not have. My passion to succeed in the stem program at UTC will hopefully give you reason to consider me as a candidate for your generous scholarship assistance. I know deep down in my heart and soul that this is exactly the path I am supposed to be on and with your help I dream of becoming the physician I have always known I would be. Asking for any monetary assistance is very uncomfortable for me, but sometimes we have to come out of our comfort zone in order to achieve our dreams. I have always been someone who would try new things and do exactly what it takes to accomplish my goals. Asking you for assistance to help me do this is necessary for me to accomplish my STEM education and complete my undergraduate work. I hope these considerations provide valuable insight into my personal academic and career aspirations. Very grateful for your consideration, Alexander Overton

If you've ever gone on a vacation somewhere or left town, then you understand most of my childhood. Growing up we never stayed in one area for more than 4 years, in fact I've lived in California, Mexico, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and finally Alabama. Most of my life we've been on low income for as long as I could remember. We've had to do food stamps, unemployment benefits, you name it. Even with all these shortcomings, my family refused to give up, we always strive for something better. My father found a very stable job and we no longer need certain benefits. To this day I always thank God for the help and support, even through our financial storm we stayed faithful and the Lord saved us from our struggle. We aren't rich at all by any means, we live in a simple yet nice rental in a very lovely community, the sun beams bright and I wake up thankful. The most I can take away from all these adventures is that God was with me every step of the way. Living in a Christian household, it was always our family code to always put God first. The issue is I wasn't really a good listener and I always wanted to do things my way. I used to be a rebel, for instance I would always wear my shirt backwards, eat cereal with a fork, and smart off to everybody. It took a reality check, a heartbreak, and some ice cream to truly change for the better; I haven't looked back since. What I took from my life is that it's never too late to make a difference, however, waiting around for things to change will keep you where you started. I've shifted my mindset, no longer do I allow myself to be subpar, or only take the minimum. I want to win, to get what I worked for, and glorify God in the process. If I had the opportunity to obtain this scholarship it would get me one step closer to ensuring a secure future. My only goal is to either secure that right for myself, or to my family and I can't accept anything else. I just want to say that I thank God every day for every blessing and chance he gives me to make that difference in my life come true. To be frank, I don't want my life to be some cycle where I do the same thing until I die, I want this chance to truly lead my life the way God intended. It may not change the world on a global scale or shift the tectonic plates, but I can tell you it would help a little boy's dream come true. When I was alone and felt discouraged, I always told myself that my future will make up for all that I've endured. That every hardship I took on would pay off in due time, well here I am hoping that dream comes true. I know dreamers hope for unrealistic realities and pray for big change, but I also know that dreamers are the leading cause for carrying out God's will. I must encounter obstacles so that I can refine my character and strengthen my faith. Like almost every character in the Bible, I'm not the strongest, fastest, and smartest, but I can tell you I refuse to lose and give up regardless of who I am and what I have. For whoever reads this thank you for taking the time to hear my story and I pray you're having a blessed day.

I am Joshua Collins, a first-generation black student pursuing a career in education. Coming from a single parent low-income family, I face significant financial barriers on my path to college. This financial barrier has an estimated cost of $124,844. The expenses include application fees, housing, food, and confirmation deposits, which are very overwhelming without financial assistance. This scholarship would provide crucial support, ease my financial burden, and allow me to fully focus on my studies as an aspiring 5th grade math teacher. A few of my personal financial experiences include the many nights I sat wondering why I am the only kid who can't have fun due to the prices that follow those experiences. These experiences include me not being able to join my high schools marching band, not being able to go to my districts FBLA state competition the year I qualified, and not being able to afford many senior memorabilia such as a grad ad for my schools yearbook, a letter man jacket or even my senior photos. Beyond these financial struggles, these experiences taught me the importance of financial education and planning. Navigating the costs of higher education has strengthened me to pursue my dream of becoming a teacher. Currently I am involved in many school activities and clubs, where I gain much needed skills and experience for the real world. I am currently a member and secretary of a club called Future Georgia Educations, aka FGE. In FGE, I have developed important skills such as organization, professionalism, collaboration and classroom confidence. This club is attached to my school's Teaching as a Profession Pathway, which I have participated in for three consecutive years. Throughout my years I have learned foundational knowledge about education including educational philosophies, ethics, governance in education, and the funding that goes into schools. Which has expanded my understanding of how financial systems impact education on both sides of the system, strengthening my determination and passion for education. Currently, I spend 2-3 hours each day, excluding Wednesdays, in a classroom for the practicum portion of the pathway. During my time in the classroom, I engage with students by assisting them in lessons, small group interventions, and even leading a lesson in phonics under my host teacher's guidance. This hands-on experience, alongside working with student teachers from the college I plan to attend in the fall, prepares me for the realities of becoming an educator. To add to my belt, in April, I will take the Paraprofessional GACE exam, which will allow me to gain even more experience after graduation, where I can get payed to do what I have been doing these past 8 months. Winning this scholarship would not only lessen my financial stress but also affirm my commitment to giving back to my community through education. The support would empower me to continue growing as a student and future education, inspiring and uplifting future generations. I am truly grateful for the experience education has provided me so far, and I am eager to build on them to create a better future for myself and others.

