My sister, Amber, meant the world to me. Amber and I grew up in a broken home. My mother and her boyfriend were abusing us. My mother and her boyfriend were raging addicts and alcoholics. They did not take care of us properly. We were physically and sexually abused for years. Unfortunately, this took a toll on me and my sister. We both turned to drugs and alcohol to cope with our lives. I was twelve, and she was fourteen when we started experimenting with heroin. Amber tried to protect me by running away from home; she did not want me to see her using drugs. She was in and out of our house for years. I started to follow her wherever she would go because I did not want to be alone with my mom and her boyfriend. Amber decided to let me stay with her, but on one condition, I had to get sober. My sister was the one reason I was able to get sober when I was eighteen. Luckily, I had her help, or I would still be in the depths of addiction. She could stay sober long enough to give birth to her daughter, my niece, Rylee. I love my niece with every fiber of my being. I love her just as much as I love my two children. Unfortunately, Amber was not able to stay sober; she died at the age of twenty-four on December 14th, 2016. That ripped my heart out of my chest. A piece of me died with her that day. I watched her take her last breath in the hospital. That was the most excruciating pain I have ever experienced. My heart is still broken. I plan to honor my sister by continuing my education and helping others who also battle with addiction. I know she would want me to go on to be the first person in our family to get a degree. She always put me first and wanted what was best for me. I want to continue to do so in her name. My sister would want me to be able to afford college and not have to worry about collecting debts. If she were still here, she would be helping me fill out scholarship applications. I plan to help other children who were abused and neglected the same way my sister and I were. Amber would have been the first in our family to get her degree, and if her passing away could help me on my path, she would appreciate that. One thing I did to help cope with her passing was to help raise her daughter, Rylee. My niece means the world to me; having her as a reminder of my sister is a blessing. I take her with us on vacations and include her in our Christmas cards. We do everything with Rylee. She is genuinely the closest thing I have to my sister. I can see my sister in her eyes. Despite growing up in a terrible environment, I want to continue my education to prove I can make it. The biggest influence in my life is my great-aunt, Barbara, who has been there for me my entire life. Without my aunt, I would not be writing this essay today. My aunt never gave up on me and has been one of my biggest supporters since day one.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. My parents separated when I was eight, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. I plan to use my law education to help those in need. I will continue to uphold justice and seek advocacy for those who come to me in their time of need. When I was in third grade, my teacher told us that around 5% of people are wrongfully convicted of the crimes they are charged with. I asked how this could happen, and she replied, "That's how the system works." I did not like that answer, but I knew it was up to me to start somewhere. I will use my education to help the people who can not help themselves: the wrongfully convicted, the overcharged, and the underpaid. I will take on cases for people who need someone to fight for them. No one ever fought for me when I needed it the most, so I will be the person I needed years ago. I have come a long way and had to fight hard to know I can do what's right for the people who need me the most. As an attorney, I will have the power to help shape laws, defend the lives of innocent people, and ensure justice is being served. Our justice system needs a bit of reshaping, and I want to be a part of it. I will interpret the law, report facts, and argue on behalf of my clients. My clients will be able to trust me and my dedication. I pledge always to be an effective advocate for those in need. I am committed to equality and inclusivity in the judiciary field. I will work for justice and help right the wrongs in my community. I will not stop until everyone who needs me is satisfied with my work. I will help keep people in their homes with their families. I was not raised correctly, so I had to teach my siblings and myself how to navigate life. My parents were never there for us, so I took it upon myself to parent my two siblings. I fought hard for my younger brother when he was in school, and because of that, he got the proper diagnosis of being dyslexic. He was falling behind in school work, and it was challenging to teach him at home, so I got him the extra help he so desperately needed. My sister and I were sexually assaulted at young ages, and when we came forward, no one believed us. I will never let that happen to a woman. I will always fight to have their voices heard.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. My parents separated when I was eight, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed us. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with me. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. I turned to drugs and alcohol for support at the young age of twelve. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, after using drugs for six years, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron, Ohio. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me except my great-aunt, Barbara. She visited me every week when I was in rehab. When I got out, I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving. I have been sober for over twelve years now. My great-aunt taught me everything I needed to know. She showed me how to pay my bills, buy a car, buy a home, do my taxes, and manage my money. Without her, I would be lost in this world. She is 85 years old and still helping to take care of me. She showed me my true potential by guiding me in the right direction. She supported me when I lost my baby. I had a miscarriage, and she was there for me through it all. My great-aunt Barbara has profoundly affected my life and my children's lives. She is always there for us when we need her. She pays for my children to attend private school, sends us on annual vacations, and takes us grocery and clothes shopping whenever required. She is more than a great-aunt; she is a guardian angel. I see her weekly; we talk on the phone daily. She lives four minutes from me. She helped me buy my first home in 2014, and we are looking for new homes this week because my family has grown since moving into our house. Barbara is the one who pushed me into graduating with my associate's degree and is the reason I am working on my bachelor's degree. It would be such an honor if I won this award because I dedicated an essay to her. It just goes to show how impactful she truly is. Please consider me for this award. Thank you!

My name is Gabrielle Przepiora. I am 30 years old and grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. I have not always had it easy in life. My parents separated when I was eight, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. My mom would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. If I could do anything in life, I would be a psychologist for young people who have been abused. I want to help today's youth the way I need help as a child. If I could change even one life, I would be eternally grateful. That motivated me to pursue a higher education in STEM, specifically psychology. I am excited to learn more about my diagnosis. I was diagnosed with manic bipolar depression, anxiety, PTSD, insomnia, ADHD, and addiction. I want to learn more about the disease of addiction as well. I am very observant, so learning more about the human brain is exciting. I want an exclusive look into what makes us people. I love understanding humans—our behaviors, perspectives, habits, thinking, actions, characters, and personalities. Psychology can be used in many different aspects of life. For instance, one could use psychology to make new friends and understand why people are mean, friendly, or indifferent. One could use psychology to run a business by understanding customers and purchasing habits. Another way psychology could help is by raising children. I have two children, and I am excited to raise them and teach them about life. Psychology can help with discipline, rewards, reactions, and self-control. I want my children to be kind, caring, loyal, and selfless. Learning about child development can point me in the right direction in child-rearing. I can help the world by using my education to help others. I can reach out to young people and give them the knowledge they need to pursue their dreams. STEM has a significant impact on my future and the future of many other women. Being a woman in STEM is vast, and I want to continue my education with the help of this specific scholarship.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. My parents separated when I was eight, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I became a product of my environment. I started using drugs at the age of twelve. By fifteen, I was using heroin intravenously. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My mom's boyfriend at the time would come into my room late at night after my mom passed out, and he would have his way with me. I decided to move out on my own. In active addiction, I was sixteen, living alone in abandoned houses on the east side of Cleveland. I was cold, hungry, and scared. I would break into abandoned houses, steal the copper pipes, and sell them to make money for my drug habit. I stole from family members and strangers. I sold the most important thing in the world for money: my body. I am utterly ashamed of my actions and wish to take them back. I would hang out with people twice my age, doing illegal activities for money. I started smoking crack cocaine at sixteen. I started dating men in their thirties and forties because they helped me pay for things. One night, I decided to go off alone at 2 a.m. to the gas station; while walking, I noticed I was being followed. I turned around, and two men jumped out of their car and grabbed me. I started to scream, and they beat me. I kicked and clawed and screamed at the top of my lungs while they drug me towards their car. Thankfully, someone heard me and shouted, "I'm calling the police!" The two men dropped me in the middle of the street, kicked me in the face and body, and drove off. I was left bleeding from my nose and mouth, but I was alive. I ran as fast as possible to return to the abandoned house I was living in. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. At eighteen years old, I got into a state-run rehab center in Akron, Ohio. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs.  I got a sponsor and started working on the twelve steps of AA. I read my big book from cover to cover. Unfortunately, my sister did not make it out of addiction. She passed away in 2016 due to a drug overdose. I lost my best friend—the person who meant more to me than anyone in the world. Addiction took so much from me, but I never thought it would take my sister. My brother is still in active addiction, and I pray for him every day. I can not lose another sibling, so I try to help him as much as possible. I've been sober for twelve years. I met my now husband at an AA meeting. My two children will never have to see me in active addiction. I owe my life to AA and being sober. I spread the word by fellowshipping, sponsoring, leading, and volunteering. Please consider me for this generous opportunity.

I am the child of a single parent. My parent split up when I was very young. I never knew what an average household was supposed to look like. My mom was an addict and alcoholic. I raised my siblings with no help. I did not get to experience childhood because I was thrown into motherhood without my consent. I never asked to be my sibling's mother, but I had no choice. I either had to step up in my mom's absence or watch my two siblings suffer. I made sure they were fed, even though I went days without eating. I ensured they had decent clothes for school, even though my clothes were dirty and worn out. I ensured my siblings did their homework, even though I missed 100+ school days. I did not want my brother and sister to get left behind academically because I know how important it is to get a proper education. My mom put all the mess and responsibility on me. I resented her for years because of that. I have since forgiven her in my heart because I do not want to carry around all of that hatred and trauma. Yes, there was a LOT of trauma that comes with being the child of a person with an addiction. My mom brought drugs and alcohol into our home. I was subjected to random men coming in and out of my room at night. I was raped and forced to have an abortion when I was only thirteen years old. I do not like sharing that part of my life, but I am trying to be as open and honest as possible. My relationship with my mom now is almost nonexistent. I have two young children with whom she will never be left alone. She does not call me to catch up or to spend time with them, so I do not push their relationship. She has since stopped doing drugs and drinking, but I still do not trust her. Having a single mother was the worst thing that happened to my education. She never pushed me to get good grades, she never pushed me to attend class, and she never helped me with my homework. She encouraged me to forge her signature on my papers because she wanted to avoid dealing with the marks I was receiving. I viewed education as a waste of time and an inconvenience for myself. I have since changed my view on this matter, and now I understand the importance of a good education. I never thought I would see myself trying so hard in school, but I love it and want to continue my education. I dropped out of high school at the beginning of my senior year, then I went back in the spring and got my diploma in 2012. I took ten years off and then started college when I was 27. It wasn't easy because I was so far behind. I struggled to spell essential words correctly and needed to learn how to set up and solve basic algebraic equations. My education suffered so severely due to my single parent. This scholarship will positively affect me and my family financially. I cannot work due to school and caring for my two young children. I will have the financial stability to earn my bachelor's degree. I will finally be free to enjoy school without worrying about the bills being due.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. My parents separated when I was eight, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I demonstrated leadership by caring for my siblings. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. My career goals are to become an attorney and help the criminal justice system. It needs a lot of work. So many people can not fight for themselves; they need someone in their corner to fight for them. I deserve this scholarship because I plan to fight for what I believe in. I have been fighting for myself for years and am ready to help those around me. I have been beaten and walked a brutal path in life, but I know I can still stand back up and keep the fight going. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!! I am not working because I am in school full-time while caring for two small children. This scholarship could help me succeed. With hard work and dedication, I can fulfill my dreams and grow into the woman I want to be. This scholarship would benefit me because I would have fewer financial burdens, and I could focus on my schooling.

My name is Gabrielle Przepiora. I am 30 years old and grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. I have not always had it easy in life. My parents separated when I was eight, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I demonstrated leadership by caring for my siblings. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. If I could do anything in life, I would be a Psychiatrist for young people who have been abused. I want to help today's youth the way I needed help as a child. If I could change even one life, I would be eternally grateful. That motivated me to pursue a higher education in STEM, specifically psychology. I am excited to learn more about my diagnosis. I was diagnosed with manic bipolar depression, anxiety, PTSD, insomnia, ADHD, and addiction. I want to learn more about the disease of addiction as well. I am very observant, so learning more about the human brain is exciting. I want an exclusive look into what makes us people. I love understanding humans—our behaviors, perspectives, habits, thinking, actions, characters, and personalities. Psychology can be used in many different aspects of life. For instance, one could use psychology to make new friends and understand why people are mean, friendly, or indifferent. One could use psychology to run a business by understanding customers and purchasing habits. Another way psychology could help is by raising children. I have two children, and I am excited to raise them and teach them about life. Psychology can help with discipline, rewards, reactions, and self-control. I want my children to be kind, caring, loyal, and selfless. Learning about child development can point me in the right direction in child-rearing. I can help the world by using my education as a tool for others. I can reach out to young people and give them the knowledge they need to pursue their dreams. STEM has a significant impact on my future and the future of many other women. Being a woman in STEM is vast, and I want to continue my education with the help of this specific scholarship. I plan to pay for my education with loans, it is not ideal but that is the only way I can achieve my dreams. I listen to heavy metal music all the time. I am a fan of the classics, mostly. I listen to Ozzy, AC/DC, Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin, Def Leppard and more. Heavy metal music gets me out of my shell and makes me lose stress and anxiety.

