My mom telling me that another family member will be staying with us again became a norm for me. It all started in a tiny studio apartment in New York. you expect it to just be me, my mom, and two be my siblings however that was never the case. Imagine having strangers coming in and out of your household, taking your things, and never giving them back. Or getting used to a relative to only find out that they will be leaving and you will never see them again. I would say my upbringing often includes revolving around a household or moving to a new community. These were recurring circumstances that I often endured, however, they helped me become the person I am today.  Growing up with multiple people was definitely challenging and each time I became comfortable and adapted to my current situation a new change occurred. I can remember the very first time it hit me that this will be a chain that I will have to break. That day stays stuck in my memory as if it was yesterday. My aunt walks through the house front door with her adult son and her grandma. I knew then that things would and forever. At that time we lived in a one-room studio apartment with only two beds. I was already going to be sharing my space with my siblings and now I had to share it with two other strangers who had invaded my space. At first, I was angry and did not understand why my mother would put me through this. Why couldn't I have a normal life like everyone else? I would envy the television show or movie I watch where someone my age has their own space. Then I realized that my story was a bit different from theirs.  I was raised in a single household and my mother was the only provider. The older I became I realized the constant changes that came with her needing help and assistance to take care of me and my siblings. With no one to help there were often times, utilities were shut off and I saw the devastating effect it had on my mother. With age, I became more aware of her struggles and redirected my anger to humbleness. I did not want to add to her stress. Instead, I grew an understanding of each experience. Although at the time I understood places and communities might be temporary, I grew an appreciation and cherish living in the moment. Learn that experiences often change depending on the community.  It wasn’t until I moved to Camden New Jersey, I realized that my experiences were shaping my future. Understanding that most people did not live or could relate to my experience was a rude awakening. However, it was then I knew I had broken the chain of this cycle with me. In Camden every person I met looked like me but also wanted to do better for themselves. This is why I wanted to use my experience to help people in my community. My life experiences have taught me that everything happens for a reason in life. Constantly experiencing change has shaped me to become an adaptable person. I have become very flexible with changes and look forward to seeing a brighter future.

I remember when I was 12 when my mother and I found my 11-year-old brother in handcuffs next to a shattered store window. With bruises on his wrists, he was let go into the custody of our mother. In my life, I have seen police officers sit in their cars when they see drug addicts on the street but chase a random black guy down to get themselves some food. While justice for these police officers should be served I would want to help people who do not know how to fight. Due to past observations of police officers,  I want to become a defense attorney to defend those in court who aren't able to defend themselves. I want people to not be afraid to ask for legal help when they are in trouble with the law. In the middle of the night, my mother was called to a store around the school we were at the time. My brother and his friend had been handcuffed to a chair in a store where their window was broken. The cops had stepped into the way before my mother and I could get to my brother saying that they had witnessed someone break open that store's window and helped these other people get away. Then I realized that these people supposed to protect others had put two kids in cuffs for no reason. Later on, my brother told my mother and me that they weren't by the store. They had been across the street waiting for the bus and once they heard glass breaking they started running down the street. This finally made me realize that the world isn't fair. How could they treat two innocent kids like this? This has made me realize that people are unjust.  With this new perspective of the world, I tried to carry on with my life. Family members will come out of jail just to go back in.  Defending other people has become a hobby of mine. At times it would just be ideas or questions such as, “Is water wet?” Later it became people, those who were picked on and couldn’t defend themselves. People who I learned needed help. Defending others is something that I want to do for people. I want people to believe that the justice system can be just and I want to help to be the reason why. While in the past the justice system had its flaws with Jim Crow laws and the Constitution being part of it, we as people need to get together to make a safer place in each of our communities and that starts with our justice system. I don't want to see unjust things happen to just people. We, the people, need to stand together to make this world safer, and that starts with our justice system. From seeing my family members going in and out of the correctional system. To see random people on the street being mistreated, it is evident that there are problems with the people in our care. I wish to be the person to protect the mistreated. With my past experiences and observations, I have become passionate about becoming a defense lawyer due to injustices seen by people in power. I want people to feel like they are cared for. Whether emotional or judicially, this can only happen with appropriate changes within our justice system. I want to be part of the forces that speak and advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves. Becoming a defense lawyer will allow me to protect the innocent.

