My name is Linda Rizo and I have been accepted into Azusa Pacific University’s Master of Social Work (MSW) program. I will be specializing in clinical practice with individuals and families. My professional goal is to become a Bilingual Therapist. I have intentions to work with Latino and minority populations where I can make a positive impact in medically underserved communities. As a second-generation immigrant and the first person in my family to attend college, my character has been shaped by grit and resilience from a young age. My tumultuous childhood planted in me a fierce resolve to attain success in order to break the poverty cycle in my family. I obtained my degree in Psychology at Brigham Young University(BYU). BYU’s motto was Enter to Learn, Go Forth to Serve. It helped me cultivate a commitment for lifelong learning and a desire to serve others. I participated in a church service mission to Southern Italy where I served as a full-time volunteer representative for a year and a half. During that time, I became fluent in Italian, engaged in community outreach, led service projects and taught about the teachings of Jesus Christ. Over the last 12 years, I have gained post-baccalaureate work experience all while starting a family and running a household. The lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic was a very challenging time for me, as I went through a divorce, moved back home to Los Angeles, became head of household and navigated my new reality as a single parent. Scholarships will help me overcome the financial barrier of pursuing higher education.