Imagine waking up in a world so unraveled that you cannot tell one day from the next. A world so heavy that even brushing your teeth feels like an accomplishment. A world so dark that breathing no longer feels automatic, but intentional. That was my reality. In 2018, I was diagnosed with trauma-related anxiety and depression following a devastating event the year prior. In 2017, someone I loved was killed in a motorcycle accident, and the world shifted before I could even begin to understand it. There is much about that night I do not remember. Trauma has a way of protecting the mind from what it cannot process. However, some images remain vivid: the scattered debris of his bicycle, the chaos of friends holding white sheets, the dark pool of blood marking the place where his life ended. In the days that followed, I went numb and slowly, the world I once knew began to unravel. For months, I convinced myself that I was “fine.” But surviving is not the same as living, and eventually, the cracks became impossible to hide. I saw it not only in myself, but in the way my children watched me. They deserved more than a mother who was merely surviving. They deserved one who was present, whole, and healing. Acknowledging that I needed help was not a sign of weakness; it was the first step toward reclaiming my life not only for myself but also for my children. During this journey, I have learned that it is okay to ask for help and to vocalize when you are struggling. I have become open about mental health, using my story to encourage others that vulnerability is not a weakness, but a form of strength. My beliefs have shifted over time—my faith, once a guiding anchor, wavered following the accident, and I have yet to fully return to that path. At the same time, my relationships with my children have deepened, while I keep most others at a distance. While my therapist says this defense mechanism is a way of protecting myself from experiencing similar pain again, I have come to accept that this is part of who I am now. My aspirations are rooted in growth and resilience. I am committed to investing in myself through my education and my career, with the hope of one day walking across the stage for my MBA with my children watching. I want them to see that we fell apart, but we did not break. Instead, we healed, we grew, and we flourished.

My "Pie in the Sky" is to earn my Master’s degree, a dream that feels inspiring and just out of reach. For a long time, higher education seemed like a chapter that had quietly closed for me. Between raising a family, building a career, owning a business, and helping run a farm, both time and finances often feel stretched. This very reality fuels my determination to keep going. The spark for this dream came when I decided to challenge the belief that personal growth has an expiration date. At nearly 40 years old, I realized that the idea of being “too late” was a belief I had imposed on myself, not a truth set in my future. I began to ask myself what example I wanted to set for my children. I want them to see that doors are never truly closed, that learning doesn’t stop with age, and that courage means pursuing growth even when the path is hard or uncertain. I want them to understand that obstacles are not stop signs, but invitations to think creatively and persist with heart. Pursuing a Master’s degree means more than just an academic achievement for me. It shows resilience, self-belief, and the willingness to take bold steps forward despite competing responsibilities. It is a commitment to becoming the best version of myself, not just for my own fulfillment but also for the people and communities I serve. I believe education creates ripple effects: when one woman grows, her family, workplace, and community grow with her. While this dream still feels just out of reach, I am actively working toward it. I am currently completing my Bachelor’s degree, taking one step at a time. I am doing everything I can to limit financial strain by seeking grants and scholarships and paying what I can out of pocket. Each application I submit is an act of courage. It shows that my dream is worth investing in and that support exists within a community that values women’s ambition and perseverance. Balancing school with family life, business ownership, and farm responsibilities has taught me discipline, adaptability, and humility. It has also shown me the power of asking for help and leaning into community. I’ve learned that growth doesn’t happen in isolation. It happens when we believe in ourselves enough to take action and let others walk alongside us. My goal may still feel distant, but it no longer seems impossible. I am learning to measure progress not by how quickly I arrive, but by the courage it takes to keep moving towards that goal. Earning my Master’s degree will be a testament to perseverance, lifelong learning, and the belief that women can evolve at every stage of life. If awarded this scholarship, it would ease the financial burden of my educational journey and serve as a strong reminder that bold dreams are meant to be pursued, even when the timing isn’t perfect. More importantly, it would affirm the message I strive to pass on to my children and my community: that growth is always possible, courage creates growth, and it is never too late to reach for the "Pie in the Sky".

