Losing both of my parents during my teenage years was an experience that forever shaped the person I am today. My mom passed away when I was 13, and my dad passed when I was 17. These were incredibly formative years, and their absence left a profound impact on me. At times, it felt like my world had been turned upside down. However, in the face of these challenges, I discovered a resilience and strength within myself that has guided me ever since. When my mom passed away, I was still young, trying to navigate the complexities of adolescence while grappling with the pain of such a significant loss. She was my anchor, my guide, and the person who taught me compassion and kindness. Losing her forced me to grow up quickly. I had to learn how to be independent and adapt to life without her wisdom and support. Her memory became my source of motivation, driving me to honor her by working hard and striving to be a good person. Losing my dad at 17 brought another wave of challenges. By then, I was in high school, preparing for the next steps in my life. His loss left me feeling isolated and uncertain, but I knew I couldn’t let it derail my future. I was determined to graduate high school and make my parents proud, even though they couldn’t be there to see it. Balancing schoolwork, grief, and the responsibilities of growing up without parental support was difficult, but it taught me the importance of perseverance and self-reliance. Despite these hardships, I’ve managed to achieve milestones that I know would have made my parents proud. I graduated high school, secured jobs to support myself, and worked tirelessly to remain a kind, empathetic person. Now, I’m about to enter my final semester of college, a milestone that felt almost unattainable during those dark times. My journey has been far from easy, but every step has been a testament to my determination to rise above the challenges I’ve faced. These experiences have shaped me in profound ways. I’ve learned to value the small moments in life and to appreciate the relationships I have. Losing my parents has given me a deeper understanding of grief and resilience, which has fueled my passion for helping others. It’s one of the reasons I’ve chosen a career in emergency medical services, where I can provide support and care to people during their most vulnerable moments. Although I still feel the weight of my parents’ absence every day, I know they’re a part of everything I do. Their love and the lessons they taught me remain my guiding force. I’ve worked hard to build a future that honors their memory, and I’m proud of the person I’ve become despite the challenges I’ve faced. Their loss taught me resilience, empathy, and the importance of striving to make a positive impact on the world around me.

I am a 21-year-old student at WIU pursuing a future in emergency medical services. Ever since I was young, I’ve been drawn to careers where I can help others, especially during critical moments. I lost my mother to cancer when I was 13, a life-changing event that instilled in me the importance of compassion and resilience. That experience has driven me to dedicate myself to making a difference in people’s lives. Beyond academics, I enjoy connecting with others, learning new skills, and embracing challenges that push me to grow. This scholarship will allow me to focus more fully on my education and training without the constant worry of financial challenges. Preparing for a career in emergency services involves both rigorous coursework and certifications, and this funding would ease the burden of tuition and other expenses. It would give me the freedom to excel academically, participate in hands-on learning opportunities, and dedicate time to honing the skills necessary to succeed in this field. My academic goal is to successfully complete my studies in emergency medical services and earn the certifications required to become an EMT. Long term, I aspire to work in high-pressure environments like ambulance services or hospitals, where I can save lives and provide critical support to those in need. I’m also committed to continuous learning, possibly advancing to a paramedic role in the future. Ultimately, I want to be someone the community can rely on in times of crisis. I’ve contributed to my community by helping out at local events, such as food drives and fundraisers, and by being a reliable support for those around me. Whether it’s assisting friends or family during tough times or offering a helping hand when needed, I try to make a positive difference in small, meaningful ways. These experiences have taught me the value of being present for others and the importance of building strong community connections. One time I failed was during a group project in an emergency management course. I struggled with time management and ended up rushing through my portion of the assignment, which affected the quality of the overall project. I learned that preparation and communication are key in teamwork. Since then, I’ve developed habits like breaking tasks into smaller steps and setting deadlines to ensure I stay on track. This experience taught me how to take responsibility for my mistakes and work collaboratively to prevent them in the future. My greatest strengths are my empathy, determination, and ability to remain calm under pressure. Losing my parents at a young age gave me a deep understanding of how important it is to be there for others, which fuels my passion for helping people. I’m also incredibly driven, especially when working toward meaningful goals like becoming an EMT. Finally, I thrive in challenging situations, as I’ve learned to focus, think critically, and respond effectively during moments that require quick decision-making.

