My Favorite Dinosaur: The Brachiosaurus The dinosaur I drew is a Brachiosaurus, one of the most recognizable and fascinating dinosaurs to ever live. The Brachiosaurus is my favorite dinosaur because it reminds me of a movie that I loved watching as a child, The Land Before Time. Although Littlefoot is actually an Apatosaurus, his long neck and adventurous spirit always made me think of the giant long-neck dinosaurs that roamed the Earth millions of years ago. Littlefoot was brave, kind, and determined, and those qualities inspired me when I was growing up. His journey taught me the importance of courage, friendship, and never giving up, even when facing difficult challenges. I have always been amazed by the size and appearance of the Brachiosaurus. Its long neck allowed it to reach high into the trees to eat leaves that other dinosaurs could not reach. Even though it was one of the largest animals to ever walk on land, it was a peaceful herbivore. I like how the Brachiosaurus looks both powerful and gentle at the same time. Its unique body shape and towering height make it stand out from other dinosaurs, which is one reason it has remained my favorite for so many years. In my drawing, I chose to depict two Brachiosaurus dinosaurs walking together in a prehistoric landscape. I included mountains, clouds, and flying reptiles in the sky to create a scene that feels ancient and alive. I used shading and texture to give the dinosaurs more depth and make them appear three-dimensional. My goal was to capture their massive size and graceful movement. For my art submission, I used graphite pencil on paper. This medium allowed me to create detailed lines, smooth shading, and natural textures. Drawing the Brachiosaurus was a meaningful experience because it combined my love of art, dinosaurs, and a cherished childhood memory from The Land Before Time.

As a single mother pursuing higher education, I face challenges that test my strength, determination, and resilience every day. While earning a college degree is one of my greatest goals, the journey is far from easy. Balancing the responsibilities of parenthood, financial hardship, and academic demands requires constant sacrifice. Despite these obstacles, I remain committed to building a better future for myself and my child. One of the greatest hardships I face is financial instability. As a low-income single parent, every dollar I earn is carefully budgeted to cover essential expenses such as housing, utilities, groceries, transportation, and childcare. While financial aid has helped me begin my educational journey, it does not fully cover the cost of tuition, books, supplies, and other school-related expenses. There are often difficult choices between meeting immediate household needs and investing in my education. The stress of limited financial resources can be overwhelming, but I remind myself that completing my degree is the key to achieving long-term financial security and stability for my family. Another challenge is managing my time. Being a single mother means I am solely responsible for my child's well-being. My days are filled with preparing meals, helping with daily routines, attending appointments, and ensuring that my child feels supported and loved. At the same time, I must attend classes, complete assignments, study for exams, and meet academic deadlines. Many nights, I stay awake long after my child has gone to bed to finish coursework. While the workload can be exhausting, my child serves as my greatest motivation. I want to demonstrate the value of perseverance and education through my own actions. Childcare is another significant obstacle. Reliable and affordable childcare is often difficult to find, especially when classes, study sessions, or school-related commitments extend beyond traditional hours. Unexpected situations such as illness, school closures, or childcare disruptions can impact my ability to attend classes or complete assignments. These circumstances create additional stress and uncertainty, but they have also taught me flexibility, problem-solving skills, and the importance of planning ahead. The emotional challenges of being a single parent and student should not be overlooked. There are moments when I question whether I can continue balancing all of my responsibilities. The pressure of providing for my child while striving to succeed academically can be emotionally draining. However, I have learned to push forward despite self-doubt. Each challenge I overcome strengthens my confidence and reinforces my belief that the sacrifices I am making today will create better opportunities for tomorrow. Although the road to higher education has been difficult, these hardships have shaped me into a stronger and more determined individual. I have developed resilience, time-management skills, and a deep appreciation for the opportunities education can provide. Rather than allowing my circumstances to define my future, I use them as motivation to keep moving forward. Receiving this scholarship would ease some of the financial burden I face and allow me to focus more fully on my education and my child. It would help cover educational expenses that are not fully met by financial aid and bring me one step closer to achieving my academic and career goals. Most importantly, it would support my efforts to create a stable and successful future for my family. As a low-income single mother, I understand the value of hard work and perseverance. I am determined to complete my degree, improve my family's quality of life, and serve as a positive example for my child. This scholarship would not only be an investment in my education but also an investment in the future of a family working hard to overcome adversity and achieve lasting success.