Returning to school took courage because it meant choosing progress over comfort while balancing many responsibilities. As a mother of four, Branch Manager at a local credit union, small business owner focusing on reptiles, and caretaker of a small farm with chickens and pigs, my days are filled with obligations and hard work. For a long time, I told myself that this was simply “enough.” However, deep down, I knew I was capable of more, and that understanding kept me from feeling satisfied with my situation. What finally pushed me to go back to school was recognizing the main obstacle that had held me back in my career: my lack of formal education. Through experience and determination, I had built a successful career in the financial services industry. I had shown my skills in real-life situations, but I saw how not having a degree limited my chances for advancement and growth. I realized that if I wanted to keep moving forward—not only for myself but for my family and future—I needed to remove that barrier. I decided to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration because education was the key part I was missing. Once I finish my studies, that barrier will be gone. By investing in my education, I am making sure that my nearly two decades of experience are backed by credentials, allowing me to advance without the limits I faced before. Balancing a full-time job, full-time education, parenting four kids, running a business, and managing a farm has required discipline and sacrifice. There are late nights after doing homework, early mornings before work, and constant prioritizing of what truly matters. However, managing a credit union branch has improved my leadership and problem-solving skills, while running my own business and farm has taught me adaptability, accountability, and perseverance. These experiences have equipped me to succeed in my studies and reinforced that I can handle multiple complex responsibilities at once. My courage is also driven by purpose. I am working on building a second chapter in my career, one focused on leadership, financial empowerment, and long-term stability. Education is not just a personal goal; it sends a message to my children that growth never stops and that perseverance opens new doors. I want them to understand that challenges do not define us—how we respond to them does. Like Susie Green, I have realized that strength comes not from avoiding difficulties but from facing them with determination. Going back to school required believing in myself and being willing to accept discomfort for my growth. This journey represents resilience, courage, and the belief that it is never too late to overcome obstacles and fully embrace your potential.

Growing up, I watched friends struggle with their mental health, and I’ve mourned the loss of a few who lost their battle to the demons that haunted them. I can honestly say I never thought that could be me. I didn’t understand why they couldn’t fight it—until I found myself struggling to live. November 2018 marked the beginning of my own mental health journey. The man I was dating at the time was involved in a horrific motorcycle accident that left him lifeless on the road, while I stood there, screaming for him to come back, surrounded by a pool of his blood. I don’t remember much from that night or the days that followed, but I do remember sending my kids to live with their father temporarily. I remember being surrounded by people constantly, and I remember being told to get out of bed, brush my teeth, and even take a shower. Even then, I knew I was sad, but I didn’t realize just how badly I was struggling. My friend Brian will always hold a special place in my heart, as he was the one who recognized how bad things had gotten. I would ride my motorcycle, not caring whether I made it home, drinking and partying to forget, and withdrawing from everyone. Brian saw through it all and tracked me down one night while I was out riding. He made me stop right there on the side of the highway, took my keys, and arranged for someone to pick up my bike. That night, he pointed everything out to me—reminding me that I had children to live for and that I needed help. In March 2019, I was diagnosed with anxiety and depression. The journey to healing has been anything but easy. While Brian was the one who first encouraged me to get help, it was my children who became the light I needed in my darkest days. Fast forward to today, and going through this experience has made me realize just how taboo mental health still is. Despite so many still wanting to sweep it under the rug, I’ve become much more open about my struggles. Talking about my journey still brings emotions to the surface, but if my openness about my struggles and how much professional help has helped me can inspire someone else to reach out for the help they need, then the path I was put on had a purpose. Friendships have changed dramatically throughout this journey. You realize not everyone in your circle is good for your growth. Many of the people I considered friends, I took a huge step back from. If they didn’t support me getting help, I ended the friendship. If they weren’t a positive light during my darkest moments, I ended the friendship. I then surrounded myself with people who were supportive when I needed it, understanding when I vocalized my struggles, and weren’t afraid to sit me down and point out when I was veering off track by shutting myself off from the world. I don’t let people get close to me anymore—not the way I used to—and I trust very few. But the people who are in my life now are lifelong friends. While much of my life has changed due to my struggles, my career hasn’t. I have a manager who has been there since that fateful night. He’s watched me struggle, supported me through my journey to get help, and when I feel myself on the verge of spiraling, I can go to him and simply say, “I need a day.” I’d love to say that my struggles pushed me into a career path where I could help others, but I know I’m not ready for that—and probably never will be. Depression and anxiety never truly go away. We have our good days, but we also have our bad ones. I do believe, however, that mental health should be talked about more. People shouldn’t be afraid to seek help, or be shunned for voicing their struggles. Acknowledging that you’re struggling isn’t a weakness—it’s the greatest strength you can display. And taking that leap of faith in getting help only makes you stronger.