I remember when I was 12 when my mother and I found my 11-year-old brother in handcuffs next to a shattered store window. With bruises on his wrists, he was let go into the custody of our mother. In my life, I have seen police officers sit in their cars when they see drug addicts on the street but chase a random black guy down to get themselves some food. While justice for these police officers should be served I would want to help people who do not know how to fight. Due to past observations of police officers,  I want to become a defense attorney to defend those in court who aren't able to defend themselves. I want people to not be afraid to ask for legal help when they are in trouble with the law. In the middle of the night, my mother was called to a store around the school we were at the time. My brother and his friend had been handcuffed to a chair in a store where their window was broken. The cops had stepped into the way before my mother and I could get to my brother saying that they had witnessed someone break open that store's window and helped these other people get away. Then I realized that these people supposed to protect others had put two kids in cuffs for no reason. Later on, my brother told my mother and me that they weren't by the store. They had been across the street waiting for the bus and once they heard glass breaking they started running down the street. This finally made me realize that the world isn't fair. How could they treat two innocent kids like this? This has made me realize that people are unjust.  With this new perspective of the world, I tried to carry on with my life. Family members will come out of jail just to go back in.  Defending other people has become a hobby of mine. At times it would just be ideas or questions such as, “Is water wet?” Later it became people, those who were picked on and couldn’t defend themselves. People who I learned needed help. Defending others is something that I want to do for people. I want people to believe that the justice system can be just and I want to help to be the reason why. While in the past the justice system had its flaws with Jim Crow laws and the Constitution being part of it, we as people need to get together to make a safer place in each of our communities and that starts with our justice system. I don't want to see unjust things happen to just people. We, the people, need to stand together to make this world safer, and that starts with our justice system. From seeing my family members going in and out of the correctional system. To see random people on the street being mistreated, it is evident that there are problems with the people in our care. I wish to be the person to protect the mistreated. With my past experiences and observations, I have become passionate about becoming a defense lawyer due to injustices seen by people in power. I want people to feel like they are cared for. Whether emotional or judicially, this can only happen with appropriate changes within our justice system. I want to be part of the forces that speak and advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves. Becoming a defense lawyer will allow me to protect the innocent.

I remember when I was 12 when my mother and I found my 11-year-old brother in handcuffs next to a shattered store window. With bruises on his wrists, he was let go into the custody of our mother. In my life, I have seen police officers sit in their cars when they see drug addicts on the street but chase a random black guy down to get themselves some food. While justice for these police officers should be served I would want to help people who do not know how to fight. Due to past observations of police officers,  I want to become a defense attorney to defend those in court who aren't able to defend themselves. I want people to not be afraid to ask for legal help when they are in trouble with the law. In the middle of the night, my mother was called to a store around the school we were at the time. My brother and his friend had been handcuffed to a chair in a store where their window was broken. The cops had stepped into the way before my mother and I could get to my brother saying that they had witnessed someone break open that store's window and helped these other people get away. Then I realized that these people supposed to protect others had put two kids in cuffs for no reason. Later on, my brother told my mother and me that they weren't by the store. They had been across the street waiting for the bus and once they heard glass breaking they started running down the street. This finally made me realize that the world isn't fair. How could they treat two innocent kids like this? This has made me realize that people are unjust.  With this new perspective of the world, I tried to carry on with my life. Family members will come out of jail just to go back in.  Defending other people has become a hobby of mine. At times it would just be ideas or questions such as, “Is water wet?” Later it became people, those who were picked on and couldn’t defend themselves. People who I learned needed help. Defending others is something that I want to do for people. I want people to believe that the justice system can be just and I want to help to be the reason why. While in the past the justice system had its flaws with Jim Crow laws and the Constitution being part of it, we as people need to get together to make a safer place in each of our communities and that starts with our justice system. I don't want to see unjust things happen to just people. We, the people, need to stand together to make this world safer, and that starts with our justice system. From seeing my family members going in and out of the correctional system. To see random people on the street being mistreated, it is evident that there are problems with the people in our care. I wish to be the person to protect the mistreated. With my past experiences and observations, I have become passionate about becoming a defense lawyer due to injustices seen by people in power. I want people to feel like they are cared for. Whether emotional or judicially, this can only happen with appropriate changes within our justice system. I want to be part of the forces that speak and advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves. Becoming a defense lawyer will allow me to protect the innocent.