My name is Gabrielle Przepiora. I am 30 years old and grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. I have not always had it easy in life. My parents separated when I was eight, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I demonstrated leadership by caring for my siblings. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. If I could do anything in life, I would be a Psychiatrist for young people who have been abused. I want to help today's youth the way I needed help as a child. If I could change even one life, I would be eternally grateful. That motivated me to pursue a higher education in STEM, specifically psychology. I am excited to learn more about my diagnosis. I was diagnosed with manic bipolar depression, anxiety, PTSD, insomnia, ADHD, and addiction. I want to learn more about the disease of addiction as well. I am very observant, so learning more about the human brain is exciting. I want an exclusive look into what makes us people. I love understanding humans—our behaviors, perspectives, habits, thinking, actions, characters, and personalities. Psychology can be used in many different aspects of life. For instance, one could use psychology to make new friends and understand why people are mean, friendly, or indifferent. One could use psychology to run a business by understanding customers and purchasing habits. Another way psychology could help is by raising children. I have two children, and I am excited to raise them and teach them about life. Psychology can help with discipline, rewards, reactions, and self-control. I want my children to be kind, caring, loyal, and selfless. Learning about child development can point me in the right direction in child-rearing. I can help the world by using my education as a tool for others. I can reach out to young people and give them the knowledge they need to pursue their dreams. STEM has a significant impact on my future and the future of many other women. Being a woman in STEM is vast, and I want to continue my education with the help of this specific scholarship.

My name is Gabrielle Przepiora. I am 30 years old and grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. I have not always had it easy in life. My parents separated when I was eight, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I demonstrated leadership by caring for my siblings. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. If I could do anything in life, I would be a Psychiatrist for young people who have been abused. I want to help today's youth the way I needed help as a child. If I could change even one life, I would be eternally grateful. That motivated me to pursue a higher education in STEM, specifically psychology. I am excited to learn more about my diagnosis. I was diagnosed with manic bipolar depression, anxiety, PTSD, insomnia, ADHD, and addiction. I want to learn more about the disease of addiction as well. I am very observant, so learning more about the human brain is exciting. I want an exclusive look into what makes us people. I love understanding humans—our behaviors, perspectives, habits, thinking, actions, characters, and personalities. Psychology can be used in many different aspects of life. For instance, one could use psychology to make new friends and understand why people are mean, friendly, or indifferent. One could use psychology to run a business by understanding customers and purchasing habits. Another way psychology could help is by raising children. I have two children, and I am excited to raise them and teach them about life. Psychology can help with discipline, rewards, reactions, and self-control. I want my children to be kind, caring, loyal, and selfless. Learning about child development can point me in the right direction in child-rearing. I can help the world by using my education as a tool for others. I can reach out to young people and give them the knowledge they need to pursue their dreams. STEM has a significant impact on my future and the future of many other women. Being a woman in STEM is vast, and I want to continue my education with the help of this specific scholarship.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. My parents separated when I was eight, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I demonstrated leadership by caring for my siblings. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. My career goals are to become an attorney and help the criminal justice system. It needs a lot of work. So many people can not fight for themselves; they need someone in their corner to fight for them. I deserve this scholarship because I plan to fight for what I believe in. I have been fighting for myself for years and am ready to help those around me. I have been beaten and walked a brutal path in life, but I know I can still stand back up and keep the fight going. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!! I am not working because I am in school full-time while caring for two small children. This scholarship could help me succeed. With hard work and dedication, I can fulfill my dreams and grow into the woman I want to be. This scholarship would benefit me because I would have fewer financial burdens, and I could focus on my schooling. I chose my career field because, in third grade, my teacher told me over 5% of people who end up in prison were wrongfully convicted, and over 88% of low-income Americans do not get adequate legal representation. I want to lower those numbers. I can help those in need by offering my services once I become an attorney. I can pick up pro bono cases and use everything I have learned in law school to help people in need. I want to better my community, and I know it starts with me.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. My parents separated when I was eight, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I demonstrated leadership by caring for my siblings. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. My career goals are to become an attorney and help the criminal justice system. It needs a lot of work. So many people can not fight for themselves; they need someone in their corner to fight for them. I deserve this scholarship because I plan to fight for what I believe in. I have been fighting for myself for years and am ready to help those around me. I have been beaten and walked a brutal path in life, but I know I can still stand back up and keep the fight going. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!! I am not working because I am in school full-time while caring for two small children. This scholarship could help me succeed. With hard work and dedication, I can fulfill my dreams and grow into the woman I want to be. This scholarship would benefit me because I would have fewer financial burdens, and I could focus on my schooling.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. My parents separated when I was eight, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I demonstrated leadership by caring for my siblings. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. These are the people who have showed me kindness and have changed the way I think. I can now think for myself and help others in the program. My career goals are to become an attorney and help the criminal justice system. It needs a lot of work. So many people can not fight for themselves; they need someone in their corner to fight for them. I deserve this scholarship because I plan to fight for what I believe in. I have been fighting for myself for years and am ready to help those around me. I have been beaten and walked a brutal path in life, but I know I can still stand back up and keep the fight going. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!! I am not working because I am in school full-time while caring for two small children. This scholarship could help me succeed. With hard work and dedication, I can fulfill my dreams and grow into the woman I want to be. This scholarship would benefit me because I would have fewer financial burdens, and I could focus on my schooling.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. My parents separated when I was eight, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I demonstrated leadership by caring for my siblings. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. My career goals are to become an attorney and help the criminal justice system. It needs a lot of work. So many people can not fight for themselves; they need someone in their corner to fight for them. I deserve this scholarship because I plan to fight for what I believe in. I have been fighting for myself for years and am ready to help those around me. I have been beaten and walked a brutal path in life, but I know I can still stand back up and keep the fight going. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!! I am not working because I am in school full-time while caring for two small children. This scholarship could help me succeed. With hard work and dedication, I can fulfill my dreams and grow into the woman I want to be. This scholarship would benefit me because I would have fewer financial burdens, and I could focus on my schooling.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. My parents separated when I was eight, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I demonstrated leadership by caring for my siblings. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. My career goals are to become an attorney and help the criminal justice system. It needs a lot of work. So many people can not fight for themselves; they need someone in their corner to fight for them. I deserve this scholarship because I plan to fight for what I believe in. I have been fighting for myself for years and am ready to help those around me. I have been beaten and walked a brutal path in life, but I know I can still stand back up and keep the fight going. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!! I am not working because I am in school full-time while caring for two small children. This scholarship could help me succeed. With hard work and dedication, I can fulfill my dreams and grow into the woman I want to be. This scholarship would benefit me because I would have fewer financial burdens, and I could focus on my schooling.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. My parents separated when I was eight, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I demonstrated leadership by caring for my siblings. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. My career goals are to become an attorney and help the criminal justice system. It needs a lot of work. So many people can not fight for themselves; they need someone in their corner to fight for them. I deserve this scholarship because I plan to fight for what I believe in. I have been fighting for myself for years and am ready to help those around me. I have been beaten and walked a brutal path in life, but I know I can still stand back up and keep the fight going. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!! I am not working because I am in school full-time while caring for two small children. This scholarship could help me succeed. With hard work and dedication, I can fulfill my dreams and grow into the woman I want to be. This scholarship would benefit me because I would have fewer financial burdens, and I could focus on my schooling.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. My parents separated when I was eight, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I demonstrated leadership by caring for my siblings. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. My career goals are to become an attorney and help the criminal justice system. It needs a lot of work. So many people can not fight for themselves; they need someone in their corner to fight for them. I deserve this scholarship because I plan to fight for what I believe in. I have been fighting for myself for years and am ready to help those around me. I have been beaten and walked a brutal path in life, but I know I can still stand back up and keep the fight going. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!! I am not working because I am in school full-time while caring for two small children. This scholarship could help me succeed. With hard work and dedication, I can fulfill my dreams and grow into the woman I want to be. This scholarship would benefit me because I would have fewer financial burdens, and I could focus on my schooling.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. My parents separated when I was eight, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I demonstrated leadership by caring for my siblings. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. My career goals are to become an attorney and help the criminal justice system. It needs a lot of work. So many people can not fight for themselves; they need someone in their corner to fight for them. I deserve this scholarship because I plan to fight for what I believe in. I have been fighting for myself for years and am ready to help those around me. I have been beaten and walked a brutal path in life, but I know I can still stand back up and keep the fight going. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!! I am not working because I am in school full-time while caring for two small children. This scholarship could help me succeed. With hard work and dedication, I can fulfill my dreams and grow into the woman I want to be. This scholarship would benefit me because I would have fewer financial burdens, and I could focus on my schooling.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. My parents separated when I was eight, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I demonstrated leadership by caring for my siblings. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. My career goals are to become an attorney and help the criminal justice system. It needs a lot of work. So many people can not fight for themselves; they need someone in their corner to fight for them. I deserve this scholarship because I plan to fight for what I believe in. I have been fighting for myself for years and am ready to help those around me. I have been beaten and walked a brutal path in life, but I know I can still stand back up and keep the fight going. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!! I am not working because I am in school full-time while caring for two small children. This scholarship could help me succeed. With hard work and dedication, I can fulfill my dreams and grow into the woman I want to be. This scholarship would benefit me because I would have fewer financial burdens, and I could focus on my schooling.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. My parents separated when I was eight, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I demonstrated leadership by caring for my siblings. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. My career goals are to become an attorney and help the criminal justice system. It needs a lot of work. So many people can not fight for themselves; they need someone in their corner to fight for them. I deserve this scholarship because I plan to fight for what I believe in. I have been fighting for myself for years and am ready to help those around me. I have been beaten and walked a brutal path in life, but I know I can still stand back up and keep the fight going. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!! I am not working because I am in school full-time while caring for two small children. This scholarship could help me succeed. With hard work and dedication, I can fulfill my dreams and grow into the woman I want to be. This scholarship would benefit me because I would have fewer financial burdens, and I could focus on my schooling.

I plan to use my law education to help those in need. I will continue to uphold justice and seek advocacy for those who come to me in their time of need. When I was in third grade, my teacher told us that around 5% of people are wrongfully convicted of the crimes they are charged with. I asked how this could happen, and she replied, "That's how the system works." I did not like that answer, but I knew it was up to me to start somewhere. I will use my education to help the people who can not help themselves: the wrongfully convicted, the overcharged, and the underpaid. I will take on cases for people who need someone to fight for them. No one ever fought for me when I needed it the most, so I will be the person I needed years ago. I have come a long way and had to fight hard to know I can do what's right for the people who need me the most. As an attorney, I will have the power to help shape laws, defend the lives of innocent people, and ensure justice is being served. Our justice system needs a bit of reshaping, and I want to be a part of it. I will interpret the law, report facts, and argue on behalf of my clients. My clients will be able to trust me and my dedication. I pledge always to be an effective advocate for those in need. I am committed to equality and inclusivity in the judiciary field. I will work for justice and help right the wrongs in my community. I will not stop until everyone who needs me is satisfied with my work. I will help keep people in their homes with their families. My law degree means the world to me. I have come a very long way in a short period. I was not raised correctly, so I had to teach my siblings and myself how to navigate life. My parents were never there for us, so I took it upon myself to parent my two siblings. I fought hard for my younger brother when he was in school, and because of that, he got the proper diagnosis of being dyslexic. He was falling behind in school work, and it was challenging to teach him at home, so I got him the extra help he so desperately needed. My sister and I were sexually assaulted at young ages, and when we came forward, no one believed us. I will never let that happen to a woman. I will always fight to have their voices heard.

