At seventeen, I learned that mental health is not always something you can see. On November 13, 2014, my family’s home caught fire. In one night, I lost my mother, my grandmother, and my four-month-old cousin. I walked out of that fire physically alive, but emotionally, I was not the same person. I was scared, confused, and hurting, but I did not know how to explain what I was feeling. That experience became the beginning of my understanding of mental health and eventually influenced the career I want to pursue. I remember hearing my brother yell that the house was on fire. I grabbed my 12-year-old cousin and got her outside. I went back inside because I wanted to make sure my family was okay. My mother was on the steps and told me, “I’m coming, baby. Wait outside.” Those were the last words she ever said to me. Later, we saw my mother banging on the window of the room where my grandmother and my baby cousin were trapped. My mother never left that room. She stayed with them and tried to save them. My grandmother and cousin died in the fire. My mother was taken to the burn unit and passed away the next morning. Losing three people I loved in such a traumatic way changed me. After the fire, I experienced fear in ways I had never experienced before. For more than a year, hearing sirens would make me run to the door because I was afraid something was happening again. I became afraid of fire, and even today I have difficulty cooking on a gas stove because an open flame can bring back memories. Hospitals can also bring back feelings surrounding my mother’s death. I learned that trauma does not simply disappear because time has passed. For a while, I thought healing meant forgetting. I eventually learned that healing meant learning how to live with what happened without allowing it to control my future. Therapy gave me a safe place to understand my emotions and talk about things I could not carry alone. My faith also became a major part of my healing. After the fire, I found my mother’s Bible in her room. It was one of the few things left from her. It was not burned or destroyed, although it still smelled like smoke. Finding that Bible meant more to me than I can explain. It reminded me of my mother, but it also brought me closer to God. I began praying more and leaning on my faith. There were days when I did not understand why God allowed something so painful to happen, but prayer gave me somewhere to take my questions, anger, sadness, and fear. Holding my mother’s Bible became a reminder that her faith was still part of my life. Spiritually, I began to heal. I learned that healing did not mean I stopped missing my family. It meant I could miss them while still trusting God and continuing to live. My experience with mental health has changed the way I see people. I no longer believe you can look at someone and know what they are carrying. Someone can smile, go to work, attend class, and take care of their children while struggling inside. Because of my experience, I try to give people grace. I listen before judging because I understand that what looks like anger, frustration, or a lack of motivation may be connected to something deeper. This has also changed my relationships. I have learned that people do not always need someone to fix their problems. Sometimes they need someone who will listen and remind them that they are not alone. Becoming a mother has made this even more important. I want my children to know that talking about their feelings is okay and that asking for help is not weakness. My experience has also shaped my education and career goals. I am pursuing my bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health Science because I want to work with children and families experiencing trauma, grief, loss, and instability. I am especially interested in becoming a school social worker. I understand that a child can be sitting in a classroom physically present while their mind is somewhere completely different. I know what it feels like to carry something heavy while everyone expects you to keep moving. I want to be the person who notices when a child is struggling and helps them feel seen, heard, and supported. My educational journey has not been easy. In 2020, I returned to school while pregnant during the COVID-19 pandemic and earned my associate degree. Later, I continued toward my bachelor’s degree. I have balanced school with motherhood, full-time work, church, community service, and everyday responsibilities. I currently have about $9,000 remaining for my final classes, which has added financial stress. Still, I continue because I know what finishing this degree represents. It represents the young girl who survived the fire. It represents the daughter who lost her mother. It represents the mother who wants to give her children a better future. It represents the student who returned to school while pregnant during a pandemic and refused to give up. My experience with mental health has taught me that healing is not linear. There are still memories that hurt, and I still miss my mother. But I have learned that grief and purpose can exist at the same time. I can miss the people I lost and still build the life they would have wanted for me. My mother cared deeply for others. She fed children in our neighborhood, welcomed people into her home, and helped others even when she did not have much herself. I want to carry that spirit of service into my career. My experience with mental health began with a tragedy, but it has shaped my purpose. Through therapy, prayer, finding my mother’s Bible, motherhood, and education, I have learned how to keep moving forward. I cannot change what happened to my family, but I can choose what I do with the life I still have. I want to use my education and my experiences to help children and families know they do not have to suffer in silence. My pain is part of my story, but it does not have to be the end of it.

Education means having the power to change the direction of your life, even when life has given you every reason to believe your future should look different. For me, earning a degree is not just about walking across a stage or adding something to my resume. It represents everything I had to overcome to get there and everything I hope to accomplish afterward. My journey with education has not been a straight path. When I was a teenager, I lost my mother, grandmother, and four-month-old cousin in a house fire. I was still in high school when my entire life changed overnight. My mother was a single parent who raised three children and worked hard to make sure we had what we needed. After losing her, I had to figure out how to continue growing without the person I depended on most. There were times when education had to take a back seat while I learned how to deal with grief, trauma, and adulthood. However, I never stopped believing that I could finish what I started. In 2020, I returned to college while pregnant and during the COVID-19 pandemic. It probably was not the easiest time to go back to school, but I knew I was ready. Returning as an adult taught me that education requires more than being smart. It takes discipline and sacrifice. I have balanced college while being a mother of two, working full-time, and staying involved in my community and church. Some nights, schoolwork does not begin until my children are asleep. There have been plenty of moments when I was tired and wanted to close my laptop, but I remembered why I went back. My children are a huge part of that reason. I want them to grow up seeing their mother finish something that was not easy. I want them to understand that your timeline may look different from someone else's and that is okay. You can experience setbacks and still reach your goals. I want them to see education as an opportunity that no one can take away from them. Education has also helped me understand my purpose. I chose to study Behavioral Health Science because of what I have experienced with grief and trauma. I know what it is like to be young and hurting while the rest of the world continues moving. I want to use my education to become a school social worker and help children who may be carrying things they do not know how to explain. I also have an interest in academic advising because sometimes students simply need someone to remind them that they can keep going. To me, education means options. It means being able to build stability for my family while doing work that has meaning. It means taking some of the hardest parts of my story and using them to help someone else. Most importantly, education means showing myself and my children that where your story begins does not have to determine where it ends. My degree will have my name on it, but behind that name will be my mother, my children, my faith, every late night, and every reason I refused to give up.

At seventeen, I learned that you can be physically present in a classroom while your mind is somewhere completely different.. I was trying to be a student while grieving the loss of my mother, grandmother, and four-month-old cousin in a house fire. While everyone around me was thinking about assignments, grades, and what came next after high school, I was trying to understand how I was supposed to continue my life without the people who had always been there. That experience taught me very early that mental health can affect every part of a student's life, even when no one else can see it. After the fire, I struggled with trauma, grief, fear, and anxiety. For over a year, whenever I heard sirens, I would run to the door because my mind immediately thought something terrible had happened. I became afraid of fire and even today I do not like cooking over a lit gas stove. For a long time, I thought being strong meant keeping everything inside and continuing with life. Eventually, I learned that taking care of my mental health was just as important as taking care of myself physically. Therapy became part of my healing. I also started journaling because sometimes writing down what I was feeling was easier than saying it out loud. Most importantly, I leaned heavily on my faith. Prayer and church gave me a place to release some of the pain I was carrying. I still have difficult days. I still miss my mother and grandmother and sometimes cry over both happy and sad memories. I have learned that healing does not mean forgetting the people you lost. For me, it means learning how to continue living while still loving and missing them. My experience has also changed how I view mental health as a college student. Students are often expected to complete assignments, work, maintain good grades, and handle personal responsibilities without anyone knowing what is happening behind the scenes. As a mother who also works full-time, I understand how quickly everything can become overwhelming. I have learned to recognize when I need rest, prayer, quiet time, or someone to talk to. I advocate for mental health by making conversations about emotions normal in my home and community. With my children, I want them to know they can talk about how they feel. I do not want them growing up believing they have to hide sadness, fear, or frustration to appear strong. I encourage them to express themselves and understand that asking for help is okay. I also try to be someone others can talk to without feeling judged. My experiences have taught me to listen before making assumptions because we never truly know what another person is carrying. Through my church and community involvement, I try to show compassion and remind people that their emotional well-being matters too. My goal is to take that advocacy even further through my education in Behavioral Health Science. I want to become a school social worker and support children who may be carrying trauma, grief, or emotional struggles into school every day. Mental health is personal to me because I have lived through moments when mine was tested. My journey taught me that being strong does not mean handling everything alone. Sometimes strength is praying, writing, going to therapy, talking to someone, or simply admitting that you need support. I want to use what I have learned to make sure others know that too.

# Turning My Story Into Purpose My story is one of loss, faith, motherhood, and continuing to move forward even when life did not go the way I planned. Everything I have experienced has shaped the woman I am today and the career I want to build helping children and families. On November 13, 2014, my life changed forever. I was a high school student when our house caught fire in the middle of the night. I lost my mother, grandmother, and four-month-old cousin. My mother was a single parent who raised three children and was the person I depended on for everything. Losing her meant losing my biggest source of comfort and guidance at a time when I still needed her so much. After the fire, I struggled with grief and trauma. For over a year, hearing sirens would cause me to run to the door. I developed a fear of fire that I still deal with today. I went through therapy, but I also leaned heavily on my faith. After the fire, I found my mother's Bible in her room. It was left unburned and untouched except for the smell of smoke. I still hold onto it with care because it is one of the few things I have left from her. That Bible and my relationship with God helped me through some of my hardest moments. My journey did not stop there. I returned to college in 2020 while pregnant during the COVID-19 pandemic. I had to learn how to balance motherhood, work, school, and everything happening around me. There were late nights completing assignments after my children went to sleep and days when I wondered how I would manage everything. Still, I kept going. My experiences are a major reason I chose Behavioral Health Science. I know what it feels like to be young and carry trauma that other people cannot see. My goal is to become a school social worker so I can help children dealing with grief, trauma, mental health challenges, and difficult circumstances at home. I also have an interest in academic advising because I want to encourage students who may need someone to remind them that they are capable of finishing what they started. This scholarship would have a direct impact on those goals by helping reduce the financial pressure that comes with continuing my education. As a working mother, every college expense has to be balanced with the needs of my household and children. Financial assistance would allow me to focus more on completing my education instead of worrying about how I will cover the next educational expense. Receiving this scholarship would not only be an investment in my education. It would also support the children and families I hope to serve one day. I cannot change what happened to me, but I can decide what I do with it. I have chosen to turn my pain into purpose. My goal is to finish my education and use what I have learned to become the support I once needed. This scholarship would help me move one step closer to making that goal a reality.

Growing up, I always felt like the person who stood out. Everyone has something about them that makes them different, and for me, those differences became a part of my story. The things that once made me feel awkward are now the same things that remind me of who I am and where I come from. One thing that has always made me different is that I am left-handed. Being left-handed may seem like a small thing, but growing up it definitely made me stand out. I remember people commenting on the way I held my pencil or saying I was doing it the “wrong” way. I never understood that because it was simply the way I naturally did things. As I got older, I learned that different does not mean wrong. It just means there is another way. Another thing that makes me different is my height. I have always been shorter than my peers. I am only 4’9, but I like to call myself “fun sized.” I have learned to laugh about it because there are some benefits to being small. My favorite one is that if I fall, I am not that far from the ground. Growing up, I sometimes wished I was taller because I felt like I stood out, but now I see it as something that makes me unique. I have learned that your height does not determine your strength, confidence, or what you are capable of accomplishing. I also have what I call my “half-moon ears.” They are another little feature that makes me different. What makes them even more special is that my mother had the same ears. Since losing my mother, they have become more than just a physical feature. They are another reminder of her and a small piece of her that I carry with me every day. Something I once may have viewed as different is now something I treasure because it connects me to someone I love so deeply. The biggest lesson I have learned is that the things that make us different are often the things that make us special. My differences have helped me become more understanding of others because I know what it feels like to stand out. They have taught me to appreciate people for who they are and not judge someone based on what makes them unique. My life experiences have also shaped the person I am today. Losing my mother, grandmother, and infant cousin in a house fire when I was a teenager changed me forever. I had to grow up quickly and learn how to carry grief while continuing to move forward. That experience gave me a deeper understanding of compassion because I know that everyone has a story and some struggles are not visible. Today, I embrace the things that make me different. Being left-handed, being “fun sized,” having my half-moon ears, and overcoming difficult moments have all helped shape my identity. They remind me that being different is not something to hide. It is something to be proud of.The things that once made me feel awkward are now the things I appreciate the most. They remind me of my strength, my journey, and the people who helped make me who I am.