When I was younger, I would spend much time in my backyard to drown out the chaos and fighting that dominated my household. Whenever my parents would start arguing over finances, I would wander off anywhere to find some quiet. Due to all this free I began to draw. I realized I loved to create and design. Over the years I learned to draw, sculpt, paint, and create anything if I put my mind to it. I knew I was created to create and this was my passion.To explore this passion further, I volunteered with an organization called, “Splashes of Hope” where I would paint murals to put on walls of children’s hospitals to make the hospital more vibrant and fun for the patients. Art has been something that has helped me, but also is something I’ve used to help others. If I were to study interior design as a person who loves art and design, and has loved it for as long as I can remember, this career choice stuck out to me when thinking about what type of job I should pursue. Although there are many careers I am interested in, I've met interior designers, architects, and other types of designers. I couldn't help but notice many similarities between us. The similarities we share are our love for art and design and the fact that we can use our artistic talents to improve people's lives. A social issue I’ve noticed is people disliking where they live. They hate the colors their home consists of, the messy and chaotic living space, and coming home from a stressful day of work to an even more stressful environment. I also know some people live in a dangerous or non-functioning home. As someone who has experienced these types of issues, I want to help people solve them because I know how difficult it is. Where we live plays such a big part in our lives including our loved ones. I believe I was created to create, and I want to create the perfect living environment for all people affordably. I am so passionate about design and building things. This career allows me to create a beautiful, comforting, and safe environment for people to live in which can make them so much happier than living in a not functional, dangerous, hazardous, and unwelcoming home . Everyone deserves to love where they live and feel that their homes are their safe space. People should look forward to coming home after their busy and stressful day at work or school. Your home should be a museum of everything you’ve ever loved. It should consist of your favorite colors, designs you can admire for hours, your favorite types of art, enough space for organization and cleanliness, and overall be a place to give you a sense of comfort and protection. A home and the space you live in is so important because we spend so much time there. We live there, that is a home and I want people to feel like they are in a place they can call a home.I believe I can make a difference in the lives of people who deal with this issue and give them life-changing solutions with my critical thinking and communication skills.

The first time I walked into my mother’s new apartment, it felt like meeting God. It wasn’t glamorous, but we had been living in a Motel 6 for three months, living off Lean Cuisine and wearing the same ten outfits on rotation. I remember the sigh of relief of no longer lying to my friends as to why they could not sleep over. Even in this rented temple, I felt ashamed of my financial status. I grew up where every teen’s first car was an Audi or BMW; I was surrounded by perfect suburban princesses. I idolized their million dollar homes and highlighted hair, wishing someday I’d get a career well-paying enough to mimic their wealth. I tried befriending them, hoping it could make me become them, but was met with unkind remarks and ostracism. Rather than recluse, I turned to my academics. Building an artificial version of myself to appease the people around me would never bring answers or satisfaction. My education will. The conflicts I faced socially redirected my goals. Timidly, I joined my school’s speech and debate team, where my voice would be valued and amplified. I found the place and the people that made me feel like I matter. Being surrounded by intelligent, driven students motivated me to keep up. I stacked my course load, involved myself in additional extracurriculars, and developed a passion for learning. Speech and debate was the first place I ever felt like a leader. Even amid authentic individuals like the friends I made on my speech and debate team, excelling academically became an expectation rather than a goal. I imitated their study habits and mirrored their resumes, yet failed to receive the same rewards. I found the harder I tried to succeed exactly like them, the further I fell behind. I lived a different lifestyle, unable to dedicate every hour to homework because I was working and helping to support my family to cover finances. Frankly, I was too afraid to ask for help, afraid I’d be rejected like I was before. I had to find the habits that worked for me. Navigating my education solo meant taking risks to achieve self-sufficiency. Through a process of trial and error, I developed my own work ethic that resulted in both academic and emotional rewards. My dedication has earned me admission to the University of Colorado Boulder’s Political Science program. I intend to utilize my diligence to aid with research on achieving education equality to benefit students like myself, and initiate a career in law. My academic journey has allowed me to establish consistency and ambition; university will provide me the opportunities for my skills and passions to thrive. I take advantage of my academics because the acquisition of knowledge is inspiring and the value of it is persistent. I know I belong in educational spheres, and believe the ability to exist in them should be guaranteed to students like myself who have overcome the challenges of pursuing maximized learning.

Most of my financial literacy knowledge has not come from a classroom but from life experience. I understand what it means to have money and not have money. I come from a low socioeconomic background, and therefore, have seen my parents earn their keep and work for every dollar and stretch every penny to make sure we have money for bills and food. We've never had discussions about saving, APR, or 401Ks; we've been in survival mode with no access nor time to even contemplate retirement. This is why my appreciation for learning about money young comes into play. I wanted to avoid living like this. Therefore, I started learning about financial literacy on my own. I would read articles online about various topics; I would watch random YouTube videos about things that sparked my interest; I would frequently Google: "what is credit utilization?" and "how does compounding interest work?"; one quick Google could bring me into a realm I had been oblivious to until this point. Ultimately, I've discovered that knowing how to manage credit early on, avoiding debt wherever possible, and planning for the future are essential keys to success before problems arise. While I have no formal financial projects to demonstrate, I acquired my first secured credit card only recently through Discover. I've enrolled in AutoPay to ensure my payments are always made, building my credit score over time. I monitor expenditures with a strict budget in mind. Although my income is relatively low, I'm trying to establish a cushion for unexpected occurrences while seeking knowledge in micro-investing at least for now. When I can provide more stability to my financial situation, I'll branch out into high-yield savings accounts and, hopefully, low-risk investment options. I've also been researching possibilities like Experian Boost or credit builder loans that can gradually help my score in the future. But all of this should come as second nature not something some children, unfortunately, have to go out of their way to accomplish. I want to help change that. When I become fully financially literate, I'll pass on the information to my family and friends and, eventually, my community so people understand credit, budgeting, saving, when to spend and when to save. This is empowering information. If people had similar access to financial resources/education, far fewer people would be consumed by debt and on-edge about their financial means. I know college and medical school years down the line will be expensive, but unlike other ignorant young adults, I know the potential pitfalls and how to navigate them. I won't fall into big, unnecessary debt. I'll know how to apply for scholarships and handle student loans. Young adults in college and medical school are often so fortunate with funding, loans, and grants. But mine won't come from good fortune. It'll come from financial literacy I've had to this point. Therefore, this scholarship would not only be bonus funding for the present, but it would be guaranteed proven success for someone who knows her hard work will pay off now and in the future. All I need to give myself and my family a successful future is an awareness of how to utilize and control money now whether it's earning, saving, or using credit cards.

