My journey with mental health has shaped every part of who I am, my beliefs, my relationships, and my vision for the future. I have lived with depression, anxiety, and mania for much of my life. There were times when those struggles felt overwhelming, especially when my symptoms caused me to fall behind in school or step away from the structure I needed. But over time, through proper treatment and support, I found stability and with it, a clear sense of purpose. Living with mental health challenges has taught me the importance of empathy and understanding. I believe that everyone deserves to feel seen and supported, regardless of where they are in their journey. That belief has deepened my relationships with others, allowing me to connect with people on a more honest and compassionate level. Friends and peers know that when they come to me with their own struggles, they will be met with patience and an open heart. These experiences have also shaped my career aspirations. Growing up in a home marked by addiction, instability, and the absence of consistent support, I often wished there was someone who could understand what I was going through and guide my family toward stability. That wish is what fuels my dream of becoming a child and family social worker. I want to use my education and my lived experience to support children and families navigating mental health challenges, addiction, and instability. I am currently working toward earning my high school diploma through an adult education program, determined to build a future that is stable and purposeful. My next step is to pursue a Bachelor of Social Work, where I will learn how to combine evidence-based practices with the compassion and resilience I’ve gained from my own journey. My ultimate goal is to work in case management, helping children and families access the resources and support they need to create safer, healthier lives. I see a future where I can turn my challenges into opportunities to uplift others. I plan to use my time in college to not only build my knowledge but also to volunteer with organizations that focus on mental health advocacy and family support. By combining education, hands-on experience, and the lessons I’ve learned from my own story, I will be prepared to make a positive and lasting impact in my community. My experience with mental health has shown me that healing is not a straight line and that strength is often found in vulnerability. It has taught me to see every setback as an opportunity to grow and to lead with empathy in everything I do. Through my career in social work, I hope to be a steady voice of hope for those who feel unheard, proof that with the right support, it is possible to rise above life’s hardest moments and build a better future.

My journey with mental health has shaped every part of who I am, my beliefs, my relationships, and my vision for the future. I have lived with depression, anxiety, and mania for much of my life. There were times when those struggles felt overwhelming, especially when my symptoms caused me to fall behind in school or step away from the structure I needed. But over time, through proper treatment and support, I found stability and with it, a clear sense of purpose. Living with mental health challenges has taught me the importance of empathy and understanding. I believe that everyone deserves to feel seen and supported, regardless of where they are in their journey. That belief has deepened my relationships with others, allowing me to connect with people on a more honest and compassionate level. Friends and peers know that when they come to me with their own struggles, they will be met with patience and an open heart. These experiences have also shaped my career aspirations. Growing up in a home marked by addiction, instability, and the absence of consistent support, I often wished there was someone who could understand what I was going through and guide my family toward stability. That wish is what fuels my dream of becoming a child and family social worker. I want to use my education and my lived experience to support children and families navigating mental health challenges, addiction, and instability. I am currently working toward earning my high school diploma through an adult education program, determined to build a future that is stable and purposeful. My next step is to pursue a Bachelor of Social Work, where I will learn how to combine evidence-based practices with the compassion and resilience I’ve gained from my own journey. My ultimate goal is to work in case management, helping children and families access the resources and support they need to create safer, healthier lives. I see a future where I can turn my challenges into opportunities to uplift others. I plan to use my time in college to not only build my knowledge but also to volunteer with organizations that focus on mental health advocacy and family support. By combining education, hands-on experience, and the lessons I’ve learned from my own story, I will be prepared to make a positive and lasting impact in my community. My experience with mental health has shown me that healing is not a straight line and that strength is often found in vulnerability. It has taught me to see every setback as an opportunity to grow and to lead with empathy in everything I do. Through my career in social work, I hope to be a steady voice of hope for those who feel unheard, proof that with the right support, it is possible to rise above life’s hardest moments and build a better future.

