At just seventeen years old, my life changed forever. While many teenagers were focused on high school milestones, social events, and preparing for college, I was thrust into a role I never expected—becoming the full-time caregiver for my mother after she lost her sight. Now, at nineteen, I am still in that role, working to support her, pay our bills, and manage a household, all while trying to hold onto my dreams of building a better life through education. My mother has always been my rock—my source of strength and unconditional love. When she went blind, everything shifted. Suddenly, she needed me for everything: getting dressed, preparing meals, managing her medications, navigating the world outside, and coping emotionally with the loss of her independence. I had to grow up overnight. I didn’t have the luxury of easing into adulthood—I was forced to run full speed into it with no preparation, no guidance, and no safety net. I took on the responsibility of paying our bills by working long hours while finishing high school. I learned how to budget every penny because our survival depended on it. I kept track of doctor appointments, handled insurance paperwork, and became the voice and eyes for my mother in every setting. The weight of this responsibility has been immense, and I carry it every single day. There are moments when the stress feels unbearable, when the loneliness creeps in, and I wonder how I’m still standing. But I keep going. I have to. This experience has shaped me in ways I never imagined. It has taught me strength, resilience, and the value of compassion. I’ve learned that sometimes we don’t get to choose our circumstances, but we do get to choose how we respond to them. My mother’s blindness has inspired me to see the world differently—through the lens of empathy and responsibility. It’s also given me a purpose. Watching our financial situation so closely and understanding how critical proper money management is to survival, I’ve developed a deep interest in accounting and financial planning. I want to help families like mine—people who are doing their best in the face of impossible odds—manage their finances and create stability in uncertain times. I want to be the person who gives others the knowledge and tools I wish we had before everything changed. But chasing that dream hasn’t been easy. I haven’t had the time or flexibility most college students enjoy. I’m still caring for my mom. I still work. And now, we are uprooting our lives again, moving to a new place in hopes of a fresh start. The uncertainty of the future weighs heavily on me. I don’t have student loans, but that doesn’t mean we’re not struggling. Every cent I earn goes to essentials—rent, utilities, food, transportation. There’s very little left for anything else, let alone tuition, books, or school supplies. That’s why this scholarship matters so deeply to me. Receiving this support wouldn’t just relieve a financial burden—it would be a life-changing gift. It would allow me to continue my education without sacrificing my ability to care for my mom. It would give me the chance to breathe, to focus on my studies, and to work toward my goal of becoming an accountant without the fear of falling behind or not making ends meet. I’m not asking for a handout—I’m asking for a chance. A chance to rise above the difficult cards we’ve been dealt. A chance to build a future that honors the sacrifices I’ve made and the strength my mother has shown. A chance to create a life where I’m not just surviving, but thriving. I know my story is not unique—there are many young caregivers out there, silently carrying burdens far too heavy for their shoulders. But I hope that by sharing mine, you’ll see the determination and heart behind my journey. I’ve faced more challenges in the past two years than many people face in a lifetime, but I’ve never let go of hope. I’ve never stopped dreaming of a better tomorrow. This scholarship would bring that tomorrow closer. It would help me step into the next chapter of my life—not as a teenager burdened by circumstance, but as a young woman determined to turn pain into purpose. It would be a light in the darkness I’ve walked through for so long.

