From a young age, I've viewed attending school as a privilege because neither of my parents finished their education. Both left school in Mexico due to expenses and poverty, coming to the United States with nothing but family support. While I don't know if I would've continued my education in Mexico, one thing I do know is that I'll obtain my Bachelor's degree in Urban STEM Secondary Education at Davenport University. I aspire to work in education as a middle or high school math teacher. My own middle and high school math teachers made the subject easy for me to learn; although some problems take forever to solve, math never bores me. I'm aware that there are few teachers of color, with most being white. As a first-generation Mexican-American student and a person of color in the education field, I can serve as a role model for students in underrepresented communities. I believe I can make a significant impact on students who share a similar background to mine, as having commonalities encourages trust and openness. As a teacher, my aim is to empower future generations to succeed both in my classroom and in life. Volunteering at my local library influenced me to study education. For a short period, I helped bilingual students with their homework after school. Being bilingual in Spanish and English allowed me to assist several high school students who had recently arrived in the United States from Guatemala and Mexico with little to no English knowledge. These Hispanic students would come to me after school for help with their English homework. Despite the language barrier, they never gave up on reaching out when they needed assistance; if I wasn't there, they mostly relied on Google Translate. In a Spanish-speaking household, I realize the immense importance of being bilingual, a powerful skill that's been helpful in interacting with both the English and Spanish-speaking communities. From a young age, I recall my older sister and siblings interpreting for our parents when ordering food, at doctor's appointments, and during school conferences. This taught me the importance of helping people in the community who have a language barrier, often by asking if they need interpretation. I've witnessed my parents and others become frustrated and overwhelmed when unable to communicate due to this barrier. Overall, it's important to be a voice for someone else when needed. Teachers help students overcome the different and unique challenges they encounter daily. I look forward to providing a supportive and welcoming environment for all students who come from diverse backgrounds in my future classroom.

I am Pamela Villa-Bravo, a student at Davenport University majoring in Urban STEM Secondary Education with a concentration in Mathematics. I transferred to Davenport University in the Fall of 2024 after attending Grand Rapids Community College. Growing up, I have always viewed education as a privilege, especially considering that neither of my parents completed school. During high school, I volunteered at an after-school program, assisting students with their homework. I recall the joy I felt when I had the opportunity to work with students, getting to know their struggles and helping them overcome challenges. The spark for teaching truly ignited after an experience volunteering at my local library following an injury, where I helped Hispanic newcomer students with their English homework and provided interpretation. My path to wanting to teach was never something I initially considered. After graduating high school, I pursued nursing, which had always been a dream of mine, especially after seeing how helpful the nurses were to my grandpa. While taking my nursing prerequisite courses at my local community college, I worked as a resident tech to fund my education and gain experience. Subsequently, I sustained an injury on the job, which led to significant mental and physical challenges, especially as a young adult. I realized that caregiving was draining me physically. Consequently, I took independent steps to prioritize my mental and physical well-being. As I found myself skipping classes, not finding joy in my everyday activities, and avoiding family gatherings, it took several months (four to six) for me to reintegrate into my daily routines. During this period of self-reflection on my experience as a resident aide, I decided to change my major to education. I initially felt like I had failed at becoming a nurse, but I came to understand that life often guides us along unforeseen paths. Nursing was a career I had dreamed of from a young age. Volunteering in an elementary and high school setting has since given me valuable experience working with a wide range of students from different cultural backgrounds. This experience has shown me the impact positive relationships have on a student's ability to succeed. My involvement in assisting teachers allowed me to support diverse learners and help with attendance and grading. My volunteer experience has influenced my desire to help others and, ultimately, my career choice. As a first-generation Mexican-American student and a person of color stepping into education, it is important to be a role model for students who have not always seen themselves represented. Having a shared background can create a real connection and make it easier for students to communicate openly. As a future teacher, I want to empower these diverse generations to thrive, not just in the classroom but in their personal lives.

From a young age, I've viewed attending school as a privilege because neither of my parents finished their education. Both left school in Mexico due to expenses and poverty, coming to the United States with nothing but family support. While I don't know if I would've continued my education in Mexico, one thing I do know is that I'll obtain my Bachelor's degree in Urban STEM Secondary Education at Davenport University. I aspire to work in education as a middle or high school math teacher. My own middle and high school math teachers made the subject easy for me to learn; although some problems take forever to solve, math never bores me. I'm aware that there are few teachers of color, with most being white. As a first-generation Mexican-American student and a person of color in the education field, I can serve as a role model for students in underrepresented communities. I believe I can make a significant impact on students who share a similar background to mine, as having commonalities encourages trust and openness. As a teacher, my aim is to empower future generations to succeed both in my classroom and in life. Volunteering at my local library influenced me to study education. For a short period, I helped bilingual students with their homework after school. Being bilingual in Spanish and English allowed me to assist several high school students who had recently arrived in the United States from Guatemala and Mexico with little to no English knowledge. These Hispanic students would come to me after school for help with their English homework. Despite the language barrier, they never gave up on reaching out when they needed assistance; if I wasn't there, they mostly relied on Google Translate. In a Spanish-speaking household, I realize the immense importance of being bilingual, a powerful skill that's been helpful in interacting with both the English and Spanish-speaking communities. From a young age, I recall my older sister and siblings interpreting for our parents when ordering food, at doctor's appointments, and during school conferences. This taught me the importance of helping people in the community who have a language barrier, often by asking if they need interpretation. I've witnessed my parents and others become frustrated and overwhelmed when unable to communicate due to this barrier. Overall, it's important to be a voice for someone else when needed. Teachers help students overcome the different and unique challenges they encounter daily. I look forward to providing a supportive and welcoming environment for all students who come from diverse backgrounds in my future classroom.

From a young age, I've viewed attending school as a privilege because neither of my parents finished their education. Both left school in Mexico due to expenses and poverty, coming to the United States with nothing but family support. While I don't know if I would've continued my education in Mexico, one thing I do know is that I'll obtain my Bachelor's degree in Urban STEM Secondary Education at Davenport University. I aspire to work in education as a middle or high school math teacher. My own middle and high school math teachers made the subject easy for me to learn; although some problems take forever to solve, math never bores me. I'm aware that there are few teachers of color, with most being white. As a first-generation Mexican-American student and a person of color in the education field, I can serve as a role model for students in underrepresented communities. I believe I can make a significant impact on students who share a similar background to mine, as having commonalities encourages trust and openness. As a teacher, my aim is to empower future generations to succeed both in my classroom and in life. Volunteering at my local library influenced me to study education. For a short period, I helped bilingual students with their homework after school. Being bilingual in Spanish and English allowed me to assist several high school students who had recently arrived in the United States from Guatemala and Mexico with little to no English knowledge. These Hispanic students would come to me after school for help with their English homework. Despite the language barrier, they never gave up on reaching out when they needed assistance; if I wasn't there, they mostly relied on Google Translate. In a Spanish-speaking household, I realize the immense importance of being bilingual, a powerful skill that's been helpful in interacting with both the English and Spanish-speaking communities. From a young age, I recall my older sister and siblings interpreting for our parents when ordering food, at doctor's appointments, and during school conferences. This taught me the importance of helping people in the community who have a language barrier, often by asking if they need interpretation. I've witnessed my parents and others become frustrated and overwhelmed when unable to communicate due to this barrier. Overall, it's important to be a voice for someone else when needed. Teachers help students overcome the different and unique challenges they encounter daily. I look forward to providing a supportive and welcoming environment for all students who come from diverse backgrounds in my future classroom.

From a young age, I've viewed attending school as a privilege because neither of my parents finished their education. Both left school in Mexico due to expenses and poverty, coming to the United States with nothing but family support. While I don't know if I would've continued my education in Mexico, one thing I do know is that I'll obtain my Bachelor's degree in Urban STEM Secondary Education at Davenport University. I aspire to work in education as a middle or high school math teacher. My own middle and high school math teachers made the subject easy for me to learn; although some problems take forever to solve, math never bores me. I'm aware that there are few teachers of color, with most being white. As a first-generation Mexican-American student and a person of color in the education field, I can serve as a role model for students in underrepresented communities. I believe I can make a significant impact on students who share a similar background to mine, as having commonalities encourages trust and openness. As a teacher, my aim is to empower future generations to succeed both in my classroom and in life. Volunteering at my local library influenced me to study education. For a short period, I helped bilingual students with their homework after school. Being bilingual in Spanish and English allowed me to assist several high school students who had recently arrived in the United States from Guatemala and Mexico with little to no English knowledge. These Hispanic students would come to me after school for help with their English homework. Despite the language barrier, they never gave up on reaching out when they needed assistance; if I wasn't there, they mostly relied on Google Translate. In a Spanish-speaking household, I realize the immense importance of being bilingual, a powerful skill that's been helpful in interacting with both the English and Spanish-speaking communities. From a young age, I recall my older sister and siblings interpreting for our parents when ordering food, at doctor's appointments, and during school conferences. This taught me the importance of helping people in the community who have a language barrier, often by asking if they need interpretation. I've witnessed my parents and others become frustrated and overwhelmed when unable to communicate due to this barrier. Overall, it's important to be a voice for someone else when needed. Teachers help students overcome the different and unique challenges they encounter daily. I look forward to providing a supportive and welcoming environment for all students who come from diverse backgrounds in my future classroom.

From a young age, I viewed attending school as a privilege because neither of my parents finished their education. Both of my parents left school in Mexico due to expenses and living in poverty. They came to the United States with nothing but the support of family. Who knows if I would have continued my education in Mexico, but one thing I do know is that I will obtain my Bacholars degree in Urban STEM secondary Education at Davenport University. I aspire to work in the education field as a middle or high school math teacher. My middle and high school math teachers made the subject easy for me to learn. Although some problems take forever to solve, math never bores me. I am aware that there are few teachers of color, as most of them are white. As a first-generation Mexican-American student and a person of color in the education field, I can serve as a role model for students in underrepresented communities. I can make a significant impact on students who share a similar background to mine, as having commonalities encourages students to trust and open up more easily. As a teacher, I aim to empower future generations to succeed both in my classroom and in life. Volunteering at my local library influenced me to study education. For a short period, I volunteered to help bilingual students with their homework after school. Being bilingual in Spanish and English allowed me to assist a few high school students who had recently arrived in the United States from Guatemala and Mexican that have little to no English knowledge. These Hispanic students came to me after school to receive the help they needed to complete their English homework. Despite the language barrier, they never gave up on reaching out to me when they needed help. If I was not there to help them, they mostly relied on Google Translate. In a Spanish-speaking household, I realize the immense importance of being bilingual, a powerful skill that has been helpful in interacting with both the English and Spanish-speaking communities. From a young age, I recall my older sister and siblings interpreting for our parents when ordering food, at doctor's appointments, and during school conferences. This has taught me the importance of helping people in the community who I witness having a language barrier, often by asking if they need interpretation. I have witnessed my parents and other individuals become frustrated and overwhelmed when unable to communicate due to a language barrier. Overall, it's important to be a voice for someone else when needed. Teachers help students overcome the different and unique challenges they encounter on a daily basis. I look forward to providing a supportive and welcoming environment to all students who come from different backgrounds in my future classroom.

My name is Pamela Villa-Bravo, a student at Davenport University, majoring in Urban STEM Secondary Education with a concentration in Mathematics. Growing up, I have always viewed education as a privilege, especially considering that neither of my parents completed school. During high school, I volunteered at an after-school program, assisting students with their homework. I recall the joy I felt when I had the opportunity to work with students, getting to know their struggles and helping them overcome them, which influenced my career choice. As a first-generation college student, I prepared for university by attending community college first to complete all courses needed to transfer to a local university. Then, my advisor recommended I attend Davenport since other universities were not as affordable, especially considering that I pay for my education out of pocket without my parents' support. In addition to school, I work as a contractor in an educational setting to gain experience working with students and earn money to pay for my tuition and other expenses, such as food and car insurance. Besides school and work, there are other demands, such as home responsibilities, that my parents have expected me to complete at home, like cooking, cleaning, and attending family gatherings. Honestly, being a full-time student and working part-time has been a lot, especially when I also have to study outside of school. Effective time management has become crucial for balancing home responsibilities, school, and work. When it comes to family gatherings, I always prioritize my studies and work since those are two major things that are my priorities. Volunteering in elementary and high school settings this past semester, Winter 2025, in addition to my studies and job, has given me valuable experience working with a wide range of students from different cultural backgrounds. This experience has shown me the impact positive relationships have on a student's ability to succeed. My courses require me to complete a practical experience in a local school to work with a wide range of diverse students and learn from staff members the skills I need to be a successful teacher in a classroom setting. Stepping into education as a person of color, it is important to be a role model for students who have not always seen themselves represented. Having a shared background can create a real connection and make it easier for students to communicate openly. As a future teacher, I want to empower these diverse generations to thrive, not just in the classroom but in their personal lives.