Being a first-generation student means breaking barriers, not just for myself but for my family. Neither of my parents had the opportunity to pursue higher education. My father has struggled with drug addiction for as long as I can remember, moving in and out of my life, jobs, and jail. My mother, raising three children alone, battled a decade-long addiction to painkillers while trying to hold our family together. For years, I didn’t realize the depth of her pain because she carried it quietly while making sure we had food, clothes, and a roof over our heads. When she finally came to me for help, I did everything I could to support her. Today, I am proud to say she has been sober for two years, a reminder that healing and growth are possible. Growing up in a home full of instability meant I had to grow up fast. I stepped in as a caregiver for my younger twin brothers, taking on responsibilities far beyond my years. I helped with homework, kept routines in place, and provided the support and consistency that our home often lacked. Those years taught me resilience, empathy, and the importance of showing up for others, no matter how heavy life feels. But my journey has not been without setbacks. I have battled depression, anxiety, and mania, which made it difficult to stay focused in school. There were times when my symptoms became overwhelming, and I had to withdraw from traditional high school. Still, I refused to let that be the end of my education. With proper treatment, support, and determination, I found stability and enrolled in an adult education program to earn my high school diploma. That choice taught me that perseverance can turn even the hardest obstacles into opportunities for growth. Being a first-generation student means more than being the first in my family to attend college, it means paving a new path and proving that circumstances do not have to define a person’s future. My experiences have given me a clear sense of purpose: to become a child and family social worker. I want to use my degree to guide children and families through the same challenges I’ve lived through, connecting them to the resources and support they need to feel safe and hopeful. This scholarship would help me continue building that future. It would ease the financial burden of tuition and allow me to focus on my studies, volunteer opportunities, and gaining hands-on experience in the field. I plan to dedicate my time in college to learning everything I can, from social systems and family dynamics to advocacy and mental health support, so I can graduate prepared to make a real difference.

My experience with mental health has shaped every part of who I am, my beliefs, my relationships, and the career I want to build. Living with depression, anxiety, and mania has not been easy. For years, I struggled to understand my emotions and how they impacted my daily life, and there were times when I felt completely lost. But through those challenges, I gained strength, perspective, and a sense of purpose that now guide me forward. These experiences have taught me the importance of empathy and compassion. I believe that everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and supported, no matter what they are going through. Because I know firsthand what it feels like to be misunderstood or dismissed, I approach people with patience and without judgment. This belief has made my relationships stronger, I communicate more openly, listen more deeply, and value the trust others place in me when they share their own struggles. My mental health journey has also shaped my career aspirations. Experiencing the highs and lows of my diagnoses showed me the importance of accessible, compassionate mental health support. It made me realize that I want to be part of that support system for others. That is why I am pursuing a degree in social work, with the goal of becoming a child and family social worker. I want to help children and families navigate the same kinds of challenges I faced and connect them with the resources they need to build stability and hope. Managing my mental health while continuing my education has also shown me the power of resilience and self-advocacy. When my symptoms forced me to step away from traditional high school, I refused to let that be the end of my story. With proper treatment and a strong support system, I found stability and enrolled in an adult education program to earn my diploma. That experience reinforced my belief that setbacks do not define us, what defines us is how we rise after falling. In every way, my journey with mental health has pushed me to grow. It has made me more understanding, more determined, and more committed to helping others. It has taught me that healing is not a straight line, and that everyone’s story deserves compassion. As I move forward, I plan to use these lessons not just to build my own future, but to create a career where I can make a difference in the lives of people who need the same kind of understanding and support that once made a difference for me.

Growing up, I faced challenges that could have easily defined my future. My father struggled with drug addiction, moving in and out of my life, jobs, and jail. At the same time, my mother, a single parent raising three children, battled a long-term addiction to painkillers. I didn’t fully understand the depth of her struggle at first; all I saw was her determination to keep our family afloat, even while silently fighting her own battles. When she finally came to me for help, I did everything I could to support her, and today, I am proud to say she is two years sober. Those experiences forced me to grow up quickly. I stepped into the role of caregiver for my younger twin brothers, taking on responsibilities far beyond my years. From helping them with homework to creating routines that gave them stability, I learned patience, empathy, and what it truly means to show up for others. These moments shaped me and helped me realize that my greatest strength lies in supporting people through their struggles, a strength that now fuels my dream of becoming a social worker. My journey, however, has not been without personal challenges. I have faced my own battles with depression, anxiety, and mania, which often made it difficult to stay focused on my education. There were times when my symptoms became overwhelming, forcing me to withdraw from traditional high school. But even in my lowest moments, I refused to give up. With proper treatment, support, and a renewed sense of purpose, I found stability and enrolled in an adult education program to earn my high school diploma. That decision, and the determination it required, taught me that perseverance and resilience can turn even the hardest obstacles into opportunities for growth. Support through this scholarship would allow me to fully focus on my education as I pursue a Bachelor of Social Work. It would ease the financial burden that comes with higher education and allow me to dedicate more time to gaining hands-on experience, such as volunteering with organizations that provide mental health support and family resources. These opportunities will help me build the skills I need to reach my ultimate goal: working in case management, where I can connect children and families with the resources they need to feel safe, supported, and empowered. Students like me deserve opportunities like this because we know what it means to rise above circumstances that could have held us back. We understand the value of resilience, hard work, and hope. With this grant, I will continue to build a future where I cannot only succeed for myself but also give back to others, creating a ripple effect of support and compassion for those who need it most.

