When I left Rwanda and came to the United States by myself, I did not fully understand everything I was stepping into. I just knew that I wanted more for my future, and that education was the path that could take me there. That decision alone required sacrifice, bravery and a sense of purpose that continues to shape who I am today. Sacrifice, for me, meant leaving behind my family, my culture, and everything that felt familiar. It meant starting over in a place where I had to figure things out on my own, how school works, how to navigate opportunities, and even how to find my voice in spaces where I sometimes felt invisible, but those moments also pushed me to grow in ways I never expected. Bravery showed up in the small, everyday decisions. It was in speaking up when I was not confident, asking for help when I needed it, and continuing to move forward even when I doubted myself. Being alone in a new country forces one to become resilient; it teaches you how to adapt, how to think differently, and how to keep going even when things are uncertain. Service is the value that ties everything together. Where I come from, community is not optional, it is a way of life. People support each other, and success is something that is shared. That mindset has stayed with me, and it is one of the main reasons I want to pursue a degree in business administration. Business is not just about profit; it is about creating opportunities, building systems that include people who are often left out, and using leadership to make a real difference. As someone part of the African diaspora, I have seen and experienced some of the challenges that many people face in the United States. One of the biggest issues is access. This includes access to education, economic opportunities and information. Many immigrants and first-generation students come with ambition and talent, but they struggle because they do not fully understand the systems around them or lack the support to navigate them. This is where I see business and leadership playing a critical role. I want to use my education in business administration to create pathways for others, whether that is through entrepreneurship, mentorship programs, or community-based organizations that provide resources and guidance. I believe that economic empowerment is one of the most powerful ways to create long-term change. One of the most important reforms I believe in is expanding access to financial literacy and business education within the underserved communities. Many people have ideas, skills and potential, but they lack the knowledge or resources to turn those ideas into something sustainable. Teaching people how to manage money, start businesses, and build generational wealth can transform entire communities. Another critical reform is creating more inclusive economic opportunities. Too often, people from the African diaspora are underrepresented in leadership positions, corporate spaces, and business ownership. Companies and institutions need to be more intentional about diversity not just in hiring, but in leadership development, mentorship, and investment in minority-owned businesses. Community-based support systems are also essential. Organizations that understand the cultural and social realities of African immigrants can provide more effective support than generalized programs. These organizations can offer mentorship, networking opportunities, and guidance that help individuals navigate both education and professional and professional environments. Policy makers must create equitable economic policies that open doors rather than limit them. And educational institutions need to prepare students not just academically, but practically, with real-world skills and support. And individuals like me must continue to give back, using our experiences to support others. Sgt. Albert Dono Ware’s legacy of service, sacrifice and bravery reminds me that success is not just about personal achievement. It is about what you do with the opportunities you are given. His life represents a commitment to something greater than oneself, and that is a mindset I carry with me as I continue my journey. Coming to the United States alone from Rwanda was not easy, but it gave me a sense of purpose. It is what I am capable of, and it shaped the vision I have for my future. Through business administration I want to build something that creates opportunities not just for myself, but for others who are trying to find their place like I once was. At the end of the day, my journey is still unfolding. But one thing is clear, the values of service, sacrifice and bravery are not just part of my story, they are the foundation of the impact I hope to make.