Adversity is something that everyone faces at some point in their lives. It can appear in many forms—personal, academic, emotional—and it tests not only our strength but our ability to adapt and grow. For me, the greatest adversity I’ve faced came during my time in college. At 19, I was overwhelmed by a combination of academic pressures, mental health struggles, and a general feeling of being lost as I tried to figure out my place in the world. When I first entered college, I was filled with excitement and ambition. I had a clear vision of what my future would look like, and I was determined to achieve my goals. However, as the semesters went on, I found myself drowning in stress. I had always been a perfectionist, and I struggled with balancing my academic responsibilities with maintaining my personal well-being. I started experiencing intense anxiety and periods of depression, and for a while, I kept it all to myself, fearing that showing weakness would hinder my chances of succeeding. The real turning point came when I realized that I couldn’t keep pushing myself to the brink without taking a toll on my health. I was barely sleeping, and my grades were slipping. I was becoming disconnected from my friends and family, and I didn’t know how to get out of the rut I had fallen into. I was at a breaking point when I finally reached out for help. I spoke with a counselor at school, and it was through that conversation that I began to understand the importance of mental health. I learned that it wasn’t a weakness to admit I was struggling, but rather a strength to seek support. One of the hardest parts of this experience was confronting the fear that my dreams were no longer achievable. I often felt like I was falling behind in comparison to my peers who seemed to have everything figured out. But as I learned to manage my mental health, I also began to realize that the setbacks didn’t define me. I could still pursue my aspirations, but I had to be kinder to myself in the process. I made a promise to myself that I would continue working toward my goals, but that I would do so at my own pace, allowing room for growth and self-compassion. Through this journey, I discovered that resilience is not about never feeling weak or scared. It’s about acknowledging those feelings and still choosing to move forward. I began setting small goals, focusing on completing one assignment at a time rather than looking at the overwhelming picture. I learned how to ask for help when I needed it and how to prioritize my health—both mental and physical—without feeling guilty. I began to believe that I could achieve my dreams, not despite the challenges, but because of them. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the importance of self-compassion. I had to stop holding myself to impossible standards and instead learn to embrace the imperfections that come with being human. I realized that my worth wasn’t determined by how perfectly I could juggle everything, but by how I showed up for myself and others, even on the toughest days. Today, I am a more confident, compassionate, and focused individual. I continue to navigate the balance of being a student, a friend, and someone who is passionate. The challenges I’ve faced have not only taught me how to overcome adversity but have also shown me the power of community, self-compassion, and the importance of never giving up.

Mental health has always been a part of my life, though it wasn’t something I fully understood until I was older. Growing up, mental health was never openly discussed in my household. There was a stigma surrounding it—an unspoken belief that emotions were something to be managed privately, and that asking for help was a sign of weakness. It wasn’t until my teenage years that I began to experience the struggles of my own mental health: overwhelming anxiety, bouts of depression, and a persistent feeling of being out of control. It was then that I realized how much mental health affects not just an individual’s well-being but their relationships and aspirations as well. My personal experiences with mental health have shaped the way I see the world. They have allowed me to cultivate a deep empathy for others who struggle in silence. For years, I felt isolated, unsure of how to talk about the heavy emotions I carried. I would smile through difficult days, pretending everything was fine when I felt like I was drowning. It wasn’t until I sought therapy and found a supportive group of friends that I started to realize the importance of vulnerability and open communication. As I began to prioritize my mental health and engage in therapy, I began to see significant improvements in my relationships. My loved ones, who had always supported me but never fully understood my struggles, became more patient and compassionate. My openness about my mental health challenges created a space for them to share their own, which strengthened our bonds. I also learned to set healthier boundaries and recognize when I needed to take a step back to prioritize my mental well-being. As a result, I was able to build stronger, more authentic relationships, free from the shame or fear of being judged. One of the most significant impacts that mental health has had on my life is on my career aspirations. I have always wanted to help others, and my own mental health journey led me to realize that I wanted to pursue a career in counseling. I want to become the person I needed when I was struggling, someone who listens without judgment, offers guidance without rushing, and creates a safe space where people can express themselves without fear of shame. My personal experiences have fueled this desire to help others navigate their own mental health challenges, and I am committed to pursuing a career where I can make a tangible difference in people’s lives. In college, I decided to major in psychology to equip myself with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand the complexities of mental health and to provide meaningful support to those in need. I want to focus on mental health advocacy, particularly in underserved communities where mental health is still stigmatized and resources are limited. I know firsthand how important it is to have access to mental health care, and I want to dedicate my career to making it more accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances. Furthermore, my mental health journey has also shaped my career aspirations in unexpected ways. As I navigated my struggles, I discovered a passion for writing about mental health—shedding light on the struggles that so many people face in silence. Through my writing, I want to educate, raise awareness, and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health. I believe that storytelling has the power to heal and connect, and by sharing my own journey, I hope to give others the courage to share theirs. .