My decision to continue my education was inspired by a deep desire to set an example for my children. Since becoming a mother, they have been the driving force behind many of the decisions I’ve made in my life. I want them to see that no matter the obstacles or challenges, they can achieve their dreams, both personally and professionally. By pursuing my education, I hope to teach them that growth is possible at any stage in life and that perseverance is key to success. The desire to show them that anything is achievable has kept me motivated throughout this journey. The path to continuing my education, however, has not been without obstacles. When I became a young mother, I chose to put my education on hold to focus on my growing family and career. I prioritized caring for my children and working to support them, which meant that school became something I would revisit later. I never imagined that later would take many years to arrive, but life’s responsibilities left little room for personal ambitions. When I decided to return to school, the greatest challenge I faced was financing my education. With a family to support, tuition fees seemed impossible to cover without incurring significant debt. I had to navigate the complexities of balancing family finances, which didn’t allow much room for educational expenses. Additionally, balancing my career, four children, and a small business added even more difficulty to an already packed schedule. Finding time to study while managing these responsibilities felt overwhelming at times. Managing my roles as both a student and a mother has required a great deal of time management and support from my family. Time is a precious commodity when balancing multiple responsibilities, and I quickly realized that without proper planning, I would struggle to keep up. Fortunately, my children are older now, and their ability to become more self-sufficient has allowed me more flexibility to focus on my education. While they no longer require the constant attention they once did, I still need their support. We’ve developed a system at home where they understand the importance of the time I need to dedicate to my studies, and in return, they take on more household responsibilities. This mutual understanding has been vital in maintaining balance between school and family life. I also prioritize organization and efficiency in my daily routine. I set aside specific blocks of time for studying, working, and spending quality moments with my children. I plan ahead for busy periods, ensuring that I can meet deadlines without sacrificing family time. Communication is key, and I make sure my children understand when I need time to focus on school, while also ensuring I make time for them outside of my academic obligations. The journey of balancing the roles of a student and a mother has been challenging, but also rewarding. My children continue to be my inspiration, and my goal is to show them that no matter the stage of life, it is always possible to grow, learn, and achieve. Through perseverance, time management, and the support of my family, I am managing to pursue my education while being present for my children. Ultimately, I hope my example will inspire them to follow their dreams, regardless of the obstacles they may face.

Returning to school after a long hiatus presents a unique set of challenges, and my journey has been shaped by various personal and financial obstacles. When I withdrew from college at 19 to focus on my new baby and my career, I wasn’t sure if I would ever return. I certainly didn't anticipate that 14 years later, I would decide to pursue my Associate in Arts degree in psychology. The decision to go back to school was motivated by a desire for personal growth but this added another layer of complexity to my already busy life. The pandemic in 2020 was a time of great uncertainty for many, and for me, it meant navigating the challenges of remote learning while also juggling responsibilities as a mother of four young children. As schools closed due to lockdowns, I found myself in the unexpected position of being both a student and a teacher. My kids were at home, working on their own online curriculum, and I had to balance my studies with making sure they stayed on task with their schoolwork. It was overwhelming at times, as I struggled to find the right balance between being a mom, a teacher, and a student. However, through determination and a lot of trial and error, I eventually found my rhythm. Despite the difficulties, I completed my two-year program in a fraction of the time it would have taken me had the pandemic not forced me into such a demanding situation. Fast forward to 2024, I was evaluating my career prospects and realized that in order to advance in the banking industry, I would need to return to school again, this time pursuing a higher degree in a different field. The decision to change my major and work toward a more advanced qualification posed two major challenges: the financial cost and the time commitment. With four children, a career, and the added responsibility of managing a small business, the prospect of further education seemed daunting. The biggest hurdle was how to finance my education. With the financial obligations of a family, I couldn’t afford to pay for tuition out of pocket. Unfortunately, my employer doesn’t offer tuition reimbursement, and I found that I didn’t qualify for financial aid due to our family’s income level. This left me with no choice but to rely on student loans. Although I am not required to begin repaying the loans right away, I decided to start making payments early to ease the future burden. This choice was a financial strain but also a necessary step in achieving my goals. Involving my family in the process was crucial in overcoming these challenges. We had a family discussion about my decision to go back to school, and I explained the sacrifices involved. Thankfully, my children are now at an age where they are more independent and able to manage their own responsibilities, which allowed them to offer their support. Their willingness to help with household chores and responsibilities gave me the time and mental space I needed to focus on my studies. Returning to school has not been without its challenges, but it has been a rewarding experience. It has shown my children that, regardless of the obstacles we face, education is worth the effort and sacrifice. I’ve demonstrated to them that it's never too late to pursue your goals, and with perseverance and support, anything is possible. Despite the financial strain and time management challenges, I am proud of how far I’ve come and excited for what the future holds.

