The path to obtaining a college degree has not always been the easiest for me. When my father died from lung cancer while I was in college obtaining my bachelor’s degree, I learned then about the curveballs life throws at you. As a 31 year old pursuing their dreams of accomplishing a Master’s degree, I wholeheartedly understand the sacrifices and challenges that one faces. However, I am determined to never let my struggles stop me from achieving my goals. Going to school as an older student is challenging. However, this time in my life has given me clarity on my passions by allowing me to pursue my interest in a way that is beneficial to society. I dedicated myself to being of service to others. I volunteer with multiple non-profit organizations who aim to help less fortunate people in disadvantaged communities. Also, I volunteer my time with my local police department by offering assistance to the individuals who help support many people within the community. Being in this predicament has taught me how to adapt to a multi-generational environment. It has also kept me abreast of the new technological advances that I will take forward with me throughout my career. Being a non-traditional student has impacted my future goals because it has shown me how I want to be of service to those within my community. Whether it is sharing my story, motivating others, or helping those in need financially, by attending college at this age I now have clarity about my life’s purpose and pursuits. I am more mature and more equipped to handle anything thrown my way. This maturity has given me understanding about how I am supposed to be positively supporting and influencing others. People are the center of my life. I love people. I love the individuals within my community. Any opportunity available to help another individual, I will take. Completing my master’s degree gives me the tools to communicate and learn to collaborate with a wide variety of people. I have faced many challenges throughout my lifetime from homelessness, to losing a parent, to experiencing discrimination at work, and trying to navigate adulting. All those experiences have led me here to this moment where I have the opportunity to turn lemons into lemonade. No matter what obstacle is presented to me in life I am determined to not let those issues deter me from fulfilling my goals in life. I hope that my essay offers you the information that you need to make your decision. Thank you for your time by reading my story and thank you for the opportunity to honor Bob in a meaningful way. Take care!