At 19, I found myself at a pivotal moment in my life, one I never could have imagined. As a freshman in college, I was eager to pave my future and chase my dreams. I had big plans, and the world seemed full of possibility. But in a moment, everything changed. I found out I was pregnant. The news hit me like a wave crashing over me—unexpected, overwhelming, and uncertain. But in that instant, I realized something profound: this was not the end of my story, but a new chapter. I’ve always believed that education is the key to unlocking my potential and achieving the life I’ve envisioned. But as a young, pregnant woman, the world around me often tells a different story, one where dreams are sacrificed for reality, where motherhood means giving up personal aspirations. People sometimes view young mothers as statistics, as women whose futures have been derailed. But that couldn’t be further from my truth. I refuse to accept that being a mother at this age means the end of my education, my goals, and my future. In fact, it has only made me more determined and stronger than before. My loving boyfriend, who stands beside me every step of the way, is my constant support and motivation. He has shown me that I am not alone in this journey, and together, we will rise above the challenges that come our way. My family and friends have also been an incredible source of encouragement. They remind me daily that my dreams are still within reach, and they believe in me even when I doubt myself. They have helped me see that my circumstances do not define my potential. Instead, they have shown me that I can be a mother and still pursue my education and my career goals. Despite the overwhelming fears that come with being a young, pregnant college student, I refuse to let this define me. The power of resilience is something I’ve learned through this experience. I understand now more than ever that life doesn’t always go as planned, but that doesn’t mean the journey is over. In fact, it’s just begun. I am more determined than ever to pursue my dreams, not just for myself, but for my child. I want to show my baby that with hard work, perseverance, and a belief in oneself, anything is possible. Receiving this scholarship would mean the world to me. It would not only lighten the financial burden that comes with being a young mother and a college student but also allow me to continue focusing on my studies without the constant worry of how I’ll pay for tuition, books, and other expenses. With this scholarship, I could continue my education and work toward a degree in social work, a field that is deeply meaningful to me. My goal is to become an advocate for young mothers and children, especially those who may be struggling or facing hardships. I want to help other young women like myself navigate the challenges of education and motherhood, showing them that they, too, can succeed. In the past few months, I’ve learned the true meaning of resilience. I’ve learned how to balance sleepless nights with studying for exams, how to navigate the ups and downs of pregnancy while keeping my focus on my future. Every day, I push myself to keep going, to prove to myself and to my baby that I can achieve my dreams. And I will. Because I am not defined by the challenges I face, I am defined by how I rise above them.