Growing up, I faced many challenges that could have easily defined my future. My father struggled with drug addiction, which kept him in and out of my life, in and out of jobs, and in and out of jail. At the same time, my mother, a single parent raising three children, battled a long-term addiction to painkillers. For years, I didn’t realize the depth of her struggle as she tried to keep our family afloat. When she finally asked for my help, I did everything I could to support her, and today, I am proud to say she is two years sober. Despite these hardships, I refused to let my circumstances determine my path. I worked to support my family, took on the role of caregiver for my younger twin brothers, and found strength in my resilience. These experiences taught me patience, empathy, and the importance of advocating for others, values that have shaped who I am and what I want to do with my life. I have also faced my own mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, and mania, which caused setbacks in my education. At one point, my symptoms worsened, and I had to withdraw from traditional high school. However, I refused to let that be the end of my academic journey. With proper treatment and medication, I enrolled in an adult education program to earn my high school diploma, and I have committed myself to achieving my goal of earning a Bachelor of Social Work. Support through this scholarship would allow me to stay focused on my education without the constant stress of financial instability. It would give me the freedom to fully engage in my studies, participate in volunteer work, and build the experience I need to become a successful child and family social worker. My ultimate goal is to work in case management, connecting children and families with the resources and support systems they need to feel safe, stable, and empowered. Students like me deserve opportunities like this because we have learned how to rise above the obstacles that life has placed in our way. We understand the value of hard work, the importance of resilience, and the power of support. With this grant, I will not only continue building my own future but also prepare myself to help others do the same, creating a cycle of support and success for those who need it most.

My mother is my world. I wouldn't be here without her. She has always been kind and soft spoken. I learned so much by watching how she talks to others, how she dresses, and how she spends time alone. I couldn't imagine who I would be if I didn't have her raising me. From a young age, I noticed how my mother carried herself, not in a loud or flashy way, but with grace and quiet confidence. She never needed to raise her voice to get a point across. There was a calm power in the way she spoke, always choosing her words carefully and with care. I watched how people naturally listened when she talked, not because she demanded it, but because they respected her. That’s something I’ve always admired, and it’s shaped the way I try to communicate with others. My mom spends most of her time caring for her kids and working at a Cancer Center. Her days are long and exhausting, but she still makes time for us. Even though she doesn’t get much down time, when she does, she chooses to spend it with me. Whether we’re watching a movie, running errands, or just talking, she makes me feel like I matter. She also loves watching basketball and soccer; it’s one of the few ways she unwinds, and I love seeing her enjoy something just for herself. What makes our relationship even more meaningful is how she’s supported me through some of the hardest moments in my life. I’ve struggled with my mental health for years, and instead of brushing it off or making me feel ashamed, she stood by me. She’s helped me through panic attacks, depressive episodes, and days when getting out of bed felt impossible. She listens when I need to vent, encourages me to get help when I need it, and reminds me that I’m not broken—I’m human. She’s also been incredibly supportive in my journey to understand and accept my gender identity. That kind of support isn't always guaranteed, but with her, I never had to wonder if I’d still be loved. She’s asked questions, learned alongside me, and never once made me feel like I had to be someone I’m not. Her acceptance gave me the courage to be honest about who I am, not just with others, but with myself. That kind of love is rare, and I don’t take it for granted. My mother isn’t perfect, but she is everything I needed. Her strength is quiet, steady, and filled with love. She has taught me the value of kindness, the power of showing up for the people you care about, and the importance of knowing who you are. No matter where I go in life or what I have become, I will always carry her lessons with me. She didn’t just raise me. She helped me become myself. And for that, I’ll always be grateful.