There was a time in my life when depression consumed me. I felt trapped in a cycle of hopelessness, and suicidal thoughts became a daily struggle. The weight of my emotions was unbearable, making even the simplest tasks feel overwhelming. I withdrew from the people around me, feeling as if no one could understand the darkness I was experiencing. My mind convinced me that I was alone, that my pain was invisible, and that I had no future worth living for. It was in this place of despair that I found Christianity—or rather, it found me. During my lowest moments, I began seeking something greater than myself. At first, I didn’t know where to turn, but I found myself drawn to the messages of faith, hope, and redemption in the Bible. I started reading scripture, and certain verses resonated deeply with my pain. One that stood out was Psalm 34:18: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” These words felt like a lifeline, a reminder that even in my suffering, I was not alone. Slowly, I began to open my heart to God, and in doing so, I felt a peace that I had never experienced before. Christianity became the foundation that helped me rebuild my life. Through prayer, I found comfort. Through worship, I found a sense of belonging. Through my faith, I found a purpose beyond my pain. My struggles didn’t disappear overnight, but I started to see my life differently. I realized that my worth wasn’t determined by my darkest thoughts, but by the love of a God who saw me as valuable and cherished. This transformation impacted every aspect of my life. My relationships, which had once suffered due to my isolation, began to heal. I learned to open up to those around me and accept the support of friends and family. Instead of pushing people away, I allowed them to be part of my healing journey. My faith also taught me the power of forgiveness—not only for others but for myself. I stopped blaming myself for my struggles and embraced the idea that healing is a process, not a destination. Perhaps the most profound impact has been on my career aspirations. Having experienced the depths of despair and the power of faith, I feel called to help others who are facing similar battles. Whether through counseling, ministry, or mental health advocacy, I want to use my story to inspire hope in those who feel lost. I understand the pain of depression firsthand, and I want to be a voice that reminds others they are not alone. My journey has given me a passion for making a difference, for being the kind of support that I once needed. Looking back, I can see how my struggles shaped me into the person I am today. What once felt like an unbearable burden has become a testimony of resilience and faith. Christianity saved me when I couldn’t save myself, and now, my faith continues to guide me toward a life filled with purpose, hope, and compassion. I no longer see my pain as something that defines me, but as something that refined me. And for that, I am grateful.

As an aspiring accountant, my primary goal is to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and work in a reputable firm or start my own accounting practice. The first step toward achieving my goal is completing a bachelor's degree in accounting, which will provide the essential knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the field. To obtain a degree, I need access to a university with an accredited accounting program. I will also utilize campus resources such as academic advisors, professors, and tutoring services to stay on track with my studies. The cost of a bachelor’s degree can be substantial. I estimate the total cost of tuition and fees to be approximately $20,000 per year. Over the course of four years, this amounts to about $80,000. To manage this, I plan to apply for scholarships and financial aid, as well as take out student loans if necessary. I plan to complete my degree in four years, aiming to finish by May 2028. After completing my degree, I will need to pass the four sections of the CPA exam (Auditing and Attestation, Financial Accounting and Reporting, Regulation, and Business Environment and Concepts). To prepare, I will invest in a CPA review course, which typically costs between $2,000 and $3,000. Additionally, I will need to study and practice for several months before sitting for the exam. The total cost of the CPA exam is around $1,000 for all four sections. Including the review course and other study materials, I estimate spending about $4,000–$5,000 on exam preparation. After graduation, I plan to take the CPA exam within six months. I will dedicate the first few months to preparing and the next few months to taking and passing the exam. While education and certification are vital, gaining practical experience is essential for my development as an accountant. Real-world experience will allow me to apply what I've learned in the classroom and improve my skills in tax preparation, financial analysis, and auditing. I will seek internships and entry-level positions in accounting firms, businesses, or government agencies. I plan to gain at least two years of experience in an entry-level accounting role before seeking higher-level positions. This will give me time to refine my skills, learn from experienced professionals, and build a strong portfolio that will help me advance in my career Once I am established as a CPA, my long-term goal is to specialize in a particular area of accounting, such as forensic accounting, tax accounting, or management accounting. For example, if I choose forensic accounting, I may need to obtain a certification in forensic accounting (CFA) or fraud examination (CFE). I will also need to stay up-to-date on changes in tax laws, accounting standards, and industry practices. my ultimate aim is to achieve financial independence. This involves budgeting wisely, saving for retirement, and managing my finances effectively to secure a stable future for myself. I will need to establish an emergency fund, contribute to retirement accounts (such as a 401(k) or IRA), and invest in long-term financial planning. Financial literacy and professional advice will be crucial in this process. I will budget my monthly expenses to ensure that I have enough to cover living costs, save for emergencies, and invest for retirement. I plan to set aside at least 20% of my income each month for savings and investments.I will be on the path to success. Along the way, I will manage my finances responsibly, seeking opportunities for personal and professional growth, and building a career that provides stability and fulfillment.

