If I had to choose one word to describe myself, that word would be perseverant. I have overcome so much, however am often hesitant to share how much, in fear of having my accomplishments diminished. With that said, 3 years ago, I was a high school drop out slipping into my thirties feeling unaccomplished and regretful. I had been a teen mother having my son shortly after my 16th birthday and my older daughter shortly before my 18th. I was abused by their father for 10 years. My mom and grandparents who raised me have passed away, leaving me completely alone to raise my own children without a clue how to do so. At 26 I had my youngest daughter who has been diagnosed with autism. I have been a stay at home mom since her birth, rarely doing anything aside from my motherly duties (which I love btw) but I needed to find myself. I always dreamt of completing school, having a career, and owning my home by 30 but when the time rolled around, I looked back at my youth that was slipping away, and saw that I had been so consumed by everyone else, and had gotten comfortable allowing my fiancé financially support us, that I had let my own dreams fade. Just after my 30th birthday, I signed up to take the GED after years of self doubt, but astonishingly, I passed all 4 tests my first attempt! It was then that I decided I would not stop there. I am in my last semester before I transfer for a double major in anthropology and psychology with highest honors. I hope to help children like my daughter someday and I know I can.. because I am perseverant and I can conquer anything!