My name is Pamela Villa-Bravo. Something I want to achieve this year is to work with students as a virtual tutor, in-person tutor, or instructor at my local library, as well as a part-time substitute in my community. I plan on doing these three part-time jobs and picking up shifts as I go, since all three are flexible. I plan on doing all three while I attend school full-time (12-15 credits) in the fall. It may seem like a lot, but I have the ability to pick my hours while still focusing on my academics. As a first-generation Hispanic student at Davenport, majoring in secondary education with a focus on math, these three jobs allow me to gain the skills I need to become a successful first-year teacher in the next couple of years. As a substitute, I have the opportunity to view and read different lesson plans from teachers throughout the school year. Once I become a teacher, this experience can help me reflect on my past as a substitute to make my sub lesson plans as descriptive as needed, ensuring the substitute can effectively deliver the lesson to my students. I know that as a college student, I created multiple lesson plans that I never used for students. However, as a current instructor at my local library, I recently created my first-ever descriptive lesson plan to show students how to create beaded art embroidery. I hope to either be a tutor or an instructor in the fall at my local library so I can get in the habit of creating lesson plans and interacting with large groups of middle school students. This will teach me how to differentiate instructions for diverse students. In addition, being an in-person and virtual tutor allows me to work with individuals one-on-one, incorporating the best learning methods for students and understanding their unique needs. This job helps me decide whether I prefer in-person or virtual learning. This experience will enable me to decide, after obtaining my teaching certificate, if I would prefer in-person or virtual teaching. As a person of color stepping into education, it is important to be a role model for students who have not always seen themselves represented. Having a shared background can create a real connection and make it easier for students to communicate openly. As a future teacher, I want to empower these diverse generations to thrive, not just in the classroom but in their personal lives.

My name is Pamela Villa-Bravo, a student at Davenport University, majoring in Urban STEM Secondary Education with a concentration in Mathematics. I transferred to Davenport University in the Fall of 2024 after attending Grand Rapids Community College. Growing up, I have always viewed education as a privilege, especially considering that neither of my parents completed school. During high school, I volunteered at an after-school program,assisting students with their homework. I recall the joy I felt when I had the opportunity to work with students, getting to know their struggles and overcoming them. I got that spark for teaching after an experience when I volunteered at my local library after my injury, where i helped Hispanic newcomer students with their English homework and interpreting. My path to wanting to teach? It was never something I thought I would even consider. After graduating high school, I pursued nursing as it had always been a dream of mine growing up, especially after seeing how helpful the nurses were to my grandpa. While taking my nursing prerequisite courses at my local community college, I worked as a resident tech to fund my education and gain experience. Then I got injured on the job, which led to mental and physical challenges, especially as a young adult. I realized that caregiving was draining me physically. Consequently, I took independent steps to prioritize my mental and physical well-being. As I found myself skipping classes, not finding joy in my everyday activities, and avoiding family gatherings, it took months(4-6) for me to reintegrate into my daily routines. During this period of self-reflection on my experience as a resident aide, I decided to change my major to education. I felt like I had failed at becoming a nurse, but I came to understand that life often guides us along unforeseen paths. Nursing was a career I had dreamed of from a young age. Volunteering in a elementary and high school school setting has given me valuable experience working with a wide range of students from different cultural backgrounds. This experience has shown me the impact positive relationships have on a student's ability to succeed. My involvement in assisting teachers allowed me to support diverse learners and help with attendance and grading. My volunteer experience has influenced my desire to help others and, later, my career choice. As a first-generation Mexican American student and a person of color stepping into education, it is important to be a role model for students who have not always seen themselves represented. Having a shared background can create a real connection, can make it easier for student to communicate openly. As a future teacher, I want to empower these diverse generations to thrive, not just in the classroom but in their personal lives. This scholarship would be a game-changer in helping me get where I want to go, both academically and professionally. I'm taking 8-12 credits at Grand Rapids Community College this summer to transfer to Davenport. Plus, I plan on working at my local neighborhood library part-time for a month as an instructor, education-related role, to gain the practical experience I need for teaching. This scholarship takes a significant financial weight off my shoulders by covering a portion of my tuition, allowing me to focus on my studies.

From a young age, I viewed attending school as a privilege because neither of my parents finished their education. Both of my parents left school in Mexico due to expenses and living in poverty. They came to the United States with nothing but the support of family. Who knows if I would have continued my education in Mexico, but one thing I do know is that I will obtain my degree in Secondary Math Education at Davenport University. I have attended school my whole life. I am transferring from Grand Rapids Community College to Davenport University to earn my Bachelor's in Education. I aspire to work in the education field as a middle or high school math teacher. My middle and high school math teachers made the subject easy for me to learn. Although some problems take forever to solve, math never bores me. I am aware that there are few teachers of color, as most of them are white. As a first-generation Mexican-American student and a person of color in the education field, I can serve as a role model for students in underrepresented communities. I can make a significant impact on students who share a similar background to mine, as having commonalities encourages students to trust and open up more easily. As a teacher, I aim to empower future generations to succeed both in my classroom and in life. Volunteering at my local library influenced me to study education. For a short period, I volunteered to help bilingual students with their homework after school. Being bilingual in Spanish and English allowed me to assist a few high school students who had recently arrived in the United States from Guatemala and knew very little English. These Hispanic students came to me after school to receive the help they needed to complete their English homework. Despite the language barrier, they never gave up on reaching out to me when they needed help. If I was not there to help them, they mostly relied on Google Translate. This experience showed me the importance of eliminating barriers that prevent students from being successful in their education. Teachers make a significant impact on students' lives. Most of the time, they are the ones creating a safe place for their students in the classroom. They also help students overcome the different and unique challenges they encounter on a daily basis. I look forward to providing a supportive and welcoming environment to all students who come from different backgrounds in my future classroom.

From a young age, I viewed attending school as a privilege because neither of my parents finished their education. Both of my parents left school in Mexico due to expenses and living in poverty. They came to the United States with nothing but the support of family. Who knows if I would have continued my education in Mexico, but one thing I do know is that I will obtain my degree in Secondary Math Education at Davenport University. I have attended school my whole life. I am transferring from Grand Rapids Community College to Davenport University to earn my Bachelor's in Education. I aspire to work in the education field as a middle or high school math teacher. My middle and high school math teachers made the subject easy for me to learn. Although some problems take forever to solve, math never bores me. I am aware that there are few teachers of color, as most of them are white. As a first-generation Mexican-American student and a person of color in the education field, I can serve as a role model for students in underrepresented communities. I can make a significant impact on students who share a similar background to mine, as having commonalities encourages students to trust and open up more easily. As a teacher, I aim to empower future generations to succeed both in my classroom and in life. Volunteering at my local library influenced me to study education. For a short period, I volunteered to help bilingual students with their homework after school. Being bilingual in Spanish and English allowed me to assist a few high school students who had recently arrived in the United States from Guatemala and knew very little English. These Hispanic students came to me after school to receive the help they needed to complete their English homework. Despite the language barrier, they never gave up on reaching out to me when they needed help. If I was not there to help them, they mostly relied on Google Translate. This experience showed me the importance of eliminating barriers that prevent students from being successful in their education. Teachers make a significant impact on students' lives. Most of the time, they are the ones creating a safe place for their students in the classroom. They also help students overcome the different and unique challenges they encounter on a daily basis. I look forward to providing a supportive and welcoming environment to all students who come from different backgrounds in my future classroom.

I am a first-generation Hispanic, full-time college student at Davenport University, having transferred from Grand Rapids Community College. I plan on becoming a Math teacher, which is why I am majoring in Secondary Education with a focus on Math. I have been funding my education independently since graduating high school, relying on my income (part-time) and avoiding student loans. I view attending school as a privilege because neither of my parents finished their education. They came to the United States with nothing but the support of family. Being a first-generation college student has really opened my eyes to the power of education. My parents both dropped out of school at a young age to support their families. My mom, for example, did not even finish 8th grade; instead, she started to earn money by cleaning houses in Mexico, just to help out her single mother, who was struggling with a drinking addiction. My visit to Mexico allowed me to see how things are different from my life in the United States. Multiple kids were working in the streets instead of going to school or were out alone selling items to support their families. I genuinely believe that understanding where our students are coming from, what their lives are like outside of school, is absolutely vital if we want to help them succeed in the classroom. I truly want to connect with my students by having regular conversations, learning about their interests, and weaving those interests into the curriculum. When kids can connect with the material, learning becomes exciting. I also want to give them choices in how they show what they have learned, such as presentations, writing, art, videos, and whatever sparks their creativity. My classroom needs to be a place where they feel seen and heard, not just a place where they're forced to learn information they cannot relate to. Students spend most of their day at school, so we must create an inclusive environment for our students. Creating an inclusive classroom is incredibly important to me. Everyone deserves respect, regardless of their background or differences. Getting to know my students and their families will help me weave their cultures, interests, and languages into the fabric of the classroom. My college classes have already given me a solid foundation in different teaching styles and how to create an inclusive environment for all learners. My volunteer work as a tutor at the library has also been a huge influence. Working with bilingual students, especially those who are new to the United States, I recall working with high schoolers from Guatemala who barely spoke any English. They used Google Translate when I could not help them with their English Homework. I am glad their teacher allowed them and gave them access to using Google Translate to help them learn. In addition, I will guide students to needed resources by directing them to staff members within the school who can provide assistance with items like food, clothing, or information about community events. I plan to set up a bulletin board in my classroom to display resource flyers so that students can easily access if they need it. I also want my students to know they can always come to me if they’re seeking any type of support because I’m committed to connecting them with resources. Overall, I want to create a classroom where every student feels safe, supported, and empowered to overcome whatever challenges they face. I'm excited to build that kind of environment, where every student feels welcome and can reach their full potential in school and life.

My name is Pamela, and I'm a full-time student at Davenport University in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where I'm pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Secondary Education with a concentration in Math. I transferred from Grand Rapids Community College in Fall 2024. In addition to my studies, I work part-time at my local library as a tutor, assisting students with reading and homework. I also volunteer and mentor at a local school, providing support to teachers and students. Furthermore, I contribute to my family by performing household chores. This winter semester, 2025, I am dedicating 60 hours of volunteer service in a local elementary and high school to gain experience working with students of varying age groups ( 4th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grade), which includes weekly one-on-one mentoring. These interactions, especially the mentoring, have reinforced my understanding of the crucial role positive relationships play in student success. My path to education was not a direct one. Volunteering throughout high school ignited my passion for teaching. Initially, I pursued nursing after graduation, working as a tech at a long-term care facility while completing prerequisites at community college. During this time, I lost balance in my life when I had an on-the-job injury, leading to mental health and physical struggles that I never thought I would experience as a young, first-generation student. I realized the toll that caregiving took on my mental and physical health When I initially tried to confide in my family about my struggles, they dismissed my concerns. The lack of open discussion about mental health within my Hispanic household made the healing process even more challenging. I felt isolated during this time. I took steps to prioritize self-care independently, as my friends and family, who I thought would be supportive, were not. I used to isolate myself, skip classes, and avoid family gatherings. It took me months to begin doing my day-to-day activities like nature walks, cooking, making videos like I used to, and reconnecting with new friends. The thing that helped me the most during those months was self-reflecting and checking in with myself, recording myself to help me track my progress of how I felt each day. After a few semesters, I made the difficult but ultimately fulfilling decision to switch my major to education. This experience has profoundly shaped my perspective. I had felt like I failed at my initial goal of becoming a nurse, but I have learned that life often leads us down unexpected paths. While nursing was a career I dreamt about from a young age, I’ve realized it wasn’t the right fit. I always viewed education as a privilege because neither of my parents finished High School. When I was in High School, I volunteered at a summer and after school program where I helped students with their homework. I recall the joy it brought me when I had the opportunity to work with students. As a first-generation Mexican-American student and a person of color in the education field, I can serve as a role model for students in underrepresented communities. I can make a significant impact on students who share a similar background to mine, as having commonalities encourages students to trust and open up more easily. As a teacher, I aim to empower future diverse generations to succeed both in my classroom and in life. Teachers make a significant impact on students' lives.

