The main challenge that I have in life is not knowing what resources I have. I live in a single-parent home and am also an only child. Neither of my parents has gone to college, and I will be the first to do so. Because of this, I do not have anyone to look up to when it comes to seeking further education or learning how to transition into my adulthood life. I didn’t know how to apply for FAFSA. I had a hard time trying to figure out how to balance my college life with my adult life. I didn’t know how I would pay my college tuition. I had to figure out what career I wanted to pursue. I had to figure out how to apply for internships that would give me the experience needed for my career goal. This was all new to me. I didn’t know who to ask or how to go about doing these things. So, I started by asking everyone. I asked my advisors about scholarship opportunities that could help with my college tuition. I ask classmates what have they done to pay off their college debt or what internships are they participating in. I joined TRIO which taught me about college programs that are made for college students who are learning how to get around. I also asked graduate students what they did to get through college. I learned that asking questions could go a long way toward getting things done. That’s why, in the future, I am hoping to help future college students in figuring out how to navigate through college. I want to teach others about programs that are specifically made for them to help them through their transition. I didn’t have this help, so I want to be this help to others. I always told that it is now “what” you know but “who” you know. Asking the right people for help can aid you in a lot of things. So, I want to be that guide for others, so their college lives can be easier. I want to help low-income/ middle-class people because I am one of those people. People who do not have the financial support needed for higher education tend to not seek it at all. However, I feel like it is a huge investment for future endeavors. So, I want to give them the opportunity by exposing them to resources they can take advantage of to help them in college and their transition into adulthood. It can be scary not knowing how to go about achieving a goal that you may have. I want to be able to give them hope in their dreams and allow them to have less worries when moving forward.

College can be a hard thing being that the courses are harder, the teachers grade tougher, and the all-around atmosphere is always moving. However, I would recommend college because it can be an experience of a life time. it gives you the opportunity to meet new people, learn new things, and experience new events. If you are ever lost, there is always someone to help you. The school offers tutors and teachers offer one-on-one conferences whenever you are stuck. College is like a mini city/town that you are surrounded by people with the same interests and career goals as you. College gives you a better opportunity to get the job that you always wanted and even offers internship programs that give you the experience that you need. College isn't just about academics. It is a community. You may never know who you'll meet and become lifelong friends with. There are many extra curriculum activities that you can participate in as well. If you like sports, you can join a team and play free of charge. You don't have to pay for the equipment, and it keeps you active. There are sororities and fraternities that you can participate in that offer a sisterhood and brotherhood vibe. You don't have to do college alone. There is always help when you need it.