College to me, means hope. It means that I'm able to show myself, and everybody else too, that a past is possible to overcome by committing oneself to a better person and, especially for my children. College is not only about attending classes and obtaining a degree. Instead it represents hope for an opportunity and the means of obtaining stability as well as a future that is not a replica of my past. It signifies a clean slate, where a strong future is built from ground up. During the course of my life, I have encountered challenges that have shaped who I am. These occurrences not only made me tougher, but they have also given me a precise vision of who I desire to be. I desire to break this cycle of poverty and live a life filled with security and opportunities. College education is crucial to my goal of building a successful life that my family deserves, a future where financial difficulties and distresses are less frequent. I want to make the greatest possible use of this opportunity, and learn to acquire the tools to a gainful career that will offer my family, a comfortable living. My foremost motive in pursuing college education is my children. I want to build them a life far richer than the one I am currently living. I want my children to have more opportunities, have more things, have better, stronger opportunities, and to understand that working hard and receiving education, can and will turn a life around. I am not only striving for myself, but I want to lead as an example for my children. I want financial stability. I want to be able to raise a family with limited to no worries about where the next meal will come from, or if rent will be made. I want to break from this cycle of struggle and establish a better financial reality for my children. College will open up career opportunities and equip me with the knowledge I need to make financially prudent decisions in my life, thus securing a better future. Beyond financial success, I want to achieve the ultimate personal growth. In college, I will have the opportunity to push myself intellectually, to learn to articulate my thoughts, and to explore and understand the world on a much greater scale. I desire to be confident in my abilities to achieve success and to become an efficient contributor. Finally, college to me is the opportunity for a better future- not just for me, but for my entire family. It means proving to myself and to others, that the past can be overcome with a dedication to a better self and, most importantly, for my children.

I have always believed that there is more to art and creativity than just visual elements. Through my graphic design education, i aspire to design safe spaces- both physical and digital- where people of every age, ethnicity, religion, and background feel seen, heard and included. I do not want my work to be just images; I hope to build connections that unite communities and encourage empathy. The diverse experiences in my life have continually pushed the boundaries of my imagination. Nature, animals, and the everyday people I meet are influences to my creativity; I find art in a tree, in a sunset and the individuals who live amongst us. This perspective teaches me that beauty can exist in a wide variety of ways, that diversity is a thing to celebrate and not divide and I hope to share this idea. Through the creation of graphics, I want to produce a wide range of unique content that showcases the varied human experience. Designing projects from unity campaigns, to diverse cultural celebrations, to platforms that give underepresented communities a space to be heard; these creations all have a single purpose; they should make others feel connected to the topic and to the artists. I want to work with local businesses, schools and other groups to design meaningful projects that will uplift and inform. In order to do this i must make my designs universally accessible and relevant. Making sure everyone feels safe and sound is just as important to me. Art can alter perceptions; when creating visual messages, space and content, I want to do so in a way that brings forth positive emotions and well-being. This may include painting murals in communities or creating campaigns that teach the importance of empathy; the impact can be powerful. Ultimately I desire for people to be uplifted by what I do, for their experiences to be validated and for them to continue to treat one another with care. The most inspiring people in my life are those who use their creativity for communal purposes. The designers and artists who aim to promote community, diversity and narrative show me that creativity is more than an aesthetic tool; I want to make the same impact they have, no matter the size of the work. I use the influence these people bring to guide my education and endeavors. My education in graphic design will enable me to communicate my visions and utilize its power to foster a united, tolerant world. I intend to use my creativity not just for myself but to provide positive contribution to my community. I want people to be joined together through art, and for this unity to help lead to a future where the difference is respected, voices are heard, and there is room for everybody.

