I woke up on a day as normal as any other. I brushed my teeth, got dressed, and had breakfast with my family before heading to school for the typical run-through of classes. There is nothing quite as “normal” as feeling excited to head home after a long day, something I often feel never really leaves you even as an adult. When I got home, I was fully prepared to go about my prescribed evening activities, when suddenly, my parents sat me down and told me my younger brother had been diagnosed with cancer. That was not the “normal” I had built for myself, at least not when the rest of my family was grieving. As time passed, I became their source of strength and support, their new normal. While being the strong pillar for my family was an immense burden that I may not have even had to take, it taught me some valuable lessons. I learned the importance of empathy, the power of being present, and the value of perseverance. On the other side of the same coin, I also learned that I did not have to be so stoic. I learned from my family that relationships were meant to lean on each other mutually, and that a one-sided road often never goes down the path you would like. Beyond the lessons of sacrifice and self-discovery, the experience of watching my brother battle cancer also made me more appreciative of life and the people in it. The ordeal with my brother has made me realize the importance of resilience, determination, and adaptability. While our new normal was not easy, I learned to embrace it and turn it into an opportunity for personal growth. I believe that my newfound strength and ability to adapt to difficult situations will help me continue learning, growing, and embracing new challenges as I embark on the next chapter of my life. As I contemplate my academic journey, the University of St. Thomas emerges as the ideal destination for my higher education. Its strong commitment to holistic education and fostering a sense of community deeply resonates with my values and aspirations. I am eager to pursue a degree in business, as I believe it aligns perfectly with my passion and career goals. The university's esteemed faculty and comprehensive curriculum in this field present an exciting opportunity for me to gain in-depth knowledge and skills that will prove useful in my future. What excites me most about UST is its vibrant and inclusive community. I am confident that I can make a meaningful contribution to this community through my involvement in campus initiatives, campus community, and the campus activities board, which not only enhances my own personal growth but also enriches the experiences of my peers. I am committed to fostering a sense of kinship and giving back. Moreover, the core values of UST deeply resonate with me. The university's emphasis on ethics, leadership, and social responsibility mirrors my own beliefs. I am dedicated to upholding these values and using them as guiding principles throughout my academic journey and beyond. In conclusion, the University of St. Thomas offers the perfect environment for me to pursue my academic and personal aspirations. I am eager to contribute to the UST community, not only as a dedicated student but as an individual committed to the betterment of the world. I look forward to the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive as a part of the UST family.

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