Half of all young adults raised in foster care in the United States graduate from high school. At four-year universities, less than 5% of these students graduate. Furthermore, only 2-6 percent of these two-year college graduates complete a degree. 40% of all foster children experience learning problems, and 80% develop substantial mental health concerns. These figures demonstrate the extent of my struggle as a young adult to break the cycle of incompletion. I was taken into foster care and kept apart from my siblings for a significant portion of my early years. I have experienced times of agonizing discomfort that 99.98 percent of people outside the system will ever have to go through and navigation through the world can be cloudy. Nonetheless, while in the system I looked for ways to escape especially from being so different and feeling like an outsider to my peers. There were months of crying and I didnt want to explain why, I didn't want people to think I was all alone in this world. However, sadly I was. I was thrown around from different schools and homes and couldn't focus on the day infront of me, only of what invaded my life at the time. I remember taking a test and just randomly bursting into tears, thinking of what I could've done differently to see my siblings again or hug my mom and dad just one more time. These are sad memories to remember, but this sadness never stopped me from trying to break free from it. I saw education as my way out and ran with it, I exceedingly enjoyed class and loved my teachers like they were my family. In the 6th grade I seized an opportunity to join a full ride scholarship program, a 6 year investment to the town of Clinton, South Carolina through community service. A chance to go to college for free, and I took it. I showed up for every meeting early and always prepared, I was overly engaged in the summer camps and seminars, really making the most out of every experience the program offered. I led spiritual gatherings and instilled hope into my community. By actively participating in discussions and sharing my thoughts and ideas, I showcased my enthusiasm and dedication towards learning. This active engagement helped me stand out among our class of ambitious students. Through my resilience and unwavering dedication to the Champs program after a long 6 year investment, I was chosen to receive the full tuition scholarship. I wasn't the smartest but I was definitely the bravest. The Champs Program helped me achieve my dream of attending college and I am forever grateful. As a child who experienced the foster care system, I faced numerous battles and challenges that no child should ever have to endure. From instability and neglect to abuse and trauma, my experiences have shaped me into a resilient and determined individual. These hardships have ignited a fire within me to advocate for children who are currently navigating the legal system. I believe that every child deserves a voice, a champion who will fight for their rights and ensure their well-being is protected. My personal struggles have given me a unique perspective on the importance of advocating for vulnerable youth, and I am committed to using my voice to make a difference. By pursuing a legal education, I hope to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively advocate for children in the legal system. I am determined to be a strong advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves, and I am confident that my experiences will drive me towards success in this field of law. My experiences have led me to pursue a career as a family attorney, where I can use my own struggles to help others in similar situations. Through my work, I hope to provide support and guidance to those who feel lost and alone in the legal system. My journey has been filled with pain and heartache, but it has also given me the strength and determination to make a difference in the lives of others.