Why am I the most Gen Z person alive? Because I am a walking, talking mix of chaos, authenticity, and curiosity that perfectly captures what it means to grow up in this wild digital age. I am that person who is scrolling TikTok at 2 a.m., starting with dance videos and somehow ending up watching conspiracy theories about aliens or secret societies. I always have multiple tabs open. Some are for school, some for side projects, and others just for memes or music playlists that match my ever-changing moods. Communication? Forget long texts. I speak fluent meme and GIF, and I express how I am feeling through perfectly curated Spotify playlists. Sharing those playlists is basically my way of saying, “This is me. This is how I am feeling. Let’s vibe.” It is all about making connection in ways that feel real and fun. But it is not just about the fun and memes. I am deeply curious about the world and passionate about making a difference. I care about social issues, mental health, and pushing boundaries to build a better future. Gen Z is all about balancing the serious with the silly, the anxious with the hopeful. So yes, I am basically the ultimate Gen Z package: tech-savvy, meme-loving, playlist-sharing, brutally honest, and ready to take on the world while scrolling through the chaos.

I display an entrepreneurial spirit by actively seeking new opportunities to learn, grow, and create. From a young age, I have been drawn to starting my own projects and businesses. Launching my own small businesses has allowed me to develop skills in leadership, problem solving, and innovation. I enjoy identifying needs and coming up with creative solutions that can make a difference. Whether it is managing operations, marketing, or customer service, I take pride in handling the various challenges that come with entrepreneurship. This hands-on experience has taught me resilience, adaptability, and the value of hard work, all of which fuel my passion for innovation. Like Stelios, I am passionate about innovation. I constantly think about how to improve existing ideas or processes and apply fresh approaches to problems. This mindset extends beyond my businesses and into my academic and personal life. I am curious about how systems work and how they can be improved, especially in areas related to social work and mental health. I believe that innovation is not just about technology but also about how we think differently to serve others better and create positive change in our communities. My deep scholarly engagement is reflected in the way I approach my education. I am dedicated to learning with purpose and enthusiasm. I strive to understand the material fully, going beyond surface-level knowledge to explore underlying concepts and connections. I ask questions, seek additional resources, and participate actively in discussions to deepen my understanding. I also make sure to relate what I learn in the classroom to real-world challenges, which helps me see the practical applications of academic theories and fuels my motivation to succeed. Fundamental curiosity drives me every day. I am naturally interested in exploring diverse perspectives and learning about the world around me. Whether it is understanding different cultures, human experiences, or complex social issues, I am eager to expand my knowledge and challenge my assumptions. This curiosity motivates me to read widely, engage with new ideas, and stay open-minded. It also pushes me to explore career paths and educational opportunities that align with my interests and values. Finally, I strive for academic excellence by setting high standards for myself and maintaining focus, discipline, and organization. Balancing my coursework, my businesses, and community involvement requires persistence and careful time management. I am committed to not only performing well academically but also applying my knowledge in meaningful ways that benefit others. I believe that true excellence involves continuous learning and growth, both intellectually and personally. Together, these qualities entrepreneurial spirit, passion for innovation, deep scholarly engagement, fundamental curiosity, and academic excellence guide me as I pursue my goals. They reflect the qualities Stelios embodied and inspire me to keep pushing forward, learning, and making a positive impact in whatever I do.

I am someone who strongly believes in the power of community and the importance of giving back, especially to young people who may be facing challenges similar to those I have experienced. Over the years, I have been involved in supporting youth through school and local programs by encouraging kindness, respect, and empathy. I want to take this commitment even further by volunteering at the Crisis Nursery once I turn 18. The Crisis Nursery provides a safe place for children and families in times of emergency, and I am eager to contribute my time and energy to help support those in need during their most vulnerable moments. As I prepare to enter higher education, I face significant financial challenges. Balancing the costs of tuition, textbooks, and living expenses alongside work and family responsibilities is a daily struggle. Scholarships and financial aid are crucial in helping me overcome these obstacles and allow me to focus more fully on my studies and career goals. Receiving financial support would relieve the constant pressure of worrying about how to pay for school and help me dedicate myself to becoming a social worker and mental health professional who can make a real difference in the lives of others. One issue I am particularly passionate about is keeping children and youth safe from bullying, both in person and online. Bullying can have a devastating impact on young people’s mental health, self-esteem, and overall well-being, so it is essential to address it proactively. Through my involvement with youth and in my community, I emphasize the importance of education as the foundation for prevention. Teaching children about kindness, respect, and empathy from an early age helps create a culture where bullying is less likely to take root. I encourage open communication so that young people feel safe and comfortable sharing their experiences with trusted adults without fear of judgment or punishment. In addition, I want to work with parents, teachers, and community members to raise awareness about the signs of bullying and cyber bullying. Many people are unaware of how to recognize these signs or may not know how to intervene effectively. I hope to help provide resources and strategies to ensure that adults are equipped to support children in need. Since online safety is such a critical part of youth well being today, I also want to teach young people how to protect their privacy, recognize harmful behaviors online, and seek help when they feel threatened or uncomfortable. Creating a community that values support, respect, and awareness is the best way to keep children and youth safe from bullying in all its forms. Volunteering at the Crisis Nursery will allow me to gain hands-on experience supporting families and children facing crises, which will deepen my understanding of how to provide effective care and compassion. I am committed to continuing this work and growing my impact as I pursue my education and career. With the financial help of scholarships and aid, I will be better positioned to dedicate my time and energy to these important issues while advancing my studies. I believe that by working together, we can build safer, kinder environments where all young people have the opportunity to thrive.