I remember when I was 12 when my mother and I found my 11-year-old brother in handcuffs next to a shattered store window. With bruises on his wrists, he was let go into the custody of our mother. In my life, I have seen police officers sit in their cars when they see drug addicts on the street but chase a random black guy down to get themselves some food. While justice for these police officers should be served I would want to help people who do not know how to fight. Due to past observations of police officers, I want to become a defense attorney to defend those in court who aren't able to defend themselves. I want people to not be afraid to ask for legal help when they are in trouble with the law. In the middle of the night, my mother was called to a store around the school we were at the time. My brother and his friend had been handcuffed to a chair in a store where their window was broken. The cops had stepped into the way before my mother and I could get to my brother saying that they had witnessed someone break open that store's window and helped these other people get away. Then I realized that these people supposed to protect others had put two kids in cuffs for no reason. Later on, my brother told my mother and me that they weren't by the store. They had been across the street waiting for the bus and once they heard glass breaking they started running down the street. This finally made me realize that the world isn't fair. How could they treat two innocent kids like this? This has made me realize that people are unjust. With this new perspective of the world, I tried to carry on with my life. Family members will come out of jail just to go back in. Defending other people has become a hobby of mine. At times it would just be ideas or questions such as, “Is water wet?” Later it became people, those who were picked on and couldn’t defend themselves. People who I learned needed help. Defending others is something that I want to do for people. I want people to believe that the justice system can be just and I want to help to be the reason why. While in the past the justice system had its flaws with Jim Crow laws and the Constitution being part of it, we as people need to get together to make a safer place in each of our communities and that starts with our justice system. I don't want to see unjust things happen to just people. We, the people, need to stand together to make this world safer, and that starts with our justice system. From seeing my family members going in and out of the correctional system. To see random people on the street being mistreated, it is evident that there are problems with the people in our care. I wish to be the person to protect the mistreated. With my past experiences and observations, I have become passionate about becoming a defense lawyer due to injustices seen by people in power. I want people to feel like they are cared for. Whether emotional or judicially, this can only happen with appropriate changes within our justice system. I want to be part of the forces that speak and advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves. Becoming a defense lawyer will allow me to protect the innocent.

My mom telling me that another family member will be staying with us again became a norm for me. It all started in a tiny studio apartment in New York. you expect it to just be me, my mom, and two siblings however that was never the case. Imagine having strangers coming in and out of your household, taking your things, and never giving them back. Or getting used to a relative to only find out that they will be leaving and you will never see them again. I would say my upbringing often includes revolving around a household or moving to a new community. These were recurring circumstances that I often endured, however, they help become the person I am today.  Growing up with multiple was definitely challenging and each time I became comfortable and adapted to my current situation a new change occurred. I can remember the very first time it hit me that this will be a chain that I will have to break. That day stays stuck in my memory as if it was yesterday. My aunt walks through the house's front door with her adult son and her grandma. I knew then that things will change forever. At that time we were living in a one-room studio apartment with only two beds. I was already sad to be sharing my space with my siblings and now I had to share it with two other strangers who had invaded my space. At first, I was angry and did not understand why my mother would put me through this. Why couldn't I have a normal life like everyone else? I would envy the television show or movie I watch where someone my age would have their own space. Then I realize that my story was a bit different from theirs.  I was raised in a single household and my mother was the only provider. The older I became I realise the constant changes that came with her needing help and assistance to take care of me and my siblings. With no one to help there were often when times, utilities were shut off and I saw the devastating effect it had on my mother. With age, I became more aware of her struggles and redirected my anger to humbleness. I did not want to add to her stress. Instead, I grew an understanding of each experience. Although at the time I understood places and communities might be temporary, I grew an appreciation and cherish living in the moment. Learn that experiences often changed depending on the community.  It wasn’t until I move to Camden New Jersey, I realize that my experiences were shaping my future. Understanding that most people did not live or could relate to my experience was a rude awakening. However, it was then knew I had broken the chain of this cycle with me. In Camden every person I met looked like me but also wanted to do better for themselves. This is why I wanted to use my experience to help people in my community. My life experiences have taught me that everything happens for a reason in life. Constantly experiencing change has shaped me to become an adaptable person. I have become very flexible with changes and look forward to seeing a brighter future I will path for myself.