Embarking on my first semester with an ambitious 18-credit hour course load, the very first question posed was a straightforward inquiry: "Are you sure you can manage this?" Undeterred, my response was resolute and unwavering: "Absolutely!" The underlying concern behind this question was evident, considering the multitude of responsibilities that I had willingly shouldered. Not only was I navigating through a demanding academic workload, but I also maintained a demanding full-time position as a Branch Manager at a local Credit Union. In addition, I proudly operated my own business, specializing in breeding reptiles and rodents, all while fulfilling the roles and responsibilities of a parent to four children. The key to my success lies in effective time management. Establishing a meticulous routine and strategically planning my evenings and weekends became paramount in ensuring my ability to excel academically and professionally. A typical evening in my life involved my husband taking charge of dinner preparations while I engaged in homework sessions with my children. Following dinner, it was my responsibility to attend to the cleaning and care of the snakes and rodents integral to my business. Setting a goal to work on assignments from at least two classes each night became my nightly ritual, leaving little room for the luxury of early bedtime. Weekends unfolded as a delicate balance between tending to the needs of my business—cleaning and feeding rodents and snakes—and fulfilling academic obligations. My mornings were dedicated to caring for the animals, while afternoons and evenings were consumed by an intensive focus on academic assignments. Gratefully, I encountered understanding professors who recognized and accommodated the unique challenges I faced due to my myriad responsibilities. They willingly worked with me, allowing flexibility in terms of Zoom meetings and calls that were occasionally required. This support proved invaluable in maintaining the delicate equilibrium between my professional, academic, and personal commitments. My role as a Branch Manager demanded significant time and effort and provided me with invaluable experience essential for future career trajectories. Pursuing further education, with the goal of obtaining both my bachelor’s and eventually my MBA, emerges as the pathway to realizing my aspirations in the banking industry. More specifically, I aspire to secure a position in upper management within the risk, anti-money laundering, and compliance sector, and my educational journey serves as the conduit to achieving this dream. The focused curriculum associated with my bachelor’s degree in business promises continued learning and growth, enhancing my capabilities as a business owner and augmenting the overall success of my entrepreneurial venture. Every step on this journey converges towards the overarching goal of personal and professional growth, cultivating the foundation for a more successful future. As I navigate through the intricacies of my demanding life, each endeavor, whether academic or professional, contributes to the realization of my aspirations and propels me toward an even more triumphant future.

