To be raised by a single mother is to bear witness to a woman moving mountains all day, every day. Growing up with a single mother has been a defining and transformative experience in my life. It has shaped me into the person I am today, instilling in me values of resilience, empathy, and determination. My journey with a single parent was not without its challenges, but it was through these challenges that I learned the most valuable lessons. As the sole provider, my mother balanced work, and household responsibilities, and raised me with remarkable grace. Witnessing her handling all of these roles had an incredible impression on me. Her sacrifices made me realize the importance of perseverance and the impact of hard work. She taught me that obstacles are growth opportunities and that no matter how daunting a challenge may seem, I can overcome anything with tenacity and a positive attitude. Growing up in a single-parent household made me more attuned to the struggles of others. I saw firsthand the challenges my mother faced in balancing work, household responsibilities, parenting, and caring for my disabled brother. This experience fostered a deep sense of empathy within me. It taught me to be more understanding and supportive of others who were facing their hardships. I learned that everyone has their battles, and treating people with care can go a long way. My mother is both my hero and my role model. She showed me that gender should never limit one's aspirations or abilities. Her strength and determination shattered stereotypes, teaching me that women are just as capable as men in any endeavor. Her example encouraged me to pursue my dreams without fear of societal expectations or limitations. My mother always emphasized the importance of education as a means to a better future. She encouraged me to excel in school and never stop learning by leading by example, earning her Master’s in Criminal Justice the same year I graduated from high school. As we crossed stages, days apart from one another, her unwavering support and belief in my potential fueled my ambition. I worked hard to achieve academic success. Growing up with a single mother has shaped me into a person who values resilience, empathy, determination, and independence. It was through the challenges and sacrifices of this experience that I learned the most valuable life lessons. My mother's strength and unwavering support have been my guiding light, inspiring me to overcome obstacles and pursue my dreams. I carry these lessons I learned during my upbringing into every aspect of my life, and I am grateful for the unique perspective and strength that growing up with a single mother has given me. It is a testament to the fact that adversity can mold us into stronger, more compassionate individuals, and I am proud of the person I have become as a result.

"With a sixth-grade education," my grandmother would often remark, encapsulating her profound accomplishments and inspiring me to recognize the vast possibilities that lie ahead with my college degree. Born and raised in the heart of Clarendon, Jamaica, my grandmother's love for learning was nurtured until financial constraints halted her formal education after sixth grade. Nevertheless, she never ceased to impart the importance of education and community to her children and family. In the 1960s, my grandmother's decision to immigrate to Queens, New York was driven by a singular purpose - to uplift her family and community. She embarked on a pursuit to pave the way for her eleven siblings, ensuring they would be granted the opportunity to advance their education beyond the sixth grade in the United States. As the product of my grandmother's unwavering prayers and unyielding labor, I have embraced the principles of education and community. In January of 2022, I founded the Caribbean Student Association (CSA) at The Ohio State University. This endeavor has culminated in a community space, where over 200 Ohio State students, both Caribbean and non-Caribbean, meet to learn, commemorate, and celebrate the richness of Caribbean history. CSA stands as a testament to my grandmother's resilience and her unwavering commitment, emphasizing the transformative potential of education and the irreplaceable significance of a supportive community. Jamaican culture is known for its rich artistic traditions, including music, dance, and visual arts. This vibrant creativity has inspired me to embrace innovative thinking and explore creative avenues within my academic pursuits, enabling me to approach challenges with fresh, culturally aware perspectives. My grandmother's indomitable spirit and the electrifying energy of Jamaican culture have been a driving force, emboldening me to pursue my degree with passion and zest.