On February 21st, 2023, I stood in a courtroom in front of a judge wearing a blazer, hair done, and feeling confident. No fifteen-year-old should ever be required to do this. My chosen family stood behind me, and for the first time, I told the story of my childhood with confidence. A judge granted us “permanent temporary custody.” It's hard to recount the story of my childhood. My parents abused drugs and alcohol, and we moved almost every year. I went to fifteen different schools in twelve years. We were constantly shifting from motels to people's homes. Everything felt temporary. I struggled to maintain friendships; I never had a best friend. Things reached a breaking point during the lockdown in 2020 when my mother went to the hospital for end-stage liver failure. I couldn't sleep, and I suffered from life-threatening depression. I fought with my mom to help her stay alive. Eventually, it became more than I could handle, and my mom had to get the help she needed without me. So, I moved in with my Aunt Anna and Uncle D. My mother got better enough to return home with my dad, but I stayed with my aunt and uncle for school. They helped me get therapy, medication, and begin to start a different life. We all worried that if I went back with my mom, I might not make it. That sounds dramatic. It’s true. The year was 2020, and the school year was hard for everyone. But I was learning about a new family, a new school, and an entirely new way of learning by studying life. It wasn't easy. I was consistently distracted by my past life and the new one. One thing that was really hard was that my mom kept coming back for doctor's appointments every three months. In February of 2021, things got even worse. My mom started drinking again, even when she was visiting me. One night got really bad, and my mother called the cops, but when they came, she was told she had to leave and go home without me. This was the moment my life began to change dramatically. I went to court. On that day in court, it was the first time I was really able to tell people what happened in my life, how I wanted to live, and who I wanted to be surrounded by. I felt proud. I felt like it was easy. I felt heard. After telling my side of the story, a lawyer and guardian ad litem were assigned to my case. At first, I thought they would help move things along quickly. But my lawyer failed at his job. He never met with me individually. He didn't fight for my rights or needs. My case should have been “open and shut,” but it dragged on for months while I wondered what would happen to me. I was worried I would have to go back to my mom. My lawyer failed his job, so I waited for a court decision for years. His failure changed my life, but not in the way you’d expect. I wanted to be a nurse in the military and after retiring become a college art professor. Now, I'm determined to become a family attorney, a youth justice attorney, and a guardian-ad-litem. A lawyer or attorney is supposed to help you escape from a place that harms you. I will help others be heard when they have no voice. I will help those who dare speak their truth. I will be for others what no one was for me

On February 21st, 2023, I stood in a courtroom in front of a judge wearing a blazer, hair done and confident. No fifteen year old should ever be required to do this. My chosen family stood behind me and for the first time I told the story of my childhood with confidence. A judge gave us: “permanent temporary custody.” It's hard to tell the story of my childhood. My parents abused drugs and alcohol, we moved almost every year, i went to fifteen different schools in twelve years. We were constantly moving from motels, to people's homes. Everything felt temporary. I struggled to maintain friendships, I never had a best friend. Things came to a head during lockdown in 2020 when my mother went to the hospital for end stage liver failure. I couldn't sleep, I suffered from life threatening depression. I fought with my mom to help her stay alive, eventually , it was more than I could handle and my mom had to get the help she needed without me. so , I moved in with my aunt Anna and Uncle D. My mother got better enough to go back home with my dad but i stayed with my aunt and uncle for school. They helped me to get therapy, medication and beguin to start a different life. We all worried that if i went back with my mom, i might not make it. That sound dramatic. It’s true. It was 2020, and the school year was hard for everyone. But, i was learning a new family, a new school, and an entieraly new way of of learning by studying on life. It wasnt easy. I was consistently distracted by my past life, and the new one. One thing that was really hard was that my mom kept coming back for doctors appointments every three months. In february of 2021 things got even worse. My mom started drinking again, even when she was visiting me. One night got really bad and my mother called the cops, but when they came, she was told she had to leave and go home without me. This was the momant my life began to change dramatically. I went to court. One that day in court, it was the first time i was really able to tell people what happened in my life, how i wanted to live and who i wanted to be surrounded by. I felt proud. I felt like it was easy. I felt hurd. After telling my side of the story a lawyer and guardian ad litem were assigned to my case. At first i thought they would help move things along quickly. But my lawyer failed at his job. He never met with me individually. He didn't fight for my rights or needs. My case should have been “open and shut” but it dragged on while I wondered what would happen to me. I was worried I would have to go back to my mom. My lawyer failed his job, so I waited for a court decision for years, his failure changed my life, but not in the way you’d expect. I wanted to be a nurse in the military, and after retiring become a collage art professor. Now I'm determined to become a family attorney, youth justice attorney and guardian-ad-litem. A lawyer, or attorney is supposed to help you escape from a place that harms you. I will help others be Hurd when they have no voice. I will help those who dare speak their truth. I will be for others what no one was for me.

