Navigating the world of finances can feel like a winding road, full of twists and turns. Many of my personal experiences with finances stem from a journey of trial and error. Managing budgets, understanding credit, and learning to save were not skills I mastered immediately but ones I acquired through conscious effort and learning. A pivotal moment in my financial education was taking a personal finance class, which provided me with the essential knowledge and tools to make informed decisions. From creating budgets to understanding credit scores and the basics of investing, the class laid a strong foundation for financial literacy and gave me the confidence to take control of my finances. One of the most impactful lessons from the class was budgeting. Initially, creating a budget felt restrictive, like it was something holding me back. Over time, however, I realized that budgeting was a tool for freedom. It allowed me to allocate funds for essentials, save for specific goals, and still indulge in some luxuries without guilt. This lesson gave me a new perspective on how to manage my money proactively, rather than feeling like I was reacting to every expense that came my way. The sense of control and empowerment I gained from this skill has been invaluable. Another critical topic was understanding credit and debt, which was eye-opening. The class broke down how credit scores work, how they affect financial opportunities, and the long-term implications of carrying debt. This knowledge shaped my approach to financial decisions, and I began prioritizing paying off high-interest debt and taking steps to maintain good credit. These efforts are all with the understanding that strong credit opens doors to more opportunities, whether it’s financing a car, securing a loan, or renting an apartment. While real estate doesn’t align with my personal interests, I found the class encouraging in emphasizing the importance of tailoring financial strategies to individual goals and values. For me, this means focusing on areas like saving, investing, and retirement planning. I also appreciated how the class highlighted the power of compounding, showing that even small, consistent efforts over time can lead to significant financial growth. This has inspired me to start investing more intentionally, even if it’s outside of real estate. Looking ahead, I plan to use the knowledge I’ve gained to secure a stable future. My first priority is to build an emergency fund that covers at least six months of expenses, giving me peace of mind and a buffer for life’s uncertainties. I also aim to contribute consistently to retirement accounts, ensuring that I’m setting myself up for long-term financial stability. Additionally, I want to continue growing my understanding of personal finance by exploring topics like advanced investment strategies and tax planning. Financial education is not a one-time event, but an ongoing journey of discovery. Lastly, I’m passionate about sharing what I’ve learned with others. Whether it’s mentoring someone new to managing their finances or simply offering practical tips, I hope to help others avoid the pitfalls I encountered and feel empowered in their financial decisions. Financial education can be transformative, and I want to be a part of creating a future where such knowledge is accessible to all. Ultimately, personal finance is about more than just numbers—it's about choices, freedom, and security. By taking what I’ve learned—including the invaluable insights from my personal finance class—and applying it proactively, I hope to not only improve my own financial situation but also inspire others to achieve their goals and dreams.

As I embark on my college journey to become a business lawyer, my vision extends far beyond personal success. I am deeply committed to using my education to give back to my community and foster positive change. Growing up in a diverse neighborhood, I witnessed firsthand the challenges that local businesses face, particularly minority-owned and small enterprises. These experiences have fueled my passion for law and reinforced my desire to support my community through my future profession. First and foremost, I plan to use my legal expertise to provide affordable legal services to small business owners. Many entrepreneurs in my community lack the resources to navigate the complex legal landscape, which can hinder their growth and success. By offering pro bono or low-cost legal counsel, I aim to help these businesses thrive, create jobs, and contribute to the local economy. This support will empower entrepreneurs to achieve their dreams and build a more prosperous community. Additionally, I aspire to advocate for economic development and equity policies. Through my involvement in local government and community organizations, I will work to influence legislation that benefits small businesses and addresses systemic barriers. By championing fair regulations and advocating for resources, I hope to create an environment where all businesses, regardless of size or background, can flourish. Education is another pillar of my commitment to giving back. I intend to mentor young aspiring lawyers and entrepreneurs, sharing my knowledge and experiences to inspire the next generation of leaders. By offering guidance and support, I hope to cultivate a community of motivated individuals equipped to make a positive impact. Overall, I believe my college education will be a powerful tool to uplift my community. As a business lawyer, I will dedicate myself to supporting local businesses, advocating for equitable policies, and mentoring future leaders. Through these efforts, I am confident that I can contribute to a thriving, inclusive, and resilient community.