Balancing being a student and a single mother is arguably one of the hardest, yet rewarding, undertakings of my life. This life requires endless days of planning, sacrificing and perseverance. The hardest aspect of trying to balance is ensuring that my children have financial security, whilst also investing time and effort into my own academic success. As a low-income, single parent this undertaking can feel extremely overwhelming at times, but it also is what drives me to create a better future for myself and my family. The lack of time that I have due to the commitment of fulfilling both roles is one of the most considerable challenges that I currently face. My children rely on me for absolutely everything, from the day to day necessities to my emotional support, yet my degree requires constant commitment and focus. There are late nights where I have to complete assignments once my children have gone to sleep, and early mornings where I have to get my children ready for the day, so that I can prepare for class or my studies. Sacrifices have to be made daily and it is often a difficult decision as to whether to prioritize sleep or work; both my children and my academics rely heavily upon my decisions. Another huge obstacle in my life is that of financial difficulty. As a single parent that already struggles financially on a daily basis to meet my children’s basic needs such as shelter, food and transportation, adding in the expense of tuition and textbooks creates a tremendous strain on my finances. There are many times when I sit and wonder how I will manage to pay for everything, but I know that education is a huge investment and that through perseverance, hard work and motivation, it will eventually be a rewarding opportunity for my children as well. Being a student, along with a parent, is one of the things that has strengthened my will to succeed the most in my life. I find that my children give me reason to keep going during my toughest days when I feel like I am not progressing. I want to be a role model to my children in proving that no matter what your circumstances, education can and will lead to success and that no obstacle is to large to overcome. By doing this, I can ensure that my children can one day achieve their dreams as well. With this scholarship I would not only make things easier on myself but also make it considerably easier for my children. This scholarship would alleviate a large percentage of the stress and worry that has become associated with being a student and the constant worry about where I will come up with the funds to cover tuition, books and supplies. It would also enable me to focus more time with my children. This scholarship would offer a chance for me to achieve the career I aspire to, one where I have financial security and growth. My success in achieving this degree would result in a better lifestyle for my children and offer opportunities to them that I may have had limitations on. It would give me the foundation for their futures; ensuring that they would be given the support, help and motivation to reach their own goals without hesitation. Overall, although being a student and a parent has many obstacles, it has made me the person that I am today; one that knows that success comes from within, hard work, and dedication. Despite the difficult task of managing both financial resources and my studies, I know that through hard work, education and with this scholarship; I will be able to succeed and obtain a much better lifestyle for myself and my children.

I believe I am uniquely deserving of this award because my pursuit of higher education is deeply rooted in purpose, responsibility, and resilience. My “why” is not just about personal success—it is about creating a better life for my children and becoming the example they can look up to as they grow. Every step I take toward my education is a step toward giving them opportunities I may not have had and showing them that perseverance and determination can change the course of their future. As a parent, I carry a responsibility that goes far beyond my own goals. I want to provide financial stability for my family, but just as importantly, I want to demonstrate the value of education, discipline, and hard work. My children are constantly watching me, learning from my choices, and shaping their own dreams through what they see. By pursuing higher education, I am teaching them that challenges are not barriers but stepping stones to something greater. I want them to grow up knowing that their dreams are worth pursuing, no matter the obstacles. My journey has not been without difficulties. Balancing responsibilities while striving for a better future requires sacrifice, time management, and unwavering commitment. However, these challenges have strengthened my determination rather than discouraged me. They have given me a clear sense of purpose and a strong work ethic that I bring into everything I do. I am not just working toward a degree—I am building a foundation for generational change in my family. Receiving this scholarship would not only ease the financial burden of continuing my education but would also bring me one step closer to achieving stability and independence. With that stability, I will be able to provide my children with the support and opportunities they need to pursue their own passions without limitations. This award would be an investment not just in me, but in a family whose future is shaped by education and perseverance. Ultimately, my “why” is simple yet powerful: I want to create a better life for my children and show them what is possible through hard work and dedication. I am committed to using my education as a tool to uplift my family and serve as an example of resilience and ambition. This scholarship would help me continue that journey and turn my determination into lasting success—not only for myself, but for those who depend on me.