Certainly, here's the revised text with the additional content included: My journey with mental health challenges began in 4th grade but wasn’t fully understood until 10th grade when I was diagnosed with C-PTSD, major clinical depression, anxiety, and insomnia. I was prescribed seven different medications to manage these issues, which impacted both my physical and mental well-being. Growing up with undiagnosed mental illnesses made it difficult to comprehend what was happening in my mind. Childhood trauma further exacerbated my struggles. Understanding how trauma, especially from childhood, affects mental, physical, and educational aspects was enlightening. I realized why I faced challenges like grammar, spelling, math, and reading fluency, which are foundational skills I still work on. Disruptions in life, like during my first semester in college, can profoundly affect my ability to focus and perform academically. Navigating mental health issues extends beyond academics, influencing personal life and relationships. Trust and forming deep connections are ongoing struggles stemming from past trauma and abuse. Seeking validation and fearing disappointment from role models, particularly men, reflects deeper emotional wounds. Despite these challenges, therapy and medication have been instrumental in my healing journey. Consistent therapy over four years has helped me understand myself, set boundaries, and improve self-worth. While enforcing boundaries remains a work in progress, I strive for a better quality of life and effective coping mechanisms. My passion lies in advocating for youth justice and family law, inspired by my experiences. Becoming an attorney specializing in these areas, including serving as a guardian ad litem, is my ultimate goal. I want to ensure no child faces trauma alone and unheard. My past experiences drive me to support others through similar struggles, despite my ongoing battles with mental health. One significant achievement is being the first in my family to attend college, maintaining a 3.4 GPA despite adversities. Standing in court, sharing my story, and securing "permanent temporary custody" marked a turning point in my life's narrative. Overcoming the challenges of transient living, parental substance abuse, and mental health battles has shaped my resilience and determination. On February 21st, 2023, I stood in a courtroom in front of a judge wearing a blazer, hair done and confident. No fifteen-year-old should ever be required to do this. My chosen family stood behind me, and for the first time, I told the story of my childhood with confidence. A judge gave us: “permanent temporary custody.” It's hard to tell the story of my childhood. My parents abused drugs and alcohol, we moved almost every year, I went to fifteen different schools in twelve years. We were constantly moving from motels to people's homes. Everything felt temporary. I struggled to maintain friendships; I never had a best friend. Things came to a head during lockdown in 2020 when my mother went to the hospital for end-stage liver failure. I couldn't sleep; I suffered from life-threatening depression. I fought with my mom to help her stay alive; eventually, it was more than I could handle, and my mom had to get the help she needed without me. So, I moved in with my aunt Anna and Uncle D. My mother got better enough to go back home with my dad, but I stayed with my aunt and uncle for school. They helped me get therapy, medication, and begin to start a different life. We all worried that if I went back with my mom, I might not make it. That sounds dramatic. It’s true. It was 2020, and the school year was hard for everyone. But, I was learning a new family, a new school, and an entirely new way of learning by studying life. It wasn't easy. I was consistently distracted by my past life and the new one. One thing that was really hard was that my mom kept coming back for doctors' appointments every three months. In February of 2021, things got even worse. My mom started drinking again, even when she was visiting me. One night got really bad, and my mother called the cops, but when they came, she was told she had to leave and go home without me. This was the moment my life began to change dramatically. I went to court. On that day in court, it was the first time I was really able to tell people what happened in my life, how I wanted to live, and who I wanted to be surrounded by. I felt proud. I felt like it was easy. I felt heard. After telling my side of the story, a lawyer and guardian ad litem were assigned to my case. At first, I thought they would help move things along quickly. But my lawyer failed at his job. He never met with me individually. He didn't fight for my rights or needs. My case should have been “open and shut” but it dragged on for months while I wondered what would happen to me. I was worried I would have to go back to my mom. My lawyer failed at his job, so I waited for a court decision for years, his failure changed my life, but not in the way you’d expect. I wanted to be a nurse in the military, and after retiring become a college art professor. Now, I'm determined to become a family attorney, a youth justice attorney, and guardian ad litem. A lawyer or attorney is supposed to help you escape from a place that harms you. I will help others be heard when they have no voice. I will help those who dare speak their truth. I will be for others what no one was for me.