Being a teen mom changes your life a lot. It brings many hard things to deal with. Even though it might seem tough, if you stay strong, work hard, and have a plan for the future, you can overcome the challenges. Suddenly, taking care of your child becomes the most important thing. This big change helps you become better at managing time, focusing on important things, and being responsible. At the age of 14, I discovered that I was going to become a parent. The initial months were quite challenging. During the first trimester, I battled with depression, especially since the father of my child passed in a car accident recently around that time. Additionally, I hadn't even revealed the news to my parents. I continued going to school, always dressed in oversized clothes to hide the fact that I was three months pregnant. After a while, I mustered the courage to share the news with my parents, and their support was incredible. Things started to improve from that point onward. I began attending ultrasounds to monitor my child's growth, and I also confided in my friends, whose help was immeasurable. Words can't capture how thankful I am for their presence during that time. I also decided to inform the father's family, and they were overjoyed to welcome a part of him into the world. Skipping ahead five months, the day finally arrived when I gave birth to my son. The moment I saw him, I was taken aback by his sheer beauty. I named him Aubrey, and now, at the age of three, he stands as my most profound source of inspiration. Becoming a mother brought about significant changes in my life. I had to juggle the responsibilities of parenthood while also navigating the usual challenges of being a teenager. This balancing act was not easy, yet it played a pivotal role in my personal growth. I developed skills in time management, prioritization, and responsibility. Additionally, a goal that constantly motivated me was becoming the first individual in my family to attend college. Education has the amazing ability to change lives. For me, going to college means learning new things and gaining skills because I want to become a journalist someday. I want to share this knowledge with Aubrey. I hope to show him that anyone can achieve their dreams. College is not just about me, it's about making a better future for both of us. By going to college, I'll be ready to do well in my job as a journalist. I also want to teach Aubrey how important learning is. I want him to know that working hard and never giving up can lead to success. Being a good example for Aubrey is a big reason why I want to go to college. I want to prove to him that even if things are tough, we can still reach our goals. My college journey will help me prove that with determination and effort, we can overcome problems and do great things. I'm not alone in this journey. My family, friends, and teachers support me a lot. They believe in me and help me when things get tough. This support makes me feel like I can achieve anything.

Going to college I plan to get my degree in Journalism and become and journalist. As someone passionate about storytelling and uncovering the truth, journalism has the power to shed light on important issues, hold those in power accountable, and give a voice to those who are often overlooked. Through my work as a journalist, I hope to inform and inspire others, spark change, and make a positive impact in my community. In addition to reporting on important issues, I also hope to use my platform to give back to the community. As a journalist, I can highlight the work of local organizations and community leaders who are making a difference. I can also use my platform to raise awareness and funds for causes that I am passionate about. Whether it's through volunteer work or using my reporting skills to amplify the voices of those who are marginalized, I believe that there are many ways in which I can give back to the community through my career as a journalist. I am more than happy bout the many opportunities and challenges that come with being a journalist, and I am committed to using my skills and platform to make a positive impact. Through hard work, dedication, and a passion for the truth, I hope to inspire others and create a better world through my career as a journalist.

Growing up, my dad was a constant source of inspiration for me. As someone who dropped out of school due to his mental health, he worked hard to provide for our family and instilled in me the importance of education. His hard work and dedication to his family motivated me to pursue higher education and set my sights on a brighter future. Despite not having had the opportunity to attend college himself, my dad was always passionate about learning and growing as a person. He would often share stories about his own experiences and the importance of education in achieving success in life. Being young, I admired his willingness to work long hours to provide for our family and how he cared for us no matter what. Seeing him push himself to learn new things and improve his skills inspired me to do the same. As I grew older, my dad continued to be a guiding force in my life. He encouraged me to excel academically and pursue my dreams of attending college. He always believed in me, even when I doubted myself, and never stopped pushing me to be my best self. Thanks to his encouragement and support, I was able to attend a great university and pursue my passions. Throughout my academic career, my dad was always there to cheer me on, offer words of wisdom, and provide unwavering support. His belief in me gave me the confidence to chase my dreams and achieve my goals. As someone passionate about advocacy and critical thinking, I decided to participate in speech and mock trials as a way to develop my skills in public speaking, research, and argumentation. I have always been interested in using my voice to make a difference, and these activities offer a platform to do just that. As I said before, my dad dropped out of high school because of his mental health. He had a bad home life and was always put in foster care homes that treated him worse. Through speech and mock trials, I want to help others who deserve justice in the court system and how to articulate my thoughts clearly and persuasively, and approach complex issues from multiple perspectives. Not only have these skills helped me academically, but they have also given me the confidence to speak up and defend my beliefs in all aspects of my life. I am grateful for the opportunity to participate in these activities and look forward to continuing to hone my skills and make a positive impact in my community.