I plan to use my law education to help those in need. I will continue to uphold justice and seek advocacy for those who come to me in their time of need. When I was in third grade, my teacher told us that around 5% of people are wrongfully convicted of the crimes they are charged with. I asked how this could happen, and she replied, "That's how the system works." I did not like that answer, but I knew it was up to me to start somewhere. I will use my education to help the people who can not help themselves: the wrongfully convicted, the overcharged, and the underpaid. I will take on cases for people who need someone to fight for them. No one ever fought for me when I needed it the most, so I will be the person I needed years ago. I have come a long way and had to fight hard to know I can do what's right for the people who need me the most. As an attorney, I will have the power to help shape laws, defend the lives of innocent people, and ensure justice is being served. Our justice system needs a bit of reshaping, and I want to be a part of it. I will interpret the law, report facts, and argue on behalf of my clients. My clients will be able to trust me and my dedication. I pledge always to be an effective advocate for those in need. I am committed to equality and inclusivity in the judiciary field. I will work for justice and help right the wrongs in my community. I will not stop until everyone who needs me is satisfied with my work. I will help keep people in their homes with their families. My law degree means the world to me. I have come a very long way in a short period. I was not raised correctly, so I had to teach my siblings and myself how to navigate life. My parents were never there for us, so I took it upon myself to parent my two siblings. I fought hard for my younger brother when he was in school, and because of that, he got the proper diagnosis of being dyslexic. He was falling behind in school work, and it was challenging to teach him at home, so I got him the extra help he so desperately needed. My sister and I were sexually assaulted at young ages, and when we came forward, no one believed us. I will never let that happen to a woman. I will always fight to have their voices heard.

I grew up in a broken home. My parents separated when I was eight years old. My mom became a raging drug and alcohol addict within a year of her divorce. She would bring home strange men every other night. After she passed out drunk in her bed, the men would find me and my sister and have their way with us. No matter how loud we screamed, no one came to our rescue. My sister was my best friend. We went through so many traumatic events together. She was my rock. Unfortunately, she died from an overdose when she was 24 and I was 22. When she died, part of me died with her. I lost everything, including my mind. I spent years battling my mental health issues. I could not handle the trauma I had experienced. I was losing my hair; I could not sleep or eat. When I was able to fall asleep, I would experience night terrors, sleep paralysis, uncontrollable crying, and screaming fits. I had to sleep with the lights on for years because I was a 22-year-old afraid of the dark. Before my sister died, we both battled with addiction. We were heroin addicts. That's what she died from. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. Luckily, I sought help. I called a psychiatrist and was diagnosed with manic bipolar depression, anxiety, PTSD, insomnia, ADHD, and addiction. I battled with this diagnosis for years before I agreed to take medication. It took months to find the right medicine and dosage, but after we figured out what works for me, I have never felt better. I can sleep, eat, and play with my children. I graduated with my associate's degree, earning a 3.5 GPA. Those were things I never thought were possible for me. I was a train wreck before receiving help. I advocate for mental health every chance I get. I know there are people out there who are just like me, who need to break the generational curse. My mental illnesses were passed down from my mom, her mom, and the rest of the women who came before me. I know that because I have experience with those women. So, I always tell my friends who battle with their mental health to seek professional help. I also share my experience, strength, and hope at AA meetings. My mental health has influenced my beliefs by helping me push towards science and understanding the human brain. Mental health has influenced my relationships by helping me know who is willing to work on their mental health and who is not. I can not be around people who acknowledge they have mental health issues but do nothing about them. That behavior is toxic and hard to live with. It has also helped me in my marriage because I was able to explain all of my mental health issues to my husband, and he can now help me when I am having a hard time. Mental health has influenced my career choices and aspirations, enabling me to follow my passion. I have opened my eyes to all the possibilities out there for me. I can genuinely understand myself and what I am capable of.

I grew up in a broken home. My parents separated when I was eight years old. My mom became a raging drug and alcohol addict within a year of her divorce. She would bring home strange men every other night. After she passed out drunk in her bed, the men would find me and my sister and have their way with us. No matter how loud we screamed, no one came to our rescue. My sister was my best friend. We went through so many traumatic events together. She was my rock. Unfortunately, she died from an overdose when she was 24 and I was 22. When she died, part of me died with her. I lost everything, including my mind. I spent years battling my mental health issues. I could not handle the trauma I had experienced. I was losing my hair; I could not sleep or eat. When I was able to fall asleep, I would experience night terrors, sleep paralysis, uncontrollable crying, and screaming fits. I had to sleep with the lights on for years because I was a 22-year-old afraid of the dark. Before my sister died, we both battled with addiction. We were heroin addicts. That's what she died from. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. Luckily, I sought help. I called a psychiatrist and was diagnosed with manic bipolar depression, anxiety, PTSD, insomnia, ADHD, and addiction. I battled with this diagnosis for years before I agreed to take medication. It took months to find the right medicine and dosage, but after we figured out what works for me, I have never felt better. I can sleep, eat, and play with my children. I graduated with my associate's degree, earning a 3.5 GPA. Those were things I never thought were possible for me. I was a train wreck before receiving help. I advocate for mental health every chance I get. I know there are people out there who are just like me, who need to break the generational curse. My mental illnesses were passed down from my mom, her mom, and the rest of the women who came before me. I know that because I have experience with those women. So, I always tell my friends who battle with their mental health to seek professional help. I also share my experience, strength, and hope at AA meetings. My mental health has influenced my beliefs by helping me push towards science and understanding the human brain. Mental health has influenced my relationships by helping me know who is willing to work on their mental health and who is not. I can not be around people who acknowledge they have mental health issues but do nothing about them. That behavior is toxic and hard to live with. It has also helped me in my marriage because I was able to explain all of my mental health issues to my husband, and he can now help me when I am having a hard time. Mental health has influenced my career choices and aspirations, enabling me to follow my passion. I have opened my eyes to all the possibilities out there for me. I can genuinely understand myself and what I am capable of.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. My parents separated when I was eight, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I demonstrated leadership by caring for my siblings. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I want to be there for people who have no one. My career goals are to become an attorney and help the criminal justice system. It needs a lot of work. So many people can not fight for themselves; they need someone in their corner to fight for them. I deserve this scholarship because I plan to fight for what I believe in. I have been fighting for myself for years and am ready to help those around me. I have been beaten and walked a brutal path in life, but I know I can still stand back up and keep the fight going. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!! I am not working because I am in school full-time while caring for two small children. This scholarship could help me succeed. With hard work and dedication, I can fulfill my dreams and grow into the woman I want to be. This scholarship would benefit me because I would have fewer financial burdens, and I could focus on my schooling. I chose my career field because, in third grade, my teacher told me over 5% of people who end up in prison were wrongfully convicted, and over 88% of low-income Americans do not get adequate legal representation. I want to lower those numbers. I can help those in need by offering my services once I become an attorney. I can pick up pro bono cases and use everything I have learned in law school to help people in need. I want to better my community, and I know it starts with me.

If I could only read one book for the rest of my life, I would say The Pursuit of Happiness. I can identify with this book because I have been homeless and wishing for a warm meal. I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. My parents separated when I was eight, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. This book proves that a father will go to great lengths to protect his child. I wanted that from my mother but am still waiting to receive it. This book makes me happy and sad and brings back many memories. I love the ending and strive to have happiness in my own life. I have two children and am sacrificing everything I can to continue my education. I want to provide for them how Chris Gardner provides for his son. Even though they are experiencing such hard times, Chris continues to teach his son about hard work and dedication. I have learned many lessons from this book. I want to teach my children the importance of education and earning a living. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education. Please consider me for this opportunity.

I grew up in a broken home. My parents separated when I was eight years old. My mom became a raging drug and alcohol addict within a year of her divorce. She would bring home strange men every other night. After she passed out drunk in her bed, the men would find me and my sister and have their way with us. No matter how loud we screamed, no one came to our rescue. My sister was my best friend. We went through so many traumatic events together. She was my rock. Unfortunately, she died from an overdose when she was 24 and I was 22. When she died, part of me died with her. I lost everything, including my mind. I spent years battling my mental health issues. I could not handle the trauma I had experienced. I was losing my hair; I could not sleep or eat. When I was able to fall asleep, I would experience night terrors, sleep paralysis, uncontrollable crying, and screaming fits. I had to sleep with the lights on for years because I was a 22-year-old afraid of the dark. Before my sister died, we both battled with addiction. We were heroin addicts. That's what she died from. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. Luckily, I sought help. I called a psychiatrist and was diagnosed with manic bipolar depression, anxiety, PTSD, insomnia, ADHD, and addiction. I battled with this diagnosis for years before I agreed to take medication. It took months to find the right medicine and dosage, but after we figured out what works for me, I have never felt better. I can sleep, eat, and play with my children. I graduated with my associate's degree, earning a 3.5 GPA. Those were things I never thought were possible for me. I was a train wreck before receiving help. I advocate for mental health every chance I get. I know there are people out there who are just like me, who need to break the generational curse. My mental illnesses were passed down from my mom, her mom, and the rest of the women who came before me. I know that because I have experience with those women. So, I always tell my friends who battle with their mental health to seek professional help. I also share my experience, strength, and hope at AA meetings. My mental health has influenced my beliefs by helping me push towards science and understanding the human brain. Mental health has influenced my relationships by helping me understand who is willing to work on their mental health and who is not. I can not be around people who acknowledge they have mental health issues but do nothing about them. That behavior is toxic and hard to live with. It has also helped me in my marriage because I was able to explain all of my mental health issues to my husband, and he can now help me when I am having a hard time. Mental health has influenced my career choices and aspirations, enabling me to follow my true passion. I have opened my eyes to all the possibilities out there for me. I can genuinely understand myself and what I am capable of.

My sister, Amber, meant the world to me. Amber and I grew up in a broken home. My mother and her boyfriend were abusing us. My mother and her boyfriend were raging addicts and alcoholics. They did not take care of us properly. We were physically and sexually abused for years. Unfortunately, this took a toll on me and my sister. We both turned to drugs and alcohol to cope with our lives. I was twelve, and she was fourteen when we started experimenting with heroin. Amber tried to protect me by running away from home; she did not want me to see her using drugs. She was in and out of our house for years. I started to follow her wherever she would go because I did not want to be alone with my mom and her boyfriend. Amber decided to let me stay with her, but on one condition, I had to get sober. My sister was the one reason I was able to get sober when I was eighteen. Luckily, I had her help, or I would still be in the depths of addiction. She could stay sober long enough to give birth to her daughter, my niece, Rylee. I love my niece with every fiber of my being. I love her just as much as I love my two children. Unfortunately, Amber was not able to stay sober; she died at the age of twenty-four on December 14th, 2016. That ripped my heart out of my chest. A piece of me died with her that day. I watched her take her last breath in the hospital. That was the most excruciating pain I have ever experienced. My heart is still broken. I plan to honor my sister by continuing my education and helping others who also battle with addiction. I know she would want me to go on to be the first person in our family to get a degree. She always put me first and wanted what was best for me. I want to continue to do so in her name. My sister would want me to be able to afford college and not have to worry about collecting debts. If she were still here, she would be helping me fill out scholarship applications. I plan to help other children who were abused and neglected the same way my sister and I were. Amber would have been the first in our family to get her degree, and if her passing away could help me on my path, she would appreciate that. One thing I did to help cope with her passing was to help raise her daughter, Rylee. My niece means the world to me; having her as a reminder of my sister is a blessing. I take her with us on vacations and include her in our family Christmas cards. We do everything with Rylee. She is genuinely the closest thing I have to my sister. I can see my sister in her eyes.

I grew up in a broken home. My parents separated when I was eight years old. My mom became a raging drug and alcohol addict within a year of her divorce. She would bring home strange men every other night. After she passed out drunk in her bed, the men would find me and my sister and have their way with us. No matter how loud we screamed, no one came to our rescue. My sister was my best friend. We went through so many traumatic events together. She was my rock. Unfortunately, she died from an overdose when she was 24 and I was 22. When she died, part of me died with her. I lost everything, including my mind. I spent years battling my mental health issues. I could not handle the trauma I had experienced. I was losing my hair; I could not sleep or eat. When I was able to fall asleep, I would experience night terrors, sleep paralysis, uncontrollable crying, and screaming fits. I had to sleep with the lights on for years because I was a 22-year-old afraid of the dark. Before my sister died, we both battled with addiction. We were heroin addicts. That's what she died from. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. I have been sober for twelve years now. Luckily, I sought help. I called a psychiatrist and was diagnosed with manic bipolar depression, anxiety, PTSD, insomnia, ADHD, and addiction. I battled with this diagnosis for years before I agreed to take medication. It took months to find the right medicine and dosage, but after we figured out what works for me, I have never felt better. I can sleep, eat, and play with my children. I graduated with my associate's degree, earning a 3.5 GPA. Those were things I never thought were possible for me. I was a train wreck before receiving help. I advocate for mental health every chance I get. I know there are people out there who are just like me, who need to break the generational curse. My mental illnesses were passed down from my mom, her mom, and the rest of the women who came before me. I know that because I have experience with those women. So, I always tell my friends who battle with their mental health to seek professional help. I also share my experience, strength, and hope at AA meetings.