My ultimate aspiration in life is to become an attorney specializing in family and youth justice, with a particular interest in serving as guardian ad litem. This ambition stems from my personal journey through significant childhood trauma and enduring mental health challenges. Over the years, I have navigated major hurdles, and these experiences have fueled my passion for advocating for the rights and well-being of young individuals. My envisioned career path revolves around empowering youths to find their voices and ensuring their safety, especially concerning mental health issues, traumatic experiences, and exposure to toxic or unsafe living environments. I firmly believe that every child should have access to opportunities, dreams, and a support system that nurtures them to reach their full potential. During my high school years, I proactively pursued knowledge in the field of law by enrolling in criminal justice classes through a vocational program. This early exposure allowed me to gain foundational insights into legal principles and processes. Furthermore, I actively sought mentorship and guidance from professionals in the legal field. I had the privilege of interviewing a practicing lawyer in Maine, touring their law firm, and engaging in insightful discussions with an esteemed former attorney who now serves as a judge in the state. These interactions provided me with invaluable perspectives and reinforced my commitment to pursuing a career in law focused on youth advocacy. Currently, I am pursuing a major in criminology at college. This academic path not only equips me with a deep understanding of legal frameworks but also delves into the sociological dynamics behind law enforcement and criminal behavior. This interdisciplinary approach is instrumental in shaping me into a more holistic and effective advocate for young individuals who encounter legal challenges. My educational journey is complemented by ongoing therapy sessions spanning four years. These sessions are pivotal in enhancing my mental well-being, developing coping mechanisms, and fostering healing from past traumas. I recognize that my personal growth and resilience directly contribute to my ability to advocate passionately and empathetically for youths facing adversity. I am on an accelerated law pathway that enables me to obtain both my bachelor's and JD degrees within six years, streamlining my trajectory into the legal profession. My overarching goal is to be a steadfast advocate for youth, leveraging my lived experiences, educational background, and ongoing personal growth journey to be a catalyst for positive change in their lives. In essence, I am driven by the belief that every young person deserves a chance to thrive despite their circumstances. By becoming a knowledgeable, compassionate, and dedicated attorney, I aim to be the voice and support system that vulnerable youths need to navigate the complexities of the legal system and pursue brighter futures.

Experiencing mental health issues since I was seven, being diagnosed with C-PTSD, major clinical depression, anxiety, and insomnia, I have gained a lot of knowledge after going through therapy on how these affect people's mindsets. I've reflected on the impact it's had on me and have been able to help my friends and family through their struggles as well. One thing I do most is helping my 19-year-old boyfriend who struggles with depression and anxiety. He bottles everything in and doesn't talk about how he feels. I sit down and remind him that his feelings matter and are important, that talking about them helps. I am able to get him to talk, and we can converse on issues that may be upsetting, stressful, or make him angry so he can reflect. While he isn't perfect at it (which no one is), he has made so much progress. I strive to allow people this same opportunity, especially with youth. My ultimate goal is to become an attorney for both youth justice and family law, so I can advocate for those who struggle with mental health, trauma, or are in unsafe homes. I want to give youth the opportunity to strive and be the best version of themselves and have the supports they need to do so. I know the impact these experiences can have, whether long or short, and I will always continue to help others through their experiences the best way I can.