Furthering my education to be more of an advocate for myself and my goal is an important component, not just for the sake of specialized material but so I can become a better leader, thinker, and change agent to help others in the world. For me, college is a chance to put ambition to purpose, from dreams into action. I plan to gain the training of the education that would enable me to build the foundation of a successful profession while at the same time, making a positive change on the world. I see one of the most significant ways higher education will assist me in accomplishing my goals is in acquiring the necessary knowledge and skills for my field of interest. Many professions in today’s ever so rapidly changing world require higher education, technical knowledge, and life-long learning. The university will help me focus more on my studies, interaction with expert faculty, and also by working internships and projects. More than academics, higher education promotes independent thought and critical thinking. Those talents are critical not just for doing better in your job but for tackling real-life issues with creativity as well as practical solutions in optimal form. Then, it is also a university setting which stimulates you to grow as a person, which is the perfect place. Interacting with differing perspectives, whether it be in classrooms, professors, students in universities or even campus groups, in one way or another I will come to know much more. This exposure promotes the development of empathy, communication, teamwork -- the tools on which important transformation depends. In college, you also get to develop leadership skills through students getting involved and engaging, serving, and in cooperation. These experiences will equip me to play a proactive role and contribute effectively in any environment. I don’t want to get ahead in life as an individual; I want to impact lives. The plan is to make it through and be more effective by using everything I learn in my community and outside the community. In whatever capacity -- professionally, by volunteering, in my work each day -- I seek to do my part to uplift human lives. I would like to use my knowledge to contribute to issues concerning access to resources, education, or opportunities for less affluent populations. Through my combination of knowledge and empathy, I am confident in my ability to devise solutions that are both practical and sustainable. In addition, I would love to be a role model to others, maybe even to people who have trouble with the same type of hurdles as I do. In going to graduation I can show others they have it in them, they can dream. Representation and inspiration are powerful forces for change, I want to be the person that inspires others to keep pushing after success through adversity. Therefore, my influence here goes well beyond that of the short term, and helps to build a culture of perseverance and growth. Ultimately, higher education is more than a one-way road to a profession, but is instead a transformative experience that is going to become a great learning and an education of what I am capable of. It would give me the tools I need to achieve what I want most and a purpose in life. I want to dedicate my education and apply it toward helping others, because I know that my impact beyond myself is a big difference.

In this moment, it is more clear that having a single parent home as I did has had the greatest impact on my educational journey and instilled in me both hard-willed grit and an innate sense of responsibility. With one parent to give emotional and financial assistance, I quickly realized that success would demand hard work, discipline, and a strong work ethic. My parent frequently had to do more than one thing, and the way they sacrificed helped me take my education seriously. At a young age, I knew that academic success had the power to create opportunities for both me and my family’s future stability. The scarce amount of time and resources was one of the biggest struggles. I did not, however, have that simple access as my peers, to be sure, for my school-based learning, given that my parent worked so often long hours. I found some practical applications for professional development that helped me be a leader in the educational process for the sake of the future generation in South Korea and abroad. My professors helped me learn to manage my time quite well and become more independent with my own degree. On my academic path from then on I got very confident and self-sufficient. This was when I was a single parent, so I had the privilege of having my first-hand education. "My parent has given me a new appreciation for the opportunity. I witnessed what a difference education can make and the power it has to create opportunities which may help break cycles of poverty. My parent talked a lot about perseverance and self-improvement, which was a very strong value for my family, even when things were tough. They provided a motivational atmosphere for me in my education and became a driving force behind my academic goals. So instead of viewing obstacles as setbacks instead of hurdles I took them as opportunities to strengthen myself and get more determined. If I think this is my role as a single parent, the experience would make my commitment to education all the stronger -- not only for myself but as a role model for my child. Juggling childbearing responsibilities with school or career aspirations would definitely be daunting, but it would strengthen the case of wanting to model a good attitude. Showing that I wouldn't quit, I can take responsibility for myself and that I'm always learning would be an important factor in my child's views on education and on their future vision. But, in the future, I’ll give something back to my community. Support systems, especially among students of single-parent households are vital, I have learned. My aim is to act as mentor / tutor for younger students so they can learn properly on their own basis, and to provide the necessary support and encouragement. I also hope that programmes will be implemented to provide academic help, child care help and financial aid for young people who get into similar situations. I also want to be part of community organizations that advance educational equity. I want to contribute in creating opportunities for students who feel the world can hold them back through running workshops, outreach programs, and partnerships with the schools. Through telling my story, I want to help others understand that their situation does not define their future. From this to learn the qualities that a single parent brings to a child, including strength, independence, and empathy. Giving back to our community is what I aspire to do; to ensure that there are others who have the means and support to succeed just like myself.