I remember when I was 12 when my mother and I found my 11-year-old brother in handcuffs next to a shattered store window. With bruises on his wrists, he was let go into the custody of our mother. In my life, I have seen police officers sit in their cars when they see drug addicts on the street but chase a random black guy down to get themselves some food. While justice for these police officers should be served I would want to help people who do not know how to fight. Due to past observations of police officers,  I want to become a defense attorney to defend those in court who aren't able to defend themselves. I want people to not be afraid to ask for legal help when they are in trouble with the law. In the middle of the night, my mother was called to a store around the school we were at the time. My brother and his friend had been handcuffed to a chair in a store where their window was broken. The cops had stepped into the way before my mother and I could get to my brother saying that they had witnessed someone break open that store's window and helped these other people get away. Then I realized that these people supposed to protect others had put two kids in cuffs for no reason. Later on, my brother told my mother and me that they weren't by the store. They had been across the street waiting for the bus and once they heard glass breaking they started running down the street. This finally made me realize that the world isn't fair. How could they treat two innocent kids like this? This has made me realize that people are unjust.  With this new perspective of the world, I tried to carry on with my life. Family members will come out of jail just to go back in.  Defending other people has become a hobby of mine. At times it would just be ideas or questions such as, “Is water wet?” Later it became people, those who were picked on and couldn’t defend themselves. People who I learned needed help. Defending others is something that I want to do for people. I want people to believe that the justice system can be just and I want to help to be the reason why. While in the past the justice system had its flaws with Jim Crow laws and the Constitution being part of it, we as people need to get together to make a safer place in each of our communities and that starts with our justice system. I don't want to see unjust things happen to just people. We, the people, need to stand together to make this world safer, and that starts with our justice system. From seeing my family members going in and out of the correctional system. To see random people on the street being mistreated, it is evident that there are problems with the people in our care. I wish to be the person to protect the mistreated. With my past experiences and observations, I have become passionate about becoming a defense lawyer due to injustices seen by people in power. I want people to feel like they are cared for. Whether emotional or judicially, this can only happen with appropriate changes within our justice system. I want to be part of the forces that speak and advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves. Becoming a defense lawyer will allow me to protect the innocent.

I remember when I was 12 when my mother and I found my 11-year-old brother in handcuffs next to a shattered store window. With bruises on his wrists, he was let go into the custody of our mother. In my life, I have seen police officers sit in their cars when they see drug addicts on the street but chase a random black guy down to get themselves some food. While justice for these police officers should be served I would want to help people who do not know how to fight. Due to past observations of police officers,  I want to become a defense attorney to defend those in court who aren't able to defend themselves. I want people to not be afraid to ask for legal help when they are in trouble with the law. In the middle of the night, my mother was called to a store around the school we were at the time. My brother and his friend had been handcuffed to a chair in a store where their window was broken. The cops had stepped into the way before my mother and I could get to my brother saying that they had witnessed someone break open that store's window and helped these other people get away. Then I realized that these people supposed to protect others had put two kids in cuffs for no reason. Later on, my brother told my mother and me that they weren't by the store. They had been across the street waiting for the bus and once they heard glass breaking they started running down the street. This finally made me realize that the world isn't fair. How could they treat two innocent kids like this? This has made me realize that people are unjust.  With this new perspective of the world, I tried to carry on with my life. Family members will come out of jail just to go back in.  Defending other people has become a hobby of mine. At times it would just be ideas or questions such as, “Is water wet?” Later it became people, those who were picked on and couldn’t defend themselves. People who I learned needed help. Defending others is something that I want to do for people. I want people to believe that the justice system can be just and I want to help to be the reason why. While in the past the justice system had its flaws with Jim Crow laws and the Constitution being part of it, we as people need to get together to make a safer place in each of our communities and that starts with our justice system. I don't want to see unjust things happen to just people. We, the people, need to stand together to make this world safer, and that starts with our justice system. From seeing my family members going in and out of the correctional system. To see random people on the street being mistreated, it is evident that there are problems with the people in our care. I wish to be the person to protect the mistreated. With my past experiences and observations, I have become passionate about becoming a defense lawyer due to injustices seen by people in power. I want people to feel like they are cared for. Whether emotional or judicially, this can only happen with appropriate changes within our justice system. I want to be part of the forces that speak and advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves. Becoming a defense lawyer will allow me to protect the innocent.

