Growing up in a low-income household, I saw how financial instability and a lack of financial literacy could make everyday life a struggle. Watching my family navigate these challenges taught me that financial knowledge isn’t just about managing money, it’s about creating opportunities and building a sense of security. Those lessons inspired me to pursue a business degree, with the goal of becoming an auditor. I want to use my career to promote financial transparency and accountability, while also helping others in my community gain the tools they need to manage their finances effectively. As a first-generation college student studying Business Administration and Data Science, I’m driven to close the gap between underrepresented communities and the opportunities that financial literacy can unlock. I’ve chosen accounting, particularly auditing, because it plays a vital role in building trust in financial systems. Auditors ensure that organizations follow ethical practices and maintain transparency, which aligns perfectly with my personal values of integrity, accountability, and service. My commitment to this work is evident in my academic and extracurricular activities. As the co-founder and Chief of Operations for Diverse Abilities in Business, I organize networking and marketing events to help create an inclusive environment where individuals from diverse backgrounds can thrive. This role has taught me the importance of strategic planning and community engagement, skills I know will benefit me as I work toward my professional goals. I’m also proud of my work as Service and Fundraising Co-chair for Queen In You, where I organize community service projects and fundraising events that support marginalized groups. Whether I’m leading a financial literacy workshop or running a scholarship drive, I’ve seen how applying business principles can create lasting, positive change. These experiences have reinforced my belief that education and community empowerment go hand in hand. My studies in Data Science complement my business degree by giving me the tools to develop innovative solutions to address economic inequities. For instance, I want to create accessible tools or platforms that simplify financial planning and budgeting for low-income families. By breaking down complex financial concepts, these resources could empower people to make informed decisions and improve their financial well-being. Looking beyond my career, I’m committed to giving back as a mentor and advocate. I’ve been fortunate to receive guidance and encouragement, and I want to pay that forward by helping other first-generation students and individuals from underrepresented communities pursue their goals. Whether through hosting workshops, offering mentorship, or pushing for inclusive policies in the workplace, I want to create opportunities for others to succeed. To me, pursuing a business degree isn’t just about building a successful career—it’s about using my education to open doors for others and challenge the barriers that hold people back. My ultimate goal is to combine my knowledge of accounting and data science with my passion for community development to create lasting, meaningful change. This scholarship would bring me closer to that goal, allowing me to turn my aspirations into action and use my journey as a first-generation college student to inspire broader social and economic progress.