Attending higher education means more to me than simply earning a degree. It represents growth, healing, and the opportunity to turn my life experiences into something that can help others. My education is preparing me for the future I want to create for myself, my children, and the communities I hope to serve. My journey has not been an easy one. When I was a teenager, I lost my mother, grandmother, and four-month-old cousin in a house fire. My mother was a single parent who raised three children, including my oldest brother who is on the autism spectrum. She was the person who held our family together. She loved deeply, cared for others, and always made sure people around her felt supported. Losing her changed my life forever. After her passing, I had to learn how to move forward while carrying grief and trauma. I experienced fear, sadness, and moments where I questioned how I would continue without the people who meant the most to me. Through therapy, prayer, and my faith, I slowly learned how to heal. I realized that although I could not change what happened, I could choose what I did with my story. That realization is what led me to pursue higher education. I am currently working toward my degree in Behavioral Health Science because I want to help children and families who are facing difficult situations. I know what it feels like to go through something painful and need someone to listen, understand, and provide support. My goal is to become a school social worker and also work as an academic advisor so I can help students not only succeed academically but also emotionally. Higher education is giving me the knowledge and skills needed to make that dream a reality. Through my studies, I am learning about human behavior, mental health, trauma, and ways to support individuals through challenges. My education is helping me understand that many children are carrying things people cannot see. A child’s behavior, grades, or attitude may be connected to something deeper happening in their life. I want to be the person who recognizes that and helps them find the support they need. My experiences have also shaped the way I view the importance of advocacy. Recently, we learned that my 5-year-old is showing signs of mild autism. This experience has given me a deeper understanding of the importance of patience, resources, and support for children with different needs. It has strengthened my desire to advocate for children and families who may feel overwhelmed or unsure of where to turn. I also plan to create a positive impact through service. I currently give back to my community through my church by making and handing out bag lunches to individuals experiencing homelessness. I also help provide children with bookbags, school supplies, and outfits for the first day of school. I believe small acts of kindness can remind people that they matter. My goal is to use my education to create safe spaces where people feel heard and valued. I want students and families to know that their circumstances do not define their future. I want to encourage others the way I needed encouragement during some of the hardest moments of my life. Attending college has also allowed me to become a stronger role model for my own children. As a mother, I want them to see that challenges do not mean you stop trying. I want them to see the importance of education, faith, and perseverance. When I look at my children, I see the love and legacy of my mother and grandmother continuing. Higher education is helping me turn my pain into purpose. It is giving me the tools to serve others, advocate for children, and make a difference in my community. My future goal is not only to have a successful career but to leave a positive impact on the lives of the people I am blessed to help.

Going to college means so much more to me than just earning a degree. It represents growth, healing, purpose, and creating a better future for myself and my children. My journey to higher education has not been easy, but every challenge I have faced has pushed me to become stronger and more determined. My reason for continuing my education comes from my life experiences. When I was a teenager, I lost my mother, grandmother, and four-month-old cousin in a house fire. My mother was a single parent who raised three children, including my oldest brother who is on the autism spectrum. She worked hard to give us a good life and always made sure we knew we were loved. Losing her changed everything for me. I had to learn how to keep going while carrying grief, fear, and pain at a young age. Even after experiencing such a heartbreaking loss, I knew I could not give up on myself. College became a way for me to build a future and create opportunities for my children. It also became a way to honor my mother and grandmother. I want my life to show that even after difficult moments you can still find purpose and keep moving forward. Returning to school has been one of the hardest but most rewarding things I have done. I am a mother of two children, I work full-time, serve in my church, and continue working toward my degree in Behavioral Health Science. There are nights when I complete assignments after my children go to sleep and mornings when I have to wake up early to study before starting my day. It has not always been easy, but I remind myself that my children are watching me. Going to college means showing my children that hard work and determination can open doors. I want them to see that challenges do not have to stop you from reaching your goals. My children are one of my biggest reasons for continuing. When I look at them I see the love and legacy of my mother and grandmother living on. My goal is to use my degree to help children and families who are dealing with trauma, grief, and mental health challenges. I want to become a school social worker and an academic advisor because I know how important it is to have someone who believes in you and supports you when life feels overwhelming. I want to be that person for others. My education is not just for me. It is for the people I hope to help in the future. My own experiences have taught me compassion, patience, and the importance of listening. I understand what it feels like to carry things that people cannot see and I want to help others know they are not alone. Going to college means choosing a different future for myself and my family. It means proving that my past does not define where I am going. I am working toward more than a degree. I am working toward a purpose and a career where I can turn my experiences into something that helps others.

Returning to school as a mother has been one of the most rewarding and challenging experiences of my life. While earning a degree is difficult on its own, balancing school with motherhood, full-time employment, community service, and everyday responsibilities has required determination, sacrifice, and resilience. There have been many moments when I questioned whether I could do it all, but my children have always been the reason I keep going. In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic and while pregnant, I returned to school to build a better future for my family. It wasn’t easy as I balanced classes, work, preparing for motherhood again, and pandemic-related stress, often feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. One of the biggest challenges I faced was time management. As a mother, my children's needs always come first. There were many nights when I completed assignments after putting my children to bed and many early mornings spent studying before they woke up. Finding time for coursework often meant sacrificing sleep, personal time, and moments of rest. While other students may have been able to focus solely on academics, I had to learn how to balance multiple roles at once. Financial challenges have also been a major obstacle. Raising children while paying for school expenses, household bills, and everyday necessities has been difficult. There were times when I worried about how I would continue my education while meeting my family's needs. Even now, as I work toward completing my degree, I am facing financial barriers that make finishing school challenging. Despite those difficulties, I remain committed to reaching my goal. Another challenge has been carrying the emotional weight of my past while trying to build a future. As a teenager, I lost my mother, grandmother, and infant cousin in a house fire. My mother was a single parent who worked hard to provide for our family. There are many moments when I wish I could call her for advice, encouragement, or simply to tell her about my accomplishments. Returning to school without that support has been difficult, but it has also motivated me to continue pursuing my dreams in her honor. Recently, we also learned that my 5-year-old is showing signs of mild autism. Navigating that journey while continuing my education has added another layer of responsibility. As a mother, I want to make sure my child receives the support and resources needed to thrive. This experience has strengthened my passion for helping children and families facing challenges of their own. Despite these obstacles, returning to school has taught me that I am stronger than I realized. It has shown me that perseverance is not about never struggling; it is about continuing even when things are difficult. My children inspire me every day to keep pushing forward. They remind me why I started this journey and why finishing is so important. Earning my degree is about more than personal achievement. It is about creating opportunities for my family and using my education to help others. My experiences have strengthened my desire to work in Behavioral Health and become a school social worker. I want to support children and families facing trauma, grief, and adversity because I understand those struggles firsthand. Returning to school as a mother has been difficult but worth the sacrifices. With faith, determination, and love for my children, I’ve kept moving forward, building resilience, and showing challenges won’t stop my goals.

My father's incarceration had a significant impact on my life, even though I was only four years old when he went to prison. He remained incarcerated until I was a freshman in high school, which meant he missed most of my childhood. While other children had fathers attending school events, helping with homework, and being present in their daily lives, my mother raised my siblings and me on her own. One of my strongest memories of my father during his incarceration happened when I was in second grade. My great-grandmother had passed away, and I remember seeing him at her funeral wearing an orange jumpsuit with handcuffs on his hands and shackles on his feet. As a little girl, I did not fully understand what was happening, but I knew it hurt. I remember him saying, "Baby, give me a hug," but all I could do was cry. Seeing my father like that broke my heart and left a lasting impression on me.He was gone for years, so I never felt I truly knew him. After his release, I hoped we’d build a relationship, but distance between us remained. The impact of his incarceration became even more apparent after I lost my mother, grandmother, and four-month-old cousin in a house fire when I was a teenager. My mother had been the foundation of our family. She raised three children as a single parent, including my oldest brother who is on the autism spectrum. After her passing, I believed my father would step up and become more involved in my life. Instead, I faced more disappointment. Aunt Shavon became the parent I needed, taking me in, supporting me, and helping me through a difficult time. But my father wouldn’t sign over his rights, so she couldn’t get custody, and I became a state ward while grieving my family’s loss. The consequences carried into adulthood. When I prepared for college, my aunt who raised me tried to get a Parent PLUS Loan but was denied because she wasn’t legally my parent, creating another education obstacle. Despite everything, I still tried to build a relationship with him. I invited him to my wedding because I wanted him to be part of one of the most important days of my life. Unfortunately, he chose not to attend because he was upset that I asked my Aunt Shavon to walk me down the aisle. For me, that decision was never about replacing him. It was about honoring the woman who stepped into a parental role when I needed one most. My experiences led me to pursue a Behavioral Health Science degree and inspired me to support children and families facing trauma, loss, and adversity. I aim to become a school social worker and student advocate, despite my father’s incarceration. Instead, it strengthened my determination to create a different path for myself, my children, and the people I hope to serve.

Losing my mother changed every part of my life. On November 13, 2014, I lost my mother, grandmother, and four-month-old cousin in a house fire. I was only a teenager and still in high school when it happened. One moment I had the people who made me feel safe, loved, and protected, and the next moment everything was gone. My mother was a single parent who raised three children, including my oldest brother who is on the autism spectrum. She worked hard, loved deeply, and made sure we always felt cared for no matter what challenges we faced. The night of the fire still stays with me. I woke up to my brother yelling that the house was on fire. I grabbed my twelve year old cousin and ran outside, but I went back into the house to make sure everyone else was coming. My mother yelled from the steps, “I’m coming baby, wait outside.” Those were the last words she ever spoke to me. A short time later, we saw her trying to save my grandmother and baby cousin. My mother would not leave until everyone else was out. She lost her life trying to protect and save her family. That kind of love and sacrifice is something I carry with me every day. After losing my family, I had to navigate emotions that felt too heavy for someone my age. I struggled with grief, fear, guilt, and confusion. For a long time, I blamed myself and wondered if there was more I could have done, even though I know now it was out of my control. I developed a fear of fire and even today I still struggle with things like cooking on a lit stove. For over a year after the fire, every time I heard sirens I would run to the door without thinking. My body stayed in survival mode long after everything happened. One thing that helped me through those dark moments was prayer. After the fire, I found my mother’s Bible in her room untouched except for the smell of smoke. I held onto it tightly because it became one of the only things I had left from her. I started praying more and leaning on my relationship with God when I felt overwhelmed. Prayer gave me peace when my mind felt heavy. It reminded me that even though I experienced loss, I was not alone. Journaling also became a way for me to release emotions I struggled to say out loud. There were times I felt like no one truly understood the pain I carried, so writing became my safe place. Journaling helped me process memories, sadness, anger, and even hope. Looking back now, I realize it helped me heal little by little. It allowed me to be honest with myself and reflect on how far I had come. Through my experiences, I discovered I’m stronger than I thought and gained resilience, perseverance, and a commitment to support others facing emotional struggles. These lessons led me to pursue a Behavioral Health Science degree so I can help children and families navigating trauma, grief, and mental health challenges. The biggest influences in my life will always be my mother and grandmother. My mother taught me strength, compassion, and sacrifice. Even though she is no longer here, her example continues to guide me every day. I am also influenced by my children because they motivate me to keep pushing forward and build a better future. Through all the pain and loss, they remind me there is still purpose, love, and hope ahead of me.

