Growing up as an interracial adoptee to a single mother is a unique experience that I am grateful to have. I realized at an early age that my small family was not "normal." We stuck out like a sore thumb; a red-head lady with her Chinese daughter. That's not something you see very often. But I got used to the insensitive questions and weird stares. However, being the child of a single mother has taught me more than just how to ignore rude people. My uncommon experience has helped make me who I am today and I wouldn't change it for the world. Being the daughter of a single mother has taught me how to make the best of the cards I've been dealt. Although we've had difficult times due to family issues and my mom being the sole provider, my mom has never complained. Even when my grandma's health took a turn due to cancer, forcing my mom to juggle taking care of my grandma and taking care of me, she always maintained a positive outlook. During hospital visits, we played games and talked, and I would always learn something new about healthcare. My mom never complained, never lost her temper, and was always optimistic. I've learned from her how to have a positive perspective on things in life. In order to have a positive outlook, you need to understand where they are coming from. Like us, everyone has a different story and we never know what someone else is going through. As a child, I didn't think much of my mom's side of things. She has always been there for me, always been supportive, and we've always been close. But, at 17, I finally realized how much work and sacrifice she's put into providing for me. Everyone talks about how financially challenging it can be, but no one talks about how mentally challenging it can be. When I was six, my mom and I moved from Indiana to Green Bay to become closer to my grandparents, mainly so that I would have a relationship with them. My mom left her friends and her job behind. At the time, I didn't know how challenging of a change that was. My mom left her friends and had to get a new job. And while she was rebuilding here, her priority was raising me. Now, I understand that she gave up almost everything for us to come here, so I would have a good relationship with my grandparents growing up. I know she has put everything she has into giving me a happy childhood and a good education. And, although it sounds cliche, I wouldn't want to waste all the work she put in. I have always strived to do good in school, especially in high school. I have maintained a good GPA and good grades, while also volunteering and getting involved in clubs. I realize the amount of work and effort my mom has put in to get me where I am today, and I want to fully take advantage of the opportunities I've been given.