Success looks different for each individual because we all have diverse backgrounds and life experiences that shape our aspirations. As a first-generation Hispanic woman in college, success for me means being the first in my family to obtain a bachelor's or master's degree in education. Education has always been important to me, especially growing up as a Mexican-American in the United States, where neither of my parents graduated high school. My parents made countless sacrifices to raise their children in the United States with the support of their family. Due to unemployment, and with my parents only knowing Spanish and no English, their hazardous living conditions in a basement put my father in a position to consider returning to Mexico. Despite the difficult times such as car breakdowns and the horrendous smell of that basement, shared with six other adults and their children. My mother declared she was not going back after arriving a couple months ago. I chose to major in education because I love attending school and view it as a privilege to learn each day. Education can open many opportunities and empower each one of us. Furthermore, I recognize that many children do not have the same opportunities to attend school, but instead work at a very young age to support their families. I am aware that not everyone has the same resources to attend school, especially due to the expenses in countries like Mexico and others. While education may be free in certain areas, there are places that require people to pay for school tuition, uniforms, textbooks, and materials. Some families must choose work over school in order to provide essential living necessities like food. There are caregivers who are incapable of working due to health or physical impairments, which leads children to work to provide for their families. One day, I hope to become a teacher who creates an inclusive environment for the diverse learners present in my classroom. This means fostering culturally responsive practices to make learning engaging and creating a positive environment by getting to know my students as individuals. Using the information gathered from students in my classroom, I will create math lessons that represent their backgrounds, allowing each student to resonate with and learn from one another. It is essential to provide respect and support to create an inclusive and safe environment for diverse learners. In addition, I will guide students to needed resources by directing them to staff members within the school who can provide assistance with items like food, clothing, or information about community events. As a student, it is extremely important to take great care of my well-being, especially as a part-time tutor, full-time student, and a daughter who helps her siblings and parents at home. In addition to academic success, my well-being is crucial to who I am, allowing me to thrive and fully engage in my studies. I prioritize self-care by enjoying the small things that help me grow, such as exploring new trails, spending time with friends and family, crocheting, or going to the movies. It is easy to feel lost and unmotivated when we ignore our body's need for a break to decompress from school, work, or home-related problems. It is important to take frequent breaks to avoid burnout, which can lead individuals like myself to feel exhausted and unmotivated, hindering my ability to achieve my goals. As summer approaches, I plan to take a few courses at my local Grand Rapids community college to transfer to Davenport University, my home institution. I am eager and motivated to learn, and I plan to take as many courses (up to 12 credits) as possible to work towards my bachelor's degree and stay on track for graduation. This scholarship would definitely allow me to pay for my summer 2025 tuition and would alleviate a significant financial burden, as I plan on taking 8-12 credits at my community college. I'm choosing to take classes this summer at a community college because it is the more affordable option, as I do not receive any aid during the summer/spring semester to cover the cost of tuition at my home institution, Davenport University. With this scholarship, I will apply it towards my summer tuition, which is expected to be $1,800, excluding textbooks, and towards my daily parking expenses on campus throughout the 15-week summer semester. I want to express my appreciation for your time and consideration. Thank you!

Initially, I pursued nursing after graduation, working as a resident tech at a long-term care facility while completing prerequisites at community college. During this time, I lost balance in my life when I had an on-the-job injury, leading to mental health and physical struggles that I never thought I would experience as a young, first-generation student. I realized the toll that caregiving took on my mental and physical health. When I initially tried to confide in my family about my struggles, they dismissed my concerns. The lack of open discussion about mental health within my Hispanic household made the healing process even more challenging. I felt isolated during this time. I took steps to prioritize self-care independently, as my friends and family, who I thought would be supportive, were not. I used to isolate myself, skip classes, and avoid family gatherings. It took me months to begin doing my day-to-day activities like nature walks, cooking, making videos like I used to, and reconnecting with new friends. The thing that helped me the most during those months was self-reflecting and checking in with myself, recording myself to help me track my progress of how I felt each day. After a few semesters, I made the difficult but ultimately fulfilling decision to switch my major to education. This experience has profoundly shaped my perspective. I had felt like I failed at my initial goal of becoming a nurse, but I have learned that life often leads us down unexpected paths. While nursing was a passion, I’ve realized it wasn’t the right fit. I always viewed education as a privilege because neither of my parents finished High School. When I was in High School, I volunteer at a summer and after school program where I helped students with their homework. I recall the joy it brought me when I had the opportunity to work with students. As a first-generation Mexican-American student and a person of color in the education field, I can serve as a role model for students in underrepresented communities. I can make a significant impact on students who share a similar background to mine, as having commonalities encourages students to trust and open up more easily. As a teacher, I aim to empower future generations to succeed both in my classroom and in life. Teachers make a significant impact on students' lives. My proudest moment so far in life is having my family support me in continuing my education to become a teacher when I decided to change my major.

I'm Pamela, and I attend Davenport University in Grand Rapids, Michigan, full-time. I'm working toward a bachelor's degree in secondary education. I help students with their reading and homework as a part-time tutor at my local library in addition to my studies. Additionally, I serve teachers and children at a nearby school as a mentor and volunteer. I help my family by taking care of the housework. In order to obtain experience dealing with students of all ages, I am volunteering for 60+ hours at a nearby elementary and high school during the winter semester of 2025. Weekly one-on-one mentorship is part of this. My educational journey was not straightforward. My enthusiasm for teaching was sparked by my high school volunteer work. To cover school expenses, car expenses, and personal bills, I work part-time. Working at a school program with spring and winter breaks provides me with time to de-stress and focus on my studies. While I am grateful for these breaks, I sometimes worry about the loss of income. I understand that many full-time college students also work full-time. I believe it is essential to prioritize my mental and physical health, as it can affect my work and study ethic, as I have experienced in the past. I have learned the importance of prioritizing mental well-being, especially as an employee and a full-time student. Having grown up in Grand Rapids, I have witnessed gentrification and homelessness. Some areas have become unaffordable, forcing people to relocate. As a former family and child advocate, I used community resources to help struggling parents find food pantries, dental care, free diapers, and playgroups. I believe everyone deserves affordable housing. I remember some of my former students missing program days due to financial barriers, such as not having enough gas money for their car to get from their motel to school. Some people live in motels or hotels using the last of their current income to have a warm place to live if they do not have a place to stay, especially in the winter. There are shelter places, but it may take a long time to obtain a place to stay. I understand that these issues affect both students and their guardians. There are current housing programs available in the community, but not everyone qualifies. As a future educator, I want to ensure a safe and supportive environment for my diverse students. I recognize that I may not be aware of their financial or housing struggles, and school may be their only place with a comfortable temperature. We must understand that not everyone has a well-paying job, and many people live paycheck to paycheck. I believe there should be more affordable housing programs or better promotion of existing programs to reach those who need housing. As an educator, I am committed to supporting my students and their families. This means I will connect them with appropriate resources. I will either direct them to specialists within the school, such as counselors or social workers. Otherwise, I will research community resources to help them find the support they need.

Initially, I pursued nursing after graduation, working as a resident tech at a long-term care facility while completing prerequisites at community college. During this time, I lost balance in my life when I had an on-the-job injury, leading to mental health and physical struggles that I never thought I would experience as a young, first-generation student. I realized the toll that caregiving took on my mental and physical health. When I initially tried to confide in my family about my struggles, they dismissed my concerns. The lack of open discussion about mental health within my Hispanic household made the healing process even more challenging. I felt isolated during this time. I took steps to prioritize self-care independently, as my friends and family, who I thought would be supportive, were not. I used to isolate myself, skip classes, and avoid family gatherings. It took me 5ish months to begin doing my day-to-day activities like nature walks, cooking, making videos like I used to, and reconnecting with new friends. The thing that helped me the most during those 5 months was self-reflecting and checking in with myself, recording myself to help me track my progress of how I felt each day. After a few semesters, I made the difficult but ultimately fulfilling decision to switch my major to education. This experience has profoundly shaped my perspective. I had felt like I failed at my initial goal of becoming a nurse, but I’ve learned that life often leads us down unexpected paths. While nursing was a passion, I’ve realized it wasn’t the right fit. I always viewed education as a privilege because neither of my parents finished High School. When I was in High School, I volunteer at a summer and after school program where I helped students with their homework. I recall the joy it brought me when I had the opportunity to work with students. As a first-generation Mexican-American student and a person of color in the education field, I can serve as a role model for students in underrepresented communities. I can make a significant impact on students who share a similar background to mine, as having commonalities encourages students to trust and open up more easily. As a teacher, I aim to empower future generations to succeed both in my classroom and in life. Teachers make a significant impact on students' lives.

My name is Pamela, and I'm a full-time student at Davenport University in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where I'm pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Secondary Education with a concentration in Math. I transferred from Grand Rapids Community College in Fall 2024. In addition to my studies, I work part-time at my local library as a tutor, assisting students with reading and homework. I also volunteer and mentor at a local school, providing support to teachers and students. Furthermore, I contribute to my family by performing household chores. This winter semester, 2025, I am dedicating 60 hours of volunteer service in a local elementary and high school to gain experience working with students of varying age groups, which includes weekly one-on-one mentoring. These interactions, especially the mentoring, have reinforced my understanding of the crucial role positive relationships play in student success. My path to education was not a direct one. Volunteering throughout high school ignited my passion for teaching. Initially, I pursued nursing after graduation, working as a tech at a long-term care facility while completing prerequisites at community college. During this time, I lost balance in my life when I had an on-the-job injury, leading to mental health and physical struggles that I never thought I would experience as a young, first-generation student. I realized the toll that caregiving took on my mental and physical health. When I initially tried to confide in my family about my struggles, they dismissed my concerns. The lack of open discussion about mental health within my Hispanic household made the healing process even more challenging. I felt isolated during this time. I took steps to prioritize self-care independently, as my friends and family, who I thought would be supportive, were not. I used to isolate myself, skip classes, and avoid family gatherings. It took me 5ish months to begin doing my day-to-day activities like nature walks, cooking, making videos like I used to, and reconnecting with new friends. The thing that helped me the most during those 5 months was self-reflecting and checking in with myself, recording myself to help me track my progress of how I felt each day. After a few semesters, I made the difficult but ultimately fulfilling decision to switch my major to education. This experience has profoundly shaped my perspective. I had felt like I failed at my initial goal of becoming a nurse, but I’ve learned that life often leads us down unexpected paths. While nursing was a passion, I’ve realized it wasn’t the right fit. However, I gained valuable lessons, including the true meaning of empathy and the importance of an open mind. We never fully understand what others are going through, and kindness and non-judgment are essential. In addition to listening to our own body when something does not seem right. When something is not right, like feeling constantly drained or tired contact a doctor or seek help. I learned the importance of prioritizing mental well-being, especially as an employee and a full-time student. This experience also taught me the value of self-reflection and thoughtful responses, a shift from my previous stubbornness. My greatest strengths now are my genuine interest in people and my ability to listen attentively and non-judgmentally. I am currently taking a couple of courses (6-13 credits) this summer and obtain a summer job working with children to further my experience in the field. This scholarship would be incredibly beneficial, as it would cover a portion of my summer tuition and book costs, allowing me to use my summer earnings to pay for my Fall 2025 tuition and books.

From a young age, I viewed attending school as a privilege because neither of my parents finished their education. Both of my parents left school in Mexico due to expenses and living in poverty. They came to the United States with nothing but the support of family. Who knows if I would have continued my education in Mexico, but one thing I do know is that I will obtain my degree in Secondary Math Education at Davenport University. I have attended school my whole life. I transferred from Grand Rapids Community College to Davenport University to earn my Bachelor's in Education. I aspire to work in the education field as a middle or high school math teacher. My middle and high school math teachers made the subject easy for me to learn. Although some problems take forever to solve, math never bores me. I am aware that there are few teachers of color, as most of them are white. As a first-generation Mexican-American student and a person of color in the education field, I can serve as a role model for students in underrepresented communities. I can make a significant impact on students who share a similar background to mine, as having commonalities encourages students to trust and open up more easily. As a teacher, I aim to empower future generations to succeed both in my classroom and in life. Volunteering at my local library influenced me to study education. For a short period, I volunteered to help bilingual students with their homework after school. Being bilingual in Spanish and English allowed me to assist a few high school students who had recently arrived in the United States from Guatemala and knew very little English. These Hispanic students came to me after school to receive the help they needed to complete their English homework. Despite the language barrier, they never gave up on reaching out to me when they needed help. If I was not there to help them, they mostly relied on Google Translate. This experience showed me the importance of eliminating barriers that prevent students from being successful in their education. Teachers make a significant impact on students' lives. Most of the time, they are the ones creating a safe place for their students in the classroom. They also help students overcome the different and unique challenges they encounter on a daily basis. I look forward to providing a supportive and welcoming environment to all students who come from different backgrounds in my future classroom.

