Since the age of 3, a tiny classroom in a small-town school is all I have known. I have always been a so-called "dreamer." Nothing has ever seemed too far out of reach to me. While some people saw the small school and limited resources as a setback, I took the most of what I was given and used it as a launchpad for my future endeavors. I always choose to find the good in every circumstance, and believe that anything is capable of being achieved as long as you give it your all. From the shy little boy who entered the halls at the unheard-of school called New Deal, to the now graduated boy with aspirations to make a name for himself, I am filled with confidence in what my future holds. Growing up, I didn't always have access to the nicest devices or resources. Although my resources were limited, my determination never was. Through the very scarce library and outdated computers, I was able to discover my love for learning and also develop a sense of gratitude. A small school may have meant fewer available opportunities, but it also revealed the importance of working twice as hard and valuing everything. A small town also allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of teamwork and communication. I participated in 3 sports throughout high school, and all of them highlighted the importance of teamwork. Whether it was a Friday night under the lights, a basketball tournament, or the 4x400 meter relay with a chance to go to state finals, every moment I shared with my peers helped grow my sense of teamwork. Now that I have experienced what it feels like to be looked down on and doubted, I am filled with a sense of exhilaration to see what college holds for me. I am confident that college will provide an environment where I can flourish, while also laying the foundation for a promising future. I chose business, specifically finance, as my major because it aligns with my academic and future interests. A degree in finance would equip me with the necessary tools and understanding to navigate the ever-changing world of money management, financial planning, and investing. Equipped with these tools, I can envision myself succeeding in the dynamic and demanding job market. My end goal in this beautiful gift that we call life is to make an impact on not just the small town that shaped me, but also the world as a whole. I aspire to not only be a successful business owner, but also to be a loving father, a respectful husband, and, most importantly, to make my mom proud. One quote that I have heard that resonates with me goes along the lines of, "just a small town kid with big city dreams." The only exception is that I am not dreaming, but rather making it happen.