I am a Filipino first generation student in my family, to attend a college/university here in the United States. I am a senior high school student set to graduate in Spring 2025. I plan to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Accounting, and hopefully a Master’s Degree. It makes the most use of my critical thinking skills, which I am passionate about to put into use. Living in three different countries, I have seen many financial systems and norms. It made me curious about finances on a personal and business level. I have a condition, disease, disability. Whatever it is, whatever you call it, in reality it doesn’t matter to me. The term itself, does. Since birth, my body developed scoliosis. This sudden news was brought up to me in my early teenage years. After finding out, it led me to the conclusion of constant back pains and an unusual curved spine on my back, which my family members would point out to me. Aside from that, I would develop quick shortness of breath during daily activities. In medical terms, it can mean more of a severe case. The constant feeling of uneasiness and worry developed over time. I was born in the Philippines, but was raised in Singapore. Eventually, my family moved to San Diego in October 2019 for me and my younger siblings to receive a better education. Moving abroad we envisioned a life where my family and I can settle and fulfill our dreams. Despite that, we were struggling financially. Sometimes coming home from school, my parents were nowhere to be seen. At home I did everything I was capable of. On top of that, I had to be mindful. The significance of scoliosis can make my daily activities worse or lead to the inability to do a task. After extracurricular activities, my days look a lot like continuous hours of preparing meals and cleaning the house. Weekly persistent laundry for my family and throwing out trash. Ache. Pain rushing through the spine of my back. I didn't ignore it but instead, I tried to fix my posture. Hoping then, that the pain would ease away. Furthermore, I assisted my younger siblings with their homework too. Academically, I created weekly study plans for any assignments or tests/quizzes I received. Independently, I created an envelope budgeting system for all my savings. Different envelopes indicated different categories. Living in California has altered my brain chemistry. I have two goals in mind for my future. A goal to help my parents financially and to positively impact individuals and companies with a major in Accounting. Hopefully then, a CPA title after my name. Scoliosis made an impact on me. Even after finding out, I never changed the way I see and do things. My scoliosis is a continuing adversity that will stay on me for the rest of my life. As the eldest child and a student, I have the ability to strive and accomplish my goals as long as I work for it. Ultimately, one’s life progress hinges on their level of commitment to the process. My scoliosis was not a very severe case that needed surgery. However, it was something I endured physically throughout my life, and yet I am determined to accomplish more than anything.

Each moment and circumstance embraced me for who I truly am. I am also Filipino. San Diego, California has become home to me. My family and I are originally from the Philippines. We first moved to Singapore, then moved to California in October 2019. While living in San Diego, my family has been financially struggling. These included affording a 4-year university in my next educational years. Growing up from a low-income family, I saw my parents working hard in and out of the house to support me and my two younger siblings. I want to work towards my goals and to not make my parents' hard work go to waste. Moreover, it made an effect on my mindset and my desired career in the future. The field of Accounting has truly amazed me. I plan to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Accounting, and hopefully a Master’s Degree. Learning Accounting will improve my critical thinking abilities, the benefits of applying it as an adult and working in a business environment. With my experience living in three different countries, I have seen many financial systems and norms. It made me curious about finances on a personal and business level. As we all know, inflation is one of the most important issues facing people today. Every corner we look at prices are increasing. Humans need a certain amount of money to support themselves with decent health care, education, and a roof over our heads. This matters to me because it is core to living. As someone who wants to pursue a career in accounting, I believe I can contribute to different types of challenges. I will have the knowledge and skills to protect and support companies, organizations, and individuals. I want to positively help people financially whether it be in a corporate, business, organization, or non-profit setting. My personal experiences have spoken to this, and working in a financial industry would be a step closer to having my own business where I can also make a positive impact on people. Lastly I would like to mention the challenges that people of color experience. The lack of quality public education—I've seen how the system in America was not frequently developed for people of color. Students from low-income families may struggle to select schools that are appropriate for them financially and culturally. As an intended accounting major, I can connect with other students and start a club for diverse people/students focusing on Finance. Such as, giving speeches about basic finance in a university’s community and local communities. I can also advocate ideas with my peers to support low-income schools. It’s one of the many things I am sure I could do as a Filipino college student. Additionally, as I secure a job in the next couple of years, I would like to do something similar to this, as well. Ultimately, my parent’s love, support, and hard work towards our family is what truly inspired and influenced me to pursue my goals and dreams, regardless of the time it takes.