Education is a powerful tool in the fight against intimate partner violence (IPV), serving as a catalyst for awareness, prevention, and healing. By cultivating understanding of what constitutes healthy relationships, we can empower individuals to recognize the signs of abuse and take action, whether for themselves or for others. Comprehensive education programs that address topics such as consent, emotional intelligence, communication skills, and conflict resolution are essential in fostering a culture of respect and empathy. Having experienced IPV myself, I am acutely aware of the profound impact that knowledge and support can have on individuals navigating these challenging situations. My journey has instilled in me a deep commitment to creating positive change through education. I believe that sharing personal narratives and insights can be transformative, both for those who have endured similar experiences and for those who may be unaware of the subtle dynamics of abuse. To enact this change, I plan to advocate for workshops and support groups within educational institutions and community centers that not only educate but also provide safe spaces for individuals to share their stories. These initiatives can help dismantle the stigma surrounding IPV, encouraging open conversations that validate experiences and empower individuals to seek help. Additionally, I aim to collaborate with local organizations that specialize in IPV prevention to create resources and programs tailored to the needs of diverse communities. Moreover, I envision integrating IPV education into existing curricula, ensuring that students learn about healthy relationships from a young age. By equipping future generations with the tools to identify and challenge harmful behaviors, we can foster a culture that prioritizes respect and understanding. My ambition is driven by the belief that education can be a beacon of hope for those affected by intimate partner violence. I aspire to be a voice for change, advocating for awareness and support that not only uplifts survivors but also educates those who may unknowingly contribute to the cycle of violence. By building a community of informed individuals, we can work together to create a safer, more compassionate world. Ultimately, my goal is to ensure that everyone knows their worth and feels empowered to advocate for themselves and others. Through my education and advocacy efforts, I hope to inspire change, promote healing, and contribute to a future where intimate partner violence is no longer tolerated. Together, we can turn empathy into action and make a lasting impact in the lives of those affected by IPV.

Fostering Brilliance: My Journey to Support Gifted Children As I stood in front of my class, a group of bright-eyed fifth graders, I noticed something extraordinary: how their minds danced from one idea to another, weaving intricate connections that often left me in awe. One student, Mia, had a particular knack for mathematics. She would solve complex problems with a smile, but beneath her confident exterior, I sensed the pressure she felt to excel. That moment sparked a fire within me—a desire to not only nurture gifted children academically but also to support their social-emotional well-being. This commitment has shaped my career goals and will guide my efforts in creating an environment where gifted children can thrive both intellectually and emotionally. Gifted children often experience unique challenges that can hinder their emotional development. They may struggle with feelings of isolation, heightened sensitivity, or the pressure to constantly perform at a high level. As a future educational psychologist, my mission is to understand these challenges and implement strategies that address them. By fostering an environment that celebrates their intellect while nurturing their emotional needs, I hope to create a haven for gifted children like Mia—one where they can explore their passions without fear of judgment or failure. To achieve this goal, I plan to integrate social-emotional learning (SEL) into the academic curriculum. Research shows that SEL can significantly enhance the well-being of gifted students by teaching them essential skills such as emotional regulation, empathy, and resilience. Imagine a classroom where children not only excel in their subjects but also engage in meaningful conversations about their feelings, learn to cope with setbacks and cultivate strong relationships with their peers. This holistic approach will empower gifted children to navigate their unique challenges, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose. Moreover, collaboration with educators and parents will be crucial in meeting the intellectual and emotional needs of gifted children. I envision hosting workshops that equip teachers with the skills to identify and support gifted learners effectively. By fostering open communication between educators and parents, we can create a united front that encourages gifted children to pursue their interests while addressing their social-emotional needs. A strong support system will not only bolster their academic journey but will also provide them with the tools to develop healthy self-esteem, which is essential for their overall well-being. As I delve deeper into my studies in educational psychology, I am particularly drawn to the concept of mentorship. I believe that connecting gifted children with mentors who have navigated similar paths can be transformative. These mentors can provide guidance, encouragement, and a listening ear, helping gifted students feel understood and valued. By establishing mentorship programs, I hope to create opportunities for gifted children to learn from those who have walked the same road, fostering resilience and a sense of purpose. In addition to mentorship, I am committed to advocating for policy changes that prioritize the needs of gifted children. Many educational systems still lack adequate resources and support for gifted programs, leaving these students to fend for themselves. By collaborating with educational policymakers, I aim to raise awareness about the importance of investing in gifted education. This advocacy work will not only benefit gifted students but will also enrich the educational landscape as a whole, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential. In conclusion, my career goals are deeply rooted in a passion for supporting gifted children both academically and emotionally. By integrating social-emotional learning, fostering collaboration among educators and parents, establishing mentorship programs, and advocating for policy changes, I am determined to create an environment where gifted children can flourish. Like Mia, who deserves to feel both challenged and supported, all gifted students should have the opportunity to embrace their brilliance while developing the emotional resilience necessary to navigate life’s complexities. Together, we can create a future where gifted children are not only recognized for their intellect but are celebrated for their unique emotional journeys.

