Having type 1 diabetes, I have been aware of financial decisions and the importance of planning from a very young age. First, I recognize my privilege in having parents who could always afford and have good insurance coverage to afford expensive insulin vials and diabetes supplies. That is not the case for many Americans and the issue goes far beyond financial planning. The reasons people struggle to afford insulin and other healthcare treatments are vast and stem from systemic issues beyond the control of patients. However, recognizing my potential healthcare financial obligations will likely be greater than the average American my age I have made financial planning and saving a priority in my life. My decisions around which college to attend, which law school, and which internship program centered around scholarships and minimizing student loans. I have carefully balanced the prestige of a program, research opportunities and alignment with future career interests with the cost for each academic program. While some financial obligations like health insurance are unavoidable, others like the cost of higher education were personally negotiable as I have made scholarships and part-time jobs a priority throughout my academic career. Limiting student loans through scholarships such as this one gives me financial freedom and security. I never want worries about student loans or health insurance to prevent me from pursuing a dream job. Working part-time and applying for merit-based aid is one way I focus on setting myself up for success upon graduation. Beyond limiting student loans, I prioritize smart financial planning by maintaining a budget. An important part of maintaining a budget is accounting for hidden expenses, something I have become better at recognizing. Special events, traveling to see family, or buying a suit for an interview are all expenses not in my typical monthly budget. However, I make sure to account for miscellaneous expenses for the year so I can celebrate and enjoy my life without feeling surprise expenses are limiting. Maintaining a stricter budget on things like housing or my grocery bill allows me to still feel financial security when I decide to eat out with friends or buy a flight ticket to see family during the holiday season. Managing finances is all about balance and compromise. I know I will want to splurge during the summer months when I am spending more time with friends so I keep a stricter budget during the semester. I know during the semester there are lots of free events around campus and in the community, so my lifestyle has never felt limited in managing my finances this way. I feel I have more freedom and fewer worries, even as a student who does not have a regular income stream.