I am Lucia Garcia, a University of Wyoming senior majoring in marketing with a minor in international studies. As a first-generation student, I am working and studying for higher education. A higher education that I hope will allow me to reach financial freedom in the future. I have successfully completed four years of education due to the help of four-year scholarships. However, I still have one extra semester left in addition to the four years completed, and financial aid only covers some costs. While I work at a cafe, this job is only enough to cover the cost of basic needs such as housing and food, not the costs of finishing my higher education. I have eight years of experience in the customer service industry. From entering high school to today, I have worked every summer and, until recently, also during school. I have experience in the restaurant industry, from dishwasher to server, and have learned the ins and outs of working in a restaurant. Working in the customer service industry has indeed impacted the person I am. It has helped lead to personal growth and development. Specifically in the area of patience and resilience because dealing with challenging situations and irate customers can be demanding, but it also teaches you patience and strength. Being able to remain calm under pressure, handle difficult conversations, and find solutions to problems, has enhanced my ability to manage stressful situations effectively, including cases related to my higher education. Another skill I have greatly improved through my work experience is adaptability; each customer is unique, and their needs vary greatly. Working in customer service teaches you to adapt to different personalities, communication styles, and preferences. This adaptability extends beyond the workplace, positively influencing my interactions with others in various contexts. Currently, I am a barista at a local cafe in Laramie, WY. Unfortunately, the time work and school take do not allow me to volunteer and give back directly to the community of Laramie. However, interacting with various customers and their concerns has helped me create an enhanced customer experience for locals and students. Furthermore, the ability to work at a local cafe has also helped me support a small business and keep me engaged with the community of Laramie. Being a student of the University of Wyoming is also a way of giving back to the community, specifically through small acts of kindness and sharing knowledge and skills with students and professors. Engaging in friendly conversations and showing empathy and understanding are ways that I have practiced kindness and positivity in my interactions with other students and professors. Creating a positive and welcoming environment has contributed to a sense of community and made those around me feel valued and supported.