I remember when I was 12 when my mother and I found my 11-year-old brother in handcuffs next to a shattered store window. With bruises on his wrists, he was let go into the custody of our mother. In my life, I have seen police officers sit in their cars when they see drug addicts on the street but chase a random black guy down to get themselves some food. While justice for these police officers should be served I would want to help people who do not know how to fight. Due to past observations of police officers,  I want to become a defense attorney to defend those in court who aren't able to defend themselves. I want people to not be afraid to ask for legal help when they are in trouble with the law. In the middle of the night, my mother was called to a store around the school we were at the time. My brother and his friend had been handcuffed to a chair in a store where their window was broken. The cops had stepped into the way before my mother and I could get to my brother saying that they had witnessed someone break open that store's window and helped these other people get away. Then I realized that these people supposed to protect others had put two kids in cuffs for no reason. Later on, my brother told my mother and me that they weren't by the store. They had been across the street waiting for the bus and once they heard glass breaking they started running down the street. This finally made me realize that the world isn't fair. How could they treat two innocent kids like this? This has made me realize that people are unjust.  With this new perspective of the world, I tried to carry on with my life. Family members will come out of jail just to go back in.  Defending other people has become a hobby of mine. At times it would just be ideas or questions such as, “Is water wet?” Later it became people, those who were picked on and couldn’t defend themselves. People who I learned needed help. Defending others is something that I want to do for people. I want people to believe that the justice system can be just and I want to help to be the reason why. While in the past the justice system had its flaws with Jim Crow laws and the Constitution being part of it, we as people need to get together to make a safer place in each of our communities and that starts with our justice system. I don't want to see unjust things happen to just people. We, the people, need to stand together to make this world safer, and that starts with our justice system. From seeing my family members going in and out of the correctional system. To see random people on the street being mistreated, it is evident that there are problems with the people in our care. I wish to be the person to protect the mistreated. With my past experiences and observations, I have become passionate about becoming a defense lawyer due to injustices seen by people in power. I want people to feel like they are cared for. Whether emotional or judicially, this can only happen with appropriate changes within our justice system. I want to be part of the forces that speak and advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves. Becoming a defense lawyer will allow me to protect the innocent.

I remember when I was 12 when my mother and I found my 11-year-old brother in handcuffs next to a shattered store window. With bruises on his wrists, he was let go into the custody of our mother. In my life, I have seen police officers sit in their cars when they see drug addicts on the street but chase a random black guy down to get themselves some food. While justice for these police officers should be served I would want to help people who do not know how to fight. Due to past observations of police officers,  I want to become a defense attorney to defend those in court who aren't able to defend themselves. I want people to not be afraid to ask for legal help when they are in trouble with the law. In the middle of the night, my mother was called to a store around the school we were at the time. My brother and his friend had been handcuffed to a chair in a store where their window was broken. The cops had stepped into the way before my mother and I could get to my brother saying that they had witnessed someone break open that store's window and helped these other people get away. Then I realized that these people supposed to protect others had put two kids in cuffs for no reason. Later on, my brother told my mother and me that they weren't by the store. They had been across the street waiting for the bus and once they heard glass breaking they started running down the street. This finally made me realize that the world isn't fair. How could they treat two innocent kids like this? This has made me realize that people are unjust.  With this new perspective of the world, I tried to carry on with my life. Family members will come out of jail just to go back in.  Defending other people has become a hobby of mine. At times it would just be ideas or questions such as, “Is water wet?” Later it became people, those who were picked on and couldn’t defend themselves. People who I learned needed help. Defending others is something that I want to do for people. I want people to believe that the justice system can be just and I want to help to be the reason why. While in the past the justice system had its flaws with Jim Crow laws and the Constitution being part of it, we as people need to get together to make a safer place in each of our communities and that starts with our justice system. I don't want to see unjust things happen to just people. We, the people, need to stand together to make this world safer, and that starts with our justice system. From seeing my family members going in and out of the correctional system. To see random people on the street being mistreated, it is evident that there are problems with the people in our care. I wish to be the person to protect the mistreated. With my past experiences and observations, I have become passionate about becoming a defense lawyer due to injustices seen by people in power. I want people to feel like they are cared for. Whether emotional or judicially, this can only happen with appropriate changes within our justice system. I want to be part of the forces that speak and advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves. Becoming a defense lawyer will allow me to protect the innocent.

My mom telling me that another family member will be staying with us again became a norm for me. It all started in a tiny studio apartment in New York. you expect it to just be me, my mom, and two siblings however that was never the case. Imagine having strangers coming in and out of your household, taking your things, and never giving them back. Or getting used to a relative to only find out that they will be leaving and you will never see them again. I would say my upbringing often includes revolving around a household or moving to a new community. These were recurring circumstances that I often endured, however, they help become the person I am today. Growing up with multiple was definitely challenging and each time I became comfortable and adapted to my current situation a new change occurred. I can remember the very first time it hit me that this will be a chain that I will have to break. That day stays stuck in my memory as if it was yesterday. My aunt walks through the house's front door with her adult son and her grandma. I knew then that things will change forever. At that time we were living in a one-room studio apartment with only two beds. I was already sad to be sharing my space with my siblings and now I had to share it with two other strangers who had invaded my space. At first, I was angry and did not understand why my mother would put me through this. Why couldn't I have a normal life like everyone else? I would envy the television show or movie I watch where someone my age would have their own space. Then I realize that my story was a bit different from theirs. I was raised in a single household and my mother was the only provider. The older I became I realise the constant changes that came with her needing help and assistance to take care of me and my siblings. With no one to help there were often when times, utilities were shut off and I saw the devastating effect it had on my mother. With age, I became more aware of her struggles and redirected my anger to humbleness. I did not want to add to her stress. Instead, I grew an understanding of each experience. Although at the time I understood places and communities might be temporary, I grew an appreciation and cherish living in the moment. Learn that experiences often changed depending on the community. It wasn’t until I move to Camden New Jersey, I realize that my experiences were shaping my future. Understanding that most people did not live or could relate to my experience was a rude awakening. However, it was then knew I had broken the chain of this cycle with me. In Camden every person I met looked like me but also wanted to do better for themselves. This is why I wanted to use my experience to help people in my community. My life experiences have taught me that everything happens for a reason in life. Constantly experiencing change has shaped me to become an adaptable person. I have become very flexible with changes and look forward to seeing a brighter future I will path for myself.

