When I was much younger. I was involved and experienced a domestic violence situation, well it was a brutal attack on my mother and she was severely injured. The judge called it “egregious” and unfortunately I was caught in the midst of it all at age five, and this has profoundly impacted my life. The physical and most vivid scars my mother bear are still prevalent today. I would always have nightmares and panic attacks. Crowds was a horror and trust issues was a big factor in my life. I was comfortable being escorted by someone preferably my mom everywhere at all times. I could not be alone under any circumstance. Days was miserable at times as I struggled socially in school amongst my peers. However I am grateful of our ever overcoming process of mental and behavioral setbacks that would occur from time to time. It is a process indeed. Raised by my mother a single parent was not an easy task especially surrounding finances. However although sorrow and pain periodically reared its head. I can appreciate the times of joy, togetherness and sheer love spent with my mom. My teen years have been the most challenging where my emotions could be somewhat erratic. Finding my way was a constant winding road. Learning how to not let anger, and fear control my life. My head still attempts to understand why and occasionally place blame. There was a resolve I found through an extracurricular activity at school that helped me get past the aggression. Playing Lacrosse! This Domestic Violence experience has fueled my determination to pursue my education and career goals. It has taught me resilience, empathy, and the importance of advocating for those who cannot speak for themselves primarily young kids. In addition to the immediate challenges of that Domestic Violence situation. I also faced depression and mental health anxieties as a result. Overcoming these obstacles has been a significant part of my journey. Through therapy, support from loved ones, and my own determination, I have learned to manage these challenges and use them as a source of strength. This challenging period in my life has made me more dedicated to my education, as I see it as a path to a better future for myself and my family. It has also inspired me to work towards supporting others who have faced similar struggles. This experience has deepened my understanding of mental health and inspired me to advocate for mental health awareness as it is so needed in this social media environment we are engrossed in today. This journey has shaped me into a resilient and compassionate individual, equipped with a deep commitment to my education and a drive to make a positive impact in my community. I believe these experiences uniquely qualify me as a candidate for this scholarship, as they have not only shaped my personal growth but also fueled my determination to succeed and contribute meaningfully to society. I will be the first to graduate from college with a Bachelor’s degree in my immediate family. I look forward to enhancing my family’s collegiate legacy. This scholarship will economically help me establish my goals.