As a kid, every time people asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, the answer was always different. I’d considered every profession, from veterinarian, to fashion designer, to marine biologist, to teacher, to therapist, to FBI agent, you name it, little me thought about it at some point or another. But no matter what I was dreaming about at the time, I was always drawn back to the idea of helping people, of doing something that mattered. It wasn’t until I got older and saw the real-world impact of crime and abuse that it all clicked for me: law was the path that would let me do that. One of the most defining experiences that shaped my passion for law was having a best friend in high school whose family was horribly abusive. Things got so bad that I wasn’t allowed to be at her house unless her parents were away, and I still vividly remember the night she showed up at my door in the middle of the night after one of their fights. Seeing the stress she was under, and knowing what her siblings were going through as well was heartbreaking. It opened my eyes to how many kids are stuck in situations like hers, with no one to turn to. That was when I decided I want to be a lawyer—not just to put criminals away, but to help kids like my friend who feel trapped in dangerous homes. From there, I started taking steps to pursue my goal. Volunteering with my local sheriff's department gave me insight into how law enforcement works to protect the community, and attending a criminal justice camp at Sam Houston State University during my sophomore year was an incredible experience that made me even more certain about my path. I learned about courtroom procedures, how cases are built, and the different roles within the justice system. It was a hands-on experience that made everything feel real, and it showed me the impact a lawyer can have. After that camp, I knew for sure that law is the right path for me. Through these experiences, I’ve developed skills that will help me succeed in the legal field. My communication skills allow me to connect with people on a personal level, whether it’s listening to someone’s story, explaining legal processes, or arguing a case. My attention to detail ensures that I won’t miss anything crucial, from small pieces of evidence to legal loopholes that could make or break a case. Being adaptable will help me navigate the unexpected challenges that inevitably come up in legal work, while my empathy drives me to truly understand and care about the people I’ll be representing. I’m not just interested in the law for the sake of winning cases; I’m invested in making a real difference in people’s lives, especially those who are vulnerable and often overlooked. At the core of it all, I’ve always been drawn to justice because it’s about more than just rules and regulations—it’s about standing up for what’s right and making sure people are protected. That’s exactly what I want to do as a lawyer. I want to be the person who steps in when things are at their worst, fighting for kids and families who need someone in their corner. This scholarship would be an important steppingstone toward achieving that goal, helping me pursue the education and opportunities I need to make that impact. I’m excited about what lies ahead and grateful for the chance to share my story.