As an African-American college student of Haitian descent on my way to attend the University of Buffalo to pursue a degree in electrical engineering, my achievements can not only be credited to myself but also to the resilience of my family throughout generations. My family includes many first-generation Haitian immigrants, such as my father, grandmother, uncle, and cousins. Though we have faced many challenges, I’ve learned that our presence can support the well-being of our family. I was born and raised in Rockland County, New York. During my childhood, I experienced the hardship of living with divorced parents. While my mother struggled as a single parent, my grandmother played a massive role in caring for and raising me. I frequently spent nights at my grandmother's house, where she tirelessly took care of me despite her medical issues, which limited her physical capabilities. In the later years of my grandmother's life, she often spent her time alone. I noticed that life’s responsibilities can lead us to neglect spending time with those we love. I am extremely thankful for the time I had with my grandma. While she took care of me, she also fostered my spiritual growth, teaching me how to navigate life as a Christian. I later realized how my growth brought her joy. From my experiences with her, I learned that a parent finds happiness in raising the next generation and teaching them life principles to continue their legacy. After she passed away, I began to understand my grandma more and why she lived the way she did. She was always there for our family, giving all she had to ensure we were taken care of. She made it her goal to help others in need, and she had a big heart, empathizing with people in ways most wouldn’t. She reflected the emotions of others, celebrating during good times and mourning during tough times. These are the qualities of my grandma that resonated with me the most. Reflecting on my grandma's influence and the lives of other first-generation Haitian immigrants in my family revealed the importance of service to others. At the Sloatsburg food pantry, I had the opportunity to help various groups, including immigrant families, low-income families, people with disabilities, and senior citizens. Working at the food pantry reminded me that many people struggle regardless of their background, such as an individual's race, gender, or ethnicity, but the common principle of serving others according to their needs builds strong communities and relationships. After a challenging but rewarding high school career, I’m extremely thankful for the opportunity to pursue higher education. Understanding how my family contributed to my life despite their challenges motivates me to benefit others by supporting those in need, being an example to friends and family, and ensuring my character sincerely reflects my heart.