My name is Gabrielle Przepiora. I am 30 years old and grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. I have not always had it easy in life. My parents separated when I was eight, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I demonstrated leadership by caring for my siblings. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. If I could do anything in life, I would be a Psychiatrist for young people who have been abused. I want to help today's youth the way I needed help as a child. If I could change even one life, I would be eternally grateful. That motivated me to pursue a higher education in STEM, specifically psychology. I am excited to learn more about my diagnosis. I was diagnosed with manic bipolar depression, anxiety, PTSD, insomnia, ADHD, and addiction. I want to learn more about the disease of addiction as well. I am very observant, so learning more about the human brain is exciting. I want an exclusive look into what makes us people. I love understanding humans—our behaviors, perspectives, habits, thinking, actions, characters, and personalities. Psychology can be used in many different aspects of life. For instance, one could use psychology to make new friends and understand why people are mean, friendly, or indifferent. One could use psychology to run a business by understanding customers and purchasing habits. Another way psychology could help is by raising children. I have two children, and I am excited to raise them and teach them about life. Psychology can help with discipline, rewards, reactions, and self-control. I want my children to be kind, caring, loyal, and selfless. Learning about child development can point me in the right direction in child-rearing. I can help the world by using my education as a tool for others. I can reach out to young people and give them the knowledge they need to pursue their dreams. STEM has a significant impact on my future and the future of many other women. Being a woman in STEM is vast, and I want to continue my education with the help of this specific scholarship.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I demonstrated leadership by caring for my siblings. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. My faith is what guided me through all of my hardships. I knew God was there and was with me. I found God in Alcoholics Anonymous. I positively impacted the sober AA community by sharing my experience, strength, and hope. I volunteered at meetings by helping set up and take down, serving as chairman, treasurer, and leader. I sponsor other women in the same position as I was all those years ago. I give other members rides to and from meetings. I teach my children about servitude and how important it is to help those around us. God will assist me in my career by being there for me to talk to and go to for help and wisdom. I can open my bible and see God's word. I have volunteered at the local Salvation Army, with over 200 service hours. I have also volunteered at my children's school and our local church. I donate money to our local charities when I can. I help support my friends and families with their fundraisers and sporting events. I donate food to people experiencing homelessness while teaching my children not to waste food or resources. I encourage others to get out into the community and help fight against homelessness, hunger, and poverty. Amongst all of that, I pray! I pray for my community, my family, and my friends.

If I could only read one book for the rest of my life, I would say The Pursuit of Happiness. I can identify with this book because I have been homeless and wishing for a warm meal. I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. My parents separated when I was eight, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. This book proves that a father will go to great lengths to protect his child. I wanted that from my mother but am still waiting to receive it. This book makes me happy and sad and brings back many memories. I love the ending and strive to have happiness in my own life. I have two children and am sacrificing everything I can to continue my education. I want to provide for them how Chris Gardner provides for his son. Even though they are experiencing such hard times, Chris continues to teach his son about hard work and dedication. I have learned many lessons from this book. I want to teach my children the importance of education and earning a living. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education. Please consider me for this opportunity.

My name is Gabrielle Przepiora. I am 30 years old and grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. I have not always had it easy in life. My parents separated when I was eight, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I demonstrated leadership by caring for my siblings. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. If I could do anything in life, I would be a Psychiatrist for young people who have been abused. I want to help today's youth the way I needed help as a child. If I could change even one life, I would be eternally grateful. That motivated me to pursue a higher education in STEM, specifically psychology. I am excited to learn more about my diagnosis. I was diagnosed with manic bipolar depression, anxiety, PTSD, insomnia, ADHD, and addiction. I want to learn more about the disease of addiction as well. I am very observant, so learning more about the human brain is exciting. I want an exclusive look into what makes us people. I love understanding humans—our behaviors, perspectives, habits, thinking, actions, characters, and personalities. Psychology can be used in many different aspects of life. For instance, one could use psychology to make new friends and understand why people are mean, friendly, or indifferent. One could use psychology to run a business by understanding customers and purchasing habits. Another way psychology could help is by raising children. I have two children, and I am excited to raise them and teach them about life. Psychology can help with discipline, rewards, reactions, and self-control. I want my children to be kind, caring, loyal, and selfless. Learning about child development can point me in the right direction in child-rearing. I can help the world by using my education as a tool for others. I can reach out to young people and give them the knowledge they need to pursue their dreams. STEM has a significant impact on my future and the future of many other women. Being a woman in STEM is huge, and I want to continue my education with the help of this specific scholarship. My greatest challenge was getting out of my abusive mother's house and becoming sober. I was only twelve years old when I started using drugs. I was being physically and sexually abused every day for three years. When I turned 18, I was finally able to check into a state-run rehab facility to get sober. When I first entered the treatment program, I was extremely sick, underweight, and could not stop shaking. I could not eat, sleep, or even think properly. I had a hard time forming proper sentences. My brain was being fried every day for six years, so when I stopped using drugs, my brain was not used to being clean. I wanted to leave the second I started feeling sick. It took every ounce of control for me not to walk out the doors. I was under a lot of stress, seeing as I had no one to help me succeed. I did not have anyone to call for help. I had no money, no job, and no one to call. Other girls had their family members come to visit days, but I was all alone. I did not know how to do anything either. I had to teach myself how to apply for a job, file taxes, and buy a car. I knew nothing about car insurance or how to maintain a vehicle. With the help of Alcoholics Anonymous, I was able to start a new life. I met my now husband at an AA meeting.

If I could only watch one movie for the rest of my life, I would say The Pursuit of Happiness. I can identify with this movie because I have been homeless and wishing for a warm meal. I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. My parents separated when I was eight, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. This movie proves that a father will go to great lengths to protect his child. I wanted that from my mother but have yet to receive it. This movie makes me happy and sad and brings back many memories. I love the ending and strive to have happiness in my own life. I have two children now and am sacrificing everything I can to continue my education. I want to provide for them how Chris Gardner provides for his son. Even though they are experiencing such hard times, Chris continues to teach his son about hard work and dedication. I have learned many lessons from this movie. I want to teach my children the importance of education and earning a living. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education. Please consider me for this opportunity.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. My parents separated when I was eight, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I demonstrated leadership by caring for my siblings. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. My limited finances led me down a dark and brutal road. I did not have anyone in my corner to help send me to excellent schools. I received a public education and continued to a community college. I graduated with a 3.5 GPA. I want to earn my bachelor's degree at a university, which is difficult because the tuition is costly. I do not have hundreds of thousands of dollars to spend on my education. This scholarship can help me succeed in my goals. Once I receive my degree, I will go on to help others to achieve their goals. I want to give back to my community and help send other students to college. I know I can have an impact on society if given the chance.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. My parents separated when I was eight, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I demonstrated leadership by caring for my siblings. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. I have learned many lessons over the last thirty years, mainly when I was younger. I knew that not all adults were there to protect me. I can not lean on my family for support, but I can lean on my husband. I have learned that loyalty takes time to come by. Education is worth so much more than I could have imagined. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!! I am not working because I am in school full-time while caring for two small children. This scholarship could help me succeed. With hard work and dedication, I can fulfill my dreams and grow into the woman I want to be with the help of this scholarship.

Mental wellness is essential to me. I grew up in a broken home. My parents separated when I was eight years old. My mom became a raging drug and alcohol addict within a year of her divorce. She would bring home strange men every other night. After she passed out drunk in her bed, the men would find me and my sister and have their way with us. No matter how loud we screamed, no one came to our rescue. My sister was my best friend. We went through so many traumatic events together. She was my rock. Unfortunately, she died from an overdose when she was 24 and I was 22. When she died, part of me died with her. I lost everything, including my mind. I spent years battling my mental health issues. I could not handle the trauma I had experienced. I was losing my hair; I could not sleep or eat. When I was able to fall asleep, I would experience night terrors, sleep paralysis, uncontrollable crying, and screaming fits. I had to sleep with the lights on for years because I was a 22-year-old afraid of the dark. Before my sister died, we both battled with addiction. Luckily, I was able to get sober when I was 18 years old. I have been sober for over twelve years now. That is what motivated me to pursue a higher education in psychology. I am excited to learn more about my diagnosis. I was diagnosed with manic bipolar depression, anxiety, PTSD, insomnia, ADHD, and addiction. I want to learn more about the disease of addiction as well. I am very observant, so learning more about the human brain is exciting. I want an exclusive look into what makes us people. I love understanding humans—our behaviors, perspectives, habits, thinking, actions, characters, and personalities. Psychology can be used in many different aspects of life. For instance, one could use psychology to make new friends and understand why people are mean, friendly, or indifferent. One could use psychology to run a business by understanding customers and purchasing habits. Another way psychology could help is by raising children. I have two children, and I am excited to raise them and teach them about life. Psychology can help with discipline, rewards, reactions, and self-control. I want my children to be kind, caring, loyal, and selfless. Learning about child development can point me in the right direction in child-rearing. I maintain my mental wellness by taking my medications, going to my psychology appointments, and following my therapist's suggestions. I have not always been able to do these things, but with growth and concentration, I have mastered taking my mental wellness seriously. Please consider me for this scholarship. I am the first person in my family to graduate college with an Associate's degree, and I plan on graduating with my Bachelor's degree in 2026. I am starting my junior year this fall of 2024, and the money from this scholarship will help me continue my education.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I demonstrated leadership by caring for my siblings. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. I positively impacted the sober AA community by sharing my experience, strength, and hope. I volunteered at meetings by helping set up and take down, serving as chairman, treasurer, and leader. I sponsor other women in the same position as I was all those years ago. I give other members rides to and from meetings. I teach my children about servitude and how important it is to help those around us. I have volunteered at the local Salvation Army, with over 200 service hours. I have also volunteered at my children's school and our local church. I donate money to our local charities when I can. I help support my friends and families with their fundraisers and sporting events. I donate food to people experiencing homelessness while teaching my children not to waste food or resources. I encourage others to get out into the community and help fight against homelessness, hunger, and poverty. Amongst all of that, I pray! I pray for my community, my family, and my friends. I pray for my enemies and those who wish evil on me and my loved ones. I support the police in my community because I am a member of the Blue Coats Society, which helps fallen officers and their families.

Mental wellness is essential to me. I grew up in a broken home. My parents separated when I was eight years old. My mom became a raging drug and alcohol addict within a year of her divorce. She would bring home strange men every other night. After she passed out drunk in her bed, the men would find me and my sister and have their way with us. No matter how loud we screamed, no one came to our rescue. My sister was my best friend. We went through so many traumatic events together. She was my rock. Unfortunately, she died from an overdose when she was 24 and I was 22. When she died, part of me died with her. I lost everything, including my mind. I spent years battling my mental health issues. I could not handle the trauma I had experienced. I was losing my hair; I could not sleep or eat. When I was able to fall asleep, I would experience night terrors, sleep paralysis, uncontrollable crying, and screaming fits. I had to sleep with the lights on for years because I was a 22-year-old afraid of the dark. Before my sister died, we both battled with addiction. Luckily, I was able to get sober when I was 18 years old. I have been sober for over twelve years now. That is what motivated me to pursue a higher education in psychology. I am excited to learn more about my diagnosis. I was diagnosed with manic bipolar depression, anxiety, PTSD, insomnia, ADHD, and addiction. I want to learn more about the disease of addiction as well. I am very observant, so learning more about the human brain is exciting. I want an exclusive look into what makes us people. I love understanding humans—our behaviors, perspectives, habits, thinking, actions, characters, and personalities. Psychology can be used in many different aspects of life. For instance, one could use psychology to make new friends and understand why people are mean, friendly, or indifferent. One could use psychology to run a business by understanding customers and purchasing habits. Another way psychology could help is by raising children. I have two children, and I am excited to raise them and teach them about life. Psychology can help with discipline, rewards, reactions, and self-control. I want my children to be kind, caring, loyal, and selfless. Learning about child development can point me in the right direction in child-rearing. I maintain my mental wellness by taking my medications, going to my psychology appointments, and following my therapist's suggestions. I have not always been able to do these things, but with growth and concentration, I have mastered taking my mental wellness seriously. Please consider me for this scholarship. I am the first person in my family to graduate college with an Associate's degree, and I plan on graduating with my Bachelor's degree in 2026. I am starting my junior year this fall of 2024, and the money from this scholarship will help me continue my education.