I recently watched Wicked with my friend and brother at our local movie theater. The film powerfully depicted Elphaba's experience of being ostracized and discriminated against due to her green skin. This was a stark illustration of prejudice, especially when contrasted with the diverse skin tones of her family and community – white, brown, and black. The disgusted looks she received were heartbreaking, but what truly resonated was her own father's treatment of her as a burden, despite her genuine attempts to help. Elphaba's unique appearance was not a choice, and it certainly didn't justify the cruel treatment she endured. This portrayal of discrimination in Wicked directly mirrors real-world experiences. Many individuals face prejudice based on their appearance daily. The adage "don't judge a book by its cover" is a crucial reminder that appearances are superficial. Sadly, discrimination remains a pervasive issue in our society. Whether it stems from skin color, clothing choices, body type, or other physical attributes, people are often prejudged without a genuine effort to understand them. We must remember that a person's worth is not defined by their external appearance. As a future educator, I recognize the critical need to be aware of my own potential biases and how they might influence my interactions with students. Creating an inclusive and welcoming classroom where every student feels valued and respected is paramount. I intend to proactively learn about my students through questionnaires and by researching their cultural backgrounds, incorporating this knowledge into my teaching. This approach will foster mutual understanding among students and strengthen my relationships with them. My goal is to ensure that every student feels seen, heard, and understood in my classroom. Wicked is a powerful film that delivers a vital message about the destructive nature of discrimination. Reflecting on Elphaba's journey has prompted me to examine my own biases and consider their potential impact on my future students and those around me. As humans, we can be quick to judge, but this film serves as a potent reminder to treat everyone with respect, regardless of their differences.

My goal is to obtain my degree in Secondary Education with a concentration in Mathematics at Davenport University and obtain my teaching certification. I am currently a full-time first generation hispanic student and plan on continuing so until graduation. This involves completing all the coursework required. To help accelerate my progress, I intend to enroll in a maximum of 10 credits during the summer of 2025 at my home community college. If I do have academic difficulties, I will utilize the resources offered such as tutoring assistance and professor office hours. Gaining experience working with students is part of my goal. I tutor part-time at my local library, assisting students with their homework. Additionally, I am volunteering at an elementary and high school to gain experience and hours for an education class that I am currently taking. During the summer of 2025, I am hoping to gain a full-time position working with students within a summer program. Forward to the fall of 2025, I plan on working in a before school program as well as an after-school tutor. If I do not acquire my desired summer job or the before/after school job, then I will seek other jobs education related. The current income for me is my part-time job tutoring. My summer course enrollments to be pursued in the future shall be financed from this money. In the fall of 2025, the extra income from the before/after school programs will enable me to pay off my auto debt by summer 2026(approximately $6000) and begin saving for future semesters. I am deeply thankful to the support of my parents, whom I live rent-free with currently. On my part, offset their expenses by doing chores and grocery shopping. Time management among school activities, employment, and volunteer work requires additional caution regarding overall health. I recognize the need for self-care and ensure it is done through scheduled periodic rests, free time, and seeing to it that I get sufficient rest. This is an ongoing commitment, and when I begin to feel overwhelmed, I will adjust my calendar, and, if necessary, cut back on my commitments. I believe that taking care of my personal health is the secret to overall achievement. I will measure my success as a secondary mathematics teacher by the following significant milestones: graduating with my Secondary Education degree, attaining teaching certification, gaining the relevant and applicable experience of teaching directly to students, managing my finances wisely, and maintaining my well-being intact throughout this trying but rewarding process.

From a young age, I viewed attending school as a privilege because neither of my parents finished their education. Both of my parents left school in Mexico due to expenses and living in poverty. They came to the United States with nothing but the support of family. Who knows if I would have continued my education in Mexico, but one thing I do know is that I will obtain my degree in Secondary Math Education at Davenport University. I have attended school my whole life. I am transferring from Grand Rapids Community College to Davenport University to earn my Bachelor's in Education. I aspire to work in the education field as a middle or high school math teacher. My middle and high school math teachers made the subject easy for me to learn. Although some problems take forever to solve, math never bores me. I am aware that there are few teachers of color, as most of them are white. As a first-generation Mexican-American student and a person of color in the education field, I can serve as a role model for students in underrepresented communities. I can make a significant impact on students who share a similar background to mine, as having commonalities encourages students to trust and open up more easily. As a teacher, I aim to empower future generations to succeed both in my classroom and in life. Volunteering at my local library inspired me to study education. For a short time frame, I volunteered to help bilingual students with their homework after school. Being bilingual in Spanish and English allowed me to assist a few high school students who had recently arrived in the United States from Guatemala and knew very little English. These Hispanic students came to me after school to receive the help they needed to complete their English homework. Despite the language barrier, they never gave up on reaching out to me when they needed help. If I was not there to help them, they mostly relied on Google Translate. This experience showed me the importance of eliminating barriers that prevent students from being successful in their education. Teachers make a significant impact on students' lives. Most of the time, they are the ones creating a safe place for their students in the classroom. They also help students overcome the different and unique challenges they encounter daily. I look forward to providing a supportive and welcoming environment to all students who come from different backgrounds in my future classroom.

My name is Pamela, and I'm a full-time student at Davenport University in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where I'm pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Secondary Education with a concentration in Math. I'm a transfer student from Grand Rapids Community College in Fall 2024. In addition to school, I also work part-time at my local library as a tutor, where I assist students with reading and homework. I also volunteer and mentor at a local school, where I help the teachers and students. I also contribute to my family by performing household chores. This semester, winter 2025, I am devoting 60 hours of volunteer service in a local elementary and high school to gain experience in working with students from varying age groups. This entails mentoring a student for one hour weekly. These personal interactions, especially through mentoring, have reaffirmed my understanding of the valuable role positive relationships play in student success. My path to education was not direct. Volunteering in various environments throughout High School sparked my desire to teach. I continued on to pursue nursing after graduating High School, working a tech job at a long-term care facility while attending prerequisites at community college. However, an on-the-job injury led me to reconsider career goals. The accident took a significant toll on my physical and mental well-being, and the reality that readily available support was not present in my Hispanic household, where mental health was not an openly discussed topic, made healing all the more arduous. I truly felt as though I was alone in my journey. After a few semesters, I made the difficult but ultimately rewarding choice to change my major to education. This experience has profoundly shaped me and my perspective. I had for so long felt as if I had failed at my lifelong goal of being a nurse. However, I have come to understand that life often takes us down paths other than what we anticipate. Nursing was a passion I had, but I have since come to understand that it was not the right decision for me. The important thing is that I gained some valuable lessons from that experience. It taught me the true meaning of empathy and the value of an open mind. We can never know what others are going through, and we should always be kind and not judge other people. Although I was a very stubborn person who always had to get my own way in the beginning, this experience taught me the value of self-reflection and checking with myself before reacting. My greatest strengths now are my genuine interest in people and my ability to listen attentively and non-judgmentally. I am taking two courses (4-9 credits) at Grand Rapids Community College this summer and a summer job of working with kids to further my experience in that field. This scholarship would be so helpful, as it would cover part of my summer tuition and book costs. Then the money I earn at my summer job will be used to pay for my Fall 2025 tuition and books.

Being a first-generation college student has really opened my eyes to the power of education. My parents both dropped-out of school at a young age to support their families. My mom, for example, did not even finish 8th grade instead she start to earn money by cleaning houses in Mexico, just to help out her own mom, who was struggling with addiction. My visit to Mexico allowed me to seeing how things were there. Multiple kids working in the streets instead of going to school or out alone selling items to support their families. I genuinely believe that understanding where our students are coming from, what their lives are like outside of school, is absolutely vital if we want to help them succeed in the classroom. I truly want connect with my students by having regular conversations, learning about their interests, and weaving those interests into the curriculum. When kids can connect with the material, learning becomes exciting. I also want to give them choices in how they show what they have learned such as presentations, writing, art, videos,and whatever sparks their creativity. My classroom needs to be a place where they feel seen and heard, not just a place where they're force to learn information they can not relate to. Students spend most of their day at school, so must create an inclusive environment for our students. Creating a inclusive classroom is incredibly important to me. Everyone deserves respect, regardless of their background or differences. Getting to know my students and their families will help me weave their cultures, interests, and languages into the fabric of the classroom. My college classes have already given me a solid foundation in different teaching styles and how to create an inclusive environment for all learners. My volunteer work as a tutor at the library has also been a huge influence. Working with bilingual students, especially those who are new to the United States. I recall working with high schoolers from Guatemala who barely spoke any English. Their determination to learn was just amazing. They used Google Translate when I was not available to complete their English Homework. I am glad their teacher allowed them and gave them access to using Google Translate to help to them learn. I want to create a classroom where every student feels safe, supported, and empowered to overcome whatever challenges they face. I'm really excited to build that kind of environment, where every student feels welcome and can reach their full potential, both in school and in life.

Never did I imagine facing mental and physical health challenges would inspire me to change my career path. As a first-generation college student, former caregiver, and part-time worker, I thought I had everything under control. However, I learned the hard way the importance of prioritizing mental well-being after a traumatic experience that left a lasting impact on my life. These struggles have fostered resilience and inspired me to switch my major from Nursing to Education, where I hope to influence students' lives. Growing up, I was instilled with the values of hard work and perseverance. My parents, particularly the male figures, exemplified this by pushing through challenges. My family members who immigrated from Mexico shared stories of their sacrifices to provide opportunities for my siblings and me. I am grateful for the privilege of receiving an education, which has fueled my determination to succeed academically and pursue higher education. As a first-generation college student, navigating the process without guidance has been challenging. I am fortunate to have my younger brother by my side, motivating each other to stay on track and achieve our career goals at separate universities. In addition to my college studies, I have responsibilities such as tutoring children at the local library and caring for my nephew every other week, all while juggling assignments and virtual classes. Before my nephew's birth, I worked part-time in a residential disability home and attended community college, often feeling overwhelmed. During this time, I lost balance in my life, leading to mental health struggles that I never thought I would experience as a young, first-generation student. While working as a part-time resident tech, I realized the toll that caregiving took on my mental and physical health. This experience highlighted the demands of supporting others, especially when neglecting one's own needs. I felt pressured to present myself as strong to my family, even as I struggled with my mental and physical health, school, and financial responsibilities. Eventually, the weight of these demands became too much that led me to quit my job to continue my part-time community college courses, and withdraw from social interactions. When I initially tried to confide in my family about my struggles, they dismissed my concerns. I learned that seeking help, even when it feels like no one believes you, is crucial. I took steps to prioritize self-care independently, as my friends and family, who I thought would be supportive, were not. After almost a year of isolating myself, skipping classes, and avoiding family gatherings, I began to heal by engaging in activities like nature walks, cooking, making video like I used to and reconnecting with new friends. These habits became the foundation of my recovery and reinforced my belief in the importance of mental health. These experiences have also transformed my relationships. I now approach others with a deeper sense of empathy, recognizing that everyone faces their challenges. This understanding has strengthened my connections with family, friends, and the students I tutor. As a bilingual tutor, I have worked closely with Spanish-speaking students and witnessed how language barriers and self-doubt affect their confidence. My struggles have made me more attuned to their needs, and I strive to create a supportive and empowering environment. My mental health journey has reshaped my career aspirations. While I initially aspired to become a nurse, I realized that my true passion lies in education. As a future high school math teacher, I aim to create a classroom that fosters academic growth and supports students' emotional well-being. I aim to make learning accessible and relatable while encouraging students to embrace their unique experiences.

The first song that deeply resonates with me is the song, "What I was made for" by Billie. She mentions that she used to know but I am not sure now. When I was in high school, I knew what I wanted to be growing up, but as I faced challenges in my adulthood, it made me question if I was sure in pursuing a different career. It can be a huge leap to make and commit to a different goal. However, as I continue to grow, I have come to the realization that I have to change routines that do not take a huge toll on my physical and mental health. Even when we face challenges, there is always hope in finding ourselves again. She mentions in her song, "I don't know how to feel." That is okay, especially when going through a challenge. This song makes me realize that sometimes we might not be happy with how things are going, allowing me to realize that I have to make changes to make a difference. The second song that resonates with me is the song "Lonely" sung by Billie Eilish and Khalid. This song makes me realize that I am not the only one going through challenges in life. We may view challenges as setbacks, but we have to stop and realize that it's a way to view our challenges as a way to improve and grow from there to becoming a better person. The final song that really resonates with me is "TV" by Billie. Based on the first lyrics of her song, sometimes as a person, we go through so much we do not have the courage, but the guilt or ball of emotion is stuck on our chest that gets in the way of expressing ourselves to others. There are times where I constantly stress about school, work, and keeping up with homework and home responsibilities. I have had to sacrifice a lot to put my priorities first, such as letting go of friends and limiting my time with family to keep up with school and house responsibilities. Sometimes I get so caught up in meeting deadlines, sometimes we have to make time for our friends and family since we never know when it'll be the last time together on earth.

