Being a first-generation college student means a lot of things to me. As a Japanese/Filipino single-mother, my mom raised me alone for the first part of my life. She worked multiple jobs to make ends meet and to give me the privileges she grew up missing like dance and twirling classes, a cozy house, and tutoring when I needed it. My mom never graduated college and sometimes it was hard for her to take care of us, but I knew we would always be all right. Graduating college will help me honor all she has done during my life. As a first-generation student, I feel grateful for the sacrifices of my mom and step-dad. I feel proud of the hard work I have put into my grades, extracurriculars, and my commitment to attending college. And I feel honored by my acceptance into Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches. My mom and stepdad will be paying for my college. Neither graduated a college or university. I want to succeed and show them that I value all the hard work they have done to help me achieve my goals. I have set goals and am committed to do what it takes to get there. I am responsible for honoring their sacrifices and doing the best I can with what has been given to me. I do feel pressure to succeed, but I know that my support system is a strong one. No matter what, I know I am and loved and valued by my family and friends. My road has not been an easy one. My parents work hard to support us, my mom has had multiple jobs for over six years now. I have struggled with mental health issues most of my young life. But with the support of my parents and the assistance of wonderful licenses professionals, we are all happy and healthy. I want to graduate college and use my degree in Psychology to help young people. I have been where they are. I know I could help them. Stephen F. Austin State University has a wonderful Psychology program and I can't wait to be a part of it. I appreciate your consideration for this scholarship. As a first-generation college student, there are many societal and financial pressures put on me. But I know I have the support of my family and my community and look forward to applying for as much support as I can to help ease the financial burden of achieving my dreams.