I’m very lucky to have a mom who instilled financial education throughout my life. Having me during a major recession, budgeting was essential. In 5th grade, my mom and I experienced homelessness. During this time, knowing the difference between wants and needs helped appease me whenever I wanted something I couldn’t get. Although we are in a better financial position now, we aren’t wealthy; so, having a savings plan has allowed us to pay for senior year expenses. Through my mom’s financial ups and downs, I was taught the three essentials to managing my finances: budgeting, identifying, and saving. To start off, budgeting is vital to control how income is spent. As early as my pre-school years, I remember my mom helping me budget how I spent my gift money and seeing her budget her money as an entrepreneur in industries hit hardest by the recession. Now that I’m older and I spend money on more than just toys and art supplies, I’m constantly considering the best way to divvy the income I earn from working and gifts from family. For example, last month I had a $50 limit on extra food because I spent $100 on clothes. But regardless of my budget, I also had to learn how to allocate money based on what’s most and least important. My mom taught me the importance of identifying my level of necessity as opposed to want for items in my budget. As a child, I sometimes confused something I strongly wanted with a feeling of needing it. Going through financial struggles in elementary school forced my mom to be more thoughtful in helping me weigh wants in proportion to costs. We were blessed to have loving family and friends to stay with as we got back on our feet, but it was a difficult time that required difficult questions. Like, would I only use what I think I need a few times before casting it aside? Or is this something I actually need? The quality of the item, which impacts how long it will last, was also important. My mom taught me it’s not always best to get the cheapest. Despite mastering wants vs needs, emergencies are bound to happen, so that’s where saving comes in. Having savings are essential for emergencies, as well as future plans. As early as 4th grade, my mom had me in 4-H. The first contest I participated in, I won. I learned about savings and created my own piggy bank to encourage others to save. In middle school, once we were in a better financial position, my mom took me to her credit union to open a savings account. Because of our savings, we were in a better financial position to handle the emergencies that came with COVID-19. And I was able to save money that I now use for senior expenses, like prom and graduation. My mom used her savings to pay for my senior dues, cap and gown, and other required senior expenses. It also helps us budget better, afford needs, and get a few wants now and again. All in all, I’ve been set up for success financially through the foundation of my mom’s teachings. As a sophomore, I added to that foundation by learning more complex lessons in my Personal Finance class. I feel very prepared for managing my finances in college and adulthood, as I continue to budget, identify wants versus needs, and save. I look forward to passing my knowledge on to my children!

My personal experiences with finances have been shaped by growing up in a single-parent household where money was always tight. From a young age, I learned to appreciate the value of a dollar and the importance of budgeting. My mother worked hard to make ends meet, and while we didn’t always have much, she always found a way to ensure that I had what I needed. However, I could see the stress that came with managing limited resources, and that gave me an early understanding of how vital it is to be financially literate. Even though I didn’t always have access to formal financial education, I quickly learned to prioritize needs over wants and to find creative ways to save money. During high school, I took on part-time jobs to help contribute to my own expenses, such as clothes and school supplies, which provided me with firsthand experience in managing my own finances. Balancing school and work weren’t easy, but it taught me responsibility and the importance of budgeting my time and money. I had to learn how to stretch each paycheck, paying attention to the little things that added up, and how to make sure I didn’t overspend on things that weren’t necessary. When I started looking into higher education, I realized how important it was to gain a deeper understanding of personal finance, especially when it came to student loans, budgeting for tuition, and understanding credit. That’s when I began seeking out information on financial literacy, reading books, attending workshops, and talking to financial advisors. While I’m still learning, I’ve made it a priority to understand things like saving for the future, the importance of building credit, and the benefits of investing. My experiences growing up, combined with my efforts to learn about finances now, are laying a strong foundation for me as I move forward into adulthood. As I continue my education and prepare for my future as a Nurse Practitioner, I plan to use the financial knowledge I’ve gained to manage my student loans, plan for my career, and make smart decisions about saving and investing for long-term goals. I also want to be able to use what I’ve learned about finances to support my family, particularly my mother, who has worked tirelessly her whole life to provide for me. I plan on staying disciplined with my finances, creating a budget that accounts for both short-term needs and long-term goals, and continuing to educate myself on how to best manage money. In addition to personal financial education, I’m also passionate about sharing what I learn with others. I want to help my community, especially those who haven’t had the same financial education opportunities, by providing resources or guidance on managing money, saving for the future, and planning for financial stability. Understanding finances not only allows me to create a secure future for myself, but it also empowers me to help others do the same, and ultimately, build stronger, more financially resilient communities.