Throughout my journey toward becoming an accountant and strengthening my Christian faith, I have drawn inspiration from the lives of powerful Black leaders who have impacted both the world of business and the Christian community. Their stories of perseverance, faith, and success in overcoming adversity have motivated me to pursue my goals relentlessly, even in the face of challenges. Two such figures who have profoundly influenced me are Ursula Burns, a pioneering Black business leader, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., whose faith and leadership continue to guide my Christian beliefs. Ursula Burns’ story is a source of incredible inspiration for me as I pursue my career in accounting. As the first Black woman to serve as CEO of a Fortune 500 company, Xerox, Ursula Burns broke barriers in an industry traditionally dominated by men, and in particular, white men. Burns’ career began as an intern at Xerox, where she worked her way up through the ranks over several decades. Her journey was not without its challenges, but she faced them head-on, proving that determination and commitment to excellence can defy odds. Burns once said, “The greatest challenge is not to change the world, but to change yourself.” This quote deeply resonates with me because it reminds me that the pursuit of my goals starts within. Burns’ ability to stay focused on her professional development, while remaining grounded in her values, has motivated me to pursue my own aspirations in accounting with a sense of purpose. She has often spoken about the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace and the need for more people of color to pursue careers in fields like business and accounting. Burns’ leadership demonstrates that success is not just about personal achievement but also about creating opportunities for others to succeed. In my own career aspirations, I hope to not only succeed in accounting but also to give back to my community, much like Ursula Burns has done.Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. has been an unwavering influence on my Christian faith. His teachings and leadership in the Civil Rights Movement were deeply rooted in his belief in God, justice, and nonviolence. Dr. King’s commitment to equality and justice, grounded in his Christian faith, has inspired me to remain focused on my values and use my gifts to serve others, This aligns with my own beliefs as I strive to serve my family and community while pursuing my academic and career goals. Growing up, I faced many challenges, including homelessness, and while these difficulties were tough, I always turned to my faith. His example reminds me that even in times of hardship, service to others is not just a duty—it is a way of living out one’s faith. Dr. King’s ability to blend faith with activism has also influenced the way I approach my education and career. His faith in God's plan for justice has inspired me to believe that my work, whether as an accountant or in my personal life, is part of a larger purpose. I believe that God has equipped me with the skills and determination to achieve my goals and make a positive impact on the world. Burns has shown me the power of perseverance and education in breaking barriers and achieving success in the business world. Dr. King’s Christian faith and commitment to service have been a guiding light for me as I navigate life’s challenges and continue to grow in my own faith.

As an aspiring accountant, my long-term goal is to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and work in a reputable firm, helping businesses and individuals manage their finances. I envision using my skills to provide financial insight that can guide companies toward success while also building a stable and rewarding career for myself. Becoming an accountant is not just a career goal for me; it's a commitment to ensuring financial stability and independence for my family and contributing meaningfully to the economy. Despite facing numerous hardships in my personal life, I have remained determined and focused on achieving my goals. One of the key steps I have taken towards accomplishing my goal is pursuing a college education in accounting. While still in high school, I enrolled in college-level courses, eager to get a head start on my academic journey. Even though I was balancing schoolwork, household responsibilities, and personal challenges, I worked diligently to maintain high grades and learn as much as I could about accounting principles. By taking college courses early, I set myself up for success by easing the transition into higher education and developing a strong foundation in accounting concepts. However, the road to achieving my goals has been far from easy. One of the most significant challenges I have faced is homelessness. For a period of time, my family and I had no stable place to live, which meant I had to adapt to an ever-changing and stressful environment. Despite the uncertainty of where we would sleep each night, I remained committed to my education. I would study in libraries or coffee shops, often sacrificing sleep to keep up with my assignments and prepare for exams. This difficult experience taught me resilience, time management, and the importance of staying focused on my future, even when the present seemed overwhelming. In addition to homelessness, I also carry the responsibility of helping my mother and sister. As the primary caretaker of my family, I take on household duties, including cooking, cleaning, and managing finances. These responsibilities are demanding, but they have shaped my understanding of financial management and the importance of budgeting and planning. My role as a caregiver has also reinforced my desire to pursue a career in accounting, as I want to ensure that my family is financially secure and never has to face the same hardships again. I have gained valuable experience in customer service and administrative tasks, which has helped me develop communication. I am determined to become an accountant not only for personal success but also to provide a stable future for my family. These qualities will continue to guide me as I pursue my accounting degree and work toward obtaining my CPA certification. Looking ahead, I understand that there will still be challenges to face. Balancing a full-time job with further education, managing professional networking, and gaining practical experience will not always be easy. Yet, the obstacles I have overcome in my life so far have only strengthened my resolve to succeed. I am committed to becoming the best accountant I can be and using my skills to help others. Every setback I encounter along the way will only be another lesson in resilience, and I am confident that I will overcome any challenge that comes my way. I know that the road ahead will not always be smooth, but I am ready to face whatever challenges come my way in order to achieve my dream of becoming a successful accountant and providing for my family’s future.