Losing my mother to cancer when I was 13 had a profound impact on me, shaping the person I am today. At 21, the pain of her absence still lingers, and there are moments when I wish she were here to guide me and witness the woman I am becoming. Her death forced me to mature quickly and take on responsibilities far beyond my years. But through that hardship, I’ve learned how to navigate the complexities of life, and I continue to draw strength from the lessons she taught me. At a very young age, I witnessed her last days, I helped her often when she was sick and on hospice. After my mother passed, I had to take on more responsibilities at home, particularly helping care for my younger siblings. From a young age, I learned the importance of hard work, resilience, and selflessness traits my mother embodied until the very end of her battle with cancer. These lessons became the foundation for my academic and personal life. I never let go of the values she instilled in me, and I’ve carried them with me throughout my journey. Balancing college, work, social life, and personal responsibilities has been challenging, but it’s something I’ve become accustomed to. On school breaks, I often work from home to help my family, making sure we stay afloat financially. During the school year, I also manage a job on campus, working hard to balance my academic responsibilities with my job. This routine is not easy, but I’ve learned to manage my time effectively and make sure I’m present in every aspect of my life. While juggling these responsibilities, I’ve also learned the importance of maintaining my social life and mental well-being. I make time for my friends, because I understand that supporting each other is essential, and I also take moments for self-care. I’m always mindful of finding balance—making sure I don’t become overwhelmed by the weight of my responsibilities. I’ve learned to prioritize, to set boundaries, and to ask for help when needed, all of which have been crucial in managing the many aspects of my life. The challenges I’ve faced, especially after my mother’s passing, have made me more resilient and empathetic. My experiences have taught me how to handle pressure and stay focused on my goals, no matter how difficult life gets. The balance I’ve had to strike between work, school, and life has pushed me to be disciplined, yet compassionate with myself when things don’t go as planned. Though I still wish my mother could be here to guide me through the ups and downs of my life, I know that she would be proud of how far I’ve come. Her strength continues to inspire me as I work to achieve my dreams and support those around me. The resilience she showed in life and her ability to keep going, despite her illness, is a constant reminder that no matter what challenges come my way, I have the strength to overcome them.

In honor of Black History Month, one Black leader who has deeply inspired me is my mother. Although she is no longer with me, the strength, resilience, and unwavering love she showed throughout her life continue to guide me. My mother’s journey was filled with struggles, but it was her fight against cancer that truly showcased her leadership and impact on those around her. My mother raised six children as a single parent. Life was never easy, but she always found a way to provide for us, often working multiple jobs just to ensure we had what we needed. Despite the daily challenges, she made sure we understood the importance of education, respect, and perseverance. Her nurturing spirit created a home filled with love and discipline, where we learned to value hard work and empathy. Even when she was exhausted, she remained our rock, always putting her children’s needs before her own. When my mother was diagnosed with cancer, the news shook our world. It was a devastating blow, but her strength and determination were unshakable. Even as the disease began to take a toll on her body, she continued to fight. She never once let her illness define her, and instead of retreating from life, she faced each day with courage. She didn’t let her battle with cancer stop her from being the mother we needed, nor did it stop her from showing kindness and love to others. She remained involved in our lives, making sure we knew that despite her illness, we were her priority. What struck me most about my mother’s journey was the way she continued to care for others, even when she herself was suffering. She always took the time to check in on neighbors, share words of encouragement with friends, and offer a helping hand whenever possible. Even on her hardest days, she found strength to be there for others. This selflessness and her ability to keep going, no matter what, taught me that leadership is not about titles or recognition, but about making a difference in the lives of others through simple acts of kindness and unwavering support. Her battle with cancer was long and hard, but she fought until the very end. Watching her go through this struggle taught me many lessons, the most important being that we should never give up, no matter how difficult life becomes. She showed me the power of perseverance, how to keep moving forward even when the odds seem impossible. Her courage in the face of illness has shaped the way I approach life’s challenges and has instilled in me a deep sense of resilience. My mother’s legacy is one of strength, love, and dedication to others. Her example has inspired me to not only face my own challenges with courage but also to give back to my community in any way I can. Whether through volunteering, mentoring others, or simply being there for a friend in need, I strive to honor her memory by living with the same compassion, resilience, and leadership she demonstrated every day of her life. Though she may no longer be with us, my mother’s influence will always be a part of me. She taught me that leadership is not just about what we achieve, but about the lives we touch and the love we give to others. Her impact on my life and the lives of those around her is a testament to the strength of Black women and the incredible power of perseverance, love, and faith.