My daily routine during my sophomore year of high school was quite unvaried, leaving me with few distinct memories. However I do vividly remember the day my personal finance teacher began to cry as she told us her experience with student loan debt. The class until this point had simply been an hour of my day where I would sit and complete my assignments in order my needed credit, but when my teacher was moved to tears my attention was caught. She shared that she had loaned more than she would ever be able to pay back, and due to interest rates she would be a slave to her debt until she died. My mind was blown, and I resolved that day to work as hard as I could to ensure I would not fall into the same trap. Although I do not believe all debt is bad thing, I knew I wanted to pursue higher education in order to fulfill my dreams of becoming involved in law and government, and without large amounts of financial aid I was going to need sizable loans. I spoke with my teacher and parents following my memorable personal finance lesson, seeking advice on how best to ensure financial security in attending college. I was advised to apply for scholarships, and to choose a school whose prices would be reasonably within my budget. With this in the back of my mind, I worked hard throughout the rest of my high school years. Now I am two weeks away from graduating, and two months away from moving across the country to pursue my dreams of obtaining a college degree in government, politics, and law. I chose a school where I will be able to obtain this degree and have what I hope will be the experience of a lifetime. However, the issue of financial stability remains. Having been blessed to have parents and a teacher who taught me the importance of being smart with your money, I plan to graduate debt free. I will do this by applying to as many scholarships as I can, living on a strict budget, and working as hard as I can in school. I know it will not be an easy task to pay my school 30,000 a year, keep my awarded spot on the volleyball team and accompanying scholarship, as well as keep my 4.0 GPA. However I am determined to do so, and I am eternally grateful for an education allowing me to be cautious in the realm of finances. I cannot wait to see how my seemingly insignificant personal finance class in high school will have paid off in four years.

I have always been around my parents struggling in finances. I am the oldest child and when my parents had me, they were teenagers still. Being so young and starting a family with very little money had led them through many struggles such as affording housing, clothes, and even our next , meal at times. I had witnessed all of this because I am the oldest and things that my sisters may not think about, always cross my mind first. For example, when my parents were struggling when I was older but had enough money to eat out at fast food, I remember ordering stuff from the value menu or looking for the cheapest options. I was just grateful for the opportunity to eat at McDonald's or Jack in the Box. Now I realize my sisters just order what ever they want without taking into account how much it may cost and they should be able to do that but I often find myself getting overwhelmed with things cost to much because I still have the mindset of having to be cheep. My parents struggles have taught me very valuable lessons. Through their life, I have been able to learn how to save money without any problems. It has also taught me to be a hard worker in everything I do because I realize that you have to earn many things and that necessities such as food are not a promise in this world. I have also learned how to realize things that I need versus what I want which can also save me money. I know that the struggles with finances that I had whiteness my parents will continue to teach me and the lessons I learn from them will stay with me forever. Recently my parents separated, making my plan to pay for college a bit more complicated. Before the separation our house had 2 incomes making it easier for my dad to put aside money for future use, such as helping me pay for college. After the separation my mom left and took all of the savings leaving my dad struggling to pay bills. Now my dad mostly caught up with bills he still has to pick up the slack on taking care of my younger siblings. This makes it incredibly difficult for him to put money in savings. I am getting a summer job and will be doing work study but even then I'm not sure if I will be able to afford college. The money that my mom took with her would have been what paid for most of my college given he was saving for a few years at that point. I know that I will be alright financially no matter what, because of what I have learned from the passed.

I have always been quite keen in regards to the value of money. Even at a young age, I was always sure to remind my mom to save her money; even though that is exactly what she had been doing her whole life. My mom has been the best at teaching me how to manage money, but I also have been able to teach myself a lot about saving as well. When I was in fourth grade I got pneumonia. My mom and I drove to Walmart to pick up my prescription. As we were waiting for it to be ready, I asked if we could look through the toy section. Not because I wanted something, but because going through the toy aisles had always been a reward for good behavior at stores. Looking through the coloring books, I picked up one that my eyes were drawn to. “Do you want me to get that for you,” my mom asked. I remember immediately putting it back and saying, “No, mom, we have to save money!” At that age, any other kid would have happily taken the offer, but not me. In my spare time back then I loved coming up with new ways to make money, such as dog walking and babysitting. I was aware that money came from working hard. It didn’t just grow off trees. My biggest source of income was, without a doubt, lemonade stands. My sister and I had the best lemonade stand on the block for three years running. We once spent a whole summer raising money for a dog training program after our parents said we could get a dog if we did so. I am happy to say that we did get our little pup, and she turns 7 this month. As I got older, I furthered my financial education by utilizing financial lessons online. My favorite app that has taught me a lot of information about finances is called Zogo. There are hundreds of lessons on financial basics, college, scholarships, risk management, and so on. This past year Zogo partnered with the US Bank to offer scholarships. The amount of lessons completed determines the award category that I will be entered in. Trust me when I say that I have spent much more time using Zogo after learning about the possibility of earning a scholarship. During my freshman year of high school I begged my mom to bring me to the bank to open a Roth IRA. Through my financial lessons I was able to learn about the lifelong benefits that come with opening a Roth IRA. I was so lucky to have learned about this type of account early rather than later. It was crazy to me that my economics class hadn’t taught me about an IRA account. I have always been a saver rather than a spender. The Financial lessons I have learned in the past and continue to learn have taught me how to be a more financially literate individual. Going into college, I know to save every penny I make. I apply to scholarships everyday, hyper aware of how expensive my education is. I know my financial proficiency will help me be successful and I definitely plan on continuing my financial education in the future.

