I am pursuing a career in the skilled trades because I want to build a future that is based on knowledge, practical skills, and the determination to keep learning. As a first-generation college student, I am creating a path for myself without having the benefit of parents who have already gone through this process. I have had to learn how to navigate college, financial aid, work, and career planning largely by figuring things out along the way. That has not always been easy, but it has taught me to be persistent and resourceful. My interest in technology began with something simple: I have always enjoyed working with computers and figuring out how things work. Over time, I realized that those interests could become more than a hobby. I decided to pursue technical education in Computer Systems and Information Technology because I want a career where I can continuously learn, solve problems, and develop skills that have real-world value. My goal is to build a foundation in IT, earn industry certifications such as CompTIA A+, gain hands-on experience, and eventually grow into networking and cybersecurity. Choosing a trade-school path is important to me because I value learning skills that I can apply directly. I am not pursuing this career simply because I want a job. I want to develop expertise that can provide stability for me and my family while giving me the opportunity to become independent and eventually create opportunities for others. Getting to this point has required sacrifice. I have worked while pursuing my education and have had to balance financial responsibilities with school. Transportation has also been a challenge, and there have been times when getting to work or school required significant time and effort. Despite those obstacles, I continued moving forward because I understand that my circumstances today do not have to determine my future. As a first-generation student, earning my education means more to me than receiving a credential. It represents breaking through a barrier and proving to myself that I can create a different path. One of the social causes I care deeply about is equal access to education and career opportunities, especially for people from low-income communities. I believe talent exists everywhere, but opportunity does not. There are people who are capable of building successful careers but lack the money, transportation, guidance, equipment, or support necessary to get started. Technical and trade education can give people another path toward financial stability without requiring them to follow a traditional four-year college route. I also care about helping people gain confidence through technology. Technology is becoming part of nearly every aspect of life, yet many people still feel excluded or intimidated by it. As I develop my own skills, I want to eventually use what I learn to help others understand technology, solve problems, and recognize career opportunities they may not have considered. Receiving this scholarship would help relieve some of the financial pressure of pursuing my education and allow me to focus more of my energy on becoming successful in my field. I would be proud to honor Slater Miller’s legacy by continuing my education, helping others, and using the skills I gain to make a positive difference in my community.