My plan for the future after receiving my bachelor's degree in criminology is to pursue law at the University of Maine School of Law. Ultimately, I want to become an attorney specializing in both family law and youth justice. I have been through so much and want to be able to advocate for all youth who struggle with trauma, mental health issues, or are in unsafe homes. I want every child to have the opportunity not only to be a child but also to dream and work towards making those dreams a reality. Youth have immense potential, and I want to advocate for them to reach that potential, to receive the support and services they need to succeed and grow in life. This scholarship will greatly assist me because I wouldn't have to stress so much about financial issues and could instead continue to focus on my education. As an independent female, almost 20 years old, who relies on work-study, I already struggle to meet basic necessities, let alone paying tuition. I often worry about whether I'll be able to afford to register for classes the following semester because I can't cover what I owe after my financial aid comes through. Money is a constant source of anxiety and disappears quickly, so this scholarship would alleviate my concerns about paying for classes and allow me to concentrate on excelling in my coursework. Receiving this scholarship would not only lighten my financial burden but also give me the confidence and peace of mind to fully engage in my studies. I am determined to make a difference in the lives of disadvantaged youth, and this financial support would be a crucial stepping stone towards achieving my goals. With less financial pressure, I could dedicate more time to internships, volunteer work, and extracurricular activities related to law and advocacy, enhancing my skills and preparing me for my future career. Furthermore, my passion for advocating for youth stems from my own experiences and challenges. Growing up in difficult circumstances has shaped my desire to create positive change in the legal system, particularly regarding issues that affect vulnerable populations like children and adolescents. By pursuing a career in law, I aim to use my voice and legal knowledge to represent those who often go unheard or underserved. My journey towards becoming an attorney specializing in family law and youth justice is driven by a deep-seated passion to advocate for those in need. This scholarship would not only support my education but also empower me to fulfill my aspirations of making a meaningful impact in the legal realm. I am committed to using my skills and experiences to contribute positively to society, and I am grateful for the opportunity to pursue my dreams with the assistance of this scholarship.

When I was in 4th grade, I started to notice a plummet in my mental wellness. I never knew how bad it was until I was in 10th grade (sophomore in high school) when I was diagnosed with C-PTSD, which is complex post-traumatic stress disorder, major clinical depression, anxiety, and insomnia. I was on 7 different meds to try and help with all of the mental and physical health issues I was dealing with. Having multiple mental illnesses and not knowing until I was sixteen made it hard to understand what was going on in my head. I have a lot of childhood trauma that enhanced my mental health struggles. After learning how trauma, especially childhood trauma, can affect you on a mental, physical, and educational level, I was able to find where a lot of my struggles come from. I struggle with basics that you learn in elementary school like grammar and spelling. I've struggled with math, and I'm not a fluent reader, though I have gotten better. If something happens in my life now that is a disruption, it disrupts everything. A situation happened my first semester at college, and I had to drop two classes. I failed one, and my GPA went from a 3.4 to a 1.6. I have always tried my hardest in school, but unfortunately, when trauma-inducing events happen, it's like there is a shut-off in my brain. I can't focus, no information sticks in my brain, and it makes things really hard to get back on track. Luckily, I had a wake-up call second semester and was able to bring my grade back from a 1.6 to a 3.4. My mental health doesn't just affect my academics but my personal life and relationships. I have a hard time trusting and getting close to people because of the fear of losing people or getting hurt. I look up to certain people, specifically men, for validation in my success, and it tears me apart when they are disappointed in me. This stems from all the trauma and abuse from my father. There are so many other things that are affected by my mental health, but those are the main points, My family is affected because they put me through my Trama. I have been on multiple different medications to help panic and anxiety attacks, which used to be scary and physically harmful. I have been in therapy for four years now consistently and have learned a lot about myself. I have been able to grow as a person and learn my worth and my boundaries. While I still struggle to enforce them, I'm working on improving my quality of life, how I view myself, and my coping for things that do trigger moments of my past so that way I am able to be the best I can be for my career. I plan to become an attorney for family law and youth justice and possibly a guardian ad litem so I can be an advocate for youth. I want to provide them with a safe and supportive group behind them so they can succeed and have the best quality of life for them because no one should have to go through the trauma I did or worse, and when they do, they should never go through it alone and feel unheard and unwanted. I plan to help children the best I can regardless of the mental health struggles I have. I will continue to go to therapy and improve myself for the better so I can help the youth who need it.