I want to become a special education teacher because I understand, on a personal level, how important patience, understanding, and support are for children who learn and experience the world differently. My desire to enter this field comes from both my life experiences and my passion for helping children feel seen, valued, and capable. My journey began long before I considered education as a career. I lost my mother, grandmother, and infant cousin in a house fire when I was a teenager. That experience changed everything about my life. My mother was a single parent who raised three children, including my oldest brother who is on the autism spectrum. I watched her care for him with love, patience, and consistency. She never allowed his diagnosis to define him or limit his potential. Instead, she made sure he felt supported, understood, and included. That example stayed with me. Growing up in that environment taught me that children with special needs are not defined by labels. They are defined by their potential, their needs, and the support system around them. After losing my mother, I had to grow up quickly and navigate life in a very different way. That experience helped me develop empathy for children who struggle emotionally, socially, or academically. I understand what it feels like to need support and not always know how to ask for it. Recently, my journey became even more personal. My 5-year-old child has been showing signs of mild autism. Learning this has deepened my understanding of what families go through when they first begin to recognize developmental differences. It is a mix of emotions—love, concern, and a strong desire to make sure your child has every opportunity to thrive. This experience has strengthened my commitment to special education because now I am not only thinking about my past, but also my present and my child’s future. I want to become a special education teacher because I want to create classrooms where every child feels safe, supported, and understood. I want to help children build confidence in their abilities, even when learning looks different for them. I believe that every child deserves an education that meets their individual needs, not one that forces them into a single standard. I also want to support families. I understand how overwhelming it can be when a child is diagnosed or identified as needing additional support. Parents often feel uncertain about the future, and I want to be someone who can guide, encourage, and reassure them. My goal is to be a teacher who not only educates students but also partners with families in meaningful ways. Another reason I am drawn to special education is because I believe in inclusion. Children with special needs should not be left behind or separated in ways that limit their growth. Instead, they should be given tools, encouragement, and environments where they can succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. My life experiences have shaped my heart for this work. From my mother’s example, to my brother’s journey, to now raising a child with developmental needs, I have seen how important support truly is. I want to be that support for others. I want to help children discover their strengths and remind them that they are capable of learning and achieving in their own way. Becoming a special education teacher is not just a career goal for me. It is a calling rooted in my story, my family, and my belief that every child deserves patience, dignity, and opportunity

My name is Quay Bowden , and I am currently pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health Science. My goal is to build a career in the mental health field where I can support children and families who are dealing with trauma, grief, and emotional challenges. My passion for this field is deeply personal and comes from the experiences that have shaped my life. When I was a teenager, I lost my mother, grandmother, and four-month-old cousin in a house fire. I was only a high school student at the time, and that loss changed everything. My mother was a single parent who raised three children, including my oldest brother who is on the autism spectrum. She was my foundation, and losing her left me trying to navigate life without the guidance and support I needed most. I carried a lot of grief and confusion, and for a long time, I did not fully understand how to process what I was feeling. That experience opened my eyes to how important mental health support is, especially for children. Many young people go through trauma but do not always have access to the resources or safe spaces they need to heal. I know what it feels like to carry pain in silence, and that is something I want to change for others. This is why I chose to study Behavioral Health Science. I want to work in the mental health field, focusing on children and families who are experiencing trauma, loss, and instability. I am especially interested in trauma-informed care and helping children develop healthy coping skills. My goal is to create environments where children feel safe, supported, and understood instead of overlooked or misunderstood. In addition to working in mental health, I also hope to become an academic advisor. My own educational journey has required resilience, discipline, and determination. I understand how overwhelming school can feel, especially when someone is dealing with personal challenges at the same time. As an academic advisor, I want to help students stay focused, build confidence, and see their potential even during difficult moments. I am also a mother of two young children, and that has strengthened my purpose even more. I want to be an example for them and show them what perseverance looks like. I also see my work as a way to give back to my community. I currently stay involved through my church and by helping provide school supplies and support to children in need. The field of mental health is important to me because it allows me to turn my pain into purpose. I know what it feels like to experience loss at a young age, but I also know what it means to keep going and find healing. My goal is to use my education, my experiences, and my compassion to help others feel supported and to remind them that they are not alone.

Balancing life as a student and a parent has been one of the most challenging and meaningful experiences of my life. While their dad is present and supportive, I still carry a deep understanding of what it means to navigate life without the guidance of my own mother. Losing her at a young age shaped how I show up for my children and how I push myself through school. On top of that, I also work full time and stay active in my church, giving back to my community. All of these roles together require constant balance, sacrifice, and discipline. The most challenging part is that there is no real pause. My day starts with my children and often ends with schoolwork late at night. I go from being a mother, to an employee, to a student, and then to serving in my church. Most of my studying happens when my children are asleep or in the early morning before the day begins. There are days when I am exhausted, but I still have responsibilities that cannot wait. Learning how to manage my time and stay focused has been one of the hardest but most important lessons. Another challenge is the emotional weight I carry. As a mother, I want to be fully present for my children. I want to give them time, love, and stability. At the same time, I am working toward a degree that requires focus and consistency. There are moments when I feel stretched thin, but I remind myself that my education is part of how I provide a better future for them. My journey is also shaped by loss. On November 13, 2014, I lost my mother, grandmother, and four-month-old cousin in a house fire. I was only a high school student at the time. My mother was a single parent who raised three children, including my oldest brother who is on the autism spectrum. She was my foundation. Losing her changed everything. Now, as a mother, I feel that loss even more. There are moments when I still need her guidance. At the same time, that loss pushed me to grow. It made me stronger and more intentional about the life I am building. My children remind me of my mother and grandmother. They are my motivation to keep going, even on the hardest days. I am pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health Science because I want to help children who are dealing with trauma and grief. I also hope to become an academic advisor so I can guide students who feel overwhelmed or unsure about their path. This scholarship would help me continue my education without the stress of financial barriers. Right now, I am facing a balance that could stop me from finishing my final classes. This support would allow me to stay focused and complete my degree. More than anything, this scholarship would help me build a better future for my children. It would allow me to continue working toward my goals while still being present in their lives. Everything I am doing is to create stability, purpose, and opportunity for my family and to give back to others in my community.

Balancing life as a student and a parent has been one of the most challenging and meaningful experiences of my life. While their dad is present and supportive, I still carry a deep understanding of what it means to navigate life without the guidance of my own mother. Losing her at a young age shaped how I show up for my children and how I push myself through school. On top of that, I also work full time and stay active in my church, giving back to my community. All of these roles together require constant balance and discipline. The most challenging part is that there is no real pause. My day starts with my children and often ends with schoolwork late at night. I go from being a mother, to an employee, to a student, and then to serving in my church. Most of my studying happens when my children are asleep or in the early morning before the day begins. There are days when I am exhausted, but I still have responsibilities that cannot wait. Learning how to manage my time and stay focused has been one of the hardest but most important lessons. Another challenge is the emotional weight I carry. As a mother, I want to be fully present for my children. I want to give them time, love, and stability. At the same time, I am working toward a degree that requires focus and consistency. There are moments when I feel stretched thin, but I remind myself that my education is part of how I provide a better future for them. My journey is also shaped by loss. On November 13, 2014, I lost my mother, grandmother, and four-month-old cousin in a house fire. I was only a high school student at the time. My mother was a single parent who raised three children, including my oldest brother who is on the autism spectrum. She was my foundation. Losing her changed everything. Now, as a mother, I feel that loss even more. There are moments when I still need her guidance. At the same time, that loss pushed me to grow. It made me stronger and more intentional about the life I am building. My children remind me of my mother and grandmother. They are my motivation to keep going, even on the hardest days. I am pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health Science because I want to help children who are dealing with trauma and grief. I also hope to become an academic advisor so I can guide students who feel overwhelmed or unsure about their path. This scholarship would help me continue my education without the stress of financial barriers. Right now, I am facing a balance that could stop me from finishing my final classes. This support would allow me to stay focused and complete my degree. More than anything, this scholarship would help me build a better future for my children. It would allow me to continue working toward my goals while still being present in their lives. Everything I am doing is to create stability, purpose, and opportunity for my family and to give back to others in my community.

Youth violence and gun control within the Black community is not just a policy issue it is a crisis shaped by systemic inequality, limited access to resources, and environments where young people are often forced to grow up too quickly. Growing up in Syracuse, I have seen how deeply this issue affects youth, especially those between the ages of 13 and 17. What should be a time of innocence has instead become filled with fear. Teenagers are being shot in broad daylight at community pools, parks, and malls. Car theft is becoming increasingly common, and even good kids are not immune to being influenced by what surrounds them. This hits close to home as I help my sister relocate my two nephews to North Carolina so they can have a fighting chance at a safer future. They are good kids, but where they are, sometimes that alone is not enough. To address this crisis, I would form a task force with Jesse Jackson, Malcolm X, and Ella Baker. Each of these leaders represents a different, yet equally important, approach to tackling violence, empowering communities, and creating long term change. Jesse Jackson would serve as the policy advocate and national voice. His work in the civil rights movement and his commitment to economic justice would be essential in pushing for stronger, fair gun control laws while also advocating for increased funding for education, job programs, and youth development initiatives. Jackson understands that violence often grows where opportunity is scarce, and his ability to influence both communities and policymakers would help bring attention and resources to the issue. Malcolm X would bring a powerful message of self worth, discipline, and accountability. He spoke directly to Black youth who felt frustrated, or trapped by their circumstances. His message would challenge young people to rise above their environment, to see their value, and to take control of their future rather than be defined by violence. Malcolm X’s ability to connect with those who feel unheard would be critical in changing mindsets and breaking cycles. Ella Baker would be the backbone of the organizing and community empowerment. Unlike many leaders who focused on top down leadership, Baker believed in building strong communities from within. She emphasized the importance of local leadership, especially among young people, and worked to give them a voice in shaping their own futures. Her approach would focus on mentorship programs, and creating safe spaces where teens feel supported, and heard. Baker’s work reminds us that lasting change happens when communities are empowered, not just managed. Together, this task force would take a well-rounded approach. Jackson would focus on policy, Malcolm X on empowering youth, and Ella Baker on strengthening communities. At the same time, parents and guardians must also be held accountable. Teenagers should not have access to guns, and there must be stronger responsibility at home to ensure weapons are stored safely and out of reach. Beyond that, young people need consistent supervision, guidance, and someone who is actively making sure they are staying on the right path. Community change cannot happen without accountability both inside and outside the home. Relocating my nephews is one way to protect them, but it also highlights a deeper issue: families should not have to leave their communities just to feel safe. Real change requires a shared responsibility between leaders, communities, and families. By combining strong leadership, community empowerment, and active parental accountability, this task force would work toward creating environments where young people are not only safer, but supported, guided, and given every opportunity to succeed no matter where they live.

I plan to use my degree to support and uplift people in my community, especially children and families who are dealing with trauma, grief, and mental health challenges. My desire to help others is deeply connected to my own life story and the loss that shaped who I am today. When I was a teenager, my life changed in a single night. On November 13, 2014, our house caught fire while my family was sleeping. I woke up to my brother yelling that the house was on fire. I grabbed my twelve-year-old cousin and ran outside, but I went back in because I needed to make sure everyone else was coming. From the steps my mom yelled, “I’m coming baby, wait outside.” Those were the last words she ever said to me. A short time later we saw her banging on the window where my grandmother and my four-month-old cousin were trapped. She was trying to save them. My cousin passed away in my grandmother’s arms, and my mother and grandmother did not make it out of the house. In one night I lost the people who were the center of my life. Losing my mother at such a young age left me carrying grief that was difficult to understand or process. My mom was a single parent who raised three children on her own, including my oldest brother who is on the autism spectrum. She worked hard and made sure we always felt loved and supported. After she was gone, everything felt different. I had to grow up quickly and learn how to keep moving forward while carrying that pain. That experience is a big reason why I chose to pursue a degree in Behavioral Health Science. I know what it feels like to go through trauma at a young age and not always have the tools to process it. I also know how important it is for children to have safe spaces where they can talk about their emotions and feel supported instead of judged. My goal is to work with children who are experiencing trauma, grief, or instability in their homes. I want to help them learn healthy ways to cope and remind them that their experiences do not define their future. In addition to working in mental health, I also hope to become an academic advisor. My own journey through college has taken discipline and determination, especially while balancing motherhood and school. I understand how easy it can be for students to feel overwhelmed or unsure about their path. As an academic advisor, I want to help students stay focused on their goals and remind them that they are capable of more than they may believe. Even now I try to give back to my community in small ways. Each year I provide three children with bookbags, school supplies, and a new outfit for the first day of school. It may seem like a small gesture, but I know how much confidence it can give a child to start the school year feeling prepared. My story is one of loss, but it is also one of resilience. The experiences I have faced are the reason I want to help others. Through my education and future career, I hope to support children and families who are struggling and remind them that healing and hope are possible.