The dream version of my future self is to be working, not in a job, but in a career I love so much that it feels like I'm not working at all.

My mom telling me that another family member will be staying with us again became a norm for me. It all started in a tiny studio apartment in New York. you expect it to just be me, my mom, and two siblings however that was never the case. Imagine having strangers coming in and out of your household, taking your things, and never giving them back. Or getting used to a relative to only find out that they will be leaving and you will never see them again. I would say my upbringing often includes revolving around a household or moving to a new community. These were recurring circumstances that I often endured, however, they help become the person I am today. Growing up with multiple was definitely challenging and each time I became comfortable and adapted to my current situation a new change occurred. I can remember the very first time it hit me that this will be a chain that I will have to break. That day stays stuck in my memory as if it was yesterday. My aunt walks through the house's front door with her adult son and her grandma. I knew then that things will change forever. At that time we were living in a one-room studio apartment with only two beds. I was already sad to be sharing my space with my siblings and now I had to share it with two other strangers who had invaded my space. At first, I was angry and did not understand why my mother would put me through this. Why couldn't I have a normal life like everyone else? I would envy the television show or movie I watch where someone my age would have their own space. Then I realize that my story was a bit different from theirs. I was raised in a single household and my mother was the only provider. The older I became I realise the constant changes that came with her needing help and assistance to take care of me and my siblings. With no one to help there were often when times, utilities were shut off and I saw the devastating effect it had on my mother. With age, I became more aware of her struggles and redirected my anger to humbleness. I did not want to add to her stress. Instead, I grew an understanding of each experience. Although at the time I understood places and communities might be temporary, I grew an appreciation and cherish living in the moment. Learn that experiences often changed depending on the community. It wasn’t until I move to Camden New Jersey, I realize that my experiences were shaping my future. Understanding that most people did not live or could relate to my experience was a rude awakening. However, it was then knew I had broken the chain of this cycle with me. In Camden every person I met looked like me but also wanted to do better for themselves. This is why I wanted to use my experience to help people in my community. My life experiences have taught me that everything happens for a reason in life. Constantly experiencing change has shaped me to become an adaptable person. I have become very flexible with changes and look forward to seeing a brighter future I will path for myself.

I remember when I was 12 when my mother and I found my 11-year-old brother in handcuffs next to a shattered store window. With bruises on his wrists, he was let go into the custody of our mother. In my life, I have seen police officers sit in their cars when they see drug addicts on the street but chase a random black guy down to get themselves some food. While justice for these police officers should be served I would want to help people who do not know how to fight. Due to past observations of police officers, I want to become a defense attorney to defend those in court who aren't able to defend themselves. I want people to not be afraid to ask for legal help when they are in trouble with the law. In the middle of the night, my mother was called to a store around the school we were at the time. My brother and his friend had been handcuffed to a chair in a store where their window was broken. The cops had stepped into the way before my mother and I could get to my brother saying that they had witnessed someone break open that store's window and helped these other people get away. Then I realized that these people supposed to protect others had put two kids in cuffs for no reason. Later on, my brother told my mother and me that they weren't by the store. They had been across the street waiting for the bus and once they heard glass breaking they started running down the street. This finally made me realize that the world isn't fair. How could they treat two innocent kids like this? This has made me realize that people are unjust. With this new perspective of the world, I tried to carry on with my life. Family members will come out of jail just to go back in. Defending other people has become a hobby of mine. At times it would just be ideas or questions such as, “Is water wet?” Later it became people, those who were picked on and couldn’t defend themselves. People who I learned needed help. Defending others is something that I want to do for people. I want people to believe that the justice system can be just and I want to help to be the reason why. While in the past the justice system had its flaws with Jim Crow laws and the Constitution being part of it, we as people need to get together to make a safer place in each of our communities and that starts with our justice system. I don't want to see unjust things happen to just people. We, the people, need to stand together to make this world safer, and that starts with our justice system. From seeing my family members going in and out of the correctional system. To see random people on the street being mistreated, it is evident that there are problems with the people in our care. I wish to be the person to protect the mistreated. With my past experiences and observations, I have become passionate about becoming a defense lawyer due to injustices seen by people in power. I want people to feel like they are cared for. Whether emotional or judicially, this can only happen with appropriate changes within our justice system. I want to be part of the forces that speak and advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves. Becoming a defense lawyer will allow me to protect the innocent.

