Faith and God's love have brought me through so much in my life. My family has always shown me the importance of faith. Going church with my grandpa helped me establish a foundation of faith in my life that has helped me keep my head up through hard times. In February 2018, my grandpa fell off a tow truck and broke his back and multiple ribs, along with incurring a brain bleed. This incident sent everyone into distress. I would hate to have seen what would've happened to our family if we didn't hold firm to God. Throughout the sadness, I found peace and comfort in God, and in the end, it brought me closer to Him. However, in September of the same year, my dad was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Another shock to our family, but we knew where to put our faith. Again, I witnessed God's great power and love as he held us through the chaos. To say that faith is important to me is an understatement. A couple of years ago, I had to say goodbye to my beloved grandfather, who started me on my walk with God so long ago. However, my faith inspires me and fills me with joy to continue on the path he started me on. Therefore, I will hold steadfast to God and seek his will. I grew up in a middle-class household that emphasized the importance of a good education. My parents were first-generation students who always encouraged me to give 110% in everything I do. While my parents were blessed to get Pell grants to help pay for their education, we knew I would have to pave a different path to afford college. Therefore, I have given my utmost effort to my studies in hopes of qualifying for scholarships to offset the high cost of obtaining a degree. My parents live a modest lifestyle and try to always look out for tomorrow. Although, life has a way of throwing you curve balls that can wreak havoc on middle-class finances. Since 2018, my parents have experienced several financial setbacks due to unforeseen medical issues, accidents, layoffs, and family funeral expenses, to name a few. While my family has seldom taken a vacation, and money has been tight, I am thankful my parents have taught me to live within my means. Moreover, they have given me the ambition to serve those around me despite challenges. I hope to make people smile and ease their loads in any way possible with what I have. Currently, I am pursuing a business management degree at the University of Pikeville. Through this process, I have recognized a strong interest in marketing and foresee myself entering that field after graduation. In this, and everything else I do, I intend to obey Paul's command in Colossians 3:23: " Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men" (ESV). This verse reminds me that I ultimately serve the Lord above all else and inspires me to give my all in everything I do. Ultimately, this is how I intend to live my life in a way pleasing to the Lord and be successful in my work. This scholarship would be a blessing beyond measure. Winning this scholarship would ease a large financial burden. A $5,000 scholarship for my last semester would go a long way to help cover my college expenses and substantially decrease my debt. However, above all, I pray God blesses you in selecting a deserving recipient of this scholarship that is in his will.