One of the biggest achievements I feel I have had so far in life is the fact that I have made it this far, almost being 20 years old, the first person in my family to attend college, and I'm finishing my first year with a 3.4 GPA. I have been through a lot of childhood trauma, and I've been dealing with mental health issues since I was seven. My ultimate goal in life is to become an attorney for both the youth justice system and family law. From all the trauma I have been through, I have learned how to persevere, fight for what is right, stand up for myself, practice self-love, and I have discovered my passion for helping youth who go through mental health issues and trauma as well. On February 21st, 2021, I stood in a courtroom in front of a judge wearing a blazer, my hair styled, filled with confidence. No fifteen-year-old should ever be required to endure such an experience. My chosen family stood behind me as I recounted the story of my challenging childhood with newfound confidence. As a result, the judge granted us "permanent temporary custody." Recounting the story of my childhood is no easy task. My parents struggled with substance abuse, and we moved nearly every year, leading me to attend fifteen different schools within twelve years. We lived transiently, shifting from motels to people's homes, leaving me with a sense of impermanence. Maintaining friendships was a struggle, and I never had a close confidant. The turning point came during the lockdown in 2020 when my mother was hospitalized due to end-stage liver failure from substance abuse. The stress and anxiety led to severe depression, making it difficult for me to sleep. I fought tirelessly to support my mother's recovery, but the burden became overwhelming. Eventually, my mother had to seek professional help without my direct involvement. Consequently, I moved in with my Aunt Anna and Uncle D. While my mother's health improved enough for her to return home with my father, I chose to stay with my aunt and uncle for stability in schooling and life. They facilitated my access to therapy, medication, and a fresh start. Concerns lingered about returning to my parents' care, fearing for my well-being. This might sound melodramatic, but it reflects my reality. The year 2020 was challenging for everyone, and for me, it meant adapting to a new family, school, and learning paradigm based on life experiences. Distractions from my past and adjusting to a new life were constant struggles. Additionally, my mother's recurrent doctor visits every three months posed emotional challenges. Matters worsened in February 2021 when my mother relapsed into alcoholism during a visit. A severe incident led to the involvement of law enforcement, marking a pivotal moment. I found myself in court, narrating my life's events, expressing my desires for a different life and supportive environment. It was empowering yet challenging, marked by a mix of pride and hardship. Following my testimony, a lawyer and guardian ad litem were appointed to my case. Initially hopeful for swift resolution, I faced disappointment as my lawyer failed to advocate effectively. Lack of individual meetings and inadequate representation prolonged my case unnecessarily, causing anxiety about my future. Despite this setback, my experience redirected my life goals. Originally aspiring to be a nurse in the military and later a college art professor, I am now determined to become a family attorney, specializing in youth justice and serving as a guardian ad litem. A lawyer's role is pivotal in helping individuals escape harmful situations. I aspire to provide a voice to those who are unheard, standing up for their rights and truth, being for them what no one was for me.

"Sword Art Online" holds a special place in my heart, has Since third grade, it's been my favorite anime, and there are plenty of reasons why. The storylines and character development are top-notch, drawing me in and making me fall in love with characters like Kirito and Asuna. Their love and compassion for each other throughout the series, despite facing hardships, resonate deeply with me. It's a testament to the power of love and support, which you've carried with you. Kirito's journey, from gaining more power to acquiring better armor, feels like a real progression. It's not just about fighting; it's about growth and facing challenges head-on. The different story arcs, like Alfheim Online (ALO), Gun Gale Online (GGO), and the Underworld, add depth to the universe, keeping the series fresh and engaging. The anime's message of perseverance, no matter the obstacles, is a powerful one. It's a reminder to keep fighting and pushing forward. And the portrayal of love in the series has taught me a lot of valuable lessons about what to look for in a relationship and that true love endures. It's wonderful how a piece of entertainment can have such a profound impact, shaping your views and providing inspiration. "Sword Art Online" isn't just a show; it's a journey that has left a lasting impression on me, showing that with determination and the right person by my side, anything is possible.