I plan to use my law education to help those in need. When I was in third grade, my teacher told us that around 5% of people are wrongfully convicted of the crimes they are charged with. I asked how this could happen, and she replied, "That's how the system works." I did not like that answer, but I knew it was up to me to start somewhere. I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. I was not raised "right." It's sad, but it's true. I developed a drug habit, and by fifteen years old, I had already seen the inside of jail. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. I entered a drug rehab and found my faith in a higher power. I plan to spread the word of God while helping others. I help spread the word by fellowshipping, sponsoring, volunteering, and opening up to others about my past. I want to be the person I needed twenty years ago. I know I can fight to save the people who need saving. I have a 3.5 GPA; I am intelligent, determined, outgoing, passionate, and ready to lead my generation of peers to victory.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. My parents separated when I was eight, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I became a product of my environment. I started using drugs at the age of twelve. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. At eighteen years old, I got into a state-run rehab center in Akron, Ohio. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. Recovery means the world to me. It gave me my life back. I've been sober for nine years. My two children will never have to see me in active addiction. I owe my life to AA and being sober. I spread the word by fellowshipping, sponsoring, leading, and volunteering. Please consider me for this opportunity.

I plan to use my law education to help those in need. When I was in third grade, my teacher told us that around 5% of people are wrongfully convicted of the crimes they are charged with. I asked how this could happen, and she replied, "That's how the system works." I did not like that answer, but I knew it was up to me to start somewhere. I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. I was not raised "right." It's sad, but it's true. I developed a drug habit, and by fifteen years old, I had already seen the inside of jail. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. I know that my mom should have been charged with child abuse and neglect, but there was no one in my corner to help me and my siblings. I want to be the person I needed twenty years ago. I know I can fight to save the people who need saving. I have a 3.5 GPA; I am intelligent, determined, outgoing, passionate, and ready to lead my generation of peers to victory.

I grew up in a broken home. My parents separated when I was eight years old. My mom became a raging drug and alcohol addict within a year of her divorce. She would bring home strange men every other night. After she passed out drunk in her bed, the men would find me and my sister and have their way with us. No matter how loud we screamed, no one came to our rescue. My sister was my best friend. We went through so many traumatic events together. She was my rock. Unfortunately, she died from an overdose when she was 24 and I was 22. When she died, part of me died with her. I lost everything, including my mind. I spent years battling my mental health issues. I could not handle the trauma I had experienced. I was losing my hair; I could not sleep or eat. When I was able to fall asleep, I would experience night terrors, sleep paralysis, uncontrollable crying, and screaming fits. I had to sleep with the lights on for years because I was a 22-year-old afraid of the dark. Before my sister died, we both battled with addiction. Luckily, I was able to get sober when I was 18 years old. I have been sober for over twelve years now. That is what motivated me to pursue a higher education in psychology. I am excited to learn more about my diagnosis. I was diagnosed with manic bipolar depression, anxiety, PTSD, insomnia, ADHD, and addiction. I want to learn more about the disease of addiction as well. I am very observant, so learning more about the human brain is exciting. I want an exclusive look into what makes us people. I love understanding humans—our behaviors, perspectives, habits, thinking, actions, characters, and personalities. Psychology can be used in many different aspects of life. For instance, one could use psychology to make new friends and understand why people are mean, friendly, or indifferent. One could use psychology to run a business by understanding customers and purchasing habits. Another way psychology could help is by raising children. I have two children, and I am excited to raise them and teach them about life. Psychology can help with discipline, rewards, reactions, and self-control. I want my children to be kind, caring, loyal, and selfless. Learning about child development can point me in the right direction in child-rearing.

I grew up in a broken home. My parents separated when I was eight years old. My mom became a raging drug and alcohol addict within a year of her divorce. She would bring home strange men every other night. After she passed out drunk in her bed, the men would find me and my sister and have their way with us. No matter how loud we screamed, no one came to our rescue. My sister was my best friend. We went through so many traumatic events together. She was my rock. Unfortunately, she died from an overdose when she was 24 and I was 22. When she died, part of me died with her. I lost everything, including my mind. I spent years battling my mental health issues. I could not handle the trauma I had experienced. I was losing my hair; I could not sleep or eat. When I was able to fall asleep, I would experience night terrors, sleep paralysis, uncontrollable crying, and screaming fits. I had to sleep with the lights on for years because I was a 22-year-old afraid of the dark. Before my sister died, we both battled with addiction. Luckily, I was able to get sober when I was 18 years old. I have been sober for over twelve years now. That is what motivated me to pursue a higher education in psychology. I am excited to learn more about my diagnosis. I was diagnosed with manic bipolar depression, anxiety, PTSD, insomnia, ADHD, and addiction. I want to learn more about the disease of addiction as well. I am very observant, so learning more about the human brain is exciting. I want an exclusive look into what makes us people. I love understanding humans—our behaviors, perspectives, habits, thinking, actions, characters, and personalities. Psychology can be used in many different aspects of life. For instance, one could use psychology to make new friends and understand why people are mean, friendly, or indifferent. One could use psychology to run a business by understanding customers and purchasing habits. Another way psychology could help is by raising children. I have two children, and I am excited to raise them and teach them about life. Psychology can help with discipline, rewards, reactions, and self-control. I want my children to be kind, caring, loyal, and selfless. Learning about child development can point me in the right direction in child-rearing. Please consider me for this scholarship. I have been through a lot and want to continue my education in psychology. This opportunity would mean a lot to me and my family. My husband works hard to provide for us financially, so I can go to school. Thank you! Sincerely, Gabrielle Przepiora.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I demonstrated leadership by caring for my siblings. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. I positively impacted the sober AA community by sharing my experience, strength, and hope. I volunteered at meetings by helping set up and take down, serving as chairman, treasurer, and leader. I sponsor other women in the same position as I was all those years ago. I give other members rides to and from meetings. I teach my children about servitude and how important it is to help those around us. I have volunteered at the local Salvation Army, with over 200 service hours. I have also volunteered at my children's school and our local church. I donate money to our local charities when I can. I help support my friends and families with their fundraisers and sporting events. I donate food to people experiencing homelessness while teaching my children not to waste food or resources. I encourage others to get out into the community and help fight against homelessness, hunger, and poverty. Amongst all of that, I pray! I pray for my community, for my family and friends. I pray for my enemies and those who wish evil on me and my loved ones. I support the police in my community because I am a member of the Blue Coats Society, which helps fallen officers and their families.

1.) I grew up in a broken home. My parents separated when I was eight years old. My mom became a raging drug and alcohol addict within a year of her divorce. She would bring home strange men every other night. After she passed out drunk in her bed, the men would find me and my sister and have their way with us. No matter how loud we screamed, no one came to our rescue. My sister was my best friend. We went through so many traumatic events together. She was my rock. Unfortunately, she died from an overdose when she was 24 and I was 22. When she died, part of me died with her. I lost everything, including my mind. I spent years battling my mental health issues. I could not handle the trauma I had experienced. I was losing my hair; I could not sleep or eat. When I was able to fall asleep, I would experience night terrors, sleep paralysis, uncontrollable crying, and screaming fits. I had to sleep with the lights on for years because I was a 22-year-old afraid of the dark. Being the first person in my family to obtain a degree is enormous. I know my sister would be so proud of me, and she is smiling down from above. It means the world to me. It shows I am taking responsibility for my education. It provides me and my family with financial security. It shows my children the importance of an education. 2.) I want to pursue a law degree and use my law education to help those in need. When I was in third grade, my teacher told us that around 5% of people are wrongfully convicted of the crimes they are charged with. I asked how this could happen, and she replied, "That's how the system works." I wouldn't say I liked that answer, but I knew it was up to me to start somewhere. I know the Justice System is broken, and I can not fix it alone. But, if I work hard and put people first, I can help change lives. 3.) My long-term goal is to open a law firm. I want to provide jobs for people in need who share my hopes and dreams of helping those around me. I want to be able to afford to send my children to college. I want to help my husband obtain his goals as well. I have a long road ahead, and this scholarship can help me financially. Please consider me for this opportunity. Thank you! -Gabrielle Przepiora

1.) I grew up in a broken home. My parents separated when I was eight years old. My mom became a raging drug and alcohol addict within a year of her divorce. She would bring home strange men every other night. After she passed out drunk in her bed, the men would find me and my sister and have their way with us. No matter how loud we screamed, no one came to our rescue. My sister was my best friend. We went through so many traumatic events together. She was my rock. Unfortunately, she died from an overdose when she was 24 and I was 22. When she died, part of me died with her. I lost everything, including my mind. I spent years battling my mental health issues. I could not handle the trauma I had experienced. I was losing my hair; I could not sleep or eat. When I was able to fall asleep, I would experience night terrors, sleep paralysis, uncontrollable crying, and screaming fits. I had to sleep with the lights on for years because I was a 22-year-old afraid of the dark. Being the first person in my family to obtain a degree is enormous. I know my sister would be so proud of me, and she is smiling down from above. It means the world to me. It shows I am taking responsibility for my education. It provides me and my family with financial security. It shows my children the importance of an education. 2.) I want to pursue a law degree and use my law education to help those in need. When I was in third grade, my teacher told us that around 5% of people are wrongfully convicted of the crimes they are charged with. I asked how this could happen, and she replied, "That's how the system works." I wouldn't say I liked that answer, but I knew it was up to me to start somewhere. I know the Justice System is broken, and I can not fix it alone. But, if I work hard and put people first, I can help change lives. 3.) My long-term goal is to open a law firm. I want to provide jobs for people in need who share my hopes and dreams of helping those around me. I want to be able to afford to send my children to college. I want to help my husband obtain his goals as well. I have a long road ahead, and this scholarship can help me financially. Please consider me for this opportunity. Thank you! -Gabrielle Przepiora

I grew up in a broken home. My parents separated when I was eight years old. My mom became a raging drug and alcohol addict within a year of her divorce. She would bring home strange men every other night. After she passed out drunk in her bed, the men would find me and my sister and have their way with us. No matter how loud we screamed, no one came to our rescue. My sister was my best friend. We went through so many traumatic events together. She was my rock. Unfortunately, she died from an overdose when she was 24 and I was 22. When she died, part of me died with her. I lost everything, including my mind. I spent years battling my mental health issues. I could not handle the trauma I had experienced. I was losing my hair; I could not sleep or eat. When I was able to fall asleep, I would experience night terrors, sleep paralysis, uncontrollable crying, and screaming fits. I had to sleep with the lights on for years because I was a 22-year-old afraid of the dark. Before my sister died, we both battled with addiction. We were heroin addicts. That's what she died from. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. I have been sober for twelve years now. Luckily, I sought help. I called a psychiatrist and was diagnosed with manic bipolar depression, anxiety, PTSD, insomnia, ADHD, and addiction. I battled with this diagnosis for years before I agreed to take medication. It took months to find the right medicine and dosage, but after we figured out what works for me, I have never felt better. I can sleep, eat, and play with my children. I graduated with my associate's degree, earning a 3.5 GPA. Those were things I never thought were possible for me. I was a train wreck before receiving help. I advocate for mental health every chance I get. I know there are people out there who are just like me, who need to break the generational curse. My mental illnesses were passed down from my mom, her mom, and the rest of the women who came before me. I know that because I have experience with those women. So, I always tell my friends who battle with their mental health to seek professional help. I also share my experience, strength, and hope at AA meetings. I wish I could tell you more, but I only have 600 words to convey what I'm thinking.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I demonstrated leadership by caring for my siblings. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. My dream is to be a better woman and mother than the one I had. I have two young children, and I dream of raising them correctly. I want to instill morals, values, honesty, integrity, loyalty, and more. I dream of becoming a criminal defense attorney to help those who have been wrongfully and over-convicted of crimes. This criminal justice system has failed us. I want to spread joy and happiness. I want to know love and peace. Please consider me for this award. I can make the world a better place. Success is something I never thought I would achieve. I know better than anyone that I was counting myself out. I have always known success, even when I did not feel it. I was successful when I raised my siblings. I was successful when I raised my children and graduated high school and college with my associate's degree. I have known success, and I am driven to continue a successful cycle in my life. Growing up was brutal; no one demonstrated success, so I had to learn it independently. I deserve this scholarship due to all the hurdles I have overcome. I know there are many more hurdles in my future, but with your help, my financial hurdles can become more accessible. Thank you!