I’m a lifelong learner, an enthusiastic advocate for positive change, and someone who thrives on connecting with others to create meaningful impact. My journey began in a small town where community and collaboration were at the heart of everything we did. Growing up, I was surrounded by individuals who believed in the power of service and mentorship, and those values became the bedrock of my identity. Throughout my educational path, I faced challenges that tested my resilience. I remember a particularly difficult moment in high school when I struggled with a subject that didn’t come naturally to me. Instead of retreating, I sought out help, forming study groups and even tutoring peers. This experience not only bolstered my understanding but ignited a passion for helping others navigate their challenges. It was a turning point that shaped my belief in the power of community and collaboration. My passion for my chosen field—[insert field here, e.g., environmental science, education, healthcare]—is driven by a deep-seated desire to make a difference. I’m fascinated by [mention a specific aspect of the field, e.g., sustainable practices, educational equity, health innovation] and how it can transform lives. I’ve volunteered in various capacities, from organizing community clean-ups to mentoring younger students, which has reinforced my commitment to uplift others and contribute positively to my community. As I embark on the [specific course/program/degree], I’m thrilled about the opportunity to deepen my knowledge and refine my skills. This program is not just a stepping stone for my career; it’s a launchpad for my vision of creating a lasting impact. The curriculum’s emphasis on [mention key aspects of the program, e.g., research, hands-on experience, community engagement] aligns perfectly with my goals. I envision applying what I learn to develop innovative solutions that address [specific issues relevant to your field, e.g., environmental challenges, educational disparities, healthcare accessibility]. My ultimate aim is to leverage my education to foster a culture of empowerment and inclusivity within my community and industry. I plan to initiate programs that [describe specific initiatives, e.g., educate the public on sustainability, provide mentorship for underrepresented groups, improve healthcare access], ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive. In conclusion, my journey has been shaped by values of resilience, service, and collaboration. I’m excited to embrace this new chapter and can’t wait to see how my education will enable me to uplift others, create innovative solutions, and contribute to a brighter future for all!

Absolutely! I’m thrilled to share a glimpse into my journey as I pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology focusing on Mental Health. My passion for understanding the human mind and its complexities has been a driving force in my life. From a young age, I found myself captivated by the stories of resilience and transformation that people experience. This fascination led me to explore psychology as a pathway to empower others and foster mental well-being. Academically, I strive for excellence. My coursework has not only deepened my understanding of psychological theories but also equipped me with practical skills to support those in need. I’ve had the opportunity to engage in various research projects, investigating topics like anxiety and coping strategies. These experiences have ignited my desire to contribute to the field, and I aspire to pursue a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology after completing my undergraduate studies. My ultimate goal is to become a licensed therapist, providing a safe space for individuals to navigate their mental health journeys. Beyond academics, I’m deeply committed to community involvement. I volunteer at local mental health organizations, where I assist in workshops and support groups. These experiences have been incredibly rewarding, allowing me to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and learn from their unique perspectives. I believe that community engagement is essential in breaking the stigma surrounding mental health, and I aim to advocate for awareness and support initiatives. As for my major accomplishments, I’m proud of the leadership role I took on in our university’s Psychology Club, where we organized events and discussions that sparked important conversations about mental health. Additionally, I received a scholarship for academic excellence, which has been a significant motivator in my educational pursuits. Now, regarding student loans—saving money by paying them down will allow me to invest in my future more effectively. I plan to allocate those savings towards furthering my education, attending workshops, and gaining certifications that will enhance my skills as a mental health professional. Additionally, I envision creating a resource fund to support community mental health initiatives, ensuring that others have access to vital support services. With each step I take, I am not only working toward my aspirations but also striving to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others. The journey is just beginning, and I can’t wait to see where it leads! Thank you for your time and efforts in making this a Possibility.