Being a parent has changed the way I see education and the way I move through life. My journey through higher education has not been traditional, and becoming a mother has added both challenges and purpose to that path. My children are the reason I keep pushing forward even when things feel overwhelming. My story is shaped by a loss that happened when I was a teenager. On November 13, 2014, our house caught fire in the middle of the night. I woke up to my brother yelling for everyone to get up because the house was on fire. I grabbed my twelve-year-old cousin and ran outside, but I went back in to make sure the rest of my family was coming. From the steps my mom yelled, “I’m coming baby, wait outside.” Those were the last words she ever spoke to me. A short time later we saw her banging on the window where my grandmother and my four-month-old cousin were trapped. She was trying to save them. My cousin passed away in my grandmother’s arms, and my mother and grandmother did not make it out. In one night I lost three of the most important people in my life. Losing my mother at such a young age changed everything. She was a single parent who raised three children on her own, including my oldest brother who is on the autism spectrum. She carried so much responsibility but always made sure we felt loved and supported. After she was gone, I had to grow up quickly. I carried grief, guilt, and questions that were hard to answer. For a long time I focused on surviving rather than truly healing. Years later, when I became a mother myself, that loss felt even deeper. Becoming a parent without my own mother by my side has been one of the hardest parts of my life. There are moments when I wish I could call her for advice or ask how she handled the pressures of raising children alone. At the same time, becoming a mother helped me understand her strength in a new way. It showed me how much she sacrificed for us and how deeply she loved us. I returned to college in 2020 while pregnant and during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. Balancing school while preparing to become a mother was difficult. There were nights I felt exhausted and unsure how I would manage everything. But I knew I had to keep going. I wanted to build a stable future for my child and honor the example my mother set. Now as a mother of two, continuing my education requires discipline and sacrifice. Most of my studying happens late at night after my children are asleep or early in the morning before the day begins. Parenthood has taught me patience, time management, and resilience in ways that no classroom ever could. My children are my motivation. When I look at them, I see my mother’s legacy continuing through them. They remind me why I cannot give up. I want them to grow up seeing what perseverance looks like. I want them to know that even after loss and hardship, it is still possible to build a meaningful life. I’m pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health Science to help children coping with trauma and grief, guided by my own experiences. While parenting has made school more challenging, it’s also given my education purpose. Earning this degree is for me, my children, and the future I’m building for them.

My mom was everything to me. She wasn’t just my parent she was my safe place, my provider, my protector, and the person who made everything feel okay. She raised three of us on her own, including my oldest brother who is on the autism spectrum. Looking back now, I don’t know how she did it. She worked hard, handled all the responsibilities, and still made sure we experienced life. She made sure we traveled and understood there was more out there for us. She never let our circumstances limit how we saw ourselves. On November 13, 2014, everything changed. Our house caught fire in the middle of the night. I woke up to my brother yelling that the house was on fire. I grabbed my cousin and ran outside, but I went back because I needed to make sure everyone was coming. From the steps, my mom yelled, “I’m coming, baby. Wait outside.” Those were the last words I ever heard her say. She was trying to save my grandmother and my four-month-old cousin. She stayed behind to make sure everyone else was safe. That’s who she was selfless until the very end. Losing her broke something in me. For a long time, I felt lost. She was the person I went to for everything. Without her, I felt exposed, like the world wasn’t as safe anymore. Grief hit me in waves sadness, anger, confusion. I struggled with “why.” I struggled with accepting that she was really gone. But even in the middle of that pain, her life continued to guide me. After the fire, I found her Bible in her room. It was left unburned, just carrying the smell of smoke. I held onto it tight because it was one of the only things I had left from her. When I didn’t know how to process my grief, I prayed. Sometimes I cried through those prayers. Sometimes I just sat there in silence. But my faith and the memory of her strength helped me keep going. Her loss forced me to grow up faster. I became more aware of responsibility. I became more determined. I push myself because quitting would feel like dishonoring everything she poured into me. I don’t allow hard moments to stop me because I watched her face hard moments her entire life without giving up. Now, as a mother of two and a full-time student pursuing my degree in Behavioral Health Science, I carry her with me in everything I do. I want my children to see strength the way I saw it. I want them to feel secure the way she made me feel. I want to build a life that reflects the love and sacrifice she gave us. Her loss changed me, but it also shaped me. It gave me empathy for others who are grieving. It shaped my desire to work with children and families dealing with trauma. I know what it feels like to lose your foundation. I also know what it takes to rebuild. My mom may not be here physically, but she is in my decisions, my discipline, and my drive. Everything I do is rooted in the love she gave me.

Addressing social issues has become personal for me, not just academic. One of the most important social issues I am committed to addressing is the impact of trauma and unprocessed grief on children and families, especially in underserved communities. Trauma does not always look obvious. Sometimes it shows up as behavioral problems, academic struggles, anger, withdrawal, or silence. Too often, children are labeled as “difficult” instead of being understood. I know this because I have lived it. After losing my mother, grandmother, and infant cousin in a house fire, my life changed overnight. I experienced deep grief at a young age, but I did not always have the tools or safe spaces to fully process it. I learned how to survive, but healing took time. That experience opened my eyes to how many children are silently carrying trauma without proper support. Mental health, especially in communities of color and low-income communities, is still stigmatized or overlooked. Many families are focused on survival paying bills, working multiple jobs, keeping food on the table so emotional health is often pushed aside. I am working to address this issue both academically and through direct action. I am currently pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health Science because I want to be professionally equipped to support children and families navigating trauma, grief, and instability. Education is giving me the language, theory, and evidence-based practices to understand what I once only felt. I am learning how trauma affects brain development, emotional regulation, and long-term outcomes. More importantly, I am learning how to intervene in ways that promote resilience rather than reinforce stigma. Outside of the classroom, I try to make an impact in tangible ways. Each year, I provide three children with bookbags, school supplies, and a new outfit for the first day of school. While that may seem small compared to the larger issue of systemic inequality, I believe change starts with consistency and care. When a child feels prepared and confident walking into school, it can shift how they see themselves. It communicates that someone believes in them. For children facing instability at home, small acts of support can create a sense of normalcy and dignity. As a mother of two, I am also intentional about addressing mental health in my own home. I openly discuss emotions with my children and teach them that it is okay to feel, to cry, and to ask for help. Breaking cycles begins in everyday conversations. I want my children to grow up understanding emotional health as something to prioritize, not hide. By modeling vulnerability and healthy coping skills, I am contributing to generational change. In the future, I plan to work directly with children who have experienced trauma. I want to create safe spaces in schools or community settings where children can process grief, develop coping strategies, and build emotional awareness. I also want to advocate for culturally competent mental health services so families feel understood rather than judged. Too many families avoid seeking help because they fear being misunderstood or labeled. Addressing trauma and mental health is not just a career goal for me it is a calling shaped by lived experience. I know the long-term impact of unaddressed grief, but I also know the power of resilience when support is present. Through education, service, advocacy, and intentional parenting, I am working to confront this issue head-on. My goal is to help transform survival into healing, and pain into purpose, for the next generation.

Addressing social issues has become personal for me, not just academic. One of the most important social issues I am committed to addressing is the impact of trauma and unprocessed grief on children and families, especially in underserved communities. Trauma does not always look obvious. Sometimes it shows up as behavioral problems, academic struggles, anger, withdrawal, or silence. After losing my mother, grandmother, and infant cousin in a house fire, my life changed overnight. I experienced deep grief at a young age, but I did not always have the tools or safe spaces to fully process it. I learned how to survive, but healing took time. That experience opened my eyes to how many children are silently carrying trauma without proper support. Mental health, especially in communities of color and low-income communities, is still stigmatized or overlooked. Many families are focused on survival paying bills, working multiple jobs, keeping food on the table so emotional health is often pushed aside. I am working to address this issue both academically and through direct action. I am currently pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health Science because I want to be professionally equipped to support children and families navigating trauma, grief, and instability. Education is giving me the language, theory, and evidence-based practices to understand what I once only felt. I am learning how trauma affects brain development, emotional regulation, and long-term outcomes. More importantly, I am learning how to intervene in ways that promote resilience rather than reinforce stigma. Outside of the classroom, I try to make an impact in tangible ways. Each year, I provide three children with bookbags, school supplies, and a new outfit for the first day of school. While that may seem small compared to the larger issue of systemic inequality, I believe change starts with consistency and care. When a child feels prepared and confident walking into school, it can shift how they see themselves. It communicates that someone believes in them. For children facing instability at home, small acts of support can create a sense of normalcy and dignity. As a mother of two, I am also intentional about addressing mental health in my own home. I openly discuss emotions with my children and teach them that it is okay to feel, to cry, and to ask for help. Breaking cycles begins in everyday conversations. I want my children to grow up understanding emotional health as something to prioritize, not hide. By modeling vulnerability and healthy coping skills, I am contributing to generational change. In the future, I plan to work directly with children who have experienced trauma. I want to create safe spaces in schools or community settings where children can process grief, develop coping strategies, and build emotional awareness. I also want to advocate for culturally competent mental health services so families feel understood rather than judged. Too many families avoid seeking help because they fear being misunderstood or labeled. Addressing trauma and mental health is not just a career goal for me it is a calling shaped by lived experience. I know the long-term impact of unaddressed grief, but I also know the power of resilience when support is present. Through education, service, advocacy, and intentional parenting, I am working to confront this issue head-on. My goal is to help transform survival into healing, and pain into purpose, for the next generation.

The night I lost my mother, grandmother, and four-month-old cousin changed my life forever. On November 13, 2014, our house caught fire in the middle of the night. I woke to my brother shouting that the house was on fire. I grabbed my twelve-year-old cousin and ran outside, but then I went back into the house to see if the rest of the family was coming. From the steps, my mother yelled, “I’m coming, baby. Wait outside.” Those were the last words I ever heard from her. Shortly after, I saw her banging on the window where my grandmother and my baby cousin were trapped. She was doing everything she could to save them. My mother stayed behind to make sure everyone else was safe, and in doing so, she gave her life. My four-month-old cousin passed away in my grandmother’s arms. That night, I lost the people who were supposed to guide me, protect me, and love me unconditionally. In the chaos that followed, I felt completely lost. I was the youngest in my family and had to face grief and responsibility at an age when I should have been cared for. I watched my mother care for my oldest brother, who is on the spectrum, while still protecting all of us. I felt helpless knowing I couldn’t save her. The weight of grief and guilt was overwhelming. For years, I carried it all alone, unsure how to move forward, unsure how to survive a world without my mother. After the fire, I found my mother’s Bible in her room. It hadn’t been burned or touched, just smelled faintly of smoke. I held it tightly and with care because it was the only thing I had left from her. That Bible became my lifeline. I began praying, reading, and reflecting on the words inside it. At first, it was just a way to quiet my mind, but slowly, it became something more. My faith in God gave me a reason to keep going when the grief felt unbearable. I learned to turn to Him in moments when I felt weak, afraid, or lost. Prayer became a place to release my pain, ask for guidance, and find strength. My faith didn’t erase the pain, but it helped me carry it. It taught me that even in the darkest moments, there is purpose. It reminded me that my loss could be transformed into something meaningful. Slowly, I began to see that my life wasn’t over that I could honor my mother and grandmother by living in a way that reflected their courage, love, and selflessness. Faith gave me hope that I could use my experiences to help others, to be a source of support for children facing trauma, grief, or instability. That belief carried me through returning to school in 2020 while pregnant and navigating the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. Balancing schoolwork, emotional stress, and motherhood was exhausting. Some nights I wanted to give up, but I reminded myself that my faith had already carried me through the hardest moment of my life. I pushed forward, earning my Associate’s degree, and now I am pursuing a Bachelor’s in Behavioral Health Science. My goal is to help children who feel lost or alone, just as I once did. Faith guides me daily. In my children, I see my mother’s and grandmother’s legacy their strength, resilience, and love showing that life can still be meaningful and hopeful after tragedy. My faith teaches that God gives strength to survive, grow, and make a difference, turning pain into purpose and hope.