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I demonstrated leadership by caring for my siblings. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. My dream is to be a better woman and mother than the one I had. I have two young children, and I dream of raising them correctly. I want to instill morals, values, honesty, integrity, loyalty, and more. I dream of becoming a criminal defense attorney to help those who have been wrongfully and over-convicted of crimes. This criminal justice system has failed us. I want to spread joy and happiness. I want to know love and peace. Please consider me for this award. I can make the world a better place.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I demonstrated leadership by caring for my siblings. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. My dream is to be a better woman and mother than the one I had. I have two young children, and I dream of raising them correctly. I want to instill morals, values, honesty, integrity, loyalty, and more. I dream of becoming a criminal defense attorney to help those who have been wrongfully and over-convicted of crimes. This criminal justice system has failed us. I want to spread joy and happiness. I want to know love and peace. Please consider me for this award. I can make the world a better place.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I demonstrated leadership by caring for my siblings. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. By twenty years old, I met my now husband, and we discovered I was pregnant with a little girl. Our lives turned upside down. We moved out of the apartment and bought our first home in Solon, Ohio, where we still live today. I did not know how to raise a child because I never had a mother to show me how to be a mom. Day in and day out, I was struggling to stay sober, struggling to be financially stable, and struggling to be a wife. My daughter cried all day nonstop. I thought I broke her. It turns out she was colic, which I still don't understand what that means, but it meant she screamed for hours and hours for nine months straight! I thought I was losing my mind. Luckily, the crying faded slowly, and we became closer. Learning to navigate motherhood with her was exhausting, but I'm so glad we made it out on the other side. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!! I am not working because I am in school full-time while caring for two small children. This scholarship could help me succeed.

My mother never impacted my life in a good way. I know the question is about positivity, but maybe I can still be considered, once you read about my relationship with my mother. I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I demonstrated leadership by caring for my siblings. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. To this day, I hold my mother responsible for what she did to me as a child and young adult. She never supported me and my dreams when I became an adult. I am trying to be the opposite mother for MY children. I want to be a supportive, loving, affectionate, and caring mother. I want to provide for my children in ways my mother never provided for me. When I became a mother, mine was never around. I was left to my own devices when raising my babies. I have two young children who look up to me and admire the woman I have taught myself to be. Please consider me for this scholarship so I can continue my education and be there for my children. I have not answered the question the way it was asked, but I am trying my hardest to pay for my education and not have to pile on more debt.

Cancer has driven a deep hole in my family. My maternal grandmother passed away from leukemia cancer when I was in third grade. I did not know her very well because she was always sick and in the hospital. Being extremely ill due to the chemotherapy, my grandmother was very mean and nasty to me and my young siblings. The cancer was eating away at her personality, spirituality, and mental health. I was robbed of my grandmother. My paternal grandmother was a different story. She and I were best friends for my entire life. I am thirty years old and honored to say I had thirty beautiful years with her. I was her light in the dark. She always called me her princess. I could talk to my grandma about anything, and she would never judge me. She was there for me through my most challenging days. My parents did not raise me right, which bothered my grandma. She wanted to get custody of me and my siblings, but she could not afford to take my mother to court. I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I demonstrated leadership by caring for my siblings. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. My grandma was there, holding my hand every step of the way. I was able to get sober and be a shining star in my grandma's eyes. Unfortunately, my grandma was diagnosed with cancer in her legs and back while also getting lesions on her head. This diagnosis took place in April of 2023; my grandma passed away horribly by June 2023. Cancer took her away from me, and I will never be the same. I lost my best friend in the entire world. My grandma was my biggest supporter when I returned to school and continued my education. I know she would be so proud to hear I graduated with my associate's degree in December 2023, just six months after she passed away. Please consider me for this opportunity.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I demonstrated leadership by caring for my siblings. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I demonstrated leadership by getting the help I needed. I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. By twenty years old, I demonstrated leadership by raising a family. I met my now husband, and we discovered I was pregnant with a little girl. Our lives turned upside down. We moved out of the apartment and bought our first home in Solon, Ohio, where we still live today. I did not know how to raise a child because I never had a mother to show me how to be a mom. Day in and day out, I was struggling to stay sober, struggling to be financially stable, and struggling to be a wife. My daughter cried all day nonstop. I thought I broke her. It turns out she was colic, which I still don't understand what that means, but it meant she screamed for hours and hours for nine months straight! I thought I was losing my mind. Luckily, the crying faded slowly, and we became closer. Learning to navigate motherhood with her was exhausting, but I'm so glad we made it out on the other side. I have learned many lessons over the last thirty years, mainly when I was younger. I knew that not all adults were there to protect me. I can not lean on my family for support, but I can lean on my husband. I have learned that loyalty takes time to come by. Education is worth so much more than I could have imagined. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!! I am not working because I am in school full-time while caring for two small children. This scholarship could help me succeed. Gabrielle Przepiora

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I demonstrated leadership by caring for my siblings. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I demonstrated leadership by getting the help I needed. I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. By twenty years old, I demonstrated leadership by raising a family. I met my now husband, and we discovered I was pregnant with a little girl. Our lives turned upside down. We moved out of the apartment and bought our first home in Solon, Ohio, where we still live today. I did not know how to raise a child because I never had a mother to show me how to be a mom. Day in and day out, I was struggling to stay sober, struggling to be financially stable, and struggling to be a wife. My daughter cried all day nonstop. I thought I broke her. It turns out she was colic, which I still don't understand what that means, but it meant she screamed for hours and hours for nine months straight! I thought I was losing my mind. Luckily, the crying faded slowly, and we became closer. Learning to navigate motherhood with her was exhausting, but I'm so glad we made it out on the other side. I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially. I also have a hard time asking for help. But right now, I'm asking. Please!! I am not working because I am in school full-time while caring for two small children. This scholarship could help me succeed.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. By twenty years old, I met my now husband, and we found out I was pregnant with a little girl. Our lives turned upside down. I did not know how to raise a child because I never had a mother to show me how to be a mom. Day in and day out, I was struggling to stay sober, struggling to be financially stable, and struggling to be a wife. My daughter cried all day nonstop. I thought I was losing my mind. Luckily, the crying faded slowly, and we became closer. Learning to navigate motherhood with her was exhausting, but I'm so glad we made it out on the other side. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!!

My mom was the most influential person in my life. But not in the traditional sense, because I wanted to be the complete opposite of her. Here's why: I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. By twenty years old, I met my now husband, and we found out I was pregnant with a little girl. Our lives turned upside down. I did not know how to raise a child because I never had a mother to show me how to be a mom. Day in and day out, I was struggling to stay sober, struggling to be financially stable, and struggling to be a wife. My daughter cried all day nonstop. I thought I was losing my mind. Luckily, the crying faded slowly, and we became closer. Learning to navigate motherhood with her was exhausting, but I'm so glad we made it out on the other side. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!!

My favorite Netflix series is The Magicians! I have always loved magic and getting out of my reality. I love time travel and being in different realms. The Magicians is the right show for people who enjoy those things. Growing up was difficult for me. So, immersing myself in magic made life a little easier. I need to believe in magic to stay young and sane! I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. By twenty years old, I met my now husband, and we found out I was pregnant with a little girl. Our lives turned upside down. I did not know how to raise a child because I never had a mother to show me how to be a mom. Day in and day out, I was struggling to stay sober, struggling to be financially stable, and struggling to be a wife. My daughter cried all day nonstop. I thought I was losing my mind. Luckily, the crying faded slowly, and we became closer. Learning to navigate motherhood with her was exhausting, but I'm so glad we made it out on the other side. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!!

" I had the strangest feeling of the weight off of my chest" I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. By twenty years old, I met my now husband, and we found out I was pregnant with a little girl. Our lives turned upside down. We moved out of the apartment and bought our first home in Solon, Ohio, where we still live today. I did not know how to raise a child because I never had a mother to show me how to be a mom. Day in and day out, I was struggling to stay sober, struggling to be financially stable, and struggling to be a wife. My daughter cried all day nonstop. I thought I broke her. It turns out she was colic, which I still don't understand what that means, but it meant she screamed for hours and hours for nine months straight! I thought I was losing my mind. Luckily, the crying faded slowly, and we became closer. Learning to navigate motherhood with her was exhausting, but I'm so glad we made it out on the other side. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!! I am not working because I am in school full-time while caring for two small children.

I plan to use my law education to help those in need. When I was in third grade, my teacher told us that around 5% of people are wrongfully convicted of the crimes they are charged with. I asked how this could happen, and she replied, "That's how the system works." I did not like that answer, but I knew it was up to me to start somewhere. I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. I was not raised "right." It's sad, but it's true. I developed a drug habit, and by fifteen years old, I had already seen the inside of jail. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. I know that my mom should have been charged with child abuse and neglect, but there was no one in my corner to help me and my siblings. I want to be the person I needed twenty years ago. I know I can fight to save the people who need saving. I have a 3.5 GPA; I am intelligent, determined, outgoing, passionate, and ready to lead my generation of peers to victory.

I plan to use my law education to help those in need. When I was in third grade, my teacher told us that around 5% of people are wrongfully convicted of the crimes they are charged with. I asked how this could happen, and she replied, "That's how the system works." I did not like that answer, but I knew it was up to me to start somewhere. I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. I was not raised "right." It's sad, but it's true. I developed a drug habit, and by fifteen years old, I had already seen the inside of jail. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. I know that my mom should have been charged with child abuse and neglect, but there was no one in my corner to help me and my siblings. I want to be the person I needed twenty years ago. I know I can fight to save the people who need saving. I have a 3.5 GPA; I am intelligent, determined, outgoing, passionate, and ready to lead my generation of peers to victory.

I plan to use my law education to help those in need. When I was in third grade, my teacher told us that around 5% of people are wrongfully convicted of the crimes they are charged with. I asked how this could happen, and she replied, "That's how the system works." I did not like that answer, but I knew it was up to me to start somewhere. I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. I was not raised "right." It's sad, but it's true. I developed a drug habit, and by fifteen years old, I had already seen the inside of jail. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. I know that my mom should have been charged with child abuse and neglect, but there was no one in my corner to help me and my siblings. I want to be the person I needed twenty years ago. I know I can fight to save the people who need saving. I have a 3.5 GPA; I am intelligent, determined, outgoing, passionate, and ready to lead my generation of peers to victory.