As a first-generation BIPOC woman, my life has been a tapestry woven with threads of resilience, hope, and ambition. Growing up in a community where opportunities felt limited, I learned from an early age that education is not just a stepping stone; it is a powerful catalyst for change. Today, I stand on the precipice of my dreams, ready to embrace the future, but I know that I cannot do it alone. This scholarship represents more than just financial assistance; it embodies the support and belief in my potential to create a lasting impact. My story begins in a household where my parents worked tirelessly to provide for our family, often juggling multiple jobs just to make ends meet. They instilled in me the value of hard work and perseverance. However, as I entered high school, I found myself facing challenges that tested my resolve. Balancing academics with family responsibilities, I often felt overwhelmed. My dreams of pursuing higher education seemed distant, almost like stars just beyond my reach. Things took a turn when I became a teenage mother. This unexpected chapter in my life was fraught with challenges, but it also ignited a fire within me. I realized I wanted to break the cycle of hardship—not only for myself but for my child as well. With unwavering determination, I sought to complete my high school education. I enrolled in a GED program, and after countless late nights of study and juggling responsibilities, I achieved my goal. That moment marked the beginning of my journey toward academic empowerment. Earning my GED was just the first step. I became a role model for my peers, sharing my story and encouraging others to pursue education despite their circumstances. I enrolled in a local community college, where I discovered a passion for business administration. I envisioned a future where I could empower other young women of color to pursue their dreams, just as I had to fight for mine. This scholarship would provide the essential resources I need to continue my education and propel me toward my goal of earning an MBA. Receiving this scholarship would be transformative. It would alleviate the financial burden of tuition, allowing me to focus on my studies and extracurricular activities, such as mentorship programs aimed at supporting other young women in my community. With this support, I would be able to participate in internships and networking opportunities that would further develop my skills and connections in the business world. I dream of creating a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering young women of color, providing them with the tools and resources to succeed in their educational and professional pursuits. Moreover, this scholarship would reinforce the idea that I am not alone in my journey. It represents a community of individuals who believe in the potential of young women like me. It would serve as a constant reminder that there are people who see my value and are willing to invest in my future. This support will not only impact my career goals but also inspire me to give back, creating a ripple effect of empowerment within my community. In conclusion, my journey has been one of resilience and determination, and I am excited about the path ahead. This scholarship is an opportunity for me to turn my dreams into reality, allowing me to pursue my education and career goals while uplifting others along the way. Together, we can create a more inclusive and prosperous world for all, and I am eager to be a part of that transformation. Thank you for considering my application.

Making a Difference: My Journey in Mental Health Advocacy As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm golden hue over our community park, I found myself sitting on a weathered bench, listening to the stories of young people who felt unheard and unseen. It was during my volunteer work at a local youth center that I first realized the profound connection between mental health and social justice. I remember a young girl named Mia, whose laughter masked the pain of her struggles with anxiety and depression. Her story ignited a passion within me to advocate for marginalized communities and ensure that mental health services are accessible to all. Growing up in a community where mental health was often stigmatized, I witnessed firsthand the repercussions of neglecting emotional well-being. Those around me, including family members and friends, grappled with unspoken pain, unable to access the help they needed. This experience shaped my belief that mental health is not just an individual issue but a societal one, deeply intertwined with issues of equity and justice. It fueled my desire to become a mental health professional who not only provides support but also actively works to dismantle the barriers that marginalized communities face in accessing these essential services. I am currently pursuing a degree in psychology, where I have immersed myself in courses that focus on the intersectionality of mental health, culture, and identity. Through my studies, I have learned that mental health is often viewed through a predominantly Western lens, which can alienate individuals who do not fit that mold. This realization has motivated me to explore culturally competent approaches to mental health care and to advocate for practices that honor the diverse backgrounds of those I aim to serve. One of my most impactful experiences has been working with a local nonprofit that provides mental health resources to LGBTQ+ youth. I facilitated support groups where individuals shared their stories in a safe and affirming environment. It was here that I witnessed the power of community and connection. Many participants expressed feelings of isolation, but by the end of our sessions, they left feeling empowered and validated. This reinforced my commitment to ensuring that marginalized voices are heard and that mental health services are tailored to meet their unique needs. Looking ahead, my goal is to develop a mental health service that integrates both traditional therapeutic approaches and community-based support. I envision creating programs that not only provide counseling but also incorporate art, music, and storytelling as therapeutic modalities. By fostering a holistic approach, I believe we can reach individuals who may be reluctant to seek help through conventional means. Additionally, I plan to advocate for policy changes that increase funding for mental health resources in underserved areas, ensuring that everyone has access to the care they deserve. My journey has taught me that mental health advocacy is not a solitary endeavor; it requires collaboration and a commitment to listening to the experiences of those we aim to serve. As I continue to grow in my knowledge and skills, I remain dedicated to making a positive impact within marginalized communities. I believe that by breaking down barriers and fostering understanding, we can create a brighter, more inclusive future for all. Through empathy, activism, and a relentless pursuit of justice, I hope to be a catalyst for change in the mental health landscape, uplifting those who have been historically overlooked and ensuring that every voice is valued.