Dancing has been a part of my life since I was a young child. From the moment I put on my first tutu and took my first ballet class, I knew that dancing was my passion. As I grew older, my love for dancing only grew stronger. I knew that I wanted to pursue a career in dancing, and I was willing to work hard to make my dreams a reality. To pursue a career in dancing, I knew that I needed to hone my skills and gain as much experience as possible. Throughout my childhood and teenage years, I took as many dance classes as I could. I studied ballet, contemporary, and hip-hop, and I competed in numerous dance competitions. I also participated in various dance workshops and intensives to improve my technique and expand my repertoire. As I approached the end of high school, I knew that I needed to take my training to the next level. I applied to several dance programs at colleges and universities across the country, and I was thrilled when I was accepted into one of the top dance programs in the country. The program provided me with rigorous training in various dance styles, as well as opportunities to perform and choreograph. In addition to my formal dance training, I also worked hard to develop my own unique style and artistic voice. I drew inspiration from my own experiences, as well as from other dancers and choreographers. As I prepare to embark on my career as a professional dancer, I know that I will face many challenges and obstacles. The dance world is incredibly competitive, and securing a job as a dancer can be difficult. However, I am determined to persevere and to pursue my dreams with passion and dedication. In addition to my family, I have also been inspired and supported by my dance teachers. They have not only taught me the technical aspects of dance, but they have also helped me to develop my artistic voice and to navigate the ups and downs of pursuing a career in dance. They have pushed me to work harder and to take risks, and they have believed in me even when I doubted myself. I prepare to embark on my career as a professional dancer, I hope to be able to impact the lives of other young dancers in the same way that my teachers have impacted mine. I believe that as a dance teacher, I can not only teach technique and choreography, but I can also inspire my students to pursue their passions with dedication and determination. I plan to create a positive and inclusive learning environment where all of my students feel comfortable and supported. I will provide constructive feedback and encouragement, and I will help my students to develop their own unique artistic voices. I will also share my own experiences and insights into the dance world, and I will help my students to navigate the challenges and obstacles that they may face in pursuing a career in dance. Ultimately, I hope to leave a lasting impact on my students, both as dancers and as individuals. I want to inspire them to pursue their passions with passion and dedication, and to believe in themselves even in the face of adversity. I believe I have the power to shape the beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations of my students, and I am excited to embark on this journey of teaching and inspiring the next generation of dancers.