My experience with mental health began long before I had the language to describe it. After losing my mother, grandmother, and four-month-old cousin in a house fire, my world shifted overnight. I was young, confused, and carrying grief that felt too heavy for someone my age. On the outside, I tried to stay strong. On the inside, I struggled with sadness, guilt, anxiety, and questions I didn’t know how to ask. That season of my life shaped not only how I see mental health, but who I am becoming because of it. For a long time, I believed being strong meant staying silent. I watched my mother my entire life handle everything on her own as a single parent. She carried responsibility with grace and rarely complained. After she passed, I felt like I had to do the same. I’m the youngest in my family, but I felt pressure to grow up fast. I tried to hold my grief together while watching my oldest brother, who is on the spectrum, struggle in his own way. I didn’t want to be a burden. I didn’t want to seem weak. Over time, I realized strength is not silence. Strength is facing what hurts and choosing to heal anyway. My faith played a major role in that realization. Finding my mother’s Bible after the fire, untouched except for the smell of smoke, gave me something to hold onto. Prayer became a safe place where I could be honest about my pain. Slowly, I began to understand that mental health is not something to hide. It is something to care for, nurture, and protect. My experiences changed how I approach relationships. I became more empathetic and aware of what people may be carrying beneath the surface. I understand that trauma does not always look dramatic. Sometimes it looks like withdrawal, anger, or silence. Because of what I’ve lived through, I listen more closely. I try to show up with patience and compassion. I know what it feels like to need support and not know how to ask for it. These experiences directly shaped my career aspirations. I am currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health Science because I want to work with children and families who are navigating trauma, grief, and instability. I want to be the safe space I once needed. I want children to know their feelings are valid and that healing is possible. I also want to support families, especially single parents, who may feel overwhelmed or alone. Mental health is deeply personal to me. It is not just a career path; it is a calling shaped by loss, resilience, and growth. I plan to make a positive impact by creating environments where children feel seen and heard. I want to help them develop healthy coping skills, build emotional awareness, and believe in their ability to overcome hardship. I also plan to continue giving back in my community by mentoring and supporting children who have experienced loss. As a mother of two, I am intentional about breaking cycles. I speak openly about emotions in my home. I teach my children that it is okay to feel, to cry, to ask for help. That is part of the positive impact I want to make not only professionally but personally. My goal is to combine my education, faith, and lived experience to advocate for better mental health support in schools and communities. My journey with mental health has taught me that pain can shape purpose. It has strengthened my empathy, deepened my faith, and clarified my calling. Through my career in mental health, I plan to turn my experiences into tools that help others heal, grow, and thrive.

My experience with mental health began long before I had the language to describe it. After losing my mother, grandmother, and four-month-old cousin in a house fire, my world shifted overnight. I was young, confused, and carrying grief that felt too heavy for someone my age. On the outside, I tried to stay strong. On the inside, I struggled with guilt, anxiety, and questions I didn’t know how to ask. That season of my life shaped not only how I see mental health, but who I am becoming because of it. For a long time, I believed being strong meant staying silent. I watched my mother my entire life handle everything on her own as a single parent. She carried responsibility with grace and rarely complained. After she passed, I felt like I had to do the same. I’m the youngest in my family, but I felt pressure to grow up fast. I tried to hold my grief together while watching my oldest brother, who is on the spectrum, struggle in his own way. I didn’t want to be a burden. I didn’t want to seem weak. Over time, I realized strength is not silence. Strength is facing what hurts and choosing to heal anyway. My faith played a major role in that realization. Finding my mother’s Bible after the fire, untouched except for the smell of smoke, gave me something to hold onto. Prayer became a safe place where I could be honest about my pain. Slowly, I began to understand that mental health is not something to hide. It is something to care for and protect. My experiences changed how I approach relationships. I became more empathetic and aware of what people may be carrying beneath the surface. I understand that trauma does not always look dramatic. Sometimes it looks like withdrawal, anger, or silence. Because of what I’ve lived through, I listen more closely. I try to show up with patience and compassion. I know what it feels like to need support and not know how to ask for it. These experiences directly shaped my career aspirations. I am currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health Science because I want to work with children and families who are navigating trauma, grief, and instability. I want to be the safe space I once needed. I want children to know their feelings are valid and that healing is possible. I also want to support families, especially single parents, who may feel overwhelmed or alone. Mental health is deeply personal to me. It is not just a career path; it is a calling shaped by loss, resilience, and growth. I plan to make a positive impact by creating environments where children feel seen and heard. I want to help them develop healthy coping skills, build emotional awareness, and believe in their ability to overcome hardship. I also plan to continue giving back in my community by mentoring and supporting children who have experienced loss. As a mother of two, I am intentional about breaking cycles. I speak openly about emotions in my home. I teach my children that it is okay to feel, to cry, to ask for help. That is part of the positive impact I want to make not only professionally but personally. My goal is to combine my education, faith, and lived experience to advocate for better mental health support in schools and communities My mental health journey showed me pain can shape purpose, strengthening empathy, deepening faith, and clarifying my calling to help others heal and thrive.

Growing up, my mother was my world. She raised three children on her own, including my oldest brother, who is on the spectrum. She worked tirelessly to provide for us, making sure we had what we needed and giving us experiences that went beyond our circumstances. She made sure we traveled, saw the world, and had opportunities even without much support. My mother was strong, loving, and selfless, and she taught me the value of sacrifice, and putting others before yourself. November 13, 2014, that world changed forever. Our house caught fire in the middle of the night. I woke to my brother shouting that the house was on fire. I grabbed my twelve-year-old cousin and ran outside, but I went back in to see if the rest of the family was coming. From the steps, my mother yelled, “I’m coming, baby. Wait outside.” Those were the last words I ever heard from her. Shortly after, I saw her banging on the window where my grandmother and four-month-old cousin were trapped. She was doing everything she could to save them. My mother stayed behind to make sure everyone else was safe, and in doing so, she gave her life. Losing her and my grandmother that night left me with grief I had never known, but it also left me with an example of courage and love I carry with me every day. Being raised by a single parent taught me responsibility. I saw firsthand how much one person could do for others, even in the face of hardship. I learned to manage challenges, and push forward despite uncertainty. My mother’s example showed me that strength isn’t just physical it’s emotional, mental, and rooted in love. She taught me to rise even when life feels impossible, and that lesson has shaped every choice I make. Her sacrifices and the life she gave me drive my goals today. I am now a mother myself and a full-time student pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health Science. My experiences growing up motivate me to work with children who are facing trauma, grief, or instability, to be someone they can rely on, and to show them that even in hard times, there is hope. I want to help children navigate struggles they may not understand and provide support where it might not exist at home. I also give back in small but meaningful ways. Each year, I supply three children with bookbags, school supplies, and a new outfit for the first day of school. Seeing their excitement reminds me how much a little support and care can impact a child’s life. It is a way for me to continue my mother’s legacy of selflessness and compassion. Looking ahead, I dream of a future where I can use my talents to make a difference in the lives of others, even if I don’t yet know exactly what form that will take. Whether it is through direct support, advocacy, or teaching resilience. I want my work to have a lasting impact on children and families who are struggling. I know the strength and lessons my mother instilled in me will guide me in whatever path I choose. Being raised by a single parent has shaped me in ways I cannot fully describe. It taught me perseverance, and the importance of service. It showed me that love and sacrifice can shape a life long after someone is gone. My mother’s example continues to inspire me every day, and I hope to carry her legacy forward by helping others, and making a positive difference in the world.

The night I lost my mother, grandmother, and four-month-old cousin changed my life forever. On November 13, 2014, our house caught fire in the middle of the night. I woke to my brother shouting that the house was on fire. I grabbed my twelve-year-old cousin and ran outside, but then I went back into the house to see if the rest of the family was coming. From the steps, my mother yelled, “I’m coming, baby. Wait outside.” Those were the last words I ever heard from her. Shortly after, I saw her banging on the window where my grandmother and my baby cousin were trapped. She was doing everything she could to save them. My mother stayed behind to make sure everyone else was safe, and in doing so, she gave her life. My four-month-old cousin passed away in my grandmother’s arms. That night, I lost the people who were supposed to guide me, protect me, and love me unconditionally. In the chaos that followed, I felt completely lost. I was the youngest in my family and had to face grief and responsibility at an age when I should have been cared for. I watched my mother care for my oldest brother, who is on the spectrum, while still protecting all of us. I felt helpless knowing I couldn’t save her. The weight of grief and guilt was overwhelming. For years, I carried it all alone, unsure how to move forward, unsure how to survive a world without my mother. After the fire, I found my mother’s Bible in her room. It hadn’t been burned or touched, just smelled faintly of smoke. I held it tightly and with care because it was the only thing I had left from her. That Bible became my lifeline. I began praying, reading, and reflecting on the words inside it. At first, it was just a way to quiet my mind, but slowly, it became something more. My faith in God gave me a reason to keep going when the grief felt unbearable. I learned to turn to Him in moments when I felt weak, afraid, or lost. Prayer became a place to release my pain, ask for guidance, and find strength. My faith didn’t erase the pain, but it helped me carry it. It taught me that even in the darkest moments, there is purpose. It reminded me that my loss could be transformed into something meaningful. Slowly, I began to see that my life wasn’t over, that I could honor my mother and grandmother by living in a way that reflected their courage, love, and selflessness. Faith gave me hope that I could use my experiences to help others, to be a source of support for children facing trauma, grief, or instability. My belief sustained me while returning to school in 2020 during my pregnancy and the COVID-19 pandemic. Balancing school, emotional stress, and motherhood was tough, but I earned my Associate’s degree and am now pursuing a Bachelor’s in Behavioral Health Science to help children in need. My faith guides me daily, reminding me of my mother and grandmother's strength and resilience. It has taught me that even in difficult times, we can find hope and purpose. I’ve transformed my pain into action and my grief into hope for the future.

The night I lost my mother, grandmother, and four-month-old cousin changed my life forever. On November 13, 2014, our house caught fire in the middle of the night. I woke to my brother shouting that the house was on fire. I grabbed my twelve-year-old cousin and ran outside. Then, I went back into the house to see if the rest of the family was coming. From the steps, my mother yelled, “I’m coming, baby. Wait outside.” Those were the last words I ever heard from her. Shortly after, I saw her banging on the window where my grandmother and four-month-old cousin were trapped, doing everything she could to save them. My mother stayed behind to make sure everyone else was safe, and in doing so, she gave her life. My four-month-old cousin passed away in my grandmother’s arms. My mother and grandmother did not make it out, yet their courage, love, and sacrifice continue to inspire me every day. Losing them forced me to grow up faster than I ever imagined. I’m the youngest in my family, and I had to carry grief and responsibility at a young age. I watched my mother care for my oldest brother, who is on the spectrum, while still protecting all of us. I felt helpless that night, knowing I couldn’t save her, but I also learned what true love and sacrifice look like. Those lessons shaped how I see the world, how I care for my own children, and how I face challenges in life. When I look at my children, I see my mother and grandmother’s legacy. Their strength, love, and courage live on in them, and they inspire me to keep moving forward. After the fire, I found my mother’s Bible in her room. It hadn’t been burned or touched, just carried the smell of smoke. I held it tight and with care because it was the only thing I had left from my mom. That Bible became my lifeline. Prayer and reflection gave me strength when the grief felt too heavy to bear and reminded me that even in the darkest moments, there is still purpose. My faith showed me that my loss could be turned into something meaningful and that I could use my experiences to help others. Those experiences shaped my educational journey. I returned to college in 2020 while pregnant and during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. Balancing school, emotional stress, and motherhood was exhausting, but I kept going. Completing my Associate’s degree showed me that I could overcome obstacles I never imagined. Now, as a mother of two and a full-time student pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health Science, I continue to push forward. My children remind me every day that even after unimaginable loss, it is possible to heal, grow, and achieve. My mother’s and grandmother’s strength inspires my career goals to support children facing trauma, grief, or instability. I also give back by providing three children annually with bookbags, school supplies, and outfits for school. Despite their loss, their courage and love motivate me to overcome challenges and transform grief into purpose. Each step I take in my education and community service honors their legacy, aiming to make a lasting, positive impact on children in need.

The person who has had the biggest impact on my life is my mother. She is my hero in every sense of the word. She was the strongest woman I have ever known. She raised three children on her own, ensuring that we had a full life despite the challenges we faced. She taught me the meaning of resilience, sacrifice, and unconditional love, and her example continues to shape who I am today. On November 13, 2014, her strength became the most profound example I have ever witnessed. Our house caught fire in the middle of the night. I woke to my brother shouting that the house was on fire. I grabbed my twelve-year-old cousin and brought her outside, but when I ran back in to check on my mother and the rest of the family, my mother said, “I’m coming, baby. Wait outside.” Those were the last words I ever heard from her. She stayed behind in that burning house to make sure everyone else was safe. My four-month-old cousin passed away in my grandmother’s arms. My mother did not make it out, yet even in her death, she showed me what true courage, selflessness, and love look like. Watching her fight to save the people she loved, even knowing the danger, is a memory I carry with me every day. Even before that night, my mother had shown incredible strength. She raised three children on her own, often with little help or financial support, but she made sure we never felt deprived. She made it possible for us to travel, see the world, and experience opportunities that many children in similar circumstances could only dream of. She sacrificed her comfort and rest working 3 jobs to make sure we had the best life possible. Watching her navigate life with determination and grace taught me lessons that no classroom ever could. Her impact on me goes far beyond her sacrifices. Losing her made me grow up fast. I’m the youngest, and I watched my mom care for my oldest brother, who is on the spectrum. She guided him with patience and understanding. I carried grief, guilt, and questions I couldn’t answer as I tried to help my family in the ways I could. For years, I carried that weight alone. But my mom showed me that even in the hardest times, strength and love can keep you moving forward. That lesson continues to shape my life today. I returned to college in 2020 while pregnant and during the uncertainty of COVID-19. Balancing school, pregnancy, and emotional stress tested me in ways I never imagined, but I persevered. Completing my Associate’s degree showed me that perseverance is possible even in the hardest seasons. Now, as a mother of two and a full-time student pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health Science, I continue to push forward. My children inspire me daily they remind me that even after unimaginable loss, it is possible to heal. My mother’s sacrifice inspires my career goals to support children facing trauma, loss, or instability. I aim to create safe spaces where they feel valued and empowered. Her example taught me that love involves action, even at a personal cost. Although she is no longer here, her strength and love guide me. She is my hero for her unwavering dedication to our family, reminding me that courage and resilience can impact both my life and the lives of others. I strive to embody her love and determination daily.