Legacy to me means to leave people with remarkable accomplishments or messages. Every individual on this earth leaves us something to remember them by through their history of actions or sayings. Their actions and words can inspire others to make a difference and be touched by their words or actions, which encourages us to do good for future generations. As a daughter of Mexican immigrants, I value my parents for coming to the United States and sacrificing everything to give their children the best they can. I witnessed the hardships my parents have gone through, especially as Spanish speakers in a foreign country, having to learn a different language. Strangers give Spanish speakers such as my parents a hard time for not being able to speak or understand the language English. My parents have demonstrated how to not give in to others' negativity or treat others poorly simply because of a language barrier. As their child whose native language is Spanish and second language is English, which I speak better. I understand my parents' frustration and experience. Even though I perfectly understand Spanish, however, I struggle to interact/speak with others in Spanish. I recall visiting Mexico where people speak Spanish, this experience showed me that people will simply turn their backs on you if you do not speak it well, whereas others will have the patience to understand. Those who turned their backs made me feel angry and discouraged to even try to interact with them simply because I did not speak the language well. I understand each faces or goes through their different hardships in life that we sometimes overcome. As a future Secondary teacher, I will work towards including English Language Learners in my classroom material because I know the feeling of exclusion. I want my students to be able to resonate with the material instead of just giving them material they cannot understand or pushing them away to color instead of helping them learn. It is important to break the cycle of excluding or treating those who speak or are different from us in such a negative way. Regardless of people's backgrounds, it is important to treat everyone with respect and make them feel included. This is why I plan on getting to know my students and families to best incorporate their interests, background, and native language to best help them succeed in my classroom. There is so much I am currently learning from education courses such as different teaching styles to incorporate to best help my future students. I hope to eliminate the language barrier for students and make an inclusive environment for everyone with different backgrounds.

I am a first-generation Hispanic, full-time college student at Davenport University, having transferred from Grand Rapids Community College. I plan on becoming a Math teacher, which is why I am majoring in Secondary Education. I have been funding my education independently since graduating high school, relying on my income and avoiding student loans. I made a necessary purchase not too long ago, brought my first car to commute between school, home, and work. My parents lent me the funds to fully pay for the vehicle. Repaying them may take time due to the ongoing costs of tuition, bills, car maintenance, essential living expenses, and other financial obligations. I am committed to fulfilling this responsibility while also ensuring I have sufficient funds for my tuition. This Fall 2024 semester, I had to reduce my course load from 16 to 12 credits due to the unexpected removal of my Pell Grant, which I could not afford to replace. While I considered obtaining another job, I recognized the potential negative impact on my mental health. Juggling a full course load (40+ hours per week), 6-9 hours of tutoring, and my other responsibilities was already incredibly demanding. Adding another job would likely have left me unmotivated, stressed, and overwhelmed. Furthermore, my education program requires me to complete a specific number of hours working closely with teachers each semester. For example, this Winter 2025 semester, I must complete 60 hours assisting a teacher over 8-13 weeks. This translates to 6-9 hours per week at a school district, without pay. I believe this experience will be invaluable in my development as a future educator. However, it adds another layer of responsibility, further discouraging me from seeking additional employment at this time. After experiencing burnout from working and keeping up with my school courses a few years ago. I have learned to listen to my body when it needs the break but also be aware of my responsibilities. I am aware that I have a significant workload at the moment, but prioritizing my mental health is crucial. My weekends are my only days off, which I dedicate to activities like walking with friends, siblings, and my dog to de-stress and recharge. It is essential to have this time to unwind from the demands of the week. A hardship scholarship would provide significant financial relief, allowing me to focus on my coursework without the added pressure of seeking extra income. My primary goals as a college student are to excel in my studies and continue gaining valuable experience working with children at my tutoring job

From a young age, I viewed attending school as a privilege because neither of my parents finished their education. They came to the United States with nothing but the support of family. Who knows if I would have continued my education in Mexico, but one thing I do know is that I will obtain my degree in Secondary Math Education at Davenport University. I have attended school my whole life. I am transferring from Grand Rapids Community College to Davenport University to earn my Bachelor's in Education. I aspire to work in the education field as a middle or high school math teacher. I am aware that there are few teachers of color, as most of them are white. As a first-generation Mexican-American student and a person of color in the education field, I can serve as a role model for students in underrepresented communities. I can make a significant impact on students who share a similar background to mine. Having commonalities encourages students to trust and open up more easily. As a teacher, I aim to empower future generations to succeed both in my classroom and in life. However, as a teacher, I strive to learn more about my students through one-on-one interviews to implement their interests and background cultures so they are reflected in the material. This approach encourages students to crave the interest in learning and feel included in classroom material. Volunteering and working as a tutor at my local library influenced me to study education. I volunteered to help bilingual students with their homework after school. Being bilingual in Spanish and English allowed me to assist a few high school students who had recently arrived in the United States from Guatemala and knew very little English. These Hispanic students came to me after school to receive the help they needed to complete their English homework. Despite the language barrier, they never gave up on contacting me when they needed help. If I was not there to help them, they mostly relied on Google Translate. This experience showed me the importance of eliminating barriers preventing students from succeeding in their education. Teachers make a significant impact on students' lives. Most of the time, they are the ones creating a safe place for their students in the classroom. They also help students overcome the different and unique challenges they encounter daily. I look forward to providing a supportive and welcoming environment to all students who come from different backgrounds in my future classroom.

From a young age, I viewed attending school as a privilege because neither of my parents finished their education. Both of my parents left school in Mexico due to expenses and living in poverty. They came to the United States with nothing but the support of family. Who knows if I would have continued my education in Mexico, but one thing I do know is that I will obtain my degree in Secondary Math Education at Davenport University. I have attended school my whole life. I am transferring from Grand Rapids Community College to Davenport University to earn my Bachelor's in Education. I aspire to work in the education field as a middle or high school math teacher. My middle and high school math teachers made the subject easy for me to learn. Although some problems take forever to solve, math never bores me. I am aware that there are few teachers of color, as most of them are white. As a first-generation Mexican-American student and a person of color in the education field, I can serve as a role model for students in underrepresented communities. I can make a significant impact on students who share a similar background to mine, as having commonalities encourages students to trust and open up more easily. As a teacher, I aim to empower future generations to succeed both in my classroom and in life. Volunteering at my local library influenced me to study education. I volunteered to help bilingual students with their homework after school for a short period. Being bilingual in Spanish and English allowed me to assist a few high school students who had recently arrived in the United States from Guatemala and knew very little English. These Hispanic students came to me after school to receive the help they needed to complete their English homework. Despite the language barrier, they never gave up on contacting me when they needed help. If I was not there to help them, they mostly relied on Google Translate. This experience showed me the importance of eliminating barriers preventing students from succeeding in their education. Teachers make a significant impact on students' lives. Most of the time, they are the ones creating a safe place for their students in the classroom. They also help students overcome the different and unique challenges they encounter daily. I look forward to providing a supportive and welcoming environment to all students who come from different backgrounds in my future classroom.

Never did I imagine facing mental and physical health challenges that would inspire me to change my career path. As a first-generation college student, former caregiver, and part-time worker, I thought I had everything under control. However, I learned the hard way the importance of prioritizing mental well-being after a traumatic experience that left a lasting impact on my life. These struggles have fostered resilience and inspired me to switch my major from Nursing to Education, where I hope to positively influence students' lives. Growing up in a Mexican household, I was instilled with the values of hard work and perseverance. My parents, particularly the male figures, exemplified this by pushing through challenges. My family members who immigrated from Mexico shared stories of their sacrifices to provide opportunities for my siblings and me. I am grateful for the privilege of receiving an education, which has fueled my determination to succeed academically and pursue higher education. As a first-generation college student, navigating the process without guidance has been challenging. I am fortunate to have my younger brother by my side, motivating each other to stay on track and achieve our career goals at separate universities. In addition to my college studies, I have responsibilities such as tutoring children at the local library and caring for my nephew every other week, all while juggling assignments and virtual classes. Before my nephew's birth, I worked part-time in a residential disability home and attended community college, often feeling overwhelmed. During this time, I lost balance in my life, leading to mental health struggles that I never thought I would experience as a young, first-generation student. While working as a part-time resident tech, I realized the toll that caregiving took on my mental and physical health. This experience highlighted the demands of supporting others, especially when neglecting one's own needs. I felt pressured to present myself as strong to my family, even as I struggled with my mental and physical health, school, and financial responsibilities. Eventually, the weight of these demands became too much, forcing me to quit my job, continue my part-time community college courses, and withdraw from social interactions. When I initially tried to confide in my family about my struggles, they dismissed my concerns. I learned that seeking help, even when it feels like no one believes you, is crucial. I took steps to prioritize self-care independently, as my friends and family, who I thought would be supportive, were not. After almost a year of isolating myself, skipping classes, and avoiding family gatherings, I began to heal by engaging in activities like nature walks, cooking, and reconnecting with loved ones. These habits became the foundation of my recovery and reinforced my belief in the importance of mental health. These experiences have also transformed my relationships. I now approach others with a deeper sense of empathy, recognizing that everyone faces their challenges. This understanding has strengthened my connections with family, friends, and the students I tutor. As a bilingual tutor, I have worked closely with Spanish-speaking students and witnessed how language barriers and self-doubt affect their confidence. My struggles have made me more attuned to their needs, and I strive to create a supportive and empowering environment. My mental health journey has reshaped my career aspirations. While I initially aspired to become a nurse, I realized that my true passion lies in education. As a future high school math teacher, I aim to create a classroom that fosters academic growth and supports students' emotional well-being. I aim to make learning accessible and relatable while encouraging students to embrace their unique experiences.

Based on Sabrina Carpenter's history, I know that she shared her talent through YouTube videos. I started uploading videos to YouTube starting around 2020, differently from Sabrina, as I post life vlogs. Honestly, I hope to not gain much attention to those videos, but I hope that others relate to my life, inspiring them to be vloggers and share their stories with the rest of the world. I know that Sabrina's talent was discovered through YouTube videos and inspires me and many of her other fans to use social media as a platform to level up from there and be recognized for their talents. I grew up watching Sabrina on TV as an amazing actor in "Boy Meets World," now look at her doing an absolutely awesome job singing songs that have made it to be on the radio. She is truly an inspiration, letting the world know it takes time to be where they want to be. I think that it is okay for things to take time because it will be worth the wait. Her music and talent motivate me to pursue what I want to truly do with my life which continues with uploading YouTube videos and finishing up my college credits to obtain my bachelor's degree.

As a first-generation Hispanic college student, I grew up with a father who had and currently has an alcohol addiction. I, quite frankly, even avoid communicating with my father because I am scared of encountering him, especially when he is intoxicated. Not too long ago, my father was caught drinking under the influence and driving, which could have cost someone's life. Thankfully, no one was involved or included at the scene when the police and paramedics caught him sleeping behind the wheel with his car off, near a private property by the train tracks. I was woken up by a phone call from the police nearly at 4 in the morning, telling me to head over to pick up the car and car keys with my younger brother. The number of times that I have seen my father sleep on the floor while intoxicated is countless, but I never imagined him sleeping behind the wheel near the train tracks with a person in his passenger seat, both intoxicated. I have witnessed countless times when my father would start causing problems or being bold enough to confront his friends and family while intoxicated. It always seemed like alcohol was the way he could front people about issues. It hurts me so much that I grew up with a father figure who relies on alcohol to solve his problems. Mind you, his older brother also faced an alcohol addiction, which led him to time in prison. My uncle is now out of prison, hanging out and surrounding himself with my father, who is an alcohol addict. Even after my father was locked up for 24 hours after that incident where the police caught him sleeping behind the wheel, my dad started sobering up when my mother got back from Mexico. I really hoped that he would stop drinking for good and reflect on the damage he could have caused after completing a DUI course. His addiction affects me because he lives in the house where I have to clean up after his mess and take care of him while my mother is away in Mexico. At this point, I have gotten used to his rants, but there are days where it becomes overwhelming because I do the best I can as a full-time college student to focus on my academic goals. On top of that, my mother takes care of my nephew during the week, but this upcoming week, my dad is supposed to help out with taking care of him because my mother is out of the country. I have no clue how exhausting this upcoming week is going to be, and obviously, I am not going to let my father take care of my nephew if he is intoxicated. Not only do I have to take care of my nephew, but my father as well, while trying to manage college as a full-time student and part-time tutor. I have no clue how to support my father when he has declined to attend classes of rehabilitation. However, I know that I will take the necessary steps to not follow his path because I know jail or prison is not where I want to end up, nor will I make alcohol a source that I have to rely on to get through life. I will make sure to do things that I enjoy, like nature walks, venting with friends, or painting, to help me destress and avoid those pathways to have a sober life.

