I grew up with a single dad raising my sister and I. My grandparents helped to raise us. We didn't have much money and I always felt less than my peers. I had dreams of graduating and being the first person in my family to ever go to college. I had expectations to really make something of my life. In middle school, I was introduced to drugs and alcohol. It enabled me to feel like I fit in and be comfortable in my own skin. It wasn't much longer before I got expelled and banned from my high school as a result of my drug use. My dreams of graduation and college were no longer in the picture. Into my adulthood, I continued to be involved in the legal system. Using and selling drugs consumed my life. I ended up becoming a homeless junkie. My life rapidly spiraled out of control resulting in multiple felony charges. I struggled for many years going in and out of the rooms of Alcoholics Anonymous. I would get a few years under my belt and then relapse. I felt hopeless and trapped in my own misery. No matter how hard I tried, I'd end up in jail yet again. Eventually, I was fortunate enough to get into a court program and sober living. Today, I have almost 7 years sobriety and my life looks completely different. I have resolved all my court issues, completed probation, and paid off all my fines. I got married in recovery and have a family today. I went from homeless to homeowner. Since being sober, I have had an opportunity to mentor other men and help them find recovery as well. I have had the opportunity to serve on multiple conference committees and show others than sobriety can be a lot of fun. I am also an active member of my church and volunteer on the audio team. One of the greatest joys of recovery is getting to serve others and be a productive member of the community. After all these years, I've still had the goal on my heart to be the first college graduate in my family. Next week, I am finally able to start that journey and attend Oklahoma State University. I know that balancing school, work, and family is going to be very challenging mentally and financially but I am ready for that challenge. Winning this scholarship would be such a game changer and stress reliever for my family. I look forward to using my education to help others in new way. I know there is a need at the district level of AA for updating their website and expanding AA using technology and I will be able to help with my new found knowledge. I'll also be able to give hope to others than no matter where you have come from or what you have done, there is hope and redemption to accomplish your dreams.