Coming from a lower-income immigrant family, life has not always been an easy excursion. My mother is an African American woman, and my father is a Haitian-born immigrant. They met around 23 years ago and brought me into this world on March 4th, 2008. I consider myself very grateful, and they’ve done the best they could for me all my life. I was born and raised in New Bedford, MA, on the Gulf of Cape Cod. I would ride my bike to school daily, starting on the first day of 6th grade. It was a very pleasant view, being on the coast of course. I’d get to feel the salty air glaze my skin and listen to the beach waves crash onto the rocks and sand. Riding my bike and getting to school was a very memorable experience; however, when I registered that other kids get the privilege of their parents taking them to school, it made me reflect on my own life experiences. At a young age, I was never fully aware of what money was and its true value. Shortly, I learned that money was hard to get, it didn’t come in a day. My parents were required to go to work for hours on end, leaving me to be independent at such a young age. They had several responsibilities that needed to be fulfilled, including buying groceries and paying the monthly mortgage, and school fees. Biking was greatly entertaining, but each day after this comprehension, it became less enjoyable. With each pedal, I reflect and ask why I couldn’t have the daily talks with my parents as my friends did. As I watched cars pass by, it reminded me of the cruel reality of my family’s financial situation. My parents were too busy to take me to school because they had overriding priorities; as a child, it’s hard to wrap one’s mind around such a concept. What I can take from my financial burdens is that I may not have it the best, but taking what’s available is a notable blessing. This experience was an essential lesson, advancing my thoughts into a deeper reality, and revealing the struggles my parents went through to provide for their own. Taking this and a grain of salt, I can apply this to my everyday life. Moving forward, I have never judged someone who hasn’t been deemed “lame”, because not everyone has an easy life. In the same way, while riding my bike, I can associate it with a positive enlightenment: never judge a book by its cover.

Financial literacy is a skill everyone should have, but unfortunately, it is not taught in most schools. It has been my experience that lack of financial education has impacted Black Caribbean and African American children and their families significantly. These groups are more likely to experience financial hardships and inequality. Being financially literate means making intelligent financial decisions that help build wealth, reduce debt, and prepare for the future with solid investments. Learning financial literacy can help students make confident money-management decisions. I have had the privilege of growing up with Haitian and American cultures. I am a second-generation Haitian American raised by traditional Haitian grandparents and Haitian-American parents. My grandparents and parents were strict, challenging, and no-nonsense. They had high expectations for me and clarified that failure was not an option. They taught me discipline, hard work, and sacrifice. Although my parents are Haitian Americans, it was essential for them to raise me knowing their culture, values, and traditions. Respect plays a vital role in the culture and identity of many Haitian families. From religious beliefs to social customs, these traditions are often passed down from generation to generation. Growing up, I knew that Haiti was the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere and that life for most Haitians was a daily struggle. Haiti needs more educational and occupational opportunities that allow people a chance for growth and incremental success. I was fortunate enough to have Haitian grandparents who came to America with nothing but worked very hard to give me the type of opportunities that most kids in Haiti never get. They made me understand the great responsibility that came with being Haitian-American and that I should never take my opportunities for granted. Because my grandparents sacrificed for me, I am responsible for making something of myself. I am a student musician who plays the baritone and alto saxophone, along with the bassoon. I have been the drum major for the Howard W. Blake Yellow Jackets since my junior year of high school. I have played with The Hillsborough All-County Ensembles and the USF Bay Area Youth (BAY) Winds throughout high school. Even with my responsibilities within my jazz band, concert band, and orchestra ensemble, I have maintained an unweighted 3.8 GPA while working a part-time job. I was inducted into my school’s National Honors Society my junior year. I have earned over 100 volunteer hours and completed two virtual classes through my local community college. I am considering studying music because music is my passion. I aim to start my own music label; as the owner and operator, I would control every decision. From the type of music, I want to promote to the marketing plan that gets the music out to fans. My record label would be about working with artists to create new music and experiences that touch people’s hearts. As a label, I will hopefully make money in various ways, such as a cut from streaming, physical album sales, licensing, and live performances. Nurturing, promoting, and distributing music can be a real moneymaker, but it does take experience. Many people who start a record label have a music background and experience in the industry. They also know what it takes to develop amazing artists and build audiences. Starting a record label takes strategic planning; being a record label executive requires deep knowledge of both business and music.

I turn back to see my grandma and mom crying as we stuff boxes filled with childhood memories in our car. While my mom, my little sister, my step-father, and I moved to the Big Island. We abandoned my grandma, my fathers, my cousins, and my life on Oahu. With this move, came the rude awakening of how I will need to make brand new friends and learn in a brand new environment. However, this got postponed because of COVID-19, and instead, I had to be fully online. Isolated, I sat in my chair day by day not seeing a single real face besides my family. I had no friends and barely any communication with the school. The only communication that I would have would just be letting us know that grades are due soon, and when the tests were. Nothing was ever individualized, as if you were talking to robots. I knew how easy these classes were, but I never had the opportunity to push for more difficult classes. I didn’t have any knowledge of anything since it felt as if I was on an island by myself and occasionally I would use my landline to call the school. However, I did have difficulty with a certain class and when I asked about it, they responded “Oh, we are sorry about that, that class is mainly for juniors and seniors.” It was replaced with a class counting shapes. Thus, I begged to be brought into the Semi-virtual classes. Almost a year in, I finally saw other students who go to my school. On the first day, I had stayed 3 hours extra to fully grasp the class I was in and understand the material being taught. This eventually led me to be enrolled in the STEM program which I still had little knowledge about. Sophomore year came, the first year in person when I could finally see other students in person, however, this came with a dreadful predicament. I had to talk to strangers. And make them into my friends to escape the isolation. Very shy, and timid, this was a big hurdle for me to conquer, however, while I was drawing, another student noticed and the rest is history. Slowly but surely my little circle of people began to grow. Especially in my sophomore year, because one of the main concepts that we were learning, multiple people had struggled. I was able to provide assistance which led to getting to know more people. Now, I surround myself with amazing people who push me in ways my freshman self could never believe. My current group of friends and the STEM academy have allowed me to do some phenomenal opportunities academically, and socially, like visiting colleges on a robotics trip while going to an amusement park. I have grown to be someone who can reliably be there for my friends, whether it’s homework from math class or a shoulder to cry on. The Scorenavigator Scholarship will allow me the opportunity to further push my boundaries and break through my limits by eliminating the concern of the cost of my future education to solely focus on maintaining a superb education and relationship with others. I hope to branch out further with my community and demonstrate what I have learned from Kealakehe to others out in the world. I plan to spread “Aloha” wherever I end up going to college, and will ensure to value my relationships with my peers.