I plan to use my law education to help those in need. When I was in third grade, my teacher told us that around 5% of people are wrongfully convicted of the crimes they are charged with. I asked how this could happen, and she replied, "That's how the system works." I did not like that answer, but I knew it was up to me to start somewhere. I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. I was not raised "right." It's sad, but it's true. I developed a drug habit, and by fifteen years old, I had already seen the inside of jail. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. I know that my mom should have been charged with child abuse and neglect, but there was no one in my corner to help me and my siblings. I want to be the person I needed twenty years ago. I know I can fight to save the people who need saving. I have a 3.5 GPA; I am intelligent, determined, outgoing, passionate, and ready to lead my generation of peers to victory.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. By twenty years old, I met my now husband, and we found out I was pregnant with a little girl. Our lives turned upside down. We moved out of the apartment and bought our first home in Solon, Ohio, where we still live today. I did not know how to raise a child because I never had a mother to show me how to be a mom. Day in and day out, I was struggling to stay sober, struggling to be financially stable, and struggling to be a wife. My daughter cried all day nonstop. I thought I broke her. It turns out she was colic, which I still don't understand what that means, but it meant she screamed for hours and hours for nine months straight! I thought I was losing my mind. Luckily, the crying faded slowly, and we became closer. Learning to navigate motherhood with her was exhausting, but I'm so glad we made it out on the other side. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!! I am not working because I am in school full-time while caring for two small children. This scholarship could help me succeed.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. By twenty years old, I met my now husband, and we found out I was pregnant with a little girl. Our lives turned upside down. We moved out of the apartment and bought our first home in Solon, Ohio, where we still live today. I did not know how to raise a child because I never had a mother to show me how to be a mom. Day in and day out, I was struggling to stay sober, struggling to be financially stable, and struggling to be a wife. My daughter cried all day nonstop. I thought I broke her. It turns out she was colic, which I still don't understand what that means, but it meant she screamed for hours and hours for nine months straight! I thought I was losing my mind. Luckily, the crying faded slowly, and we became closer. Learning to navigate motherhood with her was exhausting, but I'm so glad we made it out on the other side. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!! I am not working because I am in school full-time while caring for two small children. This scholarship could help me succeed.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. By twenty years old, I met my now husband, and we found out I was pregnant with a little girl. Our lives turned upside down. We moved out of the apartment and bought our first home in Solon, Ohio, where we still live today. I did not know how to raise a child because I never had a mother to show me how to be a mom. Day in and day out, I was struggling to stay sober, struggling to be financially stable, and struggling to be a wife. My daughter cried all day nonstop. I thought I broke her. It turns out she was colic, which I still don't understand what that means, but it meant she screamed for hours and hours for nine months straight! I thought I was losing my mind. Luckily, the crying faded slowly, and we became closer. Learning to navigate motherhood with her was exhausting, but I'm so glad we made it out on the other side. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!! I am not working because I am in school full-time while caring for two small children. This scholarship could help me succeed.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. By twenty years old, I met my now husband, and we found out I was pregnant with a little girl. Our lives turned upside down. We moved out of the apartment and bought our first home in Solon, Ohio, where we still live today. I did not know how to raise a child because I never had a mother to show me how to be a mom. Day in and day out, I was struggling to stay sober, struggling to be financially stable, and struggling to be a wife. My daughter cried all day nonstop. I thought I broke her. It turns out she was colic, which I still don't understand what that means, but it meant she screamed for hours and hours for nine months straight! I thought I was losing my mind. Luckily, the crying faded slowly, and we became closer. Learning to navigate motherhood with her was exhausting, but I'm so glad we made it out on the other side. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!! I am not working because I am in school full-time while caring for two small children. This scholarship could help me succeed.

I lost my sister when she was 24 years old. She was my best friend. It's been eight years since she passed and I am still a wreck. We went through a lot of trauma together. She meant the world to me and I was gutted when she died. I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. By twenty years old, I met my now husband, and we found out I was pregnant with a little girl. Our lives turned upside down. We moved out of the apartment and bought our first home in Solon, Ohio, where we still live today. I did not know how to raise a child because I never had a mother to show me how to be a mom. Day in and day out, I was struggling to stay sober, struggling to be financially stable, and struggling to be a wife. My daughter cried all day nonstop. I thought I broke her. It turns out she was colic, which I still don't understand what that means, but it meant she screamed for hours and hours for nine months straight! I thought I was losing my mind. Luckily, the crying faded slowly, and we became closer. Learning to navigate motherhood with her was exhausting, but I'm so glad we made it out on the other side. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!! I am not working because I am in school full-time while caring for two small children. This scholarship could help me succeed.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. By twenty years old, I met my now husband, and we found out I was pregnant with a little girl. Our lives turned upside down. We moved out of the apartment and bought our first home in Solon, Ohio, where we still live today. I did not know how to raise a child because I never had a mother to show me how to be a mom. Day in and day out, I was struggling to stay sober, struggling to be financially stable, and struggling to be a wife. My daughter cried all day nonstop. I thought I broke her. It turns out she was colic, which I still don't understand what that means, but it meant she screamed for hours and hours for nine months straight! I thought I was losing my mind. Luckily, the crying faded slowly, and we became closer. Learning to navigate motherhood with her was exhausting, but I'm so glad we made it out on the other side. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!! I am not working because I am in school full-time while caring for two small children. This scholarship could help me succeed.

I plan to use my law education to help those in need. When I was in third grade, my teacher told us that around 5% of people are wrongfully convicted of the crimes they are charged with. I asked how this could happen, and she replied, "That's how the system works." I did not like that answer, but I knew it was up to me to start somewhere. I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. I was not raised "right." It's sad, but it's true. I developed a drug habit, and by fifteen years old, I had already seen the inside of jail. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. I know that my mom should have been charged with child abuse and neglect, but there was no one in my corner to help me and my siblings. I want to be the person I needed twenty years ago. I know I can fight to save the people who need saving. I have a 3.5 GPA; I am intelligent, determined, outgoing, passionate, and ready to lead my generation of peers to victory.

I plan to use my law education to help those in need. When I was in third grade, my teacher told us that around 5% of people are wrongfully convicted of the crimes they are charged with. I asked how this could happen, and she replied, "That's how the system works." I did not like that answer, but I knew it was up to me to start somewhere. I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. I was not raised "right." It's sad, but it's true. I developed a drug habit, and by fifteen years old, I had already seen the inside of jail. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. I know that my mom should have been charged with child abuse and neglect, but there was no one in my corner to help me and my siblings. I want to be the person I needed twenty years ago. I know I can fight to save the people who need saving. I have a 3.5 GPA; I am intelligent, determined, outgoing, passionate, and ready to lead my generation of peers to victory.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. By twenty years old, I met my now husband, and we found out I was pregnant with a little girl. Our lives turned upside down. We moved out of the apartment and bought our first home in Solon, Ohio, where we still live today. I did not know how to raise a child because I never had a mother to show me how to be a mom. Day in and day out, I was struggling to stay sober, struggling to be financially stable, and struggling to be a wife. My daughter cried all day nonstop. I thought I broke her. It turns out she was colic, which I still don't understand what that means, but it meant she screamed for hours and hours for nine months straight! I thought I was losing my mind. Luckily, the crying faded slowly, and we became closer. Learning to navigate motherhood with her was exhausting, but I'm so glad we made it out on the other side. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!! I am not working because I am in school full-time while caring for two small children. This scholarship could help me succeed.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. By twenty years old, I met my now husband, and we found out I was pregnant with a little girl. Our lives turned upside down. We moved out of the apartment and bought our first home in Solon, Ohio, where we still live today. I did not know how to raise a child because I never had a mother to show me how to be a mom. Day in and day out, I was struggling to stay sober, struggling to be financially stable, and struggling to be a wife. My daughter cried all day nonstop. I thought I broke her. It turns out she was colic, which I still don't understand what that means, but it meant she screamed for hours and hours for nine months straight! I thought I was losing my mind. Luckily, the crying faded slowly, and we became closer. Learning to navigate motherhood with her was exhausting, but I'm so glad we made it out on the other side. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!! I am not working because I am in school full-time while caring for two small children. This scholarship could help me succeed.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. By twenty years old, I met my now husband, and we found out I was pregnant with a little girl. Our lives turned upside down. We moved out of the apartment and bought our first home in Solon, Ohio, where we still live today. I did not know how to raise a child because I never had a mother to show me how to be a mom. Day in and day out, I was struggling to stay sober, struggling to be financially stable, and struggling to be a wife. My daughter cried all day nonstop. I thought I broke her. It turns out she was colic, which I still don't understand what that means, but it meant she screamed for hours and hours for nine months straight! I thought I was losing my mind. Luckily, the crying faded slowly, and we became closer. Learning to navigate motherhood with her was exhausting, but I'm so glad we made it out on the other side. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!! I am not working because I am in school full-time while caring for two small children. This scholarship could help me succeed.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. By twenty years old, I met my now husband, and we found out I was pregnant with a little girl. Our lives turned upside down. We moved out of the apartment and bought our first home in Solon, Ohio, where we still live today. I did not know how to raise a child because I never had a mother to show me how to be a mom. Day in and day out, I was struggling to stay sober, struggling to be financially stable, and struggling to be a wife. My daughter cried all day nonstop. I thought I broke her. It turns out she was colic, which I still don't understand what that means, but it meant she screamed for hours and hours for nine months straight! I thought I was losing my mind. Luckily, the crying faded slowly, and we became closer. Learning to navigate motherhood with her was exhausting, but I'm so glad we made it out on the other side. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!! I am not working because I am in school full-time while caring for two small children. This scholarship could help me succeed.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. By twenty years old, I met my now husband, and we found out I was pregnant with a little girl. Our lives turned upside down. We moved out of the apartment and bought our first home in Solon, Ohio, where we still live today. I did not know how to raise a child because I never had a mother to show me how to be a mom. Day in and day out, I was struggling to stay sober, struggling to be financially stable, and struggling to be a wife. My daughter cried all day nonstop. I thought I broke her. It turns out she was colic, which I still don't understand what that means, but it meant she screamed for hours and hours for nine months straight! I thought I was losing my mind. Luckily, the crying faded slowly, and we became closer. Learning to navigate motherhood with her was exhausting, but I'm so glad we made it out on the other side. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!! I am not working because I am in school full-time while caring for two small children. This scholarship could help me succeed.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. By twenty years old, I met my now husband, and we found out I was pregnant with a little girl. Our lives turned upside down. We moved out of the apartment and bought our first home in Solon, Ohio, where we still live today. I did not know how to raise a child because I never had a mother to show me how to be a mom. Day in and day out, I was struggling to stay sober, struggling to be financially stable, and struggling to be a wife. My daughter cried all day nonstop. I thought I broke her. It turns out she was colic, which I still don't understand what that means, but it meant she screamed for hours and hours for nine months straight! I thought I was losing my mind. Luckily, the crying faded slowly, and we became closer. Learning to navigate motherhood with her was exhausting, but I'm so glad we made it out on the other side. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!! I am not working because I am in school full-time while caring for two small children. This scholarship could help me succeed.

I plan to use my law education to help those in need. When I was in third grade, my teacher told us that around 5% of people are wrongfully convicted of the crimes they are charged with. I asked how this could happen, and she replied, "That's how the system works." I did not like that answer, but I knew it was up to me to start somewhere. I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. I was not raised "right." It's sad, but it's true. I developed a drug habit, and by fifteen years old, I had already seen the inside of jail. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. I know that my mom should have been charged with child abuse and neglect, but there was no one in my corner to help me and my siblings. I want to be the person I needed twenty years ago. I know I can fight to save the people who need saving. I have a 3.5 GPA; I am intelligent, determined, outgoing, passionate, and ready to lead my generation of peers to victory.

I plan to use my law education to help those in need. When I was in third grade, my teacher told us that around 5% of people are wrongfully convicted of the crimes they are charged with. I asked how this could happen, and she replied, "That's how the system works." I did not like that answer, but I knew it was up to me to start somewhere. I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. I was not raised "right." It's sad, but it's true. I developed a drug habit, and by fifteen years old, I had already seen the inside of jail. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. I know that my mom should have been charged with child abuse and neglect, but there was no one in my corner to help me and my siblings. I want to be the person I needed twenty years ago. I know I can fight to save the people who need saving. I have a 3.5 GPA; I am intelligent, determined, outgoing, passionate, and ready to lead my generation of peers to victory.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!! I am not working because I am in school full-time while caring for two small children. This scholarship could help me succeed.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. By twenty years old, I met my now husband, and we found out I was pregnant with a little girl. Our lives turned upside down. We moved out of the apartment and bought our first home in Solon, Ohio, where we still live today. I did not know how to raise a child because I never had a mother to show me how to be a mom. Day in and day out, I was struggling to stay sober, struggling to be financially stable, and struggling to be a wife. My daughter cried all day nonstop. I thought I broke her. It turns out she was colic, which I still don't understand what that means, but it meant she screamed for hours and hours for nine months straight! I thought I was losing my mind. Luckily, the crying faded slowly, and we became closer. Learning to navigate motherhood with her was exhausting, but I'm so glad we made it out on the other side. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!! I am not working because I am in school full-time while caring for two small children. This scholarship could help me succeed.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. By twenty years old, I met my now husband, and we found out I was pregnant with a little girl. Our lives turned upside down. We moved out of the apartment and bought our first home in Solon, Ohio, where we still live today. I did not know how to raise a child because I never had a mother to show me how to be a mom. Day in and day out, I was struggling to stay sober, struggling to be financially stable, and struggling to be a wife. My daughter cried all day nonstop. I thought I broke her. It turns out she was colic, which I still don't understand what that means, but it meant she screamed for hours and hours for nine months straight! I thought I was losing my mind. Luckily, the crying faded slowly, and we became closer. Learning to navigate motherhood with her was exhausting, but I'm so glad we made it out on the other side. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!! I am not working because I am in school full-time while caring for two small children. This scholarship could help me succeed.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. By twenty years old, I met my now husband, and we found out I was pregnant with a little girl. Our lives turned upside down. We moved out of the apartment and bought our first home in Solon, Ohio, where we still live today. I did not know how to raise a child because I never had a mother to show me how to be a mom. Day in and day out, I was struggling to stay sober, struggling to be financially stable, and struggling to be a wife. My daughter cried all day nonstop. I thought I broke her. It turns out she was colic, which I still don't understand what that means, but it meant she screamed for hours and hours for nine months straight! I thought I was losing my mind. Luckily, the crying faded slowly, and we became closer. Learning to navigate motherhood with her was exhausting, but I'm so glad we made it out on the other side. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue my education with financial stability. I have struggled financially my entire life. I also have a hard time asking for help and speaking up. But right now, I am asking. Please!! I am not working because I am in school full-time while caring for two small children. This scholarship could help me succeed.

