As a first-generation immigrant from Cameroon whose mother left school in third grade, my path to higher education has been marked by both determination and uncertainty. Growing up, I watched my mother work tirelessly yet struggle to make ends meet, not because she lacked ability, but because she lacked access to education. Her experience taught me that education isn't just about personal advancement; it's about breaking intergenerational cycles of limited opportunity. My journey to higher education began with countless nights researching scholarships and educational opportunities, often feeling like I was navigating uncharted waters. Unlike many of my peers, I couldn't turn to family members for guidance on college applications, course selections, or career paths. Every step was a discovery, every decision carried the weight of potentially impacting not just my future, but my family's as well. This perspective, however, has become my strength. At my undergraduate university, I channeled my understanding of being "different" into founding Calmos (bit.ly/Calmos), a mental wellness platform that reached over 300 students who, like me, needed support navigating the challenges of higher education. My background gave me a unique insight into the isolation and pressure many students feel, especially those who are the first in their families to pursue higher education. Now, as I pursue my M.Sc. in Finance at Babson College, my status as a first-generation immigrant continues to shape my educational experience. My academic program is challenging, but it's the cultural and systemic barriers that often prove most daunting. Simple things that many take for granted (like understanding US banking systems, navigating professional networking, or even interpreting unwritten cultural norms in academic settings) require extra effort and resilience. Yet, these challenges fuel my determination. My current 3.84 GPA reflects not just academic ability, but the drive of someone who knows the transformative power of education. As President of the Babson Black Graduate Club, I work to create the support system I wish I had when I first entered higher education. My bilingual abilities in English and French (native) have become a bridge, helping other international students navigate their own educational journeys. My greatest hope is to use my education to create lasting change. I'm working on a fintech venture to democratize financial education and investment opportunities for immigrant communities in North America. I also look forward to acquiring the CFP (Certified Financial Planner) designation. These goals are deeply personal. It's about ensuring that other families like mine have the tools and knowledge to build better futures. My biggest fear isn't about academic challenges; it's about the responsibility I carry. As a first-generation student, every achievement feels like it must pave the way for others. Every setback carries the weight of potentially confirming stereotypes about immigrants in higher education. But this pressure also drives me to excel and to create spaces where others like me can thrive. This scholarship would do more than ease the financial burden of my education; it would validate the journey of an immigrant student who dares to dream beyond their circumstances. It would support not just my academic goals, but my vision of creating pathways for others who, like me, stand at the intersection of ambition and opportunity, ready to prove that background doesn't determine destiny. Thank you for considering my application.