My “Pie in the Sky” dream is to create a life that transforms loss into hope not just for me, but for children who are navigating trauma, grief, and instability. I want to establish programs and safe spaces where children who have lost parents or face challenging home environments can feel supported, seen, and empowered to succeed. I want to be the mentor, guide, and advocate that I never fully had when I was growing up. This dream was sparked on November 13, 2014, the night our house caught fire. I woke to my brother shouting that the house was on fire, grabbed my four-month-old cousin, and brought her outside, but when I ran back in to see if my mother and the rest of the family were coming, my mom said, “I’m coming, baby. Wait outside.” Those were the last words I ever heard from her. By the next morning, I had lost my mother, grandmother, and cousin. The pain was overwhelming, and the grief left me feeling helpless and alone. I carried that loss with me through adolescence, constantly aware of how fragile life could be and how critical support is for children during times of trauma. Over the years, I have taken steps to transform my grief into purpose. I returned to college in 2020 while pregnant and during the uncertainty of COVID-19. Balancing school, pregnancy, and emotional stress pushed me to my limits, but I persevered and earned my Associate’s degree. Now, as a mother of two and a full-time student pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health Science, I continue to push forward. My children inspire me daily—they remind me that even after unimaginable loss, it is possible to keep moving forward and create a meaningful life. Alongside my education, I have begun turning my dream into reality in small but impactful ways. Each year, I select three children who have experienced loss or instability and provide them with bookbags, school supplies, and a new outfit for the first day of school. I also mentor them, sharing lessons about resilience, hope, and the importance of education. These moments, though small, remind me that even tiny acts of care can create ripples of hope and change. To reach my “Pie in the Sky,” I know I will need education, experience, and community support. Completing my Bachelor’s degree is a crucial step, equipping me with the knowledge and skills to work professionally with children who have experienced trauma. I plan to gain experience in schools, community programs, and mental health organizations, learning how to design interventions, provide counseling, and create safe environments. I also hope to expand my efforts, building programs that combine emotional support with practical resources like school supplies, mentorship, and advocacy for children in needs. My journey has taught me that even when life feels overwhelming, perseverance and purpose can create a future that once felt out of reach. My “Pie in the Sky” is ambitious, but it is rooted in my story, my experiences, and my desire to ensure that no child feels as lost and alone as I once did. I will continue building toward this dream, one step at a time, turning my pain into purpose and my hope into action.

Giving back has always been personal for me. I know firsthand how devastating it can be to lose someone you love. On November 13, 2014, our house caught fire. I grabbed my four-month-old cousin and brought her outside, but when I ran back in to check on my mother and the rest of the family, my mom said, “I’m coming, baby. Wait outside.” That was the last time I ever heard her voice. That night, I lost my mother, my grandmother, and my cousin. The pain and grief I carried from that day have shaped my life and my purpose. Losing my mother left me without the guidance and comfort I had always relied on. I grew up quickly, learning to hold my grief while still taking care of my younger brother, who was already on the spectrum and struggled even more with the trauma. I also had to find ways to survive emotionally and keep moving forward with life. That experience made me deeply aware of how trauma affects children and how important it is to have support during difficult times. That awareness became the foundation for how I give back today. I focus on helping children who have lost parents or face difficult home situations. Each year, I select three children and provide them with bookbags, school supplies, and a new outfit for the first day of school. I want these children to feel cared for, seen, and prepared to face the school year with confidence. I also mentor them, talking about resilience, hope, and the importance of education. I share my story not to dwell on my pain but to show them that it is possible to rise above loss and build a future full of possibility. My own experiences inspired my educational path. I returned to college in 2020 while pregnant and during the uncertainty of COVID-19. Balancing school, pregnancy, and emotional stress was exhausting, but I pushed forward. Completing my Associate’s degree showed me that perseverance is possible even in the hardest times. Now, as a mother of two and a full-time student pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health Science, I continue to study late at night, early in the morning, and whenever my children nap. My children are my motivation. I want them to see perseverance in action and understand that even after loss and hardship, it is possible to keep moving forward. Faith has also been a guiding force. After the fire, I found my mother’s Bible, miraculously untouched. Holding it reminded me that even in the darkest moments, hope survives. Prayer and reflection help me stay grounded and give me strength to keep going, both for myself and for my children. That faith reinforces my commitment to helping others navigate their struggles and find hope. In the future, I plan to expand my impact by working with children who have experienced trauma, grief, or instability. I want to provide counseling, mentorship, and emotional support to children who might feel invisible or alone. My goal is to create safe spaces where children can process their emotions, develop coping skills, and discover hope in their lives. I also hope to continue providing practical support, such as school supplies, clothing, and resources, to help children feel seen and prepared. Through my education and efforts, I hope to honor my mother’s memory, support my own children, and help children like me thrive despite adversity.

Adversity has been a constant part of my life, shaping who I am and fueling my determination to achieve my career goals. The most defining moment came when I was a teenager. On November 13, 2014, I was awoken by my brother yelling that our house was on fire. I grabbed my four-month-old cousin and got her outside, but when I ran back in to check on the rest of the family, my mother said, “I’m coming, baby. Wait outside.” That was the last time I ever heard her voice. Everything went black. I woke up in the hospital confused, scared, and overwhelmed. I learned that my grandmother and cousin did not survive. My mother’s heart had stopped, but she was still alive in the burn unit. When I saw her, she looked completely different her hair gone, her hands and feet burned. I didn’t recognize her. The next morning, my mother passed away. Losing her left a hole in my life that could never be filled. I felt powerless and overwhelmed by grief, and I carried that weight for years. My brother, who was already on the spectrum, struggled deeply, and I witnessed firsthand how trauma can affect mental health. In the years following, I had to find ways to survive while keeping my dreams alive. I realized that adversity would not define me unless I let it. A text from a friend reminded me: “Bad things do happen. How I respond to them defines my character and the quality of my life.” I held onto that message and began seeking support. I started therapy, which gave me a safe space to process my grief and learn coping strategies. Alongside therapy, my faith in God became a lifeline. After the fire, I found my mother’s Bible, untouched in her room. Holding it gave me hope, reminded me of her presence, and strengthened my resolve to turn loss into purpose. Returning to college in 2020 while pregnant and during the COVID-19 pandemic was another test of my resilience. Balancing school, pregnancy, and emotional stress pushed me to my limits. There were nights I questioned whether I could continue, but I reminded myself of why I started. I earned my Associate’s degree, proving to myself that I could persevere despite overwhelming challenges. Now, as a mother of two, I continue my education pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health Science. Parenthood has taught me time management, focus, and discipline in ways no classroom ever could. I study during naps, late nights, and early mornings. My children are my motivation. They remind me that my work is not just for me but for them, and for the children I hope to help in the future. Adversity has also shaped my career aspirations. I want to work with children who have experienced trauma, loss, or instability, offering the support, guidance, and stability I once needed. My experiences with grief, mental health struggles, and healing combined with faith and perseverance have given me empathy, patience, and determination. These tools allow me to approach my future work with compassion and understanding. Every step I have taken seeking therapy, leaning on faith, returning to school, and balancing motherhood has been part of my plan to turn adversity into action. I have learned to confront challenges head-on, break them into manageable steps, and keep my focus on my goals. My journey has shown me that setbacks do not define my path, but resilience, determination, and purpose do.

My journey with mental health did not start with a diagnosis or a clear understanding of what I was feeling. It began the night I lost my mother. As a teenager, I survived a house fire that took the lives of my mother, my grandmother, and my four-month-old cousin. In one moment, everything I knew disappeared. I did not know how to process that kind of loss, and no one prepared me for the emotional weight that followed. I learned how to survive, but not how to heal. For a long time, I pushed my feelings aside. I told myself to be strong. I kept going because I had to. Grief became something I carried quietly, and I did not realize how deeply it affected my mental health. There were days when the sadness felt overwhelming and moments when I felt numb. I did not have the language or tools to name what I was experiencing, and mental health was not something openly talked about in my community. Becoming a mother forced me to face the parts of myself I had been avoiding. Raising children without my own mother by my side reopened wounds I thought I had learned to live with. There were times when I wished I could call her for advice or comfort, and those moments were heavy. At the same time, my children gave me a reason to heal. I knew I could not continue carrying unresolved pain and expect to fully show up for them. I began to work toward healing by allowing myself to feel, reflect, and grow instead of suppressing everything. Returning to school and studying Behavioral Health Science has been a major part of that healing process. Learning about trauma, grief, and emotional regulation helped me understand my own experiences. It reminded me that my reactions were not signs of weakness but normal responses to loss. Education gave me clarity and a sense of control over my healing. It also gave me purpose. I realized that my pain could become something meaningful. My mental health journey is still ongoing. I am learning how to manage stress and grief, while balancing motherhood and school. I am learning that rest is necessary and that asking for help does not make me weak. I am learning how to give myself grace. These lessons have changed how I see myself and how I plan to support others. Moving forward, I want to support people by being honest about mental health and by showing up with empathy. I plan to work with children who have experienced trauma, or instability, especially those in marginalized communities. Many children do not have the words to explain what they are feeling, just like I did. I want to be someone who listens and helps them feel safe and supported. I also want to help create awareness by breaking the silence around mental health. I believe sharing real stories is powerful. When people see that someone who has experienced loss, motherhood, and hardship can still pursue healing and education, it opens the door for others to do the same. I want to advocate for early mental health support and trauma-informed care, especially in schools where children often feel the most secure. My journey has taught me that healing is not linear and that growth takes time. I am still working toward healing, but I am no longer doing it alone or in silence. By turning my experiences into purpose, I hope to support others, reduce stigma, and help build a future where mental health is treated with care, understanding, and compassion.

My life has been shaped by loss, resilience, and a deep understanding of how mental health affects individuals and families, especially within marginalized communities. As a teenager, I survived a devastating house fire that took the lives of my mother, my grandmother, and my four-month-old cousin. Losing my mother at such a young age changed everything. I was forced to grieve without guidance, without emotional tools, and without consistent mental health support. That experience became the foundation of my passion for mental health advocacy and service. Growing up without proper support after such a traumatic event showed me how deeply mental health services are lacking in marginalized communities. Grief was something I carried silently. Therapy was not easily accessible, and conversations about mental health were limited. I learned early that pain is often overlooked when families lack resources or representation. This reality shaped my belief that mental health care should be accessible, compassionate, and culturally responsive. No child should have to navigate trauma alone simply because of where they come from or what they can afford. Mental illness has also affected my family directly. My brother was already on the autism spectrum, and the trauma of losing our mother significantly impacted his mental health. Watching him struggle while lacking adequate support reinforced my understanding of how trauma can compound existing challenges. It also showed me how families often fall through the cracks when mental health systems are not equipped to serve individuals with complex needs. These experiences strengthened my resolve to be part of the change. Today, I am pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health Science because I want to serve children and families who face trauma, loss, and instability. I plan to work within schools or community-based programs where children from marginalized backgrounds often rely on mental health professionals as their only source of support. Schools are frequently the safest spaces children have, and I want to be someone who listens, advocates, and helps them build emotional resilience. My experiences have shaped my activism in quiet but powerful ways. I advocate by speaking openly about grief, trauma, and mental health within my community. I challenge the stigma that often surrounds mental illness, especially in communities of color. I believe healing begins with honest conversations and representation. By pursuing higher education in mental health, I am working to position myself as both a professional and a role model who reflects the communities I serve. Becoming a mother has further strengthened my commitment to this work. Raising children without my own mother’s guidance has deepened my empathy and awareness. It has made me intentional about emotional presence and support, both at home and in my career goals. I want my children to grow up seeing the importance of mental health and understanding that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. Through my future work, I plan to provide trauma-informed care that acknowledges both personal pain and systemic barriers. I want to help children and families feel seen, supported, and empowered. My goal is to contribute to mental health services that are inclusive, accessible, and rooted in compassion. My lived experiences have shaped my beliefs, my purpose, and my career aspirations. Mental health is not just my field of study. It is my calling. By turning loss into purpose, I hope to make a lasting and meaningful impact within marginalized communities and help create spaces where healing is possible.