I plan to use my law education to help those in need. When I was in third grade, my teacher told us that around 5% of people are wrongfully convicted of the crimes they are charged with. I asked how this could happen, and she replied, "That's how the system works." I did not like that answer, but I knew it was up to me to start somewhere. I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. I was not raised "right." It's sad, but it's true. I developed a drug habit, and by fifteen years old, I had already seen the inside of jail. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. I know that my mom should have been charged with child abuse and neglect, but there was no one in my corner to help me and my siblings. I want to be the person I needed twenty years ago. I know I can fight to save the people who need saving. I have a 3.5 GPA; I am intelligent, determined, outgoing, passionate, and ready to lead my generation of peers to victory.

I plan to use my law education to help those in need. When I was in third grade, my teacher told us that around 5% of people are wrongfully convicted of the crimes they are charged with. I asked how this could happen, and she replied, "That's how the system works." I did not like that answer, but I knew it was up to me to start somewhere. I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. I was not raised "right." It's sad, but it's true. I developed a drug habit, and by fifteen years old, I had already seen the inside of jail. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. I know that my mom should have been charged with child abuse and neglect, but there was no one in my corner to help me and my siblings. I want to be the person I needed twenty years ago. I know I can fight to save the people who need saving. I have a 3.5 GPA; I am intelligent, determined, outgoing, passionate, and ready to lead my generation of peers to victory.

I plan to use my law education to help those in need. When I was in third grade, my teacher told us that around 5% of people are wrongfully convicted of the crimes they are charged with. I asked how this could happen, and she replied, "That's how the system works." I did not like that answer, but I knew it was up to me to start somewhere. I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. I was not raised "right." It's sad, but it's true. I developed a drug habit, and by fifteen years old, I had already seen the inside of jail. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. I know that my mom should have been charged with child abuse and neglect, but there was no one in my corner to help me and my siblings. I want to be the person I needed twenty years ago. I know I can fight to save the people who need saving. I have a 3.5 GPA; I am intelligent, determined, outgoing, passionate, and ready to lead my generation of peers to victory.

I plan to use my law education to help those in need. When I was in third grade, my teacher told us that around 5% of people are wrongfully convicted of the crimes they are charged with. I asked how this could happen, and she replied, "That's how the system works." I did not like that answer, but I knew it was up to me to start somewhere. I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. I was not raised "right." It's sad, but it's true. I developed a drug habit, and by fifteen years old, I had already seen the inside of jail. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. I know that my mom should have been charged with child abuse and neglect, but there was no one in my corner to help me and my siblings. I want to be the person I needed twenty years ago. I know I can fight to save the people who need saving. I have a 3.5 GPA; I am intelligent, determined, outgoing, passionate, and ready to lead my generation of peers to victory.

I plan to use my law education to help those in need. When I was in third grade, my teacher told us that around 5% of people are wrongfully convicted of the crimes they are charged with. I asked how this could happen, and she replied, "That's how the system works." I did not like that answer, but I knew it was up to me to start somewhere. I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. I was not raised "right." It's sad, but it's true. I developed a drug habit, and by fifteen years old, I had already seen the inside of jail. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. I know that my mom should have been charged with child abuse and neglect, but there was no one in my corner to help me and my siblings. I want to be the person I needed twenty years ago. I know I can fight to save the people who need saving. I have a 3.5 GPA; I am intelligent, determined, outgoing, passionate, and ready to lead my generation of peers to victory.

I plan to use my law education to help those in need. When I was in third grade, my teacher told us that around 5% of people are wrongfully convicted of the crimes they are charged with. I asked how this could happen, and she replied, "That's how the system works." I did not like that answer, but I knew it was up to me to start somewhere. I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. I was not raised "right." It's sad, but it's true. I developed a drug habit, and by fifteen years old, I had already seen the inside of jail. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. I know that my mom should have been charged with child abuse and neglect, but there was no one in my corner to help me and my siblings. I want to be the person I needed twenty years ago. I know I can fight to save the people who need saving. I have a 3.5 GPA; I am intelligent, determined, outgoing, passionate, and ready to lead my generation of peers to victory.

I plan to use my law education to help those in need. When I was in third grade, my teacher told us that around 5% of people are wrongfully convicted of the crimes they are charged with. I asked how this could happen, and she replied, "That's how the system works." I did not like that answer, but I knew it was up to me to start somewhere. I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. I was not raised "right." It's sad, but it's true. I developed a drug habit, and by fifteen years old, I had already seen the inside of jail. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. I know that my mom should have been charged with child abuse and neglect, but there was no one in my corner to help me and my siblings. I want to be the person I needed twenty years ago. I know I can fight to save the people who need saving. I have a 3.5 GPA; I am intelligent, determined, outgoing, passionate, and ready to lead my generation of peers to victory.

I plan to use my law education to help those in need. When I was in third grade, my teacher told us that around 5% of people are wrongfully convicted of the crimes they are charged with. I asked how this could happen, and she replied, "That's how the system works." I did not like that answer, but I knew it was up to me to start somewhere. I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. I was not raised "right." It's sad, but it's true. I developed a drug habit, and by fifteen years old, I had already seen the inside of jail. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. I know that my mom should have been charged with child abuse and neglect, but there was no one in my corner to help me and my siblings. I want to be the person I needed twenty years ago. I know I can fight to save the people who need saving. I have a 3.5 GPA; I am intelligent, determined, outgoing, passionate, and ready to lead my generation of peers to victory.

I plan to use my law education to help those in need. When I was in third grade, my teacher told us that around 5% of people are wrongfully convicted of the crimes they are charged with. I asked how this could happen, and she replied, "That's how the system works." I did not like that answer, but I knew it was up to me to start somewhere. I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. I was not raised "right." It's sad, but it's true. I developed a drug habit, and by fifteen years old, I had already seen the inside of jail. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. I know that my mom should have been charged with child abuse and neglect, but there was no one in my corner to help me and my siblings. I want to be the person I needed twenty years ago. I know I can fight to save the people who need saving. I have a 3.5 GPA; I am intelligent, determined, outgoing, passionate, and ready to lead my generation of peers to victory.

I plan to use my law education to help those in need. When I was in third grade, my teacher told us that around 5% of people are wrongfully convicted of the crimes they are charged with. I asked how this could happen, and she replied, "That's how the system works." I did not like that answer, but I knew it was up to me to start somewhere. I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. I was not raised "right." It's sad, but it's true. I developed a drug habit, and by fifteen years old, I had already seen the inside of jail. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. I know that my mom should have been charged with child abuse and neglect, but there was no one in my corner to help me and my siblings. I want to be the person I needed twenty years ago. I know I can fight to save the people who need saving. I have a 3.5 GPA; I am intelligent, determined, outgoing, passionate, and ready to lead my generation of peers to victory.

I plan to use my law education to help those in need. When I was in third grade, my teacher told us that around 5% of people are wrongfully convicted of the crimes they are charged with. I asked how this could happen, and she replied, "That's how the system works." I did not like that answer, but I knew it was up to me to start somewhere. I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. I was not raised "right." It's sad, but it's true. I developed a drug habit, and by fifteen years old, I had already seen the inside of jail. My life was hopeless. I was beaten, robbed, and held at gunpoint for less than twenty dollars. My life fell apart fast, and I was out of options. I could continue to be dependent on drugs, or I could turn my life around. I decided to do the latter. I know that my mom should have been charged with child abuse and neglect, but there was no one in my corner to help me and my siblings. I want to be the person I needed twenty years ago. I know I can fight to save the people who need saving. I have a 3.5 GPA; I am intelligent, determined, outgoing, passionate, and ready to lead my generation of peers to victory.

I have not always had it easy in life. I grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio. My parents separated when I was in fourth grade, and my mom became an addict and alcoholic. I had to raise my siblings while living in extreme conditions. We did not have gas or electricity due to my mom's habits. No hot showers or warm meals were waiting for us at the end of the day. I remember walking over 10 miles in the middle of the night to the hospital because my baby brother had a fever of over 104 degrees. My mom was not home, and he was extremely sick. The administrator turned us away when we got to the emergency room because my mom was not there. They should have called child protective services, but they did not. I pushed him in a stroller 10 miles back home, where my sister waited alone for us to return. That was just one incident where my mom failed me. She would continue bringing strange men home, and they had their way with us. There was no protection, care, or love from our mother. By eighteen, I got myself into a state-run rehab center in Akron. It was not the Hilton Hotel, but it was enough to get me off drugs. I was extremely sick, hopelessly alone, ashamed, and ready to give up. No one was there for me. I had to pick myself up by my bootstraps and prepare to become a functioning adult. I was never taught to do anything, so I had to rely on myself. Slowly but surely, I started feeling better, more confident, and ready to leave treatment alone. I got a job at TacoBell, managed my money, and paid for an apartment. I was nineteen years old; my life was improving, and I had sober friends I now consider family. Those new family members helped me learn to pay my bills, taught me how to do my taxes, showed me how to buy a car, and taught me the importance of car insurance. Before my newfound family, I did not know how to do any of those things. By twenty years old, I met my now husband, and we found out I was pregnant with a little girl. Our lives turned upside down. We moved out of the apartment and bought our first home in Solon, Ohio, where we still live today. Raising a baby is the most challenging thing I have ever experienced. Once again, I felt alone. I did not know how to raise a child because I never had a mother to show me how to be a mom. Day in and day out, I was struggling to stay sober, struggling to be financially stable, and struggling to be a wife. Everything seemed so easy for the people around me, so I could not ask for help. My daughter cried all day nonstop. I thought I broke her. It turns out she was colic, which I still don't understand what that means, but it meant she screamed for hours and hours for nine months straight! I thought I was losing my mind. Luckily, the crying faded slowly, and we became closer. Learning to navigate motherhood with her was exhausting, but I'm so glad we made it out on the other side. Her little brother was born four years later, my easy baby. The Lord must have known I needed a break.

I am a thirty-year-old student. It's not easy being the oldest in my class, but I am striving to teach my two young children the importance of education. It has not been easy; I come from a very broken home. My mom is an addict, and I am a recovering addict as well. I got sober before my children were born. I volunteer at my children's school and church. I have a 3.5 GPA, earned my associate of arts degree, and am continuing my education to earn my bachelor's degree. I have raised my siblings and two children without help from family or friends. I am a leader and strive to teach my children leadership skills. I cultivate a healthy work environment. I incorporate mindful leadership practices and help my community. I am understanding, outgoing, and productive. I rally around people and help them find their inner leaders. I plan on earning my bachelor's degree with the help of a scholarship. After being a stay-at-home mom for eight years, I started college at twenty-seven. It was not easy by any means. I cried a lot during my first semester. I needed to catch up in math and English. I was embarrassed because I struggled to spell essential words correctly and had a hard time with algebraic equations. I still struggle occasionally, but my first year of college taught me so much. I am so proud of myself for continuing my education. No one was there to push me in elementary and high school, so I fell behind. It was noticeable in my first year, but I persevered. I was there for myself. I showed up to every class, every lecture, and every lab. I was usually the oldest in my class, but that did not bother me. I am proud to be thirty and a junior in college. I deserve this and have worked extremely hard to reach my goal. I believe in myself and can get others to believe in me, too. I struggle to find the right words to explain where I have come from; it was not easy growing up poor with an addicted mother. I have knocked down many walls that were built to keep me down. I can do great things if allowed to prove my worth. Please consider me for this opportunity. I am well on my way to being the first person in my family to earn such a high honor; I know I can continue to law school and become a talented attorney.