Hello, my name is Melody, and I am a 1st generation, non-traditional student studying Business Management and Human Resources. I live in rural Southern Middle Tennessee. I dropped out of college after only 5 classes right after high school because there was a death in my family, my parents got a divorce, and there was so much going on that I was unable to concentrate on my studies. I have $12,000 in student loans that ultimately produced NO benefits for me, because I didn't receive credit for the classes I completed in 2007-2008 when I re-enrolled to return to college. It is a stupid mistake to be in debt with nothing to show for it. But that is what you do when you are young: you make mistakes. I enlisted in the US Navy, only to be medically discharged during boot camp. I then worked in retail for 11 years, until my son was born. I have been a stay-at-home Mom for the past 7 years. My son is non-verbal and has severe Autism. He requires constant supervision and has many medical appointments. Everything I am doing today is to help create a better life for me and my child. He is my motivation, my heart, and my joy. He may not be able to tell me 'I love you,' but his hugs and kisses certainly let me know how much he loves his Mama. He is worth doing my homework in the bathroom late at night, and as a 39-year-old woman. I am motivated much more now than when I was younger. Scholarship money would be very impactful in assisting us. While I am in school, I am unable to work and also meet the child's needs. I would be eternally grateful and will assuredly pay it forward.