The biggest influence in my life has been my family, especially the people who have supported my creativity and encouraged me to keep going when I doubted my abilities. From a young age, they reminded me that art is not about being perfect, but about expressing myself honestly and continuing to improve. Their encouragement helped me build confidence in my skills and see art as something meaningful rather than just a hobby. Because of them, I learned discipline, patience, and the importance of never giving up on something I am passionate about. After I graduate, I plan to use my artistic skills in innovative ways by combining traditional drawing with creative storytelling. I want my work to go beyond simply looking realistic—I want it to have meaning and impact. I am especially interested in creating pieces that reflect culture, identity, and personal experiences. For example, in my drawings, I often include detailed textures, symbolic elements, and strong expressions to bring my subjects to life. In the future, I hope to expand my work into areas like digital art, mural painting, or custom designs that reach a larger audience. I want to create art that connects with people, tells stories, and inspires others to express themselves. What makes my artistic skill different is the level of detail and individuality I bring into every piece. I pay close attention to small features, such as the depth in the eyes, the texture of hair, or the way light and shadows shape a subject. At the same time, I like to add my own creative style through patterns, designs, and unique compositions. My artwork is not just about copying what I see—it is about transforming it into something personal. For instance, in my drawings of animals and portraits, I combine realism with imagination, adding elements that give each piece its own identity. Overall, my art reflects who I am—someone who values detail, creativity, and meaningful expression. As I continue to grow, I plan to use my skills to push boundaries, explore new ideas, and create work that stands out while staying true to myself. In addition, I want to use my art to open opportunities, whether through collaborations, commissions, or showcasing my work in galleries or online platforms. I believe art has the power to connect people across different backgrounds, and I hope to use my skills to make a positive and lasting impact in the world.

I want to create art that impacts the world in a positive way by creating artwork that brings out animals, nature, and culture to people. In my work, as with drawing the three horses, I also concentrate on the detail and expression to show that everyday material can hold importance. This is why I make art which emphasizes the value and uniqueness of animals with objects like motifs, feathers, and patterns, which I hope will encourage others to respect other places and cultures. I want a lot of my work to inspire people and to bring a sense of harmony or happiness for them in a world that can get really stressful often. Art creates human connection for people without words, but I want this kind of connection to be a tool for creating understanding or positivity. With those skills, I hope to continue developing my drawings to help tell better stories and to support things like animal care and protecting the environment. If my impact is meager, I think that to make art that makes people stop, think, or smile is an important way to contribute something positive to the world.

The everyday world inspires my art through close observation of the animals, textures, and details I see around me. By studying features like the shape of a horse’s face or the way light touches fur, I turn simple, real-life moments into creative expression. I also draw inspiration from cultural patterns and natural elements, such as the decorative feathers and colors in my work, which add personality and meaning. These everyday influences help me transform ordinary subjects into something more expressive and unique, allowing my personal connection to the subject to come through in each piece.