Being passionate about education is crucial for any teacher, as it can greatly impact a student's beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. Education has the power to change lives, and as a teacher, it is my responsibility to help students reach their full potential. I believe that teaching is not just about imparting knowledge, but also about inspiring and motivating students to learn and grow. Teachers can have a significant impact on a student's beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. In the classroom, teachers can create a positive and supportive environment that encourages students to take risks and try new things. By providing feedback and guidance, teachers can help students develop a growth mindset and build their self-confidence. This can translate to the students' beliefs about themselves and their abilities, which can have a profound impact on their future success. Teachers can also influence students' relationships. By fostering a sense of community and promoting teamwork, teachers can help students develop positive social skills and build meaningful connections with their peers. This can lead to better communication, collaboration, and empathy, which are essential skills for success in any career or personal relationship. Finally, teachers can impact students' career aspirations by exposing them to new ideas, experiences, and opportunities. By introducing students to different fields and industries, teachers can broaden their horizons and inspire them to pursue their passions. Additionally, by providing guidance and support in the college application process or job search, teachers can help students achieve their goals and reach their full potential. As a future teacher, I plan to leave a lasting impact on my students by creating a classroom environment that is welcoming, supportive, and engaging. I believe that building relationships with students is key to creating a positive and productive learning environment. By getting to know my students and their interests, strengths, and weaknesses, I can tailor my instruction to meet their needs and inspire them to learn. I also plan to incorporate a variety of teaching strategies and techniques to keep my students engaged and motivated. This may include project-based learning, group work, and interactive technology. By making learning fun and interactive, I hope to inspire my students to be curious and enthusiastic about their education. Finally, I plan to help my students develop the skills they need to succeed in the future. This includes not only academic skills but also social-emotional skills like communication, collaboration, and problem-solving. I believe that by teaching these skills alongside traditional academic subjects, I can help my students become well-rounded and successful individuals. In conclusion, being passionate about education is crucial for any teacher. By inspiring and motivating students to learn and grow, teachers can impact their beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. As a future teacher, I plan to leave a lasting impact on my students by creating a positive and engaging classroom environment, incorporating a variety of teaching strategies, and helping my students develop the skills they need to succeed in the future.

Since I was a child, I have had a passion for art. Drawing, painting, and creating have always been a part of my life. As I grew older, I began to realize that art was not just a hobby, but a passion that I wanted to pursue professionally. My dream is to become a successful artist, creating beautiful and meaningful works that inspire and connect with others. One of the things that make my pursuit of art even more meaningful is the support of my family. From a young age, my parents encouraged and nurtured my artistic abilities, providing me with materials and opportunities to grow and develop my skills. As I grew older and expressed my desire to pursue art professionally, they continued to support me, providing me with resources and advice on how to achieve my dreams. Art has had a significant impact on my life, providing me with a creative outlet and a means of self-expression. Through art, I have been able to explore my emotions, ideas, and perspectives in ways that words cannot fully capture. Creating art has been a way for me to process difficult emotions, express my innermost thoughts and feelings, and connect with others on a deeper level. As I embark on my journey to becoming a professional artist, I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. I have been researching and exploring different paths and opportunities within the art world, from gallery exhibitions to commissions and public art installations. While I know that the road ahead will not be easy, I am determined to work hard, stay focused, and never lose sight of my passion and my dream. One of the challenges of pursuing a career in art is the financial instability that comes with it. However, I believe that with hard work, dedication, and the support of my family, I can overcome these challenges and achieve my goals. I am also committed to continuing to develop my skills and knowledge, taking classes, attending workshops, and seeking out mentorship and guidance from established artists in the field. In conclusion, my passion for art has been a guiding force in my life, providing me with a means of self-expression, connection, and personal growth. With the support of my family, I am committed to pursuing my dreams and becoming a successful artist. While the road ahead may be challenging, I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and am determined to work hard and never give up on my passion. I am grateful for the impact that art has had on my life and am excited about how I can use my art to make a difference in the world.