A Journey of Service: My Path to Human Services My name is Dorothy Williams,and my journey into the world of human services began with a single moment that forever changed my perspective. It was a chilly afternoon in November when I volunteered at a local shelter. As I served warm meals to those in need, I noticed a young boy sitting quietly in the corner, his eyes filled with uncertainty. When I approached him, he looked up and offered a shy smile. In that instant, I realized the profound impact that small acts of kindness can have on an individual’s life. That day ignited a fire within me, motivating me to dedicate my life to serving others. What drives me to work in human services is the belief that everyone deserves support and compassion. Growing up in a close-knit community, I witnessed the struggles faced by many families. Whether it was providing food for the hungry, offering companionship to the elderly, or mentoring at-risk youth, I was inspired by the resilience of those around me. My motivation stems from a deep desire to amplify their voices and facilitate positive change in their lives. I am passionate about creating a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their circumstances. Throughout my high school years, I actively sought opportunities to serve my community. I organized food drives, participated in neighborhood clean-ups, and volunteered at local non-profits. One of my proudest moments was when I spearheaded a mentorship program for middle school students. I collaborated with school counselors to connect students with mentors who could guide them in their academic and personal lives. Seeing these young minds flourish was incredibly rewarding, and it solidified my commitment to pursuing a career in human services. Moreover, I have learned that service is not only about giving, but also about listening. During my time at the shelter, I took the initiative to engage with the residents. I listened to their stories, understood their struggles, and learned about their dreams. It became clear to me that human connection is fundamental to effective service. I aspire to create a nurturing environment where individuals feel valued and heard, as this is the first step toward empowering them to overcome their challenges. As I look toward the future, my goal is to further my education in social work, equipping myself with the tools necessary to make a lasting impact. I envision a career where I can advocate for vulnerable populations, address systemic issues, and promote equity. I am particularly interested in mental health services, as I believe that emotional well-being is essential for a fulfilling life. In conclusion, my passion for human services is rooted in my commitment to uplift others and foster meaningful connections. The experiences I have gained through volunteering have shaped my understanding of the challenges faced by individuals in my community. I am excited about the opportunity to continue this journey, fueled by the belief that together, we can create a brighter future for everyone. Thank you for considering my application; I look forward to making a difference in the lives of others through your support.