A piece of technology that I find beneficial to have in education, as I plan to become a teacher one day, would be computer devices. These devices support English language learners and early readers in developing literacy skills. Nowadays, we have access to computers to listen to audiobooks and access multiple websites. It is such a fantastic technology that allows readers to listen and follow along with the printed text. School districts often lack the resources to support their students in developing the literacy skills necessary to become successful readers and writers. I believe that with the help of today's technology, such as computers, we can support students in developing literacy skills. Students can listen to read-aloud stories through headphones or without headphones, which supports them in improving their listening comprehension, vocabulary, and pronunciation. Computers can be used to access a wider range of books and promote digital literacy skills. With this type of technology, students do not have to rely heavily on seeking help from teachers, parents, guardians, or siblings to read them a book. When no one is available to help with pronouncing words, we can easily turn to our computer friend to assist individuals in correctly pronouncing words. Comparing today's elementary generation teaching skills is so uniquely different from when I was in school because of resources like laptops that exist to help students learn the skills needed to teach students with different needs. Every student is at a different level in the classroom, but with technology, we can support students in reaching their goals by assigning them the necessary material that other students may not need.

My mental health experiences have significantly shaped my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. Never did I imagine facing mental and physical health challenges that would inspire me to change my future career path. As a first-generation college student, former caregiver, and part-time worker, I thought I had everything under control. However, I learned the hard way the importance of prioritizing mental well-being after a traumatic experience that left a lasting impact on my life. These struggles have fostered resilience and inspired me to switch my major from Nursing to Education, where I hope to positively influence students' lives. Growing up in a Mexican household, I was instilled with the values of hard work and perseverance. My parents, particularly the male figures, exemplified this by pushing through challenges. My family members who immigrated from Mexico shared stories of their sacrifices to provide opportunities for my siblings and me. I am grateful for the privilege of receiving an education, which has fueled my determination to succeed academically and pursue higher education. As a first-generation college student, navigating the process without guidance has been challenging. However, I am fortunate to have my younger brother by my side, motivating each other to stay on track and achieve our career goals at separate universities. In addition to my college studies, I have responsibilities such as tutoring children at the local library and caring for my nephew every other week, all while juggling assignments and virtual classes. Before my nephew's birth, I worked part-time in a residential disability home and attended community college, often feeling overwhelmed. During this time, I lost balance in my life, leading to mental health struggles that I never thought I would experience as a young, first-generation student. While working as a part-time resident tech, I gradually realized the toll that caregiving took on my mental and physical health. This experience highlighted the demands of supporting others, especially when neglecting one's own needs. Rooted in the values I was raised with, I felt pressured to present myself as strong to my family, even as I struggled with my mental and physical health, school, and financial responsibilities. Eventually, the weight of these demands became too much, forcing me to quit my job, continue my part-time community college courses, and withdraw from social interactions. When I initially tried to confide in my family about my struggles, they dismissed my concerns. This was one of the most challenging periods of my life, but it taught me invaluable lessons. I learned that seeking help, even when it feels like no one believes you, is crucial. I took steps to prioritize self-care independently, as my friends and family, who I thought would be supportive, were not. After almost a year of isolating myself, skipping classes, and avoiding family gatherings, I began to heal by engaging in activities like nature walks, cooking, and reconnecting with loved ones. These habits became the foundation of my recovery and reinforced my belief in the importance of mental health. These experiences have also transformed my relationships. I now approach others with a deeper sense of empathy, recognizing that everyone faces their own challenges. This understanding has strengthened my connections with family, friends, and the students I tutor. As a bilingual tutor, I have worked closely with Spanish-speaking students and witnessed how language barriers and self-doubt can affect their confidence. My own struggles have made me more attuned to their needs, and I strive to create a supportive and empowering environment. My mental health journey has reshaped my career aspirations. While I initially aspired to become a nurse, I realized that my true passion lies in education. As a future high school math teacher, I aim to create a classroom that not only fosters academic growth but also supports students' emotional well-being. My goal is to make learning accessible and relatable while encouraging students to embrace their unique experiences.

I am Pamela, born and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan. I grew up in a Mexican household with three siblings and my parents and surrounded with limited family in the United States. Both of my parents emigrated from Mexico to the United States years before I was born, seeking opportunities to build a better future for their family. My family and I grew up in a bilingual household where I embraced Mexican roots and adapted American holidays and food such as Halloween, pizza, American breakfast (pancakes, sausages, and eggs), and the Fourth of July. As I grew older we took frequent trips to my parents' hometown in Michoacán, Mexico, where I connected with my family members: grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. These visits shaped my perspective on education and privilege. In Michoacán and parts of the United States, I witnessed and heard about children, like my parents when they were young had worked to support their families instead of attending school. My parents often share their stories about their experiences growing up in poverty and the sacrifices they made to provide me and my siblings with the opportunities they never had. Both my parents were unable to finish their education to support their families. These shared stories and experiences gave me a deep appreciation for the privilege of receiving a free K-12 education and earning a high school diploma. My educational journey has been anything but smooth. I often question whether I should continue my education. Balancing school as a full-time student with personal responsibilities has been a significant challenge. I am a full-time college student, a part-time tutor, and a caregiver for my nephew, I often feel overwhelmed by juggling multiple roles. There are times when the stress feels overwhelming to the point where I want to give up. I can not give up because I know I can do it despite the challenges that make it feel impossible. Adding additional work to pay for my education will negatively impact my mental health if I seek an additional role while in school. I plan to work a seasonal job after my tutoring contract before Thanksgiving break. This will allow me to save money while organizing my life to prepare for the next semester, winter 2025. I have created a habit of budgeting carefully to cover my car insurance, daily expenses, and tuition costs. While this path is not easy, I am fortunate to have my parents’ support by providing me a roof over my head and not having to pay rent. My ability to manage my time and finances has become essential for navigating each day and planning for the future. As a first-generation Hispanic college student at Davenport University, I am majoring in secondary education with a focus on mathematics. Choosing this career path was not a decision I made coming out of high school. During high school, I volunteered in educational settings, working closely with students and later discovering my passion for teaching. I realized that I wanted to dedicate my life to helping others, as a teacher instead of becoming a registered nurse. Many educators have helped me succeed which I want to be able to do for the next generations. The privilege of receiving an education has always been a driving force in my life. I hope that future generations, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, feel empowered to pursue their own educational goals as I did. The subject of Math has always intrigued me. I know that many students will feel that math might be irrelevant to their lives, but my goal as a future middle or high school math teacher is to change that perception. I want to make math engaging and relatable by incorporating real-life scenarios that resonate with students, allowing them to make connections from their experiences. I will show students how math applies to their everyday lives using different teaching strategies to best help students learn. In addition, I am passionate about creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students even those with a unique diverse background. I have witnessed my parents’ struggles with the language barrier, I understand the challenges faced by non-native English speakers. As a tutor, I work with students whose first language is Spanish, and I see how their confidence grows when they feel understood and supported. I communicate with them in their native language, Spanish, when needed and encourage them to express themselves in our tutoring sessions. As a teacher, I will create a safe space where students from all backgrounds feel valued by implementing their background into their learning so students see themselves reflected in the curriculum. This helps create a diverse classroom for each one of my students to learn from each other's diverse backgrounds. I hope to give back to my community by empowering the next generation of learners. Whether it’s breaking down barriers for non-native speakers, or making math accessible. I am committed to creating a classroom where every student can thrive.

Teachers have the power to inspire students to make a positive impact on the environment. My former teachers, for instance, made a real effort to teach us about reducing our carbon footprints through lessons, worksheets, and videos aimed at fostering environmental awareness. Personally, I have taken what my teachers taught and applied it to my life. To reduce my carbon footprint, I walk to local stores instead of driving farther away. If I need to buy groceries, I shop right after my college classes, since the store is on my way home by car. Taking most of my classes online also reduces my car use, and I choose to walk around my neighborhood with my dog rather than to drive to a park. This helps reduce transportation emissions, which is the largest source of carbon emissions in the United States. I know that many people in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and around the globe rely on cars to get around. This topic isn’t discussed often enough, but it’s extremely important to inform our community about the issues that come with it. As a first-generation Hispanic and future multicultural educator, I plan to go in-depth on this topic in my future lesson plans. There are many ways individuals can reduce their carbon footprints: avoiding plastic bags, voting for leaders who prioritize environmental issues, donating clothes instead of discarding them, using reusable water bottles, cycling to destinations, unplugging unused devices, and more. Discussing this topic with students can inspire them to take action for the environment. Even though I will be a high school or middle school teacher, I do not have to be a science teacher to educate students about carbon emissions. I can bring up these issues through math word problems and other relevant activities, helping students understand real-world challenges. Taking steps to reduce our carbon footprints is essential, as our planet is heating up due to greenhouse gases trapped in our atmosphere. Rising carbon footprints lead to climate change, which drives global warming. This increase has worsened natural disasters like floods, hurricanes, wildfires, and extreme weather events, which are expected to continue rising if emissions are not reduced. One community activity I can implement as a teacher to help the environment is dedicating a class period to planting trees in our community. Before this activity, I will briefly go over the benefits of planting trees, such as providing fresh air, increasing oxygen levels, and helping protect our environment from floods. Grand Rapids has experienced flooding within the past few years. I want students to understand that even simple actions can make a big difference in supporting our environment.

From a young age, I viewed attending school as a privilege because neither of my parents finished their education. Both of my parents left school in Mexico due to expenses and living in poverty. They came to the United States with nothing but the support of family. Who knows if I would have continued my education in Mexico, but one thing I do know is that I will obtain my degree in Secondary Math Education at Davenport University. I have attended school my whole life. I am transferring from Grand Rapids Community College to Davenport University to earn my Bachelor's in Education. I aspire to work in the education field as a middle or high school math teacher. My middle and high school math teachers made the subject easy for me to learn. Although some problems take forever to solve, math never bores me. I am aware that there are few teachers of color, as most of them are white. As a first-generation Mexican-American student and a person of color in the education field, I can serve as a role model for students in underrepresented communities. I can make a significant impact on students who share a similar background to mine, as having commonalities encourages students to trust and open up more easily. As a teacher, I aim to empower future generations to succeed both in my classroom and in life. Volunteering at my local library influenced me to study education. I volunteered to help bilingual students with their homework after school for a short period. Being bilingual in Spanish and English allowed me to assist a few high school students who had recently arrived in the United States from Guatemala and knew very little English. These Hispanic students came to me after school to receive the help they needed to complete their English homework. Despite the language barrier, they never gave up on contacting me when they needed help. If I was not there to help them, they mostly relied on Google Translate. This experience showed me the importance of eliminating barriers preventing students from succeeding in their education. Teachers make a significant impact on students' lives. Most of the time, they are the ones creating a safe place for their students in the classroom. They also help students overcome the different and unique challenges they encounter daily. I look forward to providing a supportive and welcoming environment to all students who come from different backgrounds in my future classroom.

I never really considered volunteering in my community until I reached high school, where students were required to complete 60-120 volunteer hours to graduate. Attending a high school with this requirement opened my eyes to how even a small contribution can make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. It was especially rewarding for me to use my bilingual skills in both Spanish and English to connect with people in my community who might otherwise feel isolated due to language barriers. During high school, I volunteered at food pantries, after-school centers, and local events. These experiences gave me a great sense of accomplishment after each shift. Not only did I feel proud of the work I was doing, but I also gained valuable experience in different roles that have since strengthened my resume. Volunteering helped me feel more connected to the people around me, building relationships with other volunteers and community members. After completing over 120 hours of community service in high school, I’ve become inspired to continue giving back, especially here in Roosevelt Park. I never dreamed of becoming a teacher until I left my volunteer position at the Cook Art Center a couple of years ago. Volunteering in different places helped me figure out the right career path for me. Over time, I realized that I wanted a career where I could make a lasting impact on others, and teaching felt like the perfect fit. When I volunteer, I learn about all kinds of local services, and I envision using this knowledge in my future classroom. I plan to set up a bulletin board to display resource flyers so that students can easily access help if they need it. I also want my students to know they can always come to me if they’re seeking any type of support because I’m committed to connecting them with resources. I believe we need teachers who work closely with their communities to support students in every way possible. One of the organizations that truly stands out to me is the Hispanic Center of Western Michigan, which provides many essential resources to Roosevelt Park residents. A great example of how I can contribute to my community is by volunteering at their upcoming coat distribution event. This event requires just a few hours of my time, but it will make a significant impact by helping families prepare for the colder months. Having previously volunteered with Feeding West Michigan, one of the Hispanic Center’s partners, I know how effective these events can be in providing for families in need. By volunteering, I also learn about available resources, so I can help spread the word to those who might not be aware of them. As a first-year, full-time college student and part-time tutor at my local library, I am still dedicated to serving my community. I plan to volunteer at the next coat drive and continue using my Spanish and English skills to connect with families. Additionally, I hope to volunteer one or two times a week at a food pantry where I previously volunteered during high school. Helping my community motivates me to get out of my comfort zone, stay active, and engage with a wide range of diverse people. I feel that by serving others, I gain invaluable experience and build meaningful connections that make a lasting impact on me and those I support.