Navigating college as a first-generation student has been both rewarding and challenging, particularly when balancing academic responsibilities with the mental health struggles that come from past adversities. Losing both of my parents before the age of 18 deeply impacted my emotional well-being and introduced challenges like anxiety and moments of discouragement. These feelings sometimes spill into my academic life, affecting my ability to concentrate or feel confident in my abilities. Similarly, the pressure of maintaining good grades while managing part-time work and personal responsibilities can be overwhelming, occasionally leading to stress that impacts my personal relationships and self-care habits. Despite these challenges, I’ve learned that prioritizing my mental health is essential to both my academic success and overall well-being. Over time, I’ve developed strategies to ensure my mental health remains a priority while attending school. One of the most significant steps I’ve taken is seeking support when I need it. I’ve utilized counseling services offered by my university, which has provided me with tools to manage stress, process my emotions, and maintain a healthy balance between school and life. Therapy has been instrumental in teaching me coping mechanisms like mindfulness, journaling, and reframing negative thoughts into positive affirmations. Time management is another critical tool I rely on to maintain my mental health. By organizing my schedule and breaking down tasks into manageable pieces, I reduce the risk of feeling overwhelmed. I also set aside time for self-care, whether that means going for a walk, exercising, or simply taking a break to rest and recharge. These moments allow me to maintain perspective and stay motivated, even during busy or stressful periods. Additionally, I’ve made it a point to surround myself with supportive people who uplift me. Building strong relationships with friends, professors, and mentors has created a network I can lean on during tough times. Sharing my struggles and hearing their encouragement reminds me that I’m not alone and that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. Maintaining a focus on my goals is another source of motivation that helps me prioritize my mental health. I constantly remind myself of why I’m pursuing my degree—to build a career in public service where I can make a difference in the lives of others. This purpose keeps me grounded and helps me push through moments of doubt or fatigue. Moving forward, I also strive to advocate for mental health awareness among my peers. I believe that creating open conversations about mental health can help break the stigma and encourage more people to seek help. Whether by sharing my own experiences or offering a listening ear to a friend, I hope to contribute to a culture of support and understanding. While my mental health challenges have tested me, they have also shaped my resilience and determination. They’ve taught me the importance of balance, self-care, and seeking support when needed. By making my mental health a priority, I am better equipped to excel academically, maintain meaningful personal relationships, and ultimately achieve the goals I’ve set for my future.

My plans for the future center on building a career in public service, where I can protect and uplift my community through law enforcement and emergency management. I am passionate about creating safer, more resilient communities, particularly in underserved areas like the one I grew up in. I aim to work as a law enforcement officer or emergency management specialist, where I can combine my knowledge of justice administration with emergency planning to address challenges like disaster preparedness, crisis response, and community safety. Long term, I aspire to take on leadership roles where I can influence policies and implement programs that make a lasting impact on people’s lives. Currently, I am working diligently to graduate in May 2025 with a degree in Law Enforcement and Justice Administration and a minor in Emergency Management. After graduation, I plan to take on an internship in emergency management or law enforcement, which will provide invaluable hands-on experience in my chosen field. This internship will not only enhance my understanding of real-world challenges but also allow me to apply what I’ve learned in my courses to serve communities effectively. It is a critical step toward building the career I’ve envisioned and gaining the skills needed to make a lasting impact. This scholarship will play a vital role in helping me achieve these goals. As a first-generation college student, financing my education has been one of the biggest challenges I’ve faced. Balancing academic responsibilities with part-time work has taught me the value of persistence, but it has also highlighted the financial obstacles that come with pursuing higher education. This scholarship would relieve some of the financial strain, allowing me to focus more fully on my studies and take full advantage of opportunities like my planned internship. Beyond the financial relief, this scholarship represents an investment in my potential to give back to society. By supporting my education, it enables me to continue learning the skills and gaining the knowledge I need to become an effective leader in public service. I want to use my experiences and education to inspire others, especially young people in my community, to see that adversity does not have to limit their potential. With this scholarship, I will be able to dedicate myself to my studies and ensure I graduate on time while continuing to prepare for the transition into my professional career. After completing my internship, I hope to step into roles where I can protect, serve, and empower my community in ways that truly matter. Ultimately, this scholarship is more than just financial support it’s a stepping stone toward achieving my dreams and contributing to a better future for others. It will allow me to focus on becoming the person who can make a difference during times of crisis, inspire resilience, and leave a lasting legacy of service and hope.