A Journey of Compassion: My Path to Social Work From an early age, I was captivated by stories of resilience and transformation. I remember my grandmother sharing tales of her youth, where she navigated the challenges of a post-war society, rising above adversity with grace and determination. It was during these moments that I realized the profound impact one individual can have on another's life. This realization ignited a spark within me, leading me to pursue a degree in social work—a path I believed would allow me to harness my passion for helping others and create meaningful change in my community. When I first stepped into the world of social work, I envisioned a future where I would primarily work with at-risk youth, providing guidance and support to help them overcome obstacles. This initial motivation stemmed from my own experiences volunteering at a local after-school program, where I witnessed firsthand the struggles faced by children in my community. I knew I wanted to be a source of hope and encouragement for those who felt lost, and I believed a degree in social work would equip me with the necessary tools to do just that. However, as I delved deeper into my studies and engaged in practical experiences, my perspective on social work began to shift. I discovered that the field is not just about addressing individual challenges but also about understanding the systemic issues that contribute to societal struggles. My coursework and field placements opened my eyes to the intersections of poverty, mental health, and social justice. I realized that to truly make a difference, I needed to adopt a holistic approach that considers the broader social context in which individuals live. This transformative journey has inspired me to broaden my focus beyond just youth. I now feel a strong calling to assist marginalized communities, particularly those affected by mental health issues and socioeconomic disparities. I aspire to become an advocate for those who feel voiceless, working to dismantle barriers that prevent individuals from accessing the support they need. Whether it’s through direct counseling, community outreach, or policy advocacy, I am determined to create a more equitable society. As I advance in my social work program, I have also recognized the importance of self-care and resilience in this demanding field. The challenges faced by clients can be overwhelming, and I understand that to be an effective social worker, I must prioritize my own well-being. This realization has deepened my commitment to not only help others but also to foster a culture of support among fellow practitioners. I envision collaborating with peers to create workshops focused on self-care strategies, ensuring that we can sustain our passion for helping others. In conclusion, my journey toward a degree in social work has been both enlightening and transformative. Initially driven by a desire to support youth, I have come to embrace a broader mission of advocating for marginalized communities and addressing systemic issues. My goal is to be a catalyst for change, empowering individuals to reclaim their narratives and fostering resilience within communities. As I continue this path, I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and the positive impact I can make in the lives of others. The road may be challenging, but I am ready to embrace it with open arms, fueled by compassion and a commitment to service.

Getting involved in my community is driven by a deep sense of responsibility and a desire to make a positive impact. Witnessing the challenges and needs of those around me compels me to take action and contribute to the betterment of society. To influence change in my community, I have actively engaged in various initiatives. I have volunteered with local non-profit organizations, dedicating my time and skills to support their missions. Whether it's serving meals at a homeless shelter, organizing clothing drives, or participating in community clean-up projects, I strive to address immediate needs and foster a sense of unity among community members. Additionally, I have worked to promote change through advocacy and awareness campaigns. By leveraging social media platforms, organizing community forums, and collaborating with like-minded individuals, I aim to raise awareness about important issues and encourage others to join in creating positive change. Overall, my efforts to influence change in my community are driven by a genuine desire to uplift and empower those around me. By actively participating and engaging with my community, I believe we can create a stronger, more compassionate society for all. As a single parent of four its vital that I show that gratitude should be the attitude. I have lived in a homeless shelter, I have been without and I know what the littlest act of kindness and giving back can do for a community of individuals. Hope isn’t always easy to find in hard times, so if I can help someone anywhere find it well I have just made the world that much better in my opinion. I never forget being in a family dollar store and coming across a wall decor sticker and it read “ BE THE CHANGE YOU WANT TO SEE IN THE WORLD”. Every since coming across those words that has been my goal. I want to see others inspired by my actions and experiences. Giving Comes in Many Forms I like use the M.E.A.T acronym Money Energy Attention Time If you we get into a habit of giving any of these things well now thats making a change And A very vital one. Giving is one of the greatest things you can give to others depending on the specific needs. I want to encourage others to give whenever the opportunity presents itself take it from me you will not regret it. Recently I had a chance to donate clothes to the migrants and it Was incredible Seeing there faces Light up. My final thoughts Are Do What You Can When You Can And Never Think twice !!!