As a Black woman, my identity has shaped how I navigate the world, the challenges I face, and the perspective I bring to my education and future career. Growing up in a community with limited resources and opportunities, I quickly became aware of the systemic barriers that affect underrepresented populations. These barriers influenced my path, motivating me to pursue education not only as a personal achievement but as a way to break cycles and create opportunities for others like me. My path has been deeply influenced by significant personal loss. As a teenager, I went through a tragic house fire that took the lives of my mother, grandmother, and my four-month-old cousin. Losing my mother meant losing the person who would have helped me navigate life, including the difficulties of school and realizing my potential. Going through this trauma as part of an underrepresented minority added more challenges. There were no resources, no mentors, and no family members to help me deal with grief while also chasing my educational and life aspirations. I had to develop resilience and independence, by myself, and those lessons have guided me throughout my journey. Being a Black woman has also shaped how I see the importance of representation. I understand how empowering it can be for children to see someone who looks like them achieving goals they may have thought were unattainable. This motivates me to excel academically and professionally, knowing that my success can inspire others in my community. It drives my pursuit of a Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health Science, a field where I can support children and families who face challenges rooted in both personal trauma and systemic inequities. Returning to college in 2020 while pregnant and navigating the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic tested my resilience in new ways. Balancing coursework, physical changes, and emotional stress pushed me to my limits. There were nights when exhaustion and fear made me question myself, but giving up was never an option. Completing my Associate’s degree during such a difficult season showed me that determination and hard work can overcome even the most daunting obstacles. These experiences reinforced my belief that education is not only a tool for personal growth but a pathway to empowerment for those who face systemic barriers. Now, as a mother of two young children, I continue to face many challenges while balancing parenthood, school, and family responsibilities. I study during late at night, or early in the morning. These moments have taught me how to manage my time and keep going even when it is difficult. Parenthood has also given me a renewed sense of purpose. I want my children to see the value of education and hard work. I want them to understand resilience. I want them to know that even in the face of loss and systemic barriers, it is possible to succeed and make a meaningful difference in the world. Being part of a minority group has given me a special view on unfairness and access to resources. It has also highlighted the need for advocacy. After I finish my degree, I want to work with children who are dealing with trauma and loss. My goal is to help those from underserved communities. Many children see school as their only safe space. I want to offer them stability. I also hope to adopt a child from a place where basic needs like food, safe homes, and education are hard to find. My experiences with loss fuel my determination; scholarship support would enable me to focus on studies and be a community role model.

Mental illness has deeply affected my family, and its impact has been magnified by the traumatic events we endured when I was younger. When I was a teenager, our lives were forever changed by a devastating house fire that took the lives of my mother, grandmother, and four-month-old cousin. That tragedy left scars that went beyond physical loss it created emotional and psychological challenges that continue to affect my family today. One of the people most profoundly impacted was my brother, who was already on the autism spectrum. The trauma of losing our mother and other family members intensified his struggles and left lasting effects on his mental health. My brother had always faced unique challenges, but the sudden loss of our mother disrupted the stability he depended on. His anxiety increased, and he became withdrawn and more vulnerable to emotional distress. Watching him struggle was heartbreaking. I often felt helpless as I witnessed him trying to navigate grief while managing the challenges of autism. The fire forced all of us to grow up quickly, and while we leaned on one another for support, the weight of our loss was heavy. The experience taught me how fragile mental health can be, especially for individuals who already face neurological or emotional differences. Experiencing this trauma firsthand has made me deeply aware of the importance of mental health care and emotional support. I have learned that mental illness does not just affect the individual it affects families, relationships, and the ability to function in everyday life. My brother’s challenges inspired me to seek ways to support children and families facing similar circumstances. I realized that helping someone heal emotionally requires empathy, patience, and understanding, as well as access to effective mental health resources. These experiences also influenced my decision to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health Science. I want to work with children who are experiencing trauma, mental illness, or instability at home. Many children, like my brother, struggle silently while trying to navigate challenges that adults may not fully understand. I hope to provide a safe, supportive environment where they can learn coping skills, build resilience, and feel validated in their experiences. My goal is to help children and families break cycles of trauma and improve their mental health outcomes. Mental illness has tested my family in ways I never imagined. It has required patience, understanding, and an incredible amount of resilience. For me, these experiences have also become a source of strength and purpose. I carry the lessons I learned from supporting my brother and my family into my studies and my career goals. I know that education and proper training will allow me to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children who are struggling with mental health challenges. Seeing my brother struggle with mental health has taught me the importance of compassion and taking action. It has strengthened my resolve to become a behavioral health professional, helping children and families deal with trauma and mental illness. The fire and its consequences altered our lives permanently, but it also sparked a desire in me to assist others in facing mental health challenges with kindness, understanding, and optimism.

The night I lost my mother changed everything. As a teenager, I survived a devastating house fire that took the lives of my mother, my grandmother, and my four-month-old cousin. In a single moment, the person who was supposed to guide me through life was gone. I grew up without my mother’s voice, her comfort, or her reassurance. That loss forced me to mature quickly and taught me how fragile life truly is. It also planted a seed inside me a desire to make my life meaningful and to help others who experience pain at a young age. Today, I am pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health Science. My choice of major is deeply personal and rooted in my own life experiences. Losing my mother changed my world and forced me to navigate grief without the emotional tools or support I needed at such a young age. During that time, I often felt alone and unsure of how to process my pain. I know there are many children who experience similar losses and face overwhelming emotions without guidance or understanding. I want to be someone who understands trauma and loss because I have lived it. I want to understand resilience and how it can be built over time. My goal is to help children feel safe and supported when life feels uncertain. I want them to feel seen and heard in moments when they may feel invisible. Education is my pathway to turning my pain into purpose and using my experiences to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. My path through higher education has been challenging and unconventional. I went back to college in 2020 while expecting and dealing with the unpredictability of the COVID-19 pandemic. Juggling school assignments, physical changes, and emotional strain tested my limits. There were nights when fatigue and anxiety made me doubt my ability to continue, but giving up was never a choice. I understood that obtaining my Associate’s degree would provide stability for my child. Finishing that degree during such a tough time revealed a strength I was unaware I possessed. Now, as a mother of two young children, continuing my education comes with many new challenges. Balancing school and motherhood often means studying during nap times and working late into the night or early in the morning. Some days are exhausting, but I remain committed to my goals. Parenthood has taught me discipline and patience in ways no classroom ever could. It has also strengthened my time management skills and my ability to stay focused under pressure. My children depend on me, and that responsibility motivates me to keep going even when it feels difficult. Every assignment I complete brings me one step closer to building a better future for them. I want my children to see resilience through my actions. I want them to understand that even after loss and hardship, it is possible to move forward with determination and hope. Becoming a mother without my own mother by my side has been one of the hardest parts of my journey. There are moments when I wish I could call her for advice or reassurance. Every milestone my children reach reminds me of what I lost, but it also reminds me of what I must provide. Because I grew up without my mother, I am intentional about being emotionally present and supportive for my children. That same intention carries into my education and future career. After earning my degree, I will support children facing trauma while honoring my mother, and turning loss into purpose.

Losing my mother and becoming a mother are two experiences that forever changed who I am. I lost my mom as a teenager in a tragic house fire, and that loss created a pain that never truly goes away. There are moments in life when you expect to turn to your mother for comfort, advice, or reassurance, and realizing she is no longer there is heartbreaking. I grew up faster than I should have, learning how to survive without the one person who was supposed to guide me through life. When I became a mother myself, that loss felt even heavier. There were moments I wished more than anything that my mom could see me, help me, or simply tell me I was doing a good job. Every milestone my children reach reminds me of what I missed with her. At the same time, becoming a mother gave me a deeper understanding of her love and sacrifices. I finally understood the kind of unconditional love she had for me, and that realization strengthened my bond with my own children. Motherhood also awakened a powerful sense of purpose in me. Because I grew up without my mom, I am intentional about being present, patient, and emotionally available for my children. I want to give them the stability and love that I once needed. Losing my mother taught me how important it is to show up, even on the hardest days. That lesson carries into every part of my life, including my education. My journey through higher education has been anything but conventional. I went back to college in 2020 while expecting and dealing with the unpredictability of the COVID-19 pandemic. Juggling my studies, and the emotional burden of preparing for motherhood was at times quite daunting. There were instances when fatigue and self-doubt almost overwhelmed me, but giving up was never an option. I understood that obtaining my Associate’s degree would pave the way for a brighter future for my child. Achieving that degree during such a tough period revealed a strength I never realized I possessed and strengthened my conviction in the n the power of education to create change. Today, as a mother of two and a full-time student pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health Science, my education is driven by purpose. Every assignment completed during late nights or early mornings is an investment in my children’s future. I want them to see perseverance in action and understand that even after loss and hardship, it is possible to keep moving forward. The loss of my mother has significantly influenced my career aspirations. I am currently studying Behavioral Health Science because I aim to assist children dealing with trauma, or grief. Many children depend on school as their only place of safety, and I want to be someone who helps them feel seen and supported. My personal experiences enable me to tackle this work with compassion. Receiving this scholarship would ease the financial pressure I carry as a mother and a student. It would provide me with the opportunity to fully commit to my studies without the constant anxiety of funding another semester. This support would not only benefit me but also demonstrate to my children that hard work and determination pay off. It would allow me to honor my mother’s memory by continuing the life she believed I could live. With this scholarship, I could keep moving forward, build a better future for my family, and make a real difference in the lives of others who need hope and support.

Although I did not grow up as a child of a parent with ALS, I know deeply what it means to experience loss, pain, and uncertainty at a young age. On November 13, 2014, my life changed forever when my family’s home caught fire in the middle of the night. I was awoken by my brother yelling for everyone to get up. In that terrifying moment, instinct took over I grabbed my cousin and carried her outside to safety. When I ran back in to help the rest of my family, my mother’s last words to me were, “I’m coming baby, wait outside.” Moments later, everything went black. Those words were the last I ever heard from her. When I woke up in the hospital, I learned that my grandmother and baby cousin had not survived the fire. My mother was in critical condition, and after one night of fighting for her life, my family made the heart-wrenching decision to remove her from life support. Losing three loved ones in one night left a hole in my heart that will never fully close. However, this tragedy also planted the seed of resilience and faith that has carried me through every challenge since. My educational journey has been shaped by that night and its aftermath. The fire did not only take away my family it also stripped away my sense of stability. Grief made it difficult to focus, and there were moments when school felt impossible. But I refused to give up. I reminded myself that my mother’s dream was for her children to succeed, and I wanted to honor her memory by becoming someone she would be proud of. With God’s guidance, I pushed through the pain and began rebuilding my life, step by step. In 2020, I earned my associate degree while pregnant and facing the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Juggling school, motherhood, and uncertainty tested me in every way, but I held onto faith. Now, as a wife and mother of two, I am pursuing my bachelor’s degree. I want to show my children that even when life brings unimaginable hardship, you can still rise, rebuild, and create something beautiful from the ashes. My education represents not only my future, but also my family’s legacy of perseverance. Financially, the road has not been easy. Balancing school expenses, childcare, and daily living costs can feel overwhelming. My husband and I work hard to provide stability for our children, but sometimes there just isn’t enough left to cover tuition or books. A scholarship would not only relieve this burden it would allow me to focus more on my studies and less on the constant worry of financial strain. It would be an investment not just in my education, but in the future of the family I am building. Through my experiences, I have learned that true strength doesn’t come from what we can control, but from how we respond when life falls apart. I’ve discovered that faith, perseverance, and love can turn even the darkest situations into something meaningful. I am currently pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health Science with a concentration in Trauma, which will allow me to better understand and support children who have also faced trauma or are working through it. My goal is to use both my education and my personal experiences to provide compassion, healing, and guidance to those who need it most. This scholarship symbolizes opportunity and healing, enabling me to transform my pain into progress. My journey illustrates that while loss shapes the past, faith and determination can define the future.

