Continuing my education after graduation is not just a goal — it's a commitment I've made to myself and to the students I hope to one day serve. My passion for education is rooted in my personal journey, one that has been shaped by challenges, growth, and the people who believed in me when I struggled to believe in myself. As a student-athlete at Oakwood University, balancing academics and college softball has taught me the importance of perseverance, discipline, and time management. The softball field has always been more than just a place to compete — it’s been a space where I found strength, teamwork, and resilience. These are the same qualities I bring into the classroom and hope to pass on to my future students. My path through education hasn’t been easy. I’ve struggled with a learning disability for most of my academic life. There were times I doubted whether I could keep up, whether I was smart enough, and whether I belonged. But despite those doubts, I kept showing up. I’ve had teachers who saw my potential and took the time to help me succeed in ways that worked for me. Their support changed my life — and it planted the seed for my desire to become an educator myself. Because of those experiences, I don’t just want to be a teacher — I want to be the kind of teacher who recognizes the strengths in every student, especially those who feel like their challenges define them. I know what it feels like to sit in a classroom and feel overwhelmed, or to read something three times and still not understand it the way everyone else seems to. I also know the triumph of overcoming those moments, of working twice as hard and finally seeing results. That’s the perspective I bring into the field of education — and it’s why I’m so passionate about continuing my studies. At Oakwood University, I’ve been surrounded by a community that values service, faith, and academic excellence. This environment has not only nurtured my growth as a student, but it’s also reinforced my belief in the power of education to uplift and transform lives. I’ve seen firsthand how access to quality education can open doors and change trajectories, especially for students from underserved communities. My goal is to contribute to that change. After graduation, I plan to pursue a master’s degree in education, with a focus on learning differences, inclusive education, or curriculum development. I want to study the tools and techniques that make classrooms more effective and accessible for all students, especially those who learn differently — just like I did. Whether through differentiated instruction, trauma-informed teaching, or culturally responsive practices, I want to ensure that every child has the chance to thrive. This next step in my educational journey is deeply personal to me. It’s about honoring my past, embracing my present, and building a future where I can empower others through learning. I know the road ahead won’t be easy, but I’m no stranger to hard work. My experiences as a student-athlete, a learner with a disability, and a student of Oakwood University have prepared me for this next chapter. I’m ready to continue growing, not just for myself, but for the students whose lives I hope to impact for years to come.