From a young age, I viewed attending school as a privilege, as neither of my parents finished their education. Both left school in Mexico due to financial hardships and poverty, eventually coming to the United States with nothing but family support. Who knows if I would have continued my education in Mexico, but one thing I do know is that I am committed to earning my degree in Secondary Math Education at Davenport University. I recently transferred from Grand Rapids Community College to Davenport University, where I am a full-time student pursuing my Bachelor’s in Education. I aspire to work as a middle or high school math teacher. I had incredible math teachers in middle and high school who made the subject enjoyable and engaging. Although some problems take time to solve, math has always intrigued me. I am aware that there are very few teachers of color, as most are white. As a first-generation Mexican-American and a person of color in the education field, I hope to serve as a role model for students from underrepresented communities. I believe that my shared background with students can create a foundation of trust and connection, encouraging them to feel comfortable and open in my classroom. My passion for teaching was also influenced by my volunteer work at my local library, where I helped bilingual students with their homework after school. Being bilingual in Spanish and English allowed me to assist several high school students who had recently arrived from Guatemala and spoke little English. These students relied on me for help with their English homework, and despite the language barrier, they showed resilience and determination. This experience reinforced my belief in the importance of removing obstacles that hinder students’ educational success. Teachers have a profound impact on students’ lives, often providing them with a safe, supportive environment where they can face unique challenges. I look forward to creating a welcoming classroom for all my students, embracing diverse backgrounds and fostering a culture of inclusion. Currently, I’m paying for school out of pocket, with no financial support from my parents, though they provide me with a place to live. I recently bought a car to commute to work and school, but finances have become a significant concern after losing my Michigan grant. This setback left me devastated, as I now have to find additional ways to cover college expenses by winter 2025. As a first-generation college student, I feel incredibly privileged to be pursuing higher education. Although my journey has been challenging, especially after changing my major, I am determined to continue. I’ve applied to over 22 part-time jobs since September with little success. My current part-time tutoring position doesn’t fully cover my school, gas, food, and other expenses. However, I remain hopeful that I can find a solution to continue my education and achieve my goal of becoming an impactful educator.

As a child of immigrant parents and a first-generation Hispanic college student, I understand that education is a privilege. My parents, who both came to the United States to build a better future for my siblings and me, were not able to obtain high school diplomas because they had to work to support their families. Despite this, they have made great strides in learning English, a language they didn’t know when they arrived over 20 years ago. Today, they use English to communicate with others, including their coworkers. My siblings and I are among the first in our family to earn high school diplomas, alongside a few cousins who also live in the United States, and we are all incredibly proud of how far we have come together. Choosing to further my education in STEAM, specifically as a high school math teacher, was a decision that came after meaningful experiences working with students in after-school programs and multicultural school settings. Each student I have worked with brings a unique background, and I have had the privilege of supporting them in their educational journeys. I have also made it my priority to create inclusive environments where students feel heard and valued, understanding that students’ voices are crucial to their academic success. By listening to their concerns, I can help them overcome barriers that may interfere with their learning. I am beyond grateful to be majoring in secondary education, especially because there is a strong need for multicultural teachers who can relate to students from diverse backgrounds and adjust teaching strategies to fit their learning needs. My courses at Davenport University are incredibly valuable, as my professors are preparing future teachers like me to effectively teach students with unique backgrounds. Alongside my studies, I also tutor students at a local library, helping them with homework. I have been teaching English to Spanish speakers, applying the strategies I’ve learned from my coursework such as using visual aids. With this scholarship, I will be able to continue my education at Davenport University for the upcoming semesters, winter 2025 and fall 2025. This support would enable me to pursue my goal of becoming a dedicated and culturally aware teacher who can meet the diverse needs of my future students. This scholarship would help me make a difference in the lives of students by giving them a teacher who understands their challenges and supports them on their educational journey.

As someone who has experienced mental health challenges as both a college student and a part-time resident tech in a long-term adult disability residential home, I've learned firsthand the importance of self-care. As a first-generation college student, I always felt a need to appear like everything in my life was going smoothly. I wanted to make my family proud and show I could handle the responsibilities I’d taken on. Since I was young, I dreamed of becoming a nurse, but I never realized how much impact the journey would have on my life, especially while balancing stressful studies and the demands of caring for four residents during each shift. Paying for most of my tuition out of pocket, I chose to work in healthcare to see if it was the right career path for me. However, amidst the many responsibilities in my life, I neglected to take care of myself, which led to a challenging recovery process. Writing about this now is painful because it reminds me of the times I ignored my own needs, pushing through exhaustion instead of taking breaks. Eventually, this took a heavy toll on my mental health. I reached a point where I had to quit my job, overwhelmed by everything I was dealing with. By then, it felt late to start recovering and taking steps to improve my mental well-being. I reduced my course load to part-time for the second semester, often spending my days isolated, lying down in my room, feeling numb. I rarely discussed mental health with others, especially because people around me dismissed it as “not real.” I knew I was struggling, but I needed a supportive group, and instead, I faced ridicule. It was a lonely and frustrating time. After a few months, I realized I needed a different path, one that wasn’t as mentally and physically draining. I also recognized the importance of surrounding myself with positive, supportive people rather than those who only added negativity. Making changes like these isn’t easy, but prioritizing yourself is essential, especially when others can’t or won’t understand. Taking care of our mental health is crucial, as it affects how we interact and function day to day. My recovery journey started with small steps, like going on nature walks, taking breaks to get out of my room, and gradually improving my diet by preparing nutritious meals which was an important shift after I had gotten used to skipping meals. Now, as a full-time secondary education student, I make it a point to prioritize my mental well-being. I limit my work hours, take breaks when studying, spend time outdoors, and see friends and family at least once a week. Doing the things we enjoy and managing stress helps maintain mental health and overall balance in life.

I am currently in college, majoring in Secondary Education with a focus on Math. When I started college, this wasn't the career path I initially intended to pursue. From a young age, I was passionate about helping people, and I always dreamed of becoming a nurse to assist those in need. However, I realized that as a teacher, I could also help others by supporting students academically and making a significant impact on their lives. My journey toward education began when I volunteered at my local library and art center, where I helped students with their academic goals. I loved witnessing the progress students made and felt proud to be a part of their achievements. This experience sparked my interest in teaching and showed me the profound impact I could have on students' lives. After high school, I chose to work in a manufacturing facility with my parents instead of attending college immediately due to the high cost of tuition and feeling unprepared for the demands of higher education. However, a few months into the job, I realized I wanted to pursue something I was truly passionate about rather than producing cardiovascular materials for surgery. I decided to attend community college to complete my prerequisites for nursing. During this time, I observed math tutors helping students, and I couldn’t help but think about how rewarding it would be to support students in their studies. Although I did not take a math course that winter semester, I found myself missing the subject deeply. In high school, math was the one subject I looked forward to because my teachers made it so engaging and enjoyable. I realized that I had a genuine passion for math and a desire to share that passion with others. Currently, I am working at the YMCA in an after-school program with K-8 students, assisting them with homework and activities. Spending time in summer school classrooms with experienced teachers and observing how they manage their classes has been incredibly inspiring. It makes me excited to imagine myself as the teacher in front of the classroom one day. I also enjoy being a teacher’s assistant, as it allows me to help both students and teachers throughout the day. To achieve my goal of becoming a math teacher, I plan to work two tutoring jobs and continue my role as a teacher assistant while attending university full-time. This will help me support myself financially and gain valuable experience in education. I am eager to see how everything unfolds this semester and plan to continue taking these steps until I reach my goal of becoming a teacher.

From a young age, I viewed attending school as a privilege because neither of my parents finished their education. Both of my parents left school in Mexico due to expenses and living in poverty. They came to the United States with nothing but the support of family. Who knows if I would have continued my education in Mexico, but one thing I do know is that I will obtain my degree in Secondary Math Education at Davenport University. I have attended school my whole life. I am transferring from Grand Rapids Community College to Davenport University to earn my Bachelor's in Education. I aspire to work in the education field as a middle or high school math teacher. My middle and high school math teachers made the subject easy for me to learn. Although some problems take forever to solve, math never bores me. I am aware that there are few teachers of color, as most of them are white. As a first-generation Mexican-American student and a person of color in the education field, I can serve as a role model for students in underrepresented communities. I can make a significant impact on students who share a similar background to mine, as having commonalities encourages students to trust and open up more easily. As a teacher, I aim to empower future generations to succeed both in my classroom and in life. Volunteering at my local library influenced me to study education. For a short period, I volunteered to help bilingual students with their homework after school. Being bilingual in Spanish and English allowed me to assist a few high school students who had recently arrived in the United States from Guatemala and knew very little English. These Hispanic students came to me after school to receive the help they needed to complete their English homework. Despite the language barrier, they never gave up on reaching out to me when they needed help. If I was not there to help them, they mostly relied on Google Translate. This experience showed me the importance of eliminating barriers that prevent students from being successful in their education. Teachers make a significant impact on students' lives. Most of the time, they are the ones creating a safe place for their students in the classroom. They also help students overcome the different and unique challenges they encounter on a daily basis. I look forward to providing a supportive and welcoming environment to all students who come from different backgrounds in my future classroom.

From a young age, I viewed attending school as a privilege because neither of my parents finished their education. Both of my parents left school in Mexico due to expenses and living in poverty. They came to the United States with nothing but the support of family. Who knows if I would have continued my education in Mexico, but one thing I do know is that I will obtain my degree in Secondary Math Education at Davenport University. I have attended school my whole life. I am transferring from Grand Rapids Community College to Davenport University as a full-time student to earn my Bachelor's in Education. I aspire to work in the education field as a middle or high school math teacher. My middle and high school math teachers made the subject easy for me to learn. Although some problems take forever to solve, math never bores me. I am aware that there are few teachers of color, as most of them are white. As a first-generation Mexican-American student and a person of color in the education field, I can serve as a role model for students in underrepresented communities. I can make a significant impact on students who share a similar background to mine, as having commonalities encourages students to trust and open up more easily. As a teacher, I aim to empower future generations to succeed both in my classroom and in life. Volunteering at my local library influenced me to study education. For a short period, I volunteered to help bilingual students with their homework after school. Being bilingual in Spanish and English allowed me to assist a few high school students who had recently arrived in the United States from Guatemala and knew very little English. These Hispanic students came to me after school to receive the help they needed to complete their English homework. Despite the language barrier, they never gave up on reaching out to me when they needed help. If I was not there to help them, they mostly relied on Google Translate. This experience showed me the importance of eliminating barriers that prevent students from being successful in their education. Teachers make a significant impact on students' lives. Most of the time, they are the ones creating a safe place for their students in the classroom. They also help students overcome the different and unique challenges they encounter daily. I look forward to providing a supportive and welcoming environment to all students who come from different backgrounds in my future classroom. This is my third year at Grand Rapids Community College since I'm working part-time to pay for school out of pocket with no support from my parents. I just brought a car to get around to work and school daily. Last month I was able to afford college until I got my Michigan grant removed. I feel very devasted because now I have to look into ways to pay for college next month.