My most significant achievement in this lifetime is demonstrating to my children that, despite facing challenges, one can achieve their goals. After high school, I entered the banking industry as a teller. Parenthood and my career intertwined seamlessly, with the birth of my first child occurring within a year of graduating. As a young mother aspiring to make something of herself, the demands led me to withdraw from the local community college, prioritizing child-rearing and career growth. Little did I know, education would become pivotal for my future success. Over the subsequent decade, I steadily progressed in my career, accumulating promotions. Yet, the pursuit of formal education remained on hold as I navigated the delicate balance of work and raising my three children. In 2016, after a divorce, I found myself starting anew. Within months, I embraced the role of Branch Manager at a local Credit Union, prompting a shift in focus. I set a personal goal to return to school. In the spring of 2020, during a planned break to spend time with my now four children, the unforeseen arrival of COVID-19 reshaped our lives. As schools closed, my children adapted to online learning, and I took a leave from work. It was during this period that I decided to return to school. While my children grappled with the changes, I simultaneously juggled admissions paperwork and FAFSA applications. I assured them that soon enough, I would be joining them in this new learning environment. By August 2020, as my children returned to a modified brick-and-mortar setup, I embarked on a full class load at Hillsborough Community College, continuing to work as a Branch Manager. Evenings were dedicated to shared homework sessions, test preparations, and late-night Zoom meetings with professors and peers. My children witnessed firsthand that if Mom could manage all this, so could they. Celebrations ensued when I made the Dean’s List, aced exams, and ultimately graduated in 2021 – accomplishments we rejoiced in together. Today, I am happily remarried, continuing to learn in my role as Branch Manager, and contemplating the next steps in my career. This juncture demands further education for continued growth. I understand that this next phase will require sacrifice and dedication, not only from me but also from my children. My teenage boys eloquently expressed, "Mom, if your dream is to excel in this job and you need more school to do it, then what are you waiting for?" While my children didn't choose my career path, my journey would not be the same without them. I persevere in pursuing my dreams, illustrating to them that with determination, anything is possible. As future achievements unfold, we will continue to celebrate together, reinforcing the lesson that persistence and resilience lead to success.

Education is often portrayed as a linear trajectory, where individuals seamlessly progress from high school to college and beyond. However, my educational journey defies this conventional narrative, as at almost thirty-six years old, I find myself returning to school with a renewed sense of purpose. My goal is to complete my Bachelor's degree in Business Administration with a concentration on management, marking a significant chapter in a story characterized by resilience, personal growth, and the pursuit of a momentarily deferred dream. In 2006, I graduated from Riverview High School, filled with eagerness to embark on the next chapter of my life. I enrolled at a local community college while simultaneously embracing a full-time role as a teller at Bank of America. At that youthful age, life seemed figured out, but unforeseen challenges emerged – the responsibilities of a young family, my own youth, and the demands of a burgeoning career. Faced with the stark realities of life, I made the difficult decision to put my education on hold, a choice that later became my first regret. This moment served as a pivotal realization, underscoring the importance of foresight and planning for the future. Over subsequent years, I devoted myself to my career, steadily ascending the professional ladder, ultimately achieving the position of Branch Manager at a local Credit Union. The disruptive year of 2020, amidst the global COVID-19 pandemic, became a turning point. A renewed sense of purpose and the drive to reclaim the educational path I had temporarily abandoned led me to re-enroll in college. In May 2021, I earned my A.A. degree with a concentration in Psychology, reaching new heights by making the Dean's List – a testament to my commitment and perseverance. Now, at St. Petersburg College, I am pursuing a B.S. in Business Administration with a focus on management. Reflecting on my journey, I acknowledge my only other regret – not obtaining an A.S. in Business initially. This oversight necessitates undertaking additional core courses, a challenge I am ready to face head-on. My goal is to complete my degree in less than two years, setting the stage for the pursuit of an MBA with a concentration on compliance, risk, and anti-money laundering at the University of South Florida. As I navigate this academic endeavor, my motivation stems from within. Clear career goals drive me, and I recognize that my current lack of education poses a barrier to their attainment. Supported by my husband and children, I am confident in overcoming obstacles and achieving the milestones I've set. This journey isn't solely about personal success; it's about imparting a crucial lesson to my children – that age should never limit aspirations, and with determination, any goal is achievable. Looking ahead, I envision obtaining certifications aligned with my career path, including the coveted CAMS certification. These certifications will not only enhance my professional capabilities but also underscore my commitment to continuous learning and development. I am driven by the belief that education is a lifelong pursuit, and each milestone achieved is a step toward personal and professional fulfillment. In conclusion, my journey as a non-traditional student underscores the transformative power of education and the resilience of the human spirit. Overcoming challenges, redefining goals, and embracing the pursuit of knowledge have shaped my narrative. As I chart my course towards a Business Administration degree, I am not only fulfilling a personal dream but also paving the way for future generations to believe in the infinite possibilities of education. My story is one of tenacity, growth, and the unwavering belief that it is never too late to chase your dreams.