I am pursuing a degree in the mental health field because I have seen firsthand how crucial mental health support is and how life-changing it can be when someone finally feels heard, understood, and supported. My own journey through anxiety, depression, and struggles with my identity opened my eyes to the many gaps in care and compassion that still exist today. For a long time, I felt like I had to figure everything out on my own, but when I finally connected with the right people and resources, things began to change for the better. That experience sparked a deep desire within me to be that support system for someone else who might be going through similar challenges. Mental health is often overlooked or misunderstood, yet it impacts every part of a person’s life—how they relate to others, how they handle stress, and how they see themselves. I want to become a mental health professional who makes people feel safe, accepted, and empowered to face their struggles. Everyone deserves access to mental health care, no matter their background, identity, or circumstances. I want to help reduce the stigma around mental health by creating an environment where people feel comfortable opening up and getting help without shame or fear. I believe healing starts with connection, and I want to build those connections every day. My goal is to work directly with individuals who are struggling, especially youth, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people from under-served communities. These groups often face barriers to accessing care or experience discrimination, and I want to be someone who helps break down those barriers. I want to provide not just guidance, but genuine care, compassion, and understanding. I know I cannot fix everything, but if I can make even one person feel less alone and more hopeful, then it will all be worth it. In addition to one-on-one support, I hope to be involved in advocacy and education to raise awareness about mental health issues. Mental health is still taboo in many places, and people suffer in silence because they fear judgment. By educating communities and encouraging open conversations, I believe we can create a culture that prioritizes mental wellness and supports those who are struggling. This can lead to earlier intervention, better outcomes, and stronger communities. My own experiences have also taught me how important it is to listen without judgment and to meet people where they are. Every person’s journey is unique, and healing is not a linear path. I want to offer patience and understanding, recognizing that setbacks are part of growth. This approach is something I want to bring into my professional work so that clients feel truly supported every step of the way. Ultimately, pursuing this degree is about more than just a career—it is about a commitment to making a difference in people’s lives. I am dedicated to learning the skills and knowledge necessary to be an effective and compassionate mental health professional. With this education, I will be better equipped to support others in finding their own strength, resilience, and hope. Helping others heal and grow is the purpose that drives me, and I am excited to take this next step on that path.

I’m someone who is deeply passionate about helping others, especially those who feel unheard or overlooked. My personal journey has not always been easy, and the challenges I’ve faced have shaped who I am today. I’ve struggled with mental health, worked through the process of understanding my gender identity, and learned how to advocate for myself in a world that doesn’t always make that easy. These experiences gave me a deeper sense of empathy, resilience, and purpose. They’ve inspired me to pursue a career where I can be the support system that so many people need. I am currently working toward earning my bachelor’s degree in social work. My ultimate goal is to become a case manager and work directly with individuals and families who are facing difficult life circumstances. I want to help people access the resources they need, feel heard and understood, and take steps toward a better future. Whether it’s through mental health services, child welfare, or community outreach, I know that case managers play a crucial role in changing lives for the better. This career path means a lot to me because I know how life-changing it can be to have someone in your corner who genuinely cares. My passion for this work also comes from seeing the impact that support can have. My mother, who has always been my biggest supporter, has worked incredibly hard to provide for our family while also caring for others through her job at a Cancer Center. Watching her balance so much with such strength and compassion taught me what it means to truly serve others. Even on her busiest days, she still makes time for me. Her kindness and understanding have helped me through some of my darkest times, and I want to pay that forward in my own work. Receiving this scholarship would mean more than just financial relief. It would be a stepping stone toward achieving my long-term goals and making a meaningful impact in my community. It would allow me to focus more on my education without the constant stress of figuring out how to afford tuition, books, and other expenses. I work hard and do everything I can to make this dream a reality, but scholarships like this help bridge the gap between where I am and where I want to be. Education is important to me, not just because it opens doors, but because it equips me with the tools I need to make a real difference. With the support of this scholarship, I will be one step closer to becoming a licensed social worker, someone who uplifts others and advocates for those who need a voice. I am committed to giving back, to learning, and to building a future that is rooted in service, compassion, and justice. This scholarship would help me get there, and I would be truly grateful for the opportunity.