Adversity is a part of life, and everyone faces challenges and obstacles at some point. Whether it's a personal struggle or a difficult situation, adversity can be overwhelming and can make it difficult to move forward. However, with the right mindset and tools, it is possible to overcome adversity and emerge stronger on the other side. One way to overcome adversity is by developing a positive mindset. It is important to focus on the things that you can control and find ways to stay motivated and optimistic. One effective way to do this is by setting realistic goals and working towards them, even if they are small. Celebrating small wins can help build momentum and make progress feel achievable. Another important factor in overcoming adversity is having a support system. This can include friends, family, or a professional counselor. It is important to surround yourself with people who can provide encouragement and support, and who can offer a fresh perspective on the challenges you are facing. Additionally, taking care of yourself is essential when facing adversity. This includes maintaining a healthy lifestyle, eating nutritious foods, and getting enough sleep. Exercise can also be beneficial, as it releases endorphins that can help improve mood and reduce stress. When facing adversity, it can be easy to feel alone and helpless. However, it is important to remember that many people have faced similar challenges and have overcome them. Reading stories of resilience and triumph can provide inspiration and motivation to keep pushing forward. Growing up in a low-income household can be a challenging experience that can have a significant impact on one's life. Families with limited financial resources often face difficulties in meeting their basic needs, such as food, housing, and healthcare. As a result, children growing up in low-income households may face additional challenges such as limited access to educational resources and extracurricular activities, which can hinder their academic and personal development. One of the most significant challenges of growing up in a low-income household is the limited access to opportunities that are available to children from more affluent backgrounds. For example, children from low-income households may not have access to computers, internet access, or other resources that are essential for success in school. Additionally, they may not be able to participate in extracurricular activities such as sports or music lessons, which can provide valuable experiences and skills. Growing up in a low-income household can also have long-term effects on one's physical and mental health. Children from low-income households are more likely to experience poor health outcomes, such as malnutrition, chronic illnesses, and mental health issues. Furthermore, the stress and uncertainty that come with financial instability can lead to anxiety and depression, which can have a significant impact on a child's academic performance and personal well-being. Finally, it is important to seek help when needed. There is no shame in asking for assistance, whether it is from a friend, family member, or professional. Sometimes a fresh perspective or guidance can help in finding solutions to the challenges faced. In conclusion, overcoming adversity requires a combination of mindset, support, self-care, inspiration, and seeking help when necessary. By focusing on what can be controlled, surrounding oneself with positive people, taking care of oneself, finding inspiration, and seeking help when needed, anyone can overcome adversity and emerge stronger on the other side.

As a Queer Black woman, my experiences in the healthcare setting have been varied. I have encountered healthcare professionals who have been welcoming and understanding, and I have also encountered professionals who have been dismissive of my concerns and needs. These experiences have taught me the importance of cultural competency in healthcare, especially for marginalized communities. As a future Physician Assistant (PA), my goal is to provide patient-centered care that is sensitive to the needs of all individuals, including those from marginalized communities. I believe that everyone deserves access to quality healthcare, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, race, or socioeconomic status. I hope to use my position as a PA to advocate for these communities and provide them with the care they deserve. One way that I can improve my interactions in the healthcare setting is by continuing to educate myself about the unique health concerns and needs of marginalized communities. I plan to attend workshops and conferences that focus on cultural competency and health disparities. I will also seek out mentorship from healthcare professionals who have experience working with these communities. I believe that it is crucial for healthcare professionals to establish trust and rapport with their patients. As a Queer Black woman, I understand the importance of creating a safe and inclusive space for patients to express their concerns and needs without fear of judgment or discrimination. I plan to create this type of environment by actively listening to my patients, acknowledging their concerns, and advocating for their rights. Additionally, I plan to use my role as a PA to raise awareness about the unique health concerns of marginalized communities. I hope to use my position to advocate for policies and practices that promote health equity and reduce health disparities. I believe that education is key to promoting positive change in the healthcare system, and I plan to use my platform to educate patients, colleagues, and the wider community about the importance of cultural competency and inclusive healthcare practices. In conclusion, as a Queer Black woman, my experiences have taught me the importance of cultural competency in healthcare. As a future PA, my goal is to provide patient-centered care that is sensitive to the needs of all individuals, especially those from marginalized communities. I plan to continue to educate myself about these communities and create a safe and inclusive space for patients to express their concerns and needs. I believe that through education and advocacy, we can promote positive change in the healthcare system and improve the health outcomes of marginalized communities.