The youth justice system stands as a monumental social issue that demands our attention and action. As a resident of Maine, where institutions like the Long Creek Youth Corrections Facility loom large, I have been profoundly impacted by the shortcomings and challenges within this system. It's alarming to note that a significant proportion of incarcerated youth in Maine have either experienced or are currently grappling with trauma or mental health issues. Despite these glaring realities, the resources and support systems available to aid in their growth and healing are often inadequate, if not entirely absent. This deficiency not only hinders their personal development but also perpetuates a vicious cycle where youths struggle to break free from the labels and constraints society imposes upon them. The heart of the matter lies in understanding that no young person aspires to be labeled a prisoner or a criminal. Such labels not only carry heavy societal stigma but also undermine the inherent potential and aspirations of these youths. Placing them behind bars, devoid of adequate mental health support and rehabilitative programs, can exacerbate their existing challenges rather than address and resolve them. This punitive approach, without a concurrent focus on holistic well-being and rehabilitation, often leads to more harm than good. My journey towards advocating for a more compassionate and effective youth justice system is deeply rooted in personal experiences and a fervent desire for positive change. Growing up in an unsafe, abusive, and toxic household, I intimately understand the struggles and hardships that young individuals face when navigating trauma and adversity. While I was fortunate not to have entered the justice system myself, I empathize with those who, out of sheer desperation and survival instincts, engage in actions that may lead them down that path. Reflecting on my past, I recall moments of dire need where I resorted to actions that society deems unlawful. For instance, stealing food from grocery stores became a means of survival because there was often none at home. It was a desperate act born out of necessity rather than malice. This introspection underscores the complex interplay between societal norms, personal circumstances, and the choices individuals make in dire situations. The current punitive paradigm within the youth justice system fails to address these nuances effectively. It overlooks the underlying traumas and mental health challenges that drive many youths towards unlawful behavior. Instead of merely punishing such actions, we must strive to understand and heal the root causes. This necessitates a paradigm shift towards a more rehabilitative and supportive framework—one that prioritizes mental health treatment, counseling, education, and skill development. My career aspiration to become an attorney specializing in family and youth justice is not just a professional goal but a personal mission. I aim to be a voice for those who are often unheard and marginalized within the legal system. Through legal advocacy, policy reform, and initiatives, I intend to contribute to a society where every young person receives the support, guidance, and opportunities they need to thrive. Such a vision requires collective efforts from lawmakers, community leaders, educators, mental health professionals, and advocates like me, prioritizes humanity, compassion, and equity. While the road ahead may be daunting, I remain steadfast in my commitment to effecting meaningful change within the youth justice system and beyond. the youth justice system is a complex web of societal, legal, and human challenges that demand a multifaceted approach. By combining personal experiences with a professional drive for advocacy and reform, I aspire to contribute to a more just, humane, and equitable world for all youths, regardless of their past struggles or current circumstances..