I recently took a personal economics class in High School. I was amazed at things I learned from budgeting to understanding how credit works. I believe my exposure to the content from the class has helped to prepared me to manage my finances as I grow into a young adult pursing a career and education in the arts. Since I could hold a paint brush, I have always had a passion for art and design. I would color everything from paper to the walls in my bedroom. My love the arts turned from a hobby to a desire to share my gift with the world. When I was 12 my father became legally blind and I would use art as a way to escape the challenges my family began to face. At the time, I didn't realize that art would become therapy as a way for me to use color to communicate, evoke emotion, vibrancy and healing. As my art become my private place of escape, I had no idea at the time that it would also become a beacon of light that would thrust my desire into educational pursuits. As a recent 2024 graduate from High School, I am now looking for ways to use my graphic gifting to inspire others. Using my story of art therapy can help others find a way of escaping their emotional stress with strokes of color whether professionally or as a hobby used as a vehicle for expression. There are certain colors that my father through his visual impairment is unable to see so I am fully motivated to allow the colors that I use through my art to express color for those who are limited in what they can see. My color pallet evokes my emotion but with education, I am confident that my love for art and design will blossom into a career that will make my family proud and provide me with a lucrative future that allows me to convey positive messages through art. For many, the world of sight can often be taken for granted. However, for me the gift of sight coupled with knowing first hand the power of visual displays of color can create joy and space to express my talent now aligned with my educational pursuits. My art will be used to spark wonder, increase awareness and create passionate dialogue for families dealing with a loved one who is learning to live an enriched life despite their disability. I am committed to follow my dreams and goals. I am committed to use color to help others heal, to tell my story of I am able to use art as a form of therapy to shape my world and create color in the places that have felt dark. My willingness to share my story as an overcomer doesn't take away my journey but it creates an opportunity for me to use my obstacles as a stepping stone for greater. I believe that I am able to use my art to create a better world by sharing my gift, my story and my triumphs obtained through the world of art. Whether through art therapy or design the emotion, heart and passion conveyed are in essence a vehicle to heal and escape from the pressure and unexpected twists and turns that families of disabled face. My art can help others win at life by finding ways to use art to heal their emotions one color at a time.

Growing up in a single-parent household in a house that constantly needed a lot of major home repairs and watching my mother struggle with money daily has led me to have a strong desire to be more financially stable in my own life. Over the past several years, since getting my license and wanting to do more things with friends, I have learned to watch my spending and be responsible about how I spend money. I have worked part-time jobs, but with the cost of gas and going out with friends, I have seen how quickly the money I make can disappear. This summer, in particular, has been incredibly stressful and frustrating. My goal was to work a lot this summer to make money to pay for my gas and personal expenses at college this next year. I have applied for nearly forty jobs, have been on interview after interview, and am still looking for a job. I do not want to spend my last summer at home stressed out all summer, but jobs are tough to find right now. I plan to referee soccer this summer, which pays well, but I wanted to work a lot and pad my bank account so that I felt comfortable going off to college, knowing that I would have the money necessary to pay for expenses that arose. Between watching my mother and my experience this summer, I have had my eyes opened to just how stressful it can be to not be financially secure. I would one day love to be able to give back to my mom for all the sacrifices she has made for me throughout my life and to ease her financial stress in some way. I a.m hoping that getting my degree in engineering and eventually working in that field will lead to a fair amount of financial security. I have learned to evaluate every purchase I make to determine if it is a need or just a want and how important it is. I have also learned to price-compare everything before I make any purchases. Making smart financial decisions can dramatically impact one's quality of life. I want to have plenty of money in the future so as not to worry about every penny I spend, but I also want to constantly weigh the options before making purchases and look at the big picture instead of just my short-term wants. One day, I want to be married and have kids, and I want them to grow up in a financially stable home. My goal will be to provide for them entirely and teach them how to be responsible with money, the value of work, saving, and being conscientious regarding spending. I still hope to find a job this summer to supplement refereeing. If I cannot find something, I will have to be very careful throughout my first year regarding spending, and if it comes down to it, I will need to find an on-campus job to supplement what I start the year with. Financial wisdom is so important. So many people are living above what they can afford, and I have personally witnessed that it just leads to stress and even more debt. My goal in the future is to be financially wise and avoid the stress and extra debt that come from making poor financial decisions.