Why I Chose Accounting and Its Impact on My Life Choosing a career is one of the most significant decisions a person can make, as it shapes their future and defines many aspects of their life. For me, the decision to pursue accounting was influenced by a combination of personal interests, skill alignment, and a desire for stability and growth. This path offers not only a promising professional journey but also personal growth opportunities and the chance to contribute meaningfully to various organizations. First, my decision to choose accounting as a career stems from my strong inclination toward numbers, organization, and problem-solving. From an early age, I found satisfaction in working with figures and organizing information systematically, skills that are essential in accounting. In high school, math was a subject where I excelled, and I enjoyed the process of balancing equations and ensuring accuracy in my work. Accounting is a field where these strengths are highly valued, as accountants must be precise, detail-oriented, and adept at analyzing and interpreting data. The alignment between my natural skills and the requirements of the profession made accounting an appealing and logical choice. Beyond my personal strengths, I chose accounting because of the stability and versatility it offers. Accounting is a fundamental part of any business, and almost every organization—whether in the public or private sector, or in a nonprofit—requires the expertise of an accountant. This demand translates into job security and numerous employment opportunities across different industries. Moreover, as an accountant, I can work in diverse areas such as financial analysis, auditing, taxation, and management accounting. This flexibility allows me to explore various roles and specialize in an area that I find most fulfilling. The stability and range of options that come with an accounting career make it a highly attractive and sustainable choice. Furthermore, I view accounting as a career that offers continuous learning and advancement. The field is constantly evolving due to changes in regulations, technological advancements, and new business practices. For instance, the rise of digital finance, artificial intelligence, and data analytics has transformed traditional accounting practices, requiring professionals to keep learning and adapting. I am excited about the prospect of being in a career where lifelong learning is encouraged, as it will keep me engaged and allow me to stay relevant in a competitive job market. Additionally, I have plans to pursue certifications such as the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), which would open doors to advanced career opportunities and increase my earning potential. Choosing a career in accounting will not only shape my professional life but will also impact my personal life in profound ways. For one, the financial stability and upward mobility in accounting will allow me to build a secure future for myself and my family. Accountants generally enjoy competitive salaries, and with experience and specialization, earning potential increases. This financial stability will enable me to achieve my personal goals, such as buying a home, traveling, and eventually starting my own business. I view accounting as more than just a job; it is a means to achieve a lifestyle that brings me security, balance, and opportunities. Moreover, accounting will provide me with a skill set that can be useful beyond the workplace. Managing finances is a crucial life skill, and being well-versed in accounting will help me make informed decisions about personal investments, budgeting, and financial planning. I believe that understanding these principles will enhance my ability to achieve long-term financial health and independence.

I have dealt with depression and anxiety and everyday was a battlefield for me, when I was in high school, I was bullied everyday and that how I had developed depression and people may not know but it’s like a battlefield in the mind because all you can think about is your life, like how did I end up like this. I had so much anxiety that I was so scared to go to school, and the stress of it was so intense and overwhelming that in that moment, I felt like I wanted to disappear. Being bullied in highschool took a toll on my mental health because everyday of school, I had just dreaded going to school, I was a very bright student and I did my work, had a 3.0 GPA score but even then I felt like everything that I was achieving in school was not enough. One day I came home from school and my mother notice that I was not my bubbly self and I started to become antisocial to my family and she ask me what was going on but I never told what was going on but she asked me would I like to go virtual in school and I had this feeling come fill my heart, and I answered yes. And she took me out of school and we did virtual school and that was the best choice that I had ever picked in my life by going virtual, I started to feel like I could be myself again and that’s how I overcome depression and anxiety, I had needed a change in scenery. The lesson i have learned from this experience is to be more focused on yourself than on what others may think of you because you are more than just regular you are your better half, and also ask for help it is okay not be okay and it is okay to ask for help because in that moment of you asking for help will change your life, I wished that I would have asked for help instead of taking the constant negativity and bottling it up. I learned that even though the bullying and the constant stress tried to put me down I have learned to over come it. One day I would like to tell my story on how fear tried to overtake but I only conquered it.