When I was in 4th grade, I started to notice a plummet in my mental wellness. I never knew how bad it was until I was in 10th grade (sophomore in high school) when I was diagnosed with C-PTSD, which is complex post-traumatic stress disorder, major clinical depression, anxiety, and insomnia. I was on 7 different meds to try and help with all of the mental and physical health issues I was dealing with. Having multiple mental illnesses and not knowing until I was sixteen made it hard to understand what was going on in my head. I have a lot of childhood trauma that enhanced my mental health struggles. After learning how trauma, especially childhood trauma, can affect you on a mental, physical, and educational level, I was able to find where a lot of my struggles come from. I struggle with basics that you learn in elementary school like grammar and spelling. I've struggled with math, and I'm not a fluent reader, though I have gotten better. If something happens in my life now that is a disruption, it disrupts everything. A situation happened my first semester at college, and I had to drop two classes. I failed one, and my GPA went from a 3.4 to a 1.6. I have always tried my hardest in school, but unfortunately, when trauma-inducing events happen, it's like there is a shut-off in my brain. I can't focus, no information sticks in my brain, and it makes things really hard to get back on track. Luckily, I had a wake-up call second semester and was able to bring my grade back from a 1.6 to a 3.4. My mental health doesn't just affect my academics but my personal life and relationships. I have a hard time trusting and getting close to people because of the fear of losing people or getting hurt. I look up to certain people, specifically men, for validation in my success, and it tears me apart when they are disappointed in me. This stems from all the trauma and abuse from my father. There are so many other things that are affected by my mental health, but those are the main points. I have been on multiple different medications to help panic and anxiety attacks, which used to be scary and physically harmful. I have been in therapy for four years now consistently and have learned a lot about myself. I have been able to grow as a person and learn my worth and my boundaries. While I still struggle to enforce them, I'm working on improving my quality of life, how I view myself, and my coping for things that do trigger moments of my past so that way I am able to be the best I can be for my career. I plan to become an attorney for family law and youth justice and possibly a guardian ad litem so I can be an advocate for youth. I want to provide them with a safe and supportive group behind them so they can succeed and have the best quality of life for them because no one should have to go through the trauma I did or worse, and when they do, they should never go through it alone and feel unheard and unwanted. I plan to help children the best I can regardless of the mental health struggles I have. I will continue to go to therapy and improve myself for the better so I can help the youth who need it.

On February 21st, 2021, I stood in a courtroom in front of a judge wearing a blazer, my hair styled, filled with confidence. No fifteen-year-old should ever be required to endure such an experience. My chosen family stood behind me as I recounted the story of my challenging childhood with newfound confidence. As a result, the judge granted us "permanent temporary custody." Recounting the story of my childhood is no easy task. My parents struggled with substance abuse, and we moved nearly every year, leading me to attend fifteen different schools within twelve years. We lived transiently, shifting from motels to people's homes, leaving me with a sense of impermanence. Maintaining friendships was a struggle, and I never had a close confidant. The turning point came during the lockdown in 2020 when my mother was hospitalized due to end-stage liver failure from substance abuse. The stress and anxiety led to severe depression, making it difficult for me to sleep. I fought tirelessly to support my mother's recovery, but the burden became overwhelming. Eventually, my mother had to seek professional help without my direct involvement. Consequently, I moved in with my Aunt Anna and Uncle D. While my mother's health improved enough for her to return home with my father, I chose to stay with my aunt and uncle for stability in schooling and life. They facilitated my access to therapy, medication, and a fresh start. Concerns lingered about returning to my parents' care, fearing for my well-being. This might sound melodramatic, but it reflects my reality. The year 2020 was challenging for everyone, and for me, it meant adapting to a new family, school, and learning paradigm based on life experiences. Distractions from my past and adjusting to a new life were constant struggles. Additionally, my mother's recurrent doctor visits every three months posed emotional challenges. Matters worsened in February 2021 when my mother relapsed into alcoholism during a visit. A severe incident led to the involvement of law enforcement, marking a pivotal moment. I found myself in court, narrating my life's events, expressing my desires for a different life and supportive environment. It was empowering yet challenging, marked by a mix of pride and hardship. Following my testimony, a lawyer and guardian ad litem were appointed to my case. Initially hopeful for swift resolution, I faced disappointment as my lawyer failed to advocate effectively. Lack of individual meetings and inadequate representation prolonged my case unnecessarily, causing anxiety about my future. Despite this setback, my experience redirected my life goals. Originally aspiring to be a nurse in the military and later a college art professor, I am now determined to become a family attorney, specializing in youth justice and serving as a guardian ad litem. A lawyer's role is pivotal in helping individuals escape harmful situations. I aspire to provide a voice to those who are unheard, standing up for their rights and truth, be for them what no one was for me.