Education is the foundation upon which I am building a brighter future, not just for myself, but for those I hope to serve. Growing up in St. Louis, Missouri, around low income and facing the loss of both my parents, I learned early on that life’s challenges can either hold you back or motivate you to rise above them. For me, education is the key to unlocking opportunities that allow me to rise above my circumstances and achieve my dreams. It is the vehicle through which I can transform my personal experiences into tools for creating meaningful change in my community. Pursuing a degree in Law Enforcement and Justice Administration, with a minor in Emergency Management, is more than just an academic endeavor it’s a commitment to making a difference. My education has provided me with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to pursue a career where I can contribute to public safety, justice, and community resilience. Courses in criminal justice, emergency planning, and crisis management have opened my eyes to the systemic challenges communities face and given me a framework to address them effectively. Beyond academics, college has taught me critical life skills like time management, teamwork, and the importance of perseverance skills that will guide me as I move forward in life. Education is changing my path forward by helping me break barriers and build a life of purpose. It has given me access to resources and mentors who inspire me to think bigger and strive for more. As a first-generation college student, earning my degree is not only a personal milestone but also a testament to what is possible for others in my family and community. My journey serves as a reminder that hard work and determination can lead to incredible opportunities, even in the face of adversity. Looking ahead, I am committed to giving back to society in meaningful ways. One of my primary goals is to use my education to strengthen community safety and preparedness. Whether it’s through a role in law enforcement, emergency management, or public outreach, I want to be at the forefront of creating systems and programs that protect lives and build trust within communities. I envision organizing educational workshops that teach families how to respond to emergencies, mentoring young people who aspire to careers in public service, and advocating for policies that ensure equitable access to safety resources. Beyond my professional contributions, I also see education as a tool for empowerment. I want to inspire others especially those from underserved backgrounds like mine to recognize the power of education and how it can open doors they may not have thought possible. By sharing my story and mentoring others, I hope to encourage the next generation to dream bigger and pursue their goals, no matter how insurmountable their challenges may seem. In many ways, education has been my anchor and my compass, guiding me toward a life of purpose and service. It has not only changed my path but also equipped me with the tools to create lasting change for others. As I move forward, I am committed to using my education to leave a legacy of resilience, empowerment, and hope for my community and beyond.

Overcoming a mental health challenge has been a deeply personal journey that has shaped my resilience, self-awareness, and compassion for others. After losing both of my parents before the age of 18, I faced significant emotional challenges, including grief, anxiety, and moments of self-doubt. It was an incredibly isolating experience, as I often felt the need to suppress my emotions to remain strong for my younger siblings and to stay focused on my education. However, I eventually realized that ignoring my mental health was unsustainable and that seeking support was not a weakness, but a sign of strength. One of the most transformative steps I’ve taken in overcoming these challenges has been learning to ask for help. Counseling services at my university provided me with a safe space to process my feelings and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Through therapy, I gained valuable tools like journaling, mindfulness techniques, and time management strategies to balance the stresses of college life, personal responsibilities, and the emotions tied to my past. I’ve also found solace in leaning on trusted friends and mentors who have encouraged me to speak openly about my struggles. These experiences taught me that mental health challenges don’t have to be fought alone, and that vulnerability can lead to healing and growth. To maintain my mental well-being, I’ve adopted habits that support a healthier mindset. Setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and finding moments for gratitude have been pivotal. I also stay physically active, as exercise has become an important outlet for reducing stress and boosting my mood. While I acknowledge that mental health is an ongoing journey, I feel more equipped than ever to face future challenges with confidence and resilience. Looking forward, I’m passionate about supporting others who face similar struggles and generating greater awareness for mental health challenges. I believe that sharing my story is a powerful way to break the stigma surrounding mental health, particularly in communities where these conversations are often overlooked. I’ve already taken steps by mentoring young people and emphasizing the importance of both mental and emotional well-being. In conversations with mentees, I openly discuss the significance of seeking help and remind them that they are never alone in their battles. I also plan to incorporate mental health advocacy into my future career in law enforcement and emergency management. These fields often expose professionals to high-stress and traumatic situations, making mental health support critical. I hope to advocate for more accessible resources, such as counseling services and stress management programs, for both community members and first responders. Additionally, I aspire to lead workshops and initiatives that normalize mental health conversations, ensuring that people feel safe to seek help without judgment. My own journey has taught me that mental health challenges can feel overwhelming, but with the right support, tools, and understanding, it’s possible to overcome them and emerge stronger. I am committed to being a source of encouragement for others and to fostering a culture of openness and support around mental health in every space I occupy.