Helping the homeless is a vital issue that affects communities all over the world. Homelessness is not only a problem of poverty, but also a complex issue that involves a range of social, economic, and mental health factors. It is a problem that requires a multi-faceted approach to address, and individuals, organizations, and governments need to take action to help the homeless. Giving back to the community is a fundamental aspect of being a responsible and engaged citizen. It is an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others and create a positive impact in the world around us. It is a way to show gratitude for the blessings we have received and to use our skills and resources to help others who are less fortunate. In my church, I am signed up for a program where we travel to different locations in the city and donate to the homeless. We give them health care packages, a new blanket, and 4 warm meals. We do this every week as there's even now a truck that is around the city almost every day and is giving resources to the homeless. Another way we like to help and give back to the homeless is by providing them with access to healthcare and mental health services. Homelessness often goes hand in hand with a range of health issues, including physical and mental health problems. By providing access to healthcare and mental health services, individuals and organizations can help the homeless address these issues and improve their overall well-being. There are also many clubs and organizations providing Homelessness often goes hand in hand with a range of health issues, including physical and mental health problems. By providing access to healthcare and mental health services, individuals and organizations can help the homeless address these issues and improve their overall well-being. There are also policy and advocacy work that can be done to help the homeless. This includes lobbying for more affordable housing and support services, pushing for changes in laws and policies that disproportionately affect homeless individuals, and raising awareness about the issue of homelessness in the community. In conclusion, helping the homeless is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach. Individuals, organizations, and governments need to take action to provide the homeless with necessities, healthcare, mental health services, job training and employment opportunities, and policy and advocacy work. By working together, we can make a significant difference in the lives of the homeless and create a more just and equitable society for all.

My major is Journalism, growing up I've always wanted to be a writer but I've had trouble figuring out what to write for and what topics would be interesting. So I thought to myself, why not just write about anything? I thought it would be interesting to be those people who write articles about anything happening around the world, whether it be pop culture or conflict around our local city, I always found fascination for writing and it's been my passion since. My family and I grew up in Los Angeles, California. To be more specific, we grew up in North Hollywood. The majority of my family including me are African American with some family members marrying outside their race. When I was 3, my mother ended up moving my siblings and me to Sacramento after she and my dad split. That's where I spent some of my childhood. In Sacramento, it was very hard living. My mom's financial situation wasn't rather perfect as at one point we were living off of $300 every month. My mom was not able to work because she had to stay at home and take care of my younger brother who has a disability and epilepsy. She couldn't have someone take care of him as we did not have any other family around. For a woman who had 3 kids and no help, I would picture that as very hard to manage to try to maintain a life for all of us. My brothers and I were also getting sent to school hungry as the school meals would be what will fill us up for the day. We also lived in a bad neighborhood where the crime rate increased every few months. But even though these things were happening. My mother still did a spectacular job raising me and my siblings and I praise her every time for it. If wasn't for the obstacles I had to go through I don't think I would have the inspiration to become a writer. Going through my financial challenges was hard but it made me who I truly am today. I'm so proud of how my family and I have come and I wouldn't trade it for anything. With this, I get to influence others with how anything is possible and to never stop believing in myself. Life is full of obstacles and with these stages, in life, you are meant to live, learn, and progress.

What is feminism? Some will say women rights, others will say a political movement. For me, feminism is power. Women all over the world are standing up for each other's rights and fighting. It's important for all of us to stick together and support one another. Feminism is being strong, gifted, and talented. We are the world and what makes it unique. In the future, I wish to write all about women rights and how us as a whole change the world.

The art of Peer Pressure by Kendrick Lamar is a song that always sticks out to me as it has so much meant, and I can relate to it. The beauty of this song is explaining how peer pressure can take you down roads whilst you can end up in harm and Kendrick uses this song to talk how living in poverty and hanging with the wrong people lead him to taking the wrong path in life. As someone who is from an area that is not good financially, this song explains what I went through. I've had friends who weren't a good influence on me and because of that, I let them persuade me into doing rebellious acts. For example, they always dared me to vape or to sneak out and because I felt like I had no other friends, I let them peer pressuring me into doing so. Now I know that I can't entirely relate to Kendrick's experience with peer pressure, but this speaks so much to me as I can understand to this song and it's one of my favorites beautifully written songs of all time.