As a young adult, I have been fortunate enough not to worry about managing my finances. However, witnessing the financial struggles of my family has been eye-opening and made me realize the importance of financial education and planning for the future. I believe that financial stability is crucial for achieving my personal and professional goals. Therefore, I plan on setting short-term and long-term financial goals, such as saving for college and creating a budget for living expenses. I also plan to learn about investing and making smart decisions with my money to ensure a stable and secure financial future. Financial education is important for everyone, and I hope to use what I learn to educate and help others in my community with financial planning and making sound financial decisions. Attending college has always been a dream of mine, not just for academic knowledge but also for the personal growth and life experiences that come along with it. A scholarship would enable me to pursue my academic and personal goals without the stress of financial struggles. With a scholarship, I can devote my energy to learning and growing as a person, expanding my knowledge and skill set through extracurricular activities and volunteer work. Becoming a psychologist has been a dream of mine for a long time. My passion for understanding the complexities of the human mind and behavior stems from my own personal experiences and adversities. Growing up, I faced numerous challenges that helped shape my desire to become a psychologist. One of the adversities that I faced was struggling with my mental health. As a teenager, I experienced anxiety and depression that impacted my daily life. These challenges inspired me to seek help and begin therapy, which ultimately led to my passion for psychology. Through my own therapy sessions, I was able to gain a deeper understanding of my own thoughts and emotions, which sparked my interest in helping others who are struggling with their own mental health. Another adversity that has motivated me to pursue psychology is witnessing the impact of trauma on individuals and their families. I have seen firsthand how trauma can impact someone's mental health, relationships, and overall quality of life. This experience has fueled my desire to help those who have experienced trauma and to use my knowledge to advocate for those who may not have had access to mental health resources. Despite these challenges, I have remained committed to my goal of becoming a psychologist. Through my own experiences, I have gained a deeper understanding of the importance of mental health and the impact that it can have on individuals and their families. I am eager to use my knowledge and experience to help others overcome their own adversities and lead happier healthier lives. As a future psychologist, I understand that financial literacy plays in one's mental and emotional well-being. Financial stress and hardship can lead to anxiety, depression, and a host of other mental health issues. Therefore, gaining a solid foundation in financial education is essential for me to effectively help my future clients navigate their own financial adversities. With a scholarship, I can focus on my academic and personal goals without the added stress of financial burdens. This will allow me to fully immerse myself in my studies, gain practical experience through internships and volunteer work, and explore various areas of psychology. Additionally, the financial stability provided by a scholarship will give me the freedom to pursue my passions and expand my knowledge and skill set, ultimately making me a more effective and well-rounded psychologist.

When I first started working I had thoughts of earning hundreds of dollars and being able to buy all the things I desired, go to restaurants with my friends, fill up my gas tank and take drives to have adventures, and go to concerts, but that didn't occur. Instead, I realized that I barely had enough money to have any fun after buying the things I needed and putting gas in my car for school and work, I actually didn't have much money. I needed to make a change. And although I received a raise at my job I still didn't have much. Several of my friends were buying items online so I quickly realized that I could be the seller. I had already set up accounts online to shop so I decided to sell as well. And I did! Over the years because I shop at Thrift stores, I had accumulated quite a lot of vintage clothes so I'm doing quite well for myself. Even my mom gives me some of her items to sale. Now I have several accounts on different websites like Mercari, Offerup, Facebook Marketplace and Esty. I believe that because I have these buying and selling experiences my financial education has had a great start. It has taught me to be more detailed. Also, I never forget to read the fine print, because I was burned a few times before I became a pro at it. I have learned to prioritize what I need versus what I want. I have learned that with buying power comes responsibility and If you sell something you should send it right away as you would want that done for you. I have also learned that if you don't do things the correct way you could lose your money and no one wants that. There may be hiccups in the beginning but if you keep a very detailed account of what's coming in and going out, your bottom line numbers should be exact. In my economics class, my teacher taught me to budget and save. It is definitely something I need especially because I have the tendency to go over budget. I really have to prioritize need versus want because I usually want to spend my money as soon as I got it. I have learned need over want and also to make a priority for the things I really need. I know that because I've had these financial experiences, I can make more informed choices when buying.

I don't have much in the way of real experience with personal finances. I have dealt with my family having low finances—we only make about $40,000 a year right now, before taxes, and we have an estimated $150,000 in debt. We're currently having trouble with getting all our bills paid and with buying me the materials I need to live away from home on a college campus, and with getting me to college, at the University of Arizona. We lost about nearly $20,000 in income this year, on a year-to-year basis. We were receiving Survivor's benefits from Social Security, but we lost them since I grew too old to receive them. I have learned a considerable bit in the realm of personal finances. I have read books and articles on these topics, and I have taken a Personal Financial Literacy course in high school. I've learned from my parents some good financial practices, such as the need to read everything in very great depth. This is a teaching that can come in handy anywhere, but it's especially important in personal finances, where there can be very important information in fine print. I have read about how to handle debt, the dangers of credit cards (and loans in general), building a credit score, and how to budget, all of which are critical for finances at every level, from the individual to the government. Even governments have loans and debt they have to handle, and their ability to repay debt can affect them in the sight of other nations. On the whole, my experience with finances has been difficult, because my family doesn't have much money to enjoy life and get me to college, though my experience with financial education has been more than sufficient, because I'm already learning good habits that I can use to have a strong financial position. One of my dreams is to have a perfect credit score. I plan on using what I've learned to ensure I have a strong financial future, which will ensure I have a strong future in general, because without a solid financial future, you literally can't afford a good life; you won't have the funds for it. I will do everything I can to stay out of debt and to viciously attack whatever debt I may have. To build my credit score, I will have to get into debt, but I will make sure it's manageable. If I must go into credit card debt, I will research ways that I can use the debt to build my credit score. I may also get a mortgage, when I have a family, because I've read a mortgage is one of the best ways to build your credit score. I will save as much money as I can, for both "rainy days" and for retirement. I want to make sure I have enough money to afford unexpected expenses, such as medical emergencies. I also want to make sure I have enough money to live on when I can no longer work. I will have to go into debt at times; I will save to make sure the debt is less than what it otherwise might be, such as paying part of the cost of a house with the money I have saved. I am planning my financial future even as I write this. I'm planning on opening my first savings account soon. I will save voraciously, to help my future. I want to ensure a good life for myself and whatever family I may have some day. The time to start is now.

