I am originally from Springfield, Missouri, and I am currently studying International Economics at the University of Arkansas while working part-time to pay for my tuition, housing, and daily expenses. Coming from a family where college wasn’t guaranteed or financially covered for me, choosing to pursue higher education has required independence, budgeting, and discipline. Every semester, I balance work schedules, classes, and academic responsibilities so that I can continue moving toward my degree without taking on excessive debt. Paying for school myself has not only taught me responsibility, but it has also deepened my appreciation for education and the doors it can open. One of the biggest obstacles I have faced recently was being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. My diagnosis came unexpectedly and changed the way I approach my daily life. I had to learn how to manage insulin, monitor my glucose, and adjust my lifestyle, all while keeping up with my coursework and job. At first, it felt overwhelming and like too many things were happening at once. Balancing my health with academic expectations required me to develop stronger time-management skills, self-awareness, and patience. Instead of letting the diagnosis hold me back, I tried to treat it as something that would build resilience. It reminded me that the challenges we face can either limit us or shape us into stronger versions of ourselves. Managing a chronic condition has ultimately given me more motivation to succeed, knowing that success will not be handed to me easily. Through my studies in international economics, I hope to make a positive impact by focusing on how economic policy influences development and opportunity, both in the United States and around the world. I am particularly interested in how education, governance, and financial systems affect the lives of people in low-income or underserved communities. In many places, talent is evenly distributed, but opportunity is not. I want to use economic research to help close that gap. Whether it is through data-driven policy recommendations, economic analysis, or development research, my goal is to contribute to solutions that expand access to education, improve economic stability, and promote long-term growth in communities that need it most. Studying in the United States gives me the opportunity to learn from diverse perspectives, research institutions, and professors who are experts in development and international economics. I hope to take what I learn and apply it to real-world challenges, whether that means working in policy analysis, international development, or economic research. Long term, I want to help create environments where people can grow, study, and build careers without being held back by circumstances outside of their control—just as I have worked not to be held back by mine.My journey has not been simple, but every challenge I face pushes me to work harder. I am committed to using the education I am earning to give others the chance to succeed as well..