First off I would personally like to thank and acknowledge the Divers foundation for this wonderful opportunity!! I am 33 and I'm a mother to four children. I have been blessed with both two boys and two girls. Living here in the states we know can be very demanding and very expensive. I am a first-generation college student who is pursuing a BA degree in the psychology of mental health field. As you can probably conclude I am also a single mom. As far as I could remember this has always been a strength of mine, simply because there is absolutely nothing I will not do for my children. Raising a family has changed my life all for the better in my very own experience. It has taught me that the unthinkable and untimely can happen so I must always be prepared. From the early morning hours of eating breakfast before sunrise to the late-night hospital visits just because my little ones will not always feel their best. Raising a family has been one of my greatest accomplishments thus far. I get to experience their different personalities, the way they express their love language toward me, and their gratitude as well. I am willing and dedicated to my children because they have seen and endured every struggle with me. We lived in a shelter in 2014 and I was heartbroken because I felt deep down that this wasn't the life they deserved. While in the shelter I made a promise to them and myself that I would not get comfortable and allow them to suffer because of my actions. With my determination and strong will, I was able to move me and my three children at the time into our very first townhome apartment located in Kokomo Indiana, only after being in the shelter for 7 months!!! I bet you wondering how did I make all this happen in such a short time. I will tell you. I got up each day with a goal in mind in that shelter. I was going to go to work and from there school then I was going to pick my children up and spend the Lil time I had left with them before bed helping them with homework etc. This was my everyday routine and before I knew it my hard work had paid off. Seeing my children's faces and their genuine love for me pushed me to go hard and not give in. The reason I want to get into the healthcare field is that I was helped when I struggled the most. I know how it feels to know that there is more to life, but yet not have a clue as to where to start or who to ask for the correct help you need. As a clinical psychologist, I can listen and administer as well as advocate on others' behalf for the best solutions possible. It is important to me to get into the healthcare field because growing up with a single parent I was not exposed to the best of the best like healthcare. Now that times have changed I can give back to the community I come from with pride and humility that I am doing the most good!!! I want to get into the healthcare field to show I can and will make a difference!!! It's not impossible with an end goal in mind and a smile to face any situation with a positive mindset. Resilience will path the way!!!

When you speak of loss it's never an easy subject to tackle. If you are human you have experienced some form of loss. In 2021 I lost two incredible men in my life. On May 19th I lost my grandfather Willie Williams and exactly one day later I lost my oldest brother on my mother's side James Davis to a car accident he was 37. Losing both of these men has made me realize how much life is a gift and that I should strive to make the most of every minute. When I lost these two men I made up my mind to go back to school and continue my college education so that I could follow in their footsteps and achieve my goals not only for myself but those depending on me. James and willie were two individuals and if you knew them then you already knew how they felt about family and friends. Their whole existence focused on family. I am getting my college degree because I know this is what they would want me to do To provide for my family. Dealing with death has caused me to learn healthy coping mechanisms through college and it had gave me a straightforward path and mindset. I always think of them and when I do I say to myself what would they do if they were here presented with the opportunity I have right now? I have days where I do feel down, but I under no circumstances allow self-pity to deter me from setting and accomplishing my goals. I plan on graduating first in my family from college with honors in both their Memory. This is how I use my pain to pursue my vision!!!

I do agree with this statement. Living with a parent struggling with addiction is very challenging. It can be very overwhelming and very narcissistic. Parents are given the role of a parent to help assist his/her child to grow up in a healthy environment and go on to do great things. They should be given the chance to experience healthy communication with others, especially their parents. I believe that how we choose to respond to life does play a key role in how it turns out. I grew up seeing my mom battle alcohol addiction and I also saw many others in my family deal with the same thing. I decided I was going to be the one to break the curse. I lost my Dad in 2015 and I began to drink heavily. I soon realized that I would go to sleep not even in my right mind and wake up feeling terrible. I quickly did away with the alcohol after a month or so. Life is all about how we choose to respond to situations that seem unbearable at times. This is where we must find healthy coping mechanisms to put into action and stick with them. I am a mother of 4 and I chose to be a great example. I don’t drink around them because I know the power of influence I possess. My children look at me as their hero and I just refuse to let them down. Alcohol addiction is nothing to take lightly. I was 31 when I watched my only auntie my mom’s sister lost her life to Cirrhosis of the liver, due to drinking every day. Alcohol addiction has run in my family for generations and I will be the one to put a stop to it. The only way I believe I will be successful at this is by taking the statement that “ how we choose to respond to life's challenges shapes our life.” I choose not to lose the battle with alcohol addiction by approaching it positively and not even being in the same environment as those who use it. I practice healthy coping mechanisms that will yield only great results.

My Dream is to become A successful psychiatrist. My Goal is to help those suffering from mental illness. I have seen the detrimental effects of this and my heart goes out to everyone who has or is currently experiencing this. I decided to get an education because after I lost many family members due to this I knew I had to put a stop to it. Getting an education starts right there. My goal is to “reach one and teach one” that we can and will win this battle in the end.

