@emmrathon

My mother worked hard physically so I could go to a private school back in Haiti. As a result of those efforts, she was diagnosed with osteoarthrosis, but she is still standing for long hours here in the U.S.- to pay my college tuition; I want to try to give her back. So, my dream goal is to work hard, care for my mom, make her proud by becoming a doctor, show her that she did not invest in me in vain, and give her the life she deserves.

I was 12, it was back in Haiti, but I still remember that day as if it was yesterday. It was a Friday afternoon during the summer of 2016. I knew it was a Friday because my dad, brother, and I would watch a movie together every Friday. For months I have wanted to see that new movie. I was excited as my dad connected the laptop to the big screen. I had no idea I was about to "fall in love" with a new Disney character. The typical Disney castle was displayed on the screen, followed by Mickey Mouse's whistle. In big green and blue letter, the title, Zootopia, appear. And then I saw a little bunny running in what seemed to be a jungle. Her name was Judy Hops, and she quickly stole my heart. She was young, confident, optimistic, and full of energy. She was a dreamer and a believer; I could see myself in those personality traits. I liked the ways she showed courage and perseverance. Her personality was the reason she became my favorite Disney character. But, there was a much more powerful reason why she remains my favorite even now as I enter adulthood. She has become my inspiration. Like Judy's parents, my mom doesn't agree with my career choice. She wanted me to become an RN. There is nothing wrong with that profession matter of fact, it pays greatly, allows you to help others, and it's pretty much every Haitian dream. But, I wanted to try something else, another way to help people that I would find enjoyable. That is why I have decided to become a PTA. My mother called off her friends and other relatives to try to "resonate with me."; I have repeatedly heard phrases like "You are too small, to thigh, you are not strong enough..." over the past months. But when I think of Judy Hops, I become empowered. I remember that size doesn't matter. If I work hard and don't give up, I will succeed, and my dream will come true. So I decided to apply to a PTA program anyway. Judy Hops inspired me. I see my personality trait in hers; she reminds me I can be anything. She " told me" that we all have the potential for greatness. That is why she is my favorite Disney character.

As an immigrant from a poor background country, I have sure faced many challenges. I have experienced darkness; I saw my hope falling to the ground. In those dark hours, I have managed to rise again. My optimistic views make me who I am today. When my family and I first arrived in the United States, the sky looked bright and shiny as a presage of the life that was waiting for us there. But quickly, the storm begins to fall. I witnessed my family struggle economically as we begin to become hopeless. I watch as fear and economic hardship turn into rage, angriness that almost breaks us. Despite all those tough times, I didn't lose hope, I was determined to save myself and my family. As a result of my faith in God, I begin to pray. That helps me remain calm and attack the problems wisely. I remembered this proverb: "Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, it's about learning to dance under the rain." It gives me all the energy I needed to continue my fight. I began searching the web looking for help, asking everyone. I was able to help the rest of my family to become optimists as well. With determination and perseverance, we find our way through. We still struggle but at least, now, we have a place to call home. This experience taught me to never give up. I learn that everything is worth another shot. Even if you are not sure you will get what you are looking for, you have to try because there is no shame in trying. Now, I'm determined to attack every day with optimism and confidence. I won't back down anymore. There is always sunshine after the rain.