My mother lost her job last week! I am a senior at Norwood high school and a single child of divorced parents. I have experienced both of my parents losing their jobs on more than one occasion. I have never experienced financial stability. My father is originally from Europe and is not well educated. As such, he does not make a lot of money. I learned at a very young age to "work hard and be smart." Freshman year I made the difficult decision to stop playing sports and focus on working. I have been employed at the same company since I was fourteen and have been promoted twice. This enabled me to save for a car, allowing me to work more hours. I don't think I am well educated in financial education and the options, and I hope to learn more. Our family friend is the manager at our local bank, and he helps me whenever I have a large or immediate issue. I have been diagnosed with a Cognitive disorder that affects learning. During parent teacher conferences and IEP discussions, my parents are always very proud that I am described as a kind, helpful student who will assist any student, without receiving recognition. I am happy to help wherever I am able. My Adjustment Counselor has been a great part in my success. Also, I’ve grown up with a child that suffers from Williams Syndrome. I love to volunteer for the cause whenever possible. I see his mother struggle as the schools try to put him in classes that don’t fit his disability, and I hope I can one day change the way children are placed in special education. I believe this will enhance the economy and community as it will encourage kids to finish education, allowing better jobs and self-esteem in the future. I’d like to go to Bridgewater State University to study Psychology. In order to become an Adjustments Counselor in a high school to help kids with learning, mental and behavioral disabilities, I need to get a Master’s degree. If I can accomplish this goal, this is not a career where you can make a lot of money to repay loans once I graduate. Bridgewater University is the best, lowest cost college to help in my dream. I hope to obtain enough scholarships and loans to be able to attend college and make a better life. Thank you for considering me for this scholarship and listening to me.

Learning to adapt and simultaneously help others! There are two great accomplishments I'd like to share with you, both have a theme of working hard and adapting to ensure success. I have been diagnosed with a Cognitive disorder that affects learning. I have had to learn to use tools to help in my education, to advocate for myself and that everyone learns differently. During parent teacher conferences and IEP discussions, my parents are always very proud that I am described as a kind, helpful student who will assist any student, without receiving recognition. I am happy to help wherever I am able. My Adjustment Counselor has been a great part in my success. Also, I’ve grown up with a child that suffers from Williams Syndrome. I love to volunteer for the cause whenever possible. I see his mother struggle as the schools try to put him in classes that don’t fit his disability, and I hope I can one day change the way children are placed in special education. This experience has taught me the need to treat people who are considered different need to be empowered to have the confidence to accept change and advocate for their learning and emotional needs. I would like to be part of their success and confidence building. I’d like to go to Bridgewater State University to study Psychology. In order to become an Adjustments Counselor in a high school to help kids with learning, mental and behavioral disabilities, I need to get a Master’s degree. If I can accomplish this goal, this is not a career where you can make a lot of money to repay loans once I graduate. Bridgewater University is the best, lowest cost college to help in my dream. Additionally, I grew up with financial problems. I made a decision freshman year to stop playing sports and focus on work. I have been at the same company since I was 14 and have promoted twice, faster than any other staff members. Because I am always willing to work, I've learned every position at the company. Working more enabled me to buy a used car and work more often. This was a very proud accomplishment and took two and a half years. I plan on working while I'm in college and keep up to date on work changes. Thank you for considering me for this scholarship and listening to me.