Hello, I am Dorothy Williams I am 33 years old. I have faced many difficulties and hardships in such a short time. The most recent hardship I have faced was losing both my cousins a week apart and then turning around and losing both my grandad and brother exactly a day apart in May of 2021. The way I learned to move forward was by remembering how they lived their lives and making a decision to live a life worthy of reflecting them. With everything that took place, I decided it was time for me to do as I said I would and go back to school. I found myself returning to school in December of 2021 and here I am today A straight-A student majoring in psychology. I could vividly recall my grandfather always sitting me down and being so gentle with me asking me what was I currently doing with my life and I’d just smile because I knew he was just so sincere and cared to support me no matter what. When it came to my brother we weren’t too far from one another in age difference so he motivated me by giving me the best advice a sister could receive from a brother he always told me to do what it is you desire out of life, because that’s what matters. If he only knew how much of that still sticks with me to this very day!! The way I learned to move forward from Hardships and tragedy is to live a a life that I know they would indeed be proud of!! I wake up intending to set out to make the world a better place, by showing up for myself and others daily. This was their nature while here so I just pick up the pieces and continue some days are tougher than others but that's when I dig deep and preserve and use all my grit to get me through it knowing that I have a mission that I have to accomplish. Losing my family members so close back to back has impacted my relationships with others in a very eye-opening way. I use eye opening because now I place so much value on family time and authenticity. I consider myself to be very cautious of how I spend my time and how I express my loving and caring nature for those close to me. The death of my loved ones almost sent me into depression. I had to learn how to cope with my emotions all while raising 4 children so it was not easy and it's these very hardships that makes me the person who I am today!!!

This subject hits home for me. I was the one with low self-esteem always seeking approval from those around me. As I began to spend time with myself, I learned that I was missing so much detail in my life. I would overlook the most important thing about myself which was how I felt about myself. I began to challenge myself to get up every day and say one positive thing about myself. As I began this process I noticed my confidence grew and grew. At first, I didn't believe what I was saying until I repeated it in the mirror multiple times. Confidence takes time to build if you're like me, sometimes it takes longer than we want it to. As being a women and African American. I had adopted the narrative that we was okay looking but never really beautiful as a European or other nationality women. I wanted the straight fine hair the skin tone etc. As you can see I was totally against who I was born as. Now at the age of 32 I embrace my culture to the fullest. I'm more confident than I could ever be only because I did the inner work. Acknowledging that this is who I am and confidence I wear it so well. It shows up in my everyday life!!!! I smile more, I compliment others and im just all-around happy I am able to write this With all honesty and integrity!!!! Confidence means so much to me because I've worked so hard all my life to fit in all to be alone at the end of the day. It means that I can now always make time for me and be okay and at peace. Being confident opens doors that you may have not even dreamed of!!!!!

Making Others Feel Loved Has always come naturally for me. I dedicated not only my time with my friends and family, but I share my wisdom with them as well. Spending quality time is the best form of Love one can show. We share our thoughts amongst one another rather it's comfortable at times or on the other hand not so comfortable. The closeness we create is not only a form of love but of respect. I make sure they have what they need versus what they want.I believe that the way you show love to friends and family is by giving them something of value which is knowledge. Something they can use in their everyday lives. I also show love by being a listening ear. Not chiming in on the conversation when it's a delicate issue for them, but giving them wise counsel by uplifting their spirits with something positive. Seeing the good in a negative situation is also how I explempfly my love. Love is an expression that creates a feeling you know when you are loved because it just shows even when it's hard to do at times. Protecting my loved ones in my eyes is giving them the truth raw uncut. Yes feelings may get hurt but, they will look back won't and say she gave me the truth and that is what I truly believe love consists of!!!!

Giving is important to me because it shows one character. I believe that if you give with a great attitude it will open so many doors for you. Being raised by a grandmother who was a caretaker to so many others she gave her time, wisdom, and love. You can give back so much with so little if you're sincere. The way I give back is I help others overcome challenges by speaking encouraging words to them. I also give back by being available as an advocate for those with no voice locked up in the prison's cells. I Have written letters to the government on behalf of Youth who are now adults that have been sentenced harshly. I also once visited a dying woman in an elderly home and spent the day with her. You see you can give in many ways and the great thing about giving back is it feels so good once done!!!! I'll continue to give because it's who I am Dorothy!!!!