When most of us were young, we probably didn't show much interest in finance. It seemed to be something we all kind of just threw to the side and moved on without. With that being said, how do some of these people then go on to be accountants, financial advisors, and more? Well, let me tell you a story. While growing up, not that I am not anymore, the first thing my parents told me before dropping me off for my first day of kindergarten is that for me to succeed, I would have to put in my own work, and succeed based off of my merit alone. Having come from a family of immigrants, it seemed natural to be on my own for the majority of my life. However, as a kindergartener, I was more focused on what was for lunch that afternoon. And for the next several years, I didn't think much of it. Going into the second semester of my eight grade year, I finally decided that I would really put most of my energy towards preparing myself for the future. As someone that wanted to be a pilot in the Air Force, I knew it would be one daunting task to accomplish. For that reason, I spent several hours a week studying for my classes, being part of organizations, and even working out, all to make myself a better candidate for officer school in the Air Force. In fact, I was actually arrested several times since they thought I was a trespasser on the track, when all I wanted to do was run some extra laps before school started. Now, as a Junior, running before I wake up, and taking a shower while on the bus, I learned that having to meet the standards of the officer schools for the Air Force is no easy task. Being involved in several organizations, and being an officer in all of them, I learned about the importance of leadership and what that would mean for when I do end up joining the service. However, when I look back on my past, and even further on my parents past, I can't hesitate to think that everything that I have led myself to do up to this point was all because I decided to put myself forward in this field. Why is that important in the financial field? because, as part of this career choice, knowing that I want to be a pilot, I really had to look into my options here. I'm not that kid you see on television whose parents were both pilots, nor am I some rich kid that could do anything. Rather, I have to figure out how to do it myself, through scholarships and more. And while I may not know what the future has for me as of today, I can say that I will be ready to adapt accordingly.

I started working at the age of 14 at YMCA helping autistic children learn how to swim. I do not think I woke up one morning and said that is what I wanted to do, but I believe God put that opportunity in my path as he has done with many things in my life. I embraced the opportunity and there is something to be said about being wanted. The little girl who was one of my first students always asked for me every week and although she had her own unique way of being, I began to look forward to our hour of swim as well. What started out as a mere weekly paycheck, a little pocket money for me to be able to get around and buy a little lunch after school, became such a meaningfully learning experience for me. To this day, although I no longer work there, I carry that little young lady in my heart. I now teach gymnastics to little kids and have found my true calling of merging my talents of gymnastics and desire to help people. I am recently a direct admit into the Temple University BSN program which is a highly selective program. I am blessed that I found them and they chose me. This will mark the beginning of my journey to making a difference one person at a time while simultaneously financially securing a life for myself. By the age of 21 I will sit for my boards and begin working as a registered nurse. I intend to work for a city hospital like my mom and begin saving my money to open my own business. I will continue to seek funding for my continued education, as I intend my ultimate educational destination to be a Nurse Practitioner and open my own clinic. Watching the summer Olympics last summer made me realize how important it is to have a one stop shop for gymnasts and athletes who are training everyday for so many hours. With all that has also transpired with the USA gymnastics board, as a lifetime gymnast, I feel like having services for gymnasts and their families readily available in real time us vital to the progression of athletes. This is why I intend to have my own gym where gymnastics is taught and adjacent to the gym will be my pediatric clinic with specialization in orthopedics to treat injuries. Also on site will be the Clinic Psychiatrist and Psychologist who can assist the gymnasts with anything they need. I believe this will be an amazing financial endeavor that will serve our communities, by providing healthy resources for our young people, keep them busy, teach them dedication, commitment, and in the mist of all success. This is the plan for my future and in the midst of reaching for my dreams I will help others reach theirs. I am your ambassador for change. Invest in me and I will invest in those who follow.

I have many different personal experiences when it comes to finances. I had my first job at 12 years old and was getting paid under the table to help my mom out with her daycare. And of course at a young age, all you're thinking about is spending it on food. For me though, I was spending it more on other people. By the time I was 16 and started getting actual paychecks while babysitting on the side, I still continued to just spend. When I was 17, the daycare closed down and I got a job at my local subway. This is when I did online schooling so it was easier to make money. I opened a savings account and started budgeting for the first time. And I loved it! Seeing my savings go up slowly made me feel good. I didn't even know what I was saving for at the time but it made me feel very proud. My senior year, I took a consumer finance class and I learned so much about the 3 foundations in personal finance. I learned about investing in the stock market and most importantly, I learned how to budget more efficiently to make my life easier. There are two types of people in this world, a saver and a spender. And from what I have learned throughout the years have made me into the person I am now, a saver. Because of this, I have a plan financially for college. I know things don't always work out and maybe I will have to pull out loans in the future, but either way, I am getting the education I want and deserve. Plus, once I am officially out in the real world, all that I have learned and will learn later on will help me to live a happy and debt free life.