My mom telling me that another family member will be staying with us again became a norm for me. It all started in a tiny studio apartment in New York. you expect it to just be me, my mom, and two siblings however that was never the case. Imagine having strangers coming in and out of your household, taking your things, and never giving them back. Or getting used to a relative to only find out that they will be leaving and you will never see them again. I would say my upbringing often includes revolving around a household or moving to a new community. These were recurring circumstances that I often endured, however, they help become the person I am today. Growing up with multiple was definitely challenging and each time I became comfortable and adapted to my current situation a new change occurred. I can remember the very first time it hit me that this will be a chain that I will have to break. That day stays stuck in my memory as if it was yesterday. My aunt walks through the house's front door with her adult son and her grandma. I knew then that things will change forever. At that time we were living in a one-room studio apartment with only two beds. I was already sad to be sharing my space with my siblings and now I had to share it with two other strangers who had invaded my space. At first, I was angry and did not understand why my mother would put me through this. Why couldn't I have a normal life like everyone else? I would envy the television show or movie I watch where someone my age would have their own space. Then I realize that my story was a bit different from theirs. I was raised in a single household and my mother was the only provider. The older I became I realise the constant changes that came with her needing help and assistance to take care of me and my siblings. With no one to help there were often when times, utilities were shut off and I saw the devastating effect it had on my mother. With age, I became more aware of her struggles and redirected my anger to humbleness. I did not want to add to her stress. Instead, I grew an understanding of each experience. Although at the time I understood places and communities might be temporary, I grew an appreciation and cherish living in the moment. Learn that experiences often changed depending on the community. It wasn’t until I move to Camden New Jersey, I realize that my experiences were shaping my future. Understanding that most people did not live or could relate to my experience was a rude awakening. However, it was then knew I had broken the chain of this cycle with me. In Camden every person I met looked like me but also wanted to do better for themselves. This is why I wanted to use my experience to help people in my community. My life experiences have taught me that everything happens for a reason in life. Constantly experiencing change has shaped me to become an adaptable person. I have become very flexible with changes and look forward to seeing a brighter future I will path for myself.

My mom telling me that another family member will be staying with us again became a norm for me. It all started in a tiny studio apartment in New York. you expect it to just be me, my mom, and two siblings however that was never the case. Imagine having strangers coming in and out of your household, taking your things, and never giving them back. Or getting used to a relative to only find out that they will be leaving and you will never see them again. I would say my upbringing often includes revolving around a household or moving to a new community. These were recurring circumstances that I often endured, however, they help become the person I am today. Growing up with multiple was definitely challenging and each time I became comfortable and adapted to my current situation a new change occurred. I can remember the very first time it hit me that this will be a chain that I will have to break. That day stays stuck in my memory as if it was yesterday. My aunt walks through the house's front door with her adult son and her grandma. I knew then that things will change forever. At that time we were living in a one-room studio apartment with only two beds. I was already sad to be sharing my space with my siblings and now I had to share it with two other strangers who had invaded my space. At first, I was angry and did not understand why my mother would put me through this. Why couldn't I have a normal life like everyone else? I would envy the television show or movie I watch where someone my age would have their own space. Then I realize that my story was a bit different from theirs. I was raised in a single household and my mother was the only provider. The older I became I realise the constant changes that came with her needing help and assistance to take care of me and my siblings. With no one to help there were often when times, utilities were shut off and I saw the devastating effect it had on my mother. With age, I became more aware of her struggles and redirected my anger to humbleness. I did not want to add to her stress. Instead, I grew an understanding of each experience. Although at the time I understood places and communities might be temporary, I grew an appreciation and cherish living in the moment. Learn that experiences often changed depending on the community. It wasn’t until I move to Camden New Jersey, I realize that my experiences were shaping my future. Understanding that most people did not live or could relate to my experience was a rude awakening. However, it was then knew I had broken the chain of this cycle with me. In Camden every person I met looked like me but also wanted to do better for themselves. This is why I wanted to use my experience to help people in my community. My life experiences have taught me that everything happens for a reason in life. Constantly experiencing change has shaped me to become an adaptable person. I have become very flexible with changes and look forward to seeing a brighter future I will path for myself.