I was inspired by my life experiences to return to school. I always have had a strong passion for writing and have always been eager to learn. I grew up on the south side of Chicago my parents were separated and my mom was a single black woman raising 4 children. As a child, I saw my mom raise me and my siblings all while battling an alcohol addiction. I remember DCFS (Department Of Children Family Services) being a part of her life once. We lived in the low-income Housing Projects. My mom gathered all her children around in the living room and calmly explained what was to shortly take place. As the days progressed on, it was as if we had a live-in visitor named Ms. Thomas, She was there almost 7 days out of a week. One thing I admire about my mom she never changed her routine, with how she cared for her children. She continued to do her motherly diligence. She'd get us up for school breakfast was ready to eat. Once we returned home for school she would already be started on dinner. My mother was the one who believed in leftovers and after homework, bathing, and dinner bedtime. She is an awesome mother. Ms. Thomas was a part of our lives for approximately 8 months and Almost lost her job because they found out later someone anonymously called in an act of retaliation against my mom. I decided to go back to school to better myself for my children. Also, like my mom I'm a single mom of 4 children, I want to be a greater mom than my mom was. She has been a great role model when it comes to standing firm on what you believe in. She's not easily persuaded at all. She's been independent since before I was even born. I believe it's her childhood and the life she endured that played a major part as to why she became the mom she became. I also decided to return to school so I can be a great role model to my children. I want to model that it doesn't matter your background, your problems it doesn't even matter where you start all that matters is how you finish and how you manage your time giving. I am in school to be an example of what tenacity and dedication look like and can achieve. I dropped out of school as a teenager, went back a few times before accomplishing my goal of attaining my GED in 2018. I have been in a homeless shelter with my children and I have promised them that they would never have to worry about that ever again as long as I was well-bodied and able to provide. I've successfully been on my own for approximately 8 years and counting. With Everything that has tried to distract me and stop me from being a great individual, I always knew that if allowed to return to school, to further my education I would not let it pass me by under no circumstances.

Someone in my life that has made an impact on my educational journey is my Godmother Danielle. She’s very influential when it comes to education and she stresses how she feels it can be very relevant in the future. Danielle is what you would describe as selfless. She's never too busy and when she is she still makes time somehow. We both are currently in school. I am going for my BA IN psychology, she’s working on her master's in accounting. whenever I need help with an assignment or just didn't understand something involving my school work, I dial her up and she's always willing to assist me. She has been a great motivation to me all throughtout grammar school , high school and now college. I remember when I lost my dad I was a freshman in high school. She was right by my side encouraging me to stand strong, but My mind was clouded by the pain so I ended up dropping out as a straight-A and B student. I felt alone my dad was my best friend. Not having a really strong family relationship with my mom and siblings I turned to the one person I knew would welcome me with open arms, my Godmother. I will give back by being selfless to others as well, willing to lend a hand by gaining the knowledge necessary through my education. I'll inspire others to always Dream Big And Be Bold. No matter how big the obstacle in front of you may appear to be. Consistency through the habit of goal setting, will assure to be profitable. I wasn't sure at first if furthering my education was the right choice, Being that I just could not afford it yet independently on my own. I now believe that it was the only option, if I want to accomplish my lifelong goal of being a first-generation graduate in my family. I plan on standing before thousands of young people and telling my story of how I came from nothing literally to having everything I desired the career, the great support from one person, and self-belief. All because of one person who believed in me. Changing how one sees him or herself through mental clarity helped me. I was exposed to a lot at an early age. My parents were separated I was the middle child of four and I just knew I was different. I also knew I wanted to make a difference just didn't have the resources available to me at the time. I'll give life examples of how I had to go to a live-in shelter work a job and go to school, all while being a single mother to three young children. It's all about perception. People will and can label you all they want but it's how you see yourself, like that makes all the difference. I didn't see myself as someone who wouldn't go to college one day because of my finances not did I let society shape my beliefs around there's. Plan Plan Plan Was All I did and sticking to those plans my education had finally become a reality. Now I will go on to complete my degree program and become a first-generation undergraduate!!! Motivating others is my way of giving back to my community through my life experiences.