I grew up in Tepic, Nayarit Mexico, until the age of ten. The life in my native country is very different to say the least. Unfortunately, I grew up in a place where you would see young kids working on the streets and begging for money. As a young girl this led me to feel very grateful for having my basic needs met and having access to an education, as my mother always made it a priority. Today ten years later, I continue to appreciate and pursue an opportunity to obtain a nursing degree. My journey has not been easy, as my financial and legal status have been my biggest obstacles. My past has pushed me to be a highly motivated student when it comes to my education and the education of those around me. I am the Vice President for the Association of Latin American Students and the Rockford Promise Club. Additionally, I am a member of the Phi Theta Kapa honor society and a part of the club on campus. At this point, I have a 4.0 GPA and am looking forward to graduating next spring with an Associate of Arts Degree. After I graduate from Rock Valley College, I hope to transfer to a four-year university and pursue a nursing degree. I acknowledge the privilege I hold by being able to obtain higher education and try my best to succeed in all that I do.