My mom telling me that another family member will be staying with us again became a norm for me. It all started in a tiny studio apartment in New York. you expect it to just be me, my mom, and two siblings however that was never the case. Imagine having strangers coming in and out of your household, taking your things, and never giving them back. Or getting used to a relative to only find out that they will be leaving and you will never see them again. I would say my upbringing often includes revolving around a household or moving to a new community. These were recurring circumstances that I often endured, however, they help become the person I am today. Growing up with multiple was definitely challenging and each time I became comfortable and adapted to my current situation a new change occurred. I can remember the very first time it hit me that this will be a chain that I will have to break. That day stays stuck in my memory as if it was yesterday. My aunt walks through the house's front door with her adult son and her grandma. I knew then that things will change forever. At that time we were living in a one-room studio apartment with only two beds. I was already sad to be sharing my space with my siblings and now I had to share it with two other strangers who had invaded my space. At first, I was angry and did not understand why my mother would put me through this. Why couldn't I have a normal life like everyone else? I would envy the television show or movie I watch where someone my age would have their own space. Then I realize that my story was a bit different from theirs. I was raised in a single household and my mother was the only provider. The older I became I realise the constant changes that came with her needing help and assistance to take care of me and my siblings. With no one to help there were often when times, utilities were shut off and I saw the devastating effect it had on my mother. With age, I became more aware of her struggles and redirected my anger to humbleness. I did not want to add to her stress. Instead, I grew an understanding of each experience. Although at the time I understood places and communities might be temporary, I grew an appreciation and cherish living in the moment. Learn that experiences often changed depending on the community. It wasn’t until I move to Camden New Jersey, I realize that my experiences were shaping my future. Understanding that most people did not live or could relate to my experience was a rude awakening. However, it was then knew I had broken the chain of this cycle with me. In Camden every person I met looked like me but also wanted to do better for themselves. This is why I wanted to use my experience to help people in my community. My life experiences have taught me that everything happens for a reason in life. Constantly experiencing change has shaped me to become an adaptable person. I have become very flexible with changes and look forward to seeing a brighter future I will path for myself.

I remember when I was 12 when my mother and I found my 11-year-old brother in handcuffs next to a shattered store window. With bruises on his wrists, he was let go into the custody of our mother. In my life, I have seen police officers sit in their cars when they see drug addicts on the street but chase a random black guy down to get themselves some food. While justice for these police officers should be served I would want to help people who do not know how to fight. Due to past observations of police officers, I want to become a defense attorney to defend those in court who aren't able to defend themselves. I want people to not be afraid to ask for legal help when they are in trouble with the law. In the middle of the night, my mother was called to a store around the school we were at the time. My brother and his friend had been handcuffed to a chair in a store where their window was broken. The cops had stepped into the way before my mother and I could get to my brother saying that they had witnessed someone break open that store's window and helped these other people get away. Then I realized that these people supposed to protect others had put two kids in cuffs for no reason. Later on, my brother told my mother and me that they weren't by the store. They had been across the street waiting for the bus and once they heard glass breaking they started running down the street. This finally made me realize that the world isn't fair. How could they treat two innocent kids like this? This has made me realize that people are unjust. With this new perspective of the world, I tried to carry on with my life. Family members will come out of jail just to go back in. Defending other people has become a hobby of mine. At times it would just be ideas or questions such as, “Is water wet?” Later it became people, those who were picked on and couldn’t defend themselves. People who I learned needed help. Defending others is something that I want to do for people. I want people to believe that the justice system can be just and I want to help to be the reason why. While in the past the justice system had its flaws with Jim Crow laws and the Constitution being part of it, we as people need to get together to make a safer place in each of our communities and that starts with our justice system. I don't want to see unjust things happen to just people. We, the people, need to stand together to make this world safer, and that starts with our justice system. From seeing my family members going in and out of the correctional system. To see random people on the street being mistreated, it is evident that there are problems with the people in our care. I wish to be the person to protect the mistreated. With my past experiences and observations, I have become passionate about becoming a defense lawyer due to injustices seen by people in power. I want people to feel like they are cared for. Whether emotional or judicially, this can only happen with appropriate changes within our justice system. I want to be part of the forces that speak and advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves. Becoming a defense lawyer will allow me to protect the innocent.