From a young age, I viewed attending school as a privilege because neither of my parents finished their education. Both of my parents left school in Mexico due to expenses and living in poverty. They came to the United States with nothing but the support of family. Who knows if I would have continued my education in Mexico, but one thing I do know is that I will obtain my degree in Secondary Math Education at Davenport University. I have attended school my whole life. I am transferring from Grand Rapids Community College to Davenport University to earn my Bachelor's in Education. I aspire to work in the education field as a middle or high school math teacher. My middle and high school math teachers made the subject easy for me to learn. Although some problems take forever to solve, math never bores me. I am aware that there are few teachers of color, as most of them are white. As a first-generation Mexican-American student and a person of color in the education field, I can serve as a role model for students in underrepresented communities. I can make a significant impact on students who share a similar background to mine, as having commonalities encourages students to trust and open up more easily. As a teacher, I aim to empower future generations to succeed both in my classroom and in life. Volunteering at my local library influenced me to study education. For a short period, I volunteered to help bilingual students with their homework after school. Being bilingual in Spanish and English allowed me to assist a few high school students who had recently arrived in the United States from Guatemala and knew very little English. These Hispanic students came to me after school to receive the help they needed to complete their English homework. Despite the language barrier, they never gave up on reaching out to me when they needed help. If I was not there to help them, they mostly relied on Google Translate. This experience showed me the importance of eliminating barriers that prevent students from being successful in their education. Teachers make a significant impact on students' lives. Most of the time, they are the ones creating a safe place for their students in the classroom. They also help students overcome the different and unique challenges they encounter on a daily basis. I look forward to providing a supportive and welcoming environment to all students who come from different backgrounds in my future classroom.

Why have you chosen to pursue a degree in STEM? How do you hope to have an impact in the STEM field as a person of color? From a young age, I viewed attending school as a privilege because neither of my parents finished their education. Both of my parents left school in Mexico due to expenses and living in poverty. They came to the United States with nothing but the support of family. Who knows if I would have continued my education in Mexico, but one thing I do know is that I will obtain my degree in Secondary Math Education at Davenport University. I have attended school my whole life. I am transferring from Grand Rapids Community College to Davenport University to earn my Bachelor's in Education. I aspire to work in the education field as a middle or high school math teacher. My middle and high school math teachers made the subject easy for me to learn. Although some problems take forever to solve, math never bores me. I am aware that there are few teachers of color, as most of them are white. As a first-generation Mexican-American student and a person of color in the education field, I can serve as a role model for students in underrepresented communities. I can make a significant impact on students who share a similar background to mine, as having commonalities encourages students to trust and open up more easily. As a teacher, I aim to empower future generations to succeed both in my classroom and in life. Volunteering at my local library influenced me to study education. For a short period, I volunteered to help bilingual students with their homework after school. Being bilingual in Spanish and English allowed me to assist a few high school students who had recently arrived in the United States from Guatemala and knew very little English. These Hispanic students came to me after school to receive the help they needed to complete their English homework. Despite the language barrier, they never gave up on reaching out to me when they needed help. If I was not there to help them, they mostly relied on Google Translate. This experience showed me the importance of eliminating barriers that prevent students from being successful in their education. Teachers make a significant impact on students' lives. Most of the time, they are the ones creating a safe place for their students in the classroom. They also help students overcome the different and unique challenges they encounter on a daily basis. I look forward to providing a supportive and welcoming environment to all students who come from different backgrounds in my future classroom.

From a young age, I viewed attending school as a privilege because neither of my parents finished their education. Both of my parents left school in Mexico due to expenses and living in poverty. They came to the United States with nothing but the support of family. Who knows if I would have continued my education in Mexico, but one thing I do know is that I will obtain my degree in Secondary Math Education at Davenport University. I have attended school my whole life. I am transferring from Grand Rapids Community College to Davenport University to earn my Bachelor's in Education. I aspire to work in the education field as a middle or high school math teacher. My middle and high school math teachers made the subject easy for me to learn. Although some problems take forever to solve, math never bores me. I am aware that there are few teachers of color, as most of them are white. As a first-generation Mexican-American student and a person of color in the education field, I can serve as a role model for students in underrepresented communities. I can make a significant impact on students who share a similar background to mine, as having commonalities encourages students to trust and open up more easily. As a teacher, I aim to empower future generations to succeed both in my classroom and in life. Volunteering at my local library influenced me to study education. For a short period, I volunteered to help bilingual students with their homework after school. Being bilingual in Spanish and English allowed me to assist a few high school students who had recently arrived in the United States from Guatemala and knew very little English. These Hispanic students came to me after school to receive the help they needed to complete their English homework. Despite the language barrier, they never gave up on reaching out to me when they needed help. If I was not there to help them, they mostly relied on Google Translate. This experience showed me the importance of eliminating barriers that prevent students from being successful in their education. Teachers make a significant impact on students' lives. Most of the time, they are the ones creating a safe place for their students in the classroom. They also help students overcome the different and unique challenges they encounter on a daily basis. I look forward to providing a supportive and welcoming environment to all students who come from different backgrounds in my future classroom.

From a young age, I viewed attending school as a privilege because neither of my parents finished their education. Both of my parents left school in Mexico due to expenses and living in poverty. They came to the United States with nothing but the support of family. Who knows if I would have continued my education in Mexico, but one thing I do know is that I will obtain my degree in Secondary Math Education at Davenport University. I have attended school my whole life. I am transferring from Grand Rapids Community College to Davenport University to earn my Bachelor's in Education. I aspire to work in the education field as a middle or high school math teacher. My middle and high school math teachers made the subject easy for me to learn. Although some problems take forever to solve, math never bores me. I am aware that there are few teachers of color, as most of them are white. As a first-generation Mexican-American student and a person of color in the education field, I can serve as a role model for students in underrepresented communities. I can make a significant impact on students who share a similar background to mine, as having commonalities encourages students to trust and open up more easily. As a teacher, I aim to empower future generations to succeed both in my classroom and in life. Volunteering at my local library influenced me to study education. For a short period, I volunteered to help bilingual students with their homework after school. Being bilingual in Spanish and English allowed me to assist a few high school students who had recently arrived in the United States from Guatemala and knew very little English. These Hispanic students came to me after school to receive the help they needed to complete their English homework. Despite the language barrier, they never gave up on reaching out to me when they needed help. If I was not there to help them, they mostly relied on Google Translate. This experience showed me the importance of eliminating barriers that prevent students from being successful in their education. Teachers make a significant impact on students' lives. Most of the time, they are the ones creating a safe place for their students in the classroom. They also help students overcome the different and unique challenges they encounter on a daily basis. I look forward to providing a supportive and welcoming environment to all students who come from different backgrounds in my future classroom.

From a young age, I viewed attending school as a privilege because neither of my parents finished their education. Both of my parents left school in Mexico due to expenses and living in poverty. They came to the United States with nothing but the support of family. Who knows if I would have continued my education in Mexico, but one thing I do know is that I will obtain my degree in Secondary Math Education at Davenport University. I have attended school my whole life. I am transferring from Grand Rapids Community College to Davenport University to earn my Bachelor's in Education. I aspire to work in the education field as a middle or high school math teacher. My middle and high school math teachers made the subject easy for me to learn. Although some problems take forever to solve, math never bores me. I am aware that there are few teachers of color, as most of them are white. As a first-generation Mexican-American student and a person of color in the education field, I can serve as a role model for students in underrepresented communities. I can make a significant impact on students who share a similar background to mine, as having commonalities encourages students to trust and open up more easily. As a teacher, I aim to empower future generations to succeed both in my classroom and in life. Volunteering at my local library influenced me to study education. For a short period, I volunteered to help bilingual students with their homework after school. Being bilingual in Spanish and English allowed me to assist a few high school students who had recently arrived in the United States from Guatemala and knew very little English. These Hispanic students came to me after school to receive the help they needed to complete their English homework. Despite the language barrier, they never gave up on reaching out to me when they needed help. If I was not there to help them, they mostly relied on Google Translate. This experience showed me the importance of eliminating barriers that prevent students from being successful in their education. Teachers make a significant impact on students' lives. Most of the time, they are the ones creating a safe place for their students in the classroom. They also help students overcome the different and unique challenges they encounter on a daily basis. I look forward to providing a supportive and welcoming environment to all students who come from different backgrounds in my future classroom.

From a young age, I viewed attending school as a privilege because neither of my parents finished their education. Both of my parents left school in Mexico due to expenses and living in poverty. They came to the United States with nothing but the support of family. Who knows if I would have continued my education in Mexico, but one thing I do know is that I will obtain my degree in Secondary Math Education at Davenport University. I have attended school my whole life. I am transferring from Grand Rapids Community College to Davenport University to earn my Bachelor's in Education. I aspire to work in the education field as a middle or high school math teacher. My middle and high school math teachers made the subject easy for me to learn. Although some problems take forever to solve, math never bores me. I am aware that there are few teachers of color, as most of them are white. As a first-generation Mexican-American student and a person of color in the education field, I can serve as a role model for students in underrepresented communities. I can make a significant impact on students who share a similar background to mine, as having commonalities encourages students to trust and open up more easily. As a teacher, I aim to empower future generations to succeed both in my classroom and in life. Volunteering at my local library influenced me to study education. For a short period, I volunteered to help bilingual students with their homework after school. Being bilingual in Spanish and English allowed me to assist a few high school students who had recently arrived in the United States from Guatemala and knew very little English. These Hispanic students came to me after school to receive the help they needed to complete their English homework. Despite the language barrier, they never gave up on reaching out to me when they needed help. If I was not there to help them, they mostly relied on Google Translate. This experience showed me the importance of eliminating barriers that prevent students from being successful in their education. Teachers make a significant impact on students' lives. Most of the time, they are the ones creating a safe place for their students in the classroom. They also help students overcome the different and unique challenges they encounter on a daily basis. I look forward to providing a supportive and welcoming environment to all students who come from different backgrounds in my future classroom.

From a young age, I viewed attending school as a privilege because neither of my parents finished their education. Both of my parents left school in Mexico due to expenses and living in poverty. They came to the United States with nothing but the support of family. Who knows if I would have continued my education in Mexico, but one thing I do know is that I will obtain my degree in Secondary Math Education at Davenport University. I have attended school my whole life. I am transferring from Grand Rapids Community College to Davenport University to earn my Bachelor's in Education. I aspire to work in the education field as a middle or high school math teacher. My middle and high school math teachers made the subject easy for me to learn. Although some problems take forever to solve, math never bores me. I am aware that there are few teachers of color, as most of them are white. As a first-generation Mexican-American student and a person of color in the education field, I can serve as a role model for students in underrepresented communities. I can make a significant impact on students who share a similar background to mine, as having commonalities encourages students to trust and open up more easily. As a teacher, I aim to empower future generations to succeed both in my classroom and in life. Volunteering at my local library influenced me to study education. For a short period, I volunteered to help bilingual students with their homework after school. Being bilingual in Spanish and English allowed me to assist a few high school students who had recently arrived in the United States from Guatemala and knew very little English. These Hispanic students came to me after school to receive the help they needed to complete their English homework. Despite the language barrier, they never gave up on reaching out to me when they needed help. If I was not there to help them, they mostly relied on Google Translate. This experience showed me the importance of eliminating barriers that prevent students from being successful in their education. Teachers make a significant impact on students' lives. Most of the time, they are the ones creating a safe place for their students in the classroom. They also help students overcome the different and unique challenges they encounter on a daily basis. I look forward to providing a supportive and welcoming environment to all students who come from different backgrounds in my future classroom.

From a young age, I viewed attending school as a privilege because neither of my parents finished their education. Both of my parents left school in Mexico due to expenses and living in poverty. They came to the United States with nothing but the support of family. Who knows if I would have continued my education in Mexico, but one thing I do know is that I will obtain my degree in Secondary Math Education at Davenport University. I have attended school my whole life. I am transferring from Grand Rapids Community College to Davenport University to earn my Bachelor's in Education. I aspire to work in the education field as a middle or high school math teacher. My middle and high school math teachers made the subject easy for me to learn. Although some problems take forever to solve, math never bores me. I am aware that there are few teachers of color, as most of them are white. As a first-generation Mexican-American student and a person of color in the education field, I can serve as a role model for students in underrepresented communities. I can make a significant impact on students who share a similar background to mine, as having commonalities encourages students to trust and open up more easily. As a teacher, I aim to empower future generations to succeed both in my classroom and in life. Volunteering at my local library influenced me to study education. For a short period, I volunteered to help bilingual students with their homework after school. Being bilingual in Spanish and English allowed me to assist a few high school students who had recently arrived in the United States from Guatemala and knew very little English. These Hispanic students came to me after school to receive the help they needed to complete their English homework. Despite the language barrier, they never gave up on reaching out to me when they needed help. If I was not there to help them, they mostly relied on Google Translate. This experience showed me the importance of eliminating barriers that prevent students from being successful in their education. Teachers make a significant impact on students' lives. Most of the time, they are the ones creating a safe place for their students in the classroom. They also help students overcome the different and unique challenges they encounter on a daily basis. I look forward to providing a supportive and welcoming environment to all students who come from different backgrounds in my future classroom.