Being the oldest of seven kids in a single parent house hold has shaped me into the woman I am today. Growing up, I quickly learned responsibility, while other kids played and where worried free I had to step in and help my mother, taking care of my siblings cleaning, and cooking was an everyday thing, it still is. My mother has also shown love and support for her kids but I knew she needed help too. My mother has always been the supporter in my family, always working,making sure we were well taken care of and doing things a father should. I have nothing but love for my mother and i hope to become like her, and take care of her; not only to raise my kids with love but do better in life to have a stable household and income for my family. As the oldest child, I feel deep responsibility to set an example for my siblings, my younger siblings have always looked up to me. I want them to see how hard work and determination will get you in life no matter how many challenges you face. College represents more than a degree; to me it shows that I have broke the cycle in the family, being to first one to say I could go to college I am going to college and for that I am deeply grateful for the opportunity. It will show how despite my background I can do better prove and show others they can too, there were time when finances were not great however, those challenges only strengthened my motivation. One of the experience that shaped my desire to attend college and major in criminal justice was being bullied as a child. I remember feeling powerless and unheard, unsure how to stand up for myself. Those moments were painful but sparked a feeling in me. I began to think about the importance of protection, fairness, and advocacy. No child nor adult should feel unsafe or silenced. Majoring in criminal justice will allow me to understand the legal system, protect ones who feel vulnerable, and work towards creating a safer environment for the community. Whether I pursue a career in law enforcement or an attorney, my goal is to become someone who stands up for others the way I wished someone would've done for me. My dream of attending college is to make something out of myself, I want to support my mother who has sacrificed so much for me, and support her how she does me. I want to keep setting an example for my siblings and others who may look up to me. College is the right pathway for me to stability, growth, and service. Attending in college won't be easy but it wont stop me from achieving my dreams, and the lifestyle I want for me and my family.