My ultimate goal is to build a career where I can protect and serve my community, whether as a law enforcement professional, emergency management leader, or a combination of both. I envision myself creating safer environments by bridging the gap between emergency preparedness and public safety, particularly in underserved communities like the one I grew up in. By using my knowledge and passion for public service, I aim to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives, especially during times of crisis when they need it most. To work towards these goals, I have immersed myself in education and hands-on learning opportunities. As a student majoring in Law Enforcement and Justice Administration with a minor in Emergency Management, I’ve gained both theoretical knowledge and practical skills that are critical to my future profession. I have also taken courses in emergency response, disaster planning, and crisis management, which have equipped me with the tools to address real-world challenges effectively. Beyond academics, I’ve volunteered in my community, organizing safety workshops and mentoring at-risk youth to ensure others have access to resources and guidance that I often lacked growing up. These experiences have reinforced my commitment to service and prepared me for the demanding, yet rewarding, career I aspire to achieve. Pursuing these goals hasn’t come without hardships. Losing both of my parents before the age of 18 was one of the most difficult challenges I’ve faced. It meant growing up faster than my peers, learning to balance responsibilities, and pushing through emotional pain while keeping my eyes on the future. Being the third of six siblings, I often felt the need to be a source of strength and stability for my younger siblings, even as I worked to stay on track with my own goals. Another significant challenge has been navigating college as a first-generation student. Without parents to guide me, I’ve had to figure out financial aid, academic planning, and balancing school with personal obligations largely on my own. Additionally, juggling coursework with part-time jobs to support myself has taught me the value of perseverance, time management, and grit. There have been times when the weight of these responsibilities felt overwhelming, but I have always reminded myself of the importance of staying focused on my dreams. Despite these struggles, I have never let my circumstances define me. Instead, I’ve chosen to let them fuel my drive to succeed. Every setback has been an opportunity to grow stronger and more determined. Looking ahead, I know there will be additional challenges as I transition from college to a professional career. I anticipate facing the demands of a high-pressure field, and I understand that maintaining a balance between work, personal life, and community involvement will require continuous effort and discipline. However, my experiences have taught me to approach difficulties with resilience and optimism, knowing that every obstacle I overcome brings me one step closer to achieving my goals. Ultimately, my vision for the future is not just about my personal success it’s about using my experiences to give back to others and inspire change. Whether through law enforcement, emergency management, or community outreach, I want to leave a legacy of service, strength, and hope for those who come after me.

I’m Eddidra Johnson, a 21-year-old undergraduate from St. Louis, Missouri. I attend Western Illinois University, majoring in Law Enforcement and Justice Administration with a minor in Emergency Management. As the third of six siblings, I learned the importance of responsibility, perseverance, and resilience early in life, especially after losing both of my parents before turning 18. Despite these hardships, I’ve remained steadfast in my commitment to creating a bright future for myself and those around me. My experiences have fueled my passion for public service, justice, and emergency management, and I strive to make a positive and meaningful impact in every opportunity I encounter. One example of making a positive impact on my community was through volunteer work at a youth mentorship program in my community. I noticed that many young people, especially those from challenging backgrounds like mine, often lacked guidance and support. I volunteered as a mentor to high school students, helping them navigate their academic and personal challenges. I shared my story of overcoming adversity, emphasizing the importance of setting goals and staying focused even when life feels overwhelming. One of my mentees, a 15-year-old who had been struggling academically and emotionally, began to show remarkable improvement. By encouraging her to identify her strengths and mapping out small, achievable goals, she gained confidence and started thriving in school. Witnessing her progress felt like a victory not just for her but for our entire community. These experiences have taught me the transformative power of resilience and servitude. I’ve learned that even small actions like organizing a workshop or mentoring one student can have ripple effects that inspire and empower others. My studies in law enforcement and justice administration have deepened my understanding of how systemic challenges impact communities. I am committed to bridging the gap between individuals and the resources they need to thrive, whether through public safety initiatives or emergency response planning. In everything I do, I carry the lessons I’ve learned from my own challenges. Losing my parents at a young age taught me that adversity can either define you or motivate you. I’ve chosen to let it drive my desire to uplift others. Whether I’m organizing an event, mentoring youth, or pursuing my education, I am guided by a vision of creating a safer, more supportive world for everyone. Servitude isn’t just an action for me it’s a lifelong value that defines my character and shapes my future aspirations in emergency management and public service.

