The dream version of future me is being a DODEA elementary teacher-specializing in ACEs-stationed abroad and volunteer teaching in foreign countries during summer break.

First and foremost, my sincerest condolences on your loss. I know from personal experience how your life changes in an instant. Also, thank you for the opportunity to discuss my commitment to the community. It is my goal to always help those who need it when I have the chance. There have been many volunteering and leadership experiences I have participated in. Some of my favorites are filling shoeboxes and organizing collections for OCC, and volunteering for the Hiersteiner CDC on campus. I served as the contact person and was solely responsible for my church’s volunteering with OCC which is where I was fortunate to learn what it takes to be in a leadership role as well. I later started working at this church and regularly assisted with community outreach, including but not limited to Harvesters, trunk ‘r treat, food pantry collection, hosting outside community events, weekly small group assemblies, game nights, and back-to-school events. Volunteering within my community and learning from people who have been for much longer than I have has changed what I thought I knew about my community. Those in need are not always who you think, and others’ quiet generosity will surprise you. During the upcoming summer and fall semesters I will also be volunteering for my community library (Turner), and doing service learning for both Operation Breakthrough and KU Med’s reading program. The information I learn during these projects is invaluable to me and gets put to use right away, not just in my education, but in my current job as a preschool teacher. Speaking up for others, finding and filling the gap, helping others in need, being a role model, and giving back to the community around you, are all very important things. I grew up here. I chose to move back here. I will do what is in my power to make my home better and to help others do the same along the way. Financially, I need this scholarship to continue my education. I work almost full time, my husband works full time, and I still qualify for the Pell Grant's full amount. We are doing everything possible to make sure I can afford school and still have the time to study. I have worked extremely hard to become a part of the Honors Program and Phi Theta Kappa and will continue to do what I need to do to make myself the best candidate for scholarships and schools. Being a first-generation student and lack of money will not keep me from my dreams or showing my kids that I can succeed, but it will keep me out of debt.