My experience with mental health has significantly influenced my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations, ultimately guiding me toward a path of compassion and advocacy as a social worker. The journey through my struggles with depression has been instrumental in shaping these challenges of my life, illuminating the profound impact mental health challenges can have on individuals and communities. First and foremost, my experience with mental health has reshaped my beliefs, fostering a deep conviction in the importance of destigmatizing mental illness and promoting understanding. Through my own journey, I have come to understand the pervasive nature of mental health issues and the detrimental effects of stigma. This realization has fueled my commitment to advocating for greater awareness and acceptance of mental health struggles. I firmly believe that everyone deserves access to compassionate care and support, free from judgment or discrimination. Moreover, my relationships have been profoundly impacted by my experiences with mental health. While navigating through periods of darkness, I have been immensely fortunate to have the unwavering support of my loved ones. Their empathy, patience, and understanding have been invaluable sources of strength and comfort during challenging times. Through these relationships, I have learned the transformative power of compassion and the importance of fostering a supportive community. My experiences have also allowed me to connect with others who share similar struggles, fostering a sense of solidarity and empathy that transcends personal boundaries. In terms of my career aspirations, my journey with mental health has played a pivotal role in shaping my path towards becoming a social worker. Throughout my own battles with depression, I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact mental health struggles can have on individuals, particularly children and adolescents. This awareness has ignited within me a passion for supporting young people facing similar challenges, inspiring me to pursue a career dedicated to their well-being. As a future social worker, I aspire to specialize in supporting children and adolescents with mental health disorders, drawing upon my own experiences to provide empathy, understanding, and guidance. My struggles with depression have given me unique insight into the challenges young people face and the importance of early intervention and support. I am deeply passionate about creating a safe and nurturing environment where young individuals can heal, grow, and thrive despite their mental health struggles. In my envisioned role as a social worker, I see myself providing individual and group therapy, developing personalized treatment plans, and advocating for the needs of children and adolescents within the broader community. I believe that early intervention and support can significantly impact the trajectory of young people's lives, empowering them to overcome obstacles and realize their full potential. By working directly with this demographic, I hope to be a beacon of hope and support, guiding them through their journey toward healing and recovery. In conclusion, my experience with mental health has profoundly influenced my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations, guiding me toward a path of compassion and advocacy as a social worker. Through my struggles with depression, I have gained invaluable insights into the challenges individuals face and the importance of providing support and understanding. As I embark on this journey, I am committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and adolescents affected by mental health disorders, ensuring they receive the care and support they need to thrive.

Whenever I'm asked who has supported me, I always answer with my mom. She has been there through all of my emotional turmoil and looked for any way she could help me. I have always been a quiet kid. I never liked going to school because of all the people I had to interact with. My mom has always encouraged me to reach out to others, while still offering sympathy towards my social anxiety. We don't always get along because we aren't the same people. We share very similar beliefs but we don't agree on everything. But that doesn't hinder our relationship. I know that whenever I have a problem, I can always run to her for help. I can't say my mom is the best at academics. She can't help me whenever I need guidance with my schoolwork. But I never expected help with that. I will be the first person in my household to go to college. My mom has always been supportive of my dreams and goals for school. Even when I changed from wanting to cure cancer to becoming a social worker, she was still proud of me. She doesn't care about what I do as long as I am happy. This year, specifically, I appreciate her thoughtfulness. I have been dealing with anxiety and depression since I was ten. I couldn't make it a full week without missing a day at school. So, I finally convinced my mom to let me transfer to an online school. She never liked the idea but, she understood how much it meant to me. Even though it cost more money than the school I was previously attending, she was still willing to pay for it. We aren't the most financially stable family. We live on one income and have three children in the house. But mom works hard to make sure we have the best education possible. She won't hesitate to spend money she doesn't have on one of us if it means we have a brighter future. My brothers don't understand the importance of school so I am the only one who has a shot at making it into college. I used to stress about helping my mom out with chores around the house or getting a job to help pay the bills. But she is so stubborn. She wants me to enjoy my youth. She keeps telling me that I will always have the rest of my life to make money and have a house. She reminds me that right now, my priority is school.