Although I was young, I had a very good relationship with my mom. We had a tight bond. She was my shoulder to lean on. I lost my mom to Stage 4, stomach and lung cancer in 2017. I was only 13 years old at the time. It was a huge heartbreak for me. There was never a day when she wasn’t by my side. I had to adjust to living without her. Now that I am older, I feel like we would have been even more close. My mom would have really been my best friend. I say that because I would talk to her about any & everything. She would’ve taught me all the important aspects of life and being a woman. My relationship with mom influenced my decision to attend college because I was taught to care for my education. My mom didn’t play about school. What I mean by that is, she didn’t want us to have any bad grades. She made sure that we stayed on top of our assignments. My mother also helped us with our homework most of the time. She constantly told my siblings and I, “Go to school to be a leader, not a follower.” Go to school to be smart, as she would say. She attended college herself. I know that seeing me pursue my dreams would have been a blessing to her. My mom encouraged me to always do what I think is best. I know that she would be so proud and happy for me. Even though my parents aren’t here, I still want to do what’s right. It hurts to know that they can’t witness the sweet young woman I am becoming. My main goal is to make them proud. Everything I do will not only be for me, but it will be for them too.

A teacher that helped me pursue higher education was my College and Career Seminar teacher. Her name is Ms. Falls. I had her my senior year of high school, for the whole semester. When school first started I thought to my self, “What is this class for?” and “Why do I have this class?” I thought it wasn’t useful or important. It was to get me prepared for real world situations as well as getting ready for college. I learned many aspects of school and life that I had no knowledge of before. Having that class was very helpful and beneficial to me. Having her as a teacher was a true blessing. Ms. Falls impacted my higher education journey by giving the best advice whether it involved school or not. She pushed me to do better. It made me think more about how I want my life to be. She always cared about my progress dealing with school and life in general. Ms. Falls taught us about things we could do to improve ourselves and things that would help us be successful once we get to college. Whenever I had a question, she was there to answer it. Her answers always gave me clarity and understanding. It made me focus on things that are more important. Many of her assignments had meaning to them. It wasn’t being assigned just for a grade but it was for our benefit. If there was any opportunity to help a student she made sure to use it. She posted scholarship and job opportunities all the time. Before school ended, she offered help to us with anything we needed during the summer. Ms. Falls attended our high school graduation. She also wants to receive follow-ups in the future. As in the description, Ms. Falls absolutely saved me from minimizing their potential inside and out of the classroom. I was genuinely undecided about the school I wanted to attend or if I even wanted to go to college at all. Listening to her talks and advice really had me thinking critically. I can say that she is the most caring teacher I’ve had. I am glad that I listened to everything that I was being taught. I prayed for guidance and also with her help the problem was solved. With all of that being said, my decision is to attend Western Illinois University in the fall.

My mom is my greatest inspiration in life. She is an inspiration because I never saw her give up. She always strives and tried her best to be the best mom. My mom passed away when I was in 8th grade and it was a huge heartbreak for me but I stayed motivated and graduated months later. I had to adjust to living without her. A few weeks ago my dad passed away so it has been extremely hard without both of my parents. My family doesn’t have much money or any to help pay for my education. I don’t want to keep stressing and worrying about how I will pay for school. Any scholarship I receive would be a blessing. As a teen, I don’t have my parents to help me or see me achieve my goals. My main goal is to make them proud. Everything I do will not only be for me, but it will be for them too.