I truly believe I deserve this scholarship, not because my life has been easy, but because I have faced and overcome many tough challenges. Each experience has helped shape who I am, and I have chosen to rise above them with strong faith, determination, and a clear purpose. What makes me different is not having a perfect life or special advantages; it is my ability to keep going, my strength, and my strong belief that God can turn pain into purpose. This belief inspires me and pushes me to chase my goals with passion and dedication. I know this truth because my own childhood was marked by trauma and unimaginable loss. On November 13, 2014, I woke up to my brother yelling that our house was on fire. I grabbed my cousin and rushed her outside before running back in to make sure the rest of my family was coming. My mom told me, “I’m coming, baby, wait outside.” Those were the last words she ever spoke to me. Moments later, everything went black. When I woke up in the hospital, I learned that my Grandma Margo and my four-month-old baby cousin had not made it out of the fire. My mom was in the burn unit, fighting for her life, and I barely recognized her. Later that night, my family faced the hardest decision we’ve ever had to make to take her off life support if her heart stopped again. At 6:00 a.m. the next morning, my mom passed away. For a long time, I was broken, and lost. The pain of losing my mom was more than I could bear. I had to learn to live in a world that no longer had her in it to do life without the person who loved me most. There were days when the emptiness felt unbearable, when I would reach for the phone to call her, only to remember she wasn’t there. I missed her voice, her laughter, her hugs, and the comfort she always brought. Every milestone birthdays, graduations, even becoming a mother myself was bittersweet because she wasn’t there to share it with me. Grieving was hard not only was I grieving my mom, but I was also grieving my grandma and my baby cousin. Some days I felt selfish for missing one more than the others. It was like my heart didn’t know who to mourn first. Just when I thought I had learned to live with the loss of one, the pain of another would hit all over again. Grief came in waves, sometimes soft and sometimes crashing without warning. There were moments I felt guilty for smiling, for moving forward, or for simply surviving when they couldn’t. Learning to live without them was incredibly challenging, with grief often feeling like a constant shadow. However, God never left me. Through prayer, faith, and the support of loved ones, I began to recognize His grace and found strength when I felt depleted. Over time, I began to understand that my story wasn’t over that God had a purpose for my pain. He was teaching me resilience, compassion, and the power of faith. My suffering became the soil from which my strength grew. A close friend once shared a message that stayed with me: “Bad things do happen. How I respond to them defines my character and the quality of my life. I can choose to sit in perpetual sadness, or I can rise from my pain and treasure the most precious gift I have life itself.” Those words, paired with my faith, helped me see that while I couldn’t change what happened, I could choose what came next. God didn’t take away my pain overnight, but He walked with me through it. He turned my heartbreak into a testimony a reminder that even in our darkest moments, His light still shines. In 2020, I returned to college while pregnant and facing the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Balancing motherhood, school, and uncertainty was not easy, but I leaned on my faith to keep going. Philippians 4:13 became my reminder: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Now, as a wife and mother of two, I am pursuing my bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health Science, determined to turn my experiences into purpose. I plan to specialize in supporting teens who have experienced trauma or lost a parent. My goal is to help them process their emotions, learn healthy ways to cope, and most importantly, remind them that they are not alone. With compassion, understanding, and faith-based guidance, I want to help young people rebuild their sense of hope and purpose.

Early childhood trauma significantly impacts emotional, mental, and spiritual development. Experiences of loss, neglect, or instability disrupt a child's sense of safety, leading to issues with trust, self-worth, anxiety, and depression that can persist into adulthood without healing. I know this truth because my own childhood was marked by trauma and unimaginable loss. On November 13, 2014, I woke up to my brother yelling that our house was on fire. I grabbed my cousin and rushed her outside before running back in to make sure the rest of my family was coming. My mom told me, “I’m coming, baby, wait outside.” Those were the last words she ever spoke to me. Moments later, everything went black. When I woke up in the hospital, I learned that my Grandma Margo and my four-month-old baby cousin had not made it out of the fire. My mom was in the burn unit, fighting for her life, and I barely recognized her. Later that night, my family faced the hardest decision we’ve ever had to make to take her off life support if her heart stopped again. At 6:00 a.m. the next morning, my mom passed away. For a long time, I was broken, and lost. But even in my pain, God never left me. Over time, through prayer, faith, and the love of those around me, I began to understand that my story wasn’t over that God had a purpose for my pain. A close friend once shared a message that stayed with me: “Bad things do happen. How I respond to them defines my character and the quality of my life. I can choose to sit in perpetual sadness, or I can rise from my pain and treasure the most precious gift I have—life itself.” Those words, along with my faith in God, helped me find strength in the middle of my sorrow. I began to see how God was molding me into someone who could help others find hope when they feel hopeless. In 2020, I returned to college while pregnant and facing the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Balancing motherhood, school, and uncertainty was not easy, but I leaned on my faith to keep going. Philippians 4:13 became my reminder: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Now, as a wife and mother of two, I am pursuing my bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health Science, determined to turn my experiences into purpose. I plan to specialize in supporting teens who have experienced trauma or lost a parent. My goal is to help them process their emotions, learn healthy ways to cope, and most importantly, remind them that they are not alone. With compassion, understanding, and faith-based guidance, I want to help young people rebuild their sense of hope and purpose. My Christian values guide everything I do. I believe God uses our trials to prepare us to comfort others. In 2 Corinthians 1:4, it says, “He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” That verse reflects exactly what I feel called to do to use my healing to help others heal. My journey has been one of tragedy, faith, and transformation. Through God’s grace, I learned that pain does not have to define us it can refine us. This scholarship would not only help me finish my education but also allow me to fulfill my God-given purpose: to help broken hearts find healing, strength, and hope again.

Mental health has always played a central role in my life and academic journey. In 2014, I experienced a tragedy that forever changed me. I was awoken by my brother yelling that our house was on fire. I rushed to save my cousin and then went back inside to check on my family. My mother’s last words to me were, “I’m coming baby, wait outside.” Moments later, everything went black. I awoke in the hospital, disoriented, only to learn that my grandmother and baby cousin had not survived. My mother had been resuscitated, but she was badly burned and placed on life support. The following morning, after an impossible decision, my family and I let her go. The trauma I experienced left scars that extended beyond the physical. Losing my mother, grandmother, and baby cousin in one night could have shattered me completely. During a challenging time filled with sadness and grief, a message from my best friend inspired me: “Bad things happen, but my response defines my character.” This, along with my faith, provided strength. My Christian values remind me that God is with me, and scriptures like Psalm 34:18 helped me cope and heal. My mental health affects my approach to school and life. Stress and grief can hinder my focus and motivation. However, my faith instills perseverance and hope, helping me push through challenges and stay committed to my academic goals despite overwhelming circumstances. Returning to school has challenged my resilience. While earning my associate degree in 2020, I managed classes, doctor’s appointments, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, as a wife and mother of two pursuing my bachelor’s degree, I prioritize my mental health, motivated by my children to demonstrate that faith and perseverance can conquer challenges. To genuinely focus on my mental health, I take various steps to keep balance and well-being in my life. A key part of this journey is relying on my support system. This involves reaching out and having honest talks with my husband, family, or close friends whenever I feel overwhelmed by daily pressures. Their support gives me comfort, guidance, and perspective during tough times. Therapy has also become an important tool for me. Speaking with a professional gives me a safe space to process my emotions and develop healthy coping strategies. Alongside therapy, I make time for daily walks. These walks are more than exercise they are sacred moments when I connect with God and the earth. As I breathe in the fresh air and reflect on His creation, I use this time to pray, listen, and find peace. These moments remind me that even in the middle of life’s storms, there is beauty and calmness around me. Most importantly, I find strength in prayer and practicing gratitude. Instead of only focusing on what I have lost, I choose to thank God for the gift of life and the amazing chance to create a better future for my children and those around me. My faith reminds me that even through pain, God’s presence gives me peace, guidance, and resilience. My journey has shown me that mental health is intertwined with faith, academics, and family. By prioritizing my well-being through prayer, therapy, and self-care, I can fully engage as a student, wife, and mother. I aim to inspire young people facing challenges, demonstrating that healing and success are achievable with faith and support.

Life has a way of testing our limits, and I have encountered challenges that would have broken many. On November 13, 2014, our house caught fire. I woke to my brother shouting for everyone to escape. I grabbed my baby cousin and rushed her outside before running back in to ensure my family was safe. My mom told me, “I’m coming, baby, wait outside.” Those were the last words she would ever speak to me. By the next morning, I had lost my mother, my grandmother, and my four-month-old cousin. The devastation could have left me defeated, but instead, it became the foundation of my resilience. A friend once told me, “Bad things happen. How you respond defines your character.” That message became my mantra. I refused to let tragedy define me. I focused on building a life rooted in perseverance, determination, and purpose. Returning to college after years away from academia is a testament to that resilience. In 2020, while pregnant and navigating the onset of COVID-19, I earned my Associate’s degree. Balancing school, motherhood, and a global pandemic was one of the hardest experiences of my life, yet I thrived. Today, as a wife and mother of two, I am pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health Science, driven not only by personal growth but also by the desire to model perseverance for my children. I want them to see that obstacles are not roadblocks but stepping stones to success. Beyond my personal achievements, I have made it a priority to help others in my community who face their own challenges. I mentor young people, particularly teens who have experienced trauma or loss, offering guidance and encouragement. I volunteer at local programs that support at-risk youth, teaching them coping skills and helping them discover their potential. I have also organized drives and community initiatives to provide basic necessities to families in need. Through these experiences, I have learned that strength is not just about surviving adversity but using it to uplift others. My experiences have equipped me with unique empathy and insight. I understand what it means to feel lost, scared, or alone, and I strive to ensure that others facing hardships know they are not powerless. I have proven that with determination, support, and action, adversity can be transformed into opportunity not just for oneself, but for the community as a whole. I am proud of my accomplishments and the resilience I have cultivated. I have faced unimaginable loss, balanced motherhood, education, and personal growth, and have emerged with a commitment to serve and uplift others. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to continue pursuing my degree and further my work in behavioral health, providing guidance and support to young people navigating the challenges of life. My journey has shown me that while life is inherently hard, the true measure of success lies in how we rise from adversity and extend our strength to those around us.

Life has a way of testing our limits, and I have faced challenges that would have broken many. On November 13, 2014, our house caught fire. I woke to my brother yelling for everyone to escape. I grabbed my cousin Tayonna and rushed her outside before running back in to ensure my family was accounted for. My mom told me, “I’m coming, baby, wait outside.” Those were the last words she would ever speak to me. By the next morning, I had lost my mother, my grandmother, and my four-month-old cousin. The devastation could have left me defeated, but instead, it became the foundation of my resilience. A friend once told me, “Bad things happen. How you respond defines your character.” That message became my mantra. I refused to allow tragedy to define me. I focused on building a life rooted in perseverance, determination, and purpose. Returning to college after years away from academia is a testament to that resilience. In 2020, while pregnant and navigating the onset of COVID-19, I earned my Associate’s degree. Balancing school, motherhood, and a global pandemic was one of the hardest experiences of my life, yet I thrived. Today, as a wife and mother of two, I am pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health Science, driven not only by personal growth but also by the desire to model perseverance for my children. I want them to see that obstacles are not roadblocks but stepping stones to success. Beyond my personal achievements, I have made it a priority to help others in my community who face their own challenges. I mentor young people, particularly teens who have experienced trauma or loss, offering guidance and encouragement. I volunteer at local programs that support at-risk youth, teaching them coping skills and helping them discover their potential. I have also organized drives and community initiatives to provide basic necessities to families in need. Through these experiences, I have learned that strength is not just about surviving adversity but using it to lift others. My experiences have equipped me with unique empathy and insight. I understand what it means to feel lost, scared, or alone, and I strive to ensure that others facing hardships know they are not powerless. I have proven that with determination, support, and action, adversity can be transformed into opportunity not just for oneself, but for the community as a whole. I am proud of my accomplishments and the resilience I have cultivated. I have faced unimaginable loss, juggled motherhood, education, and personal growth, and have emerged with a commitment to serve and uplift others. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to continue pursuing my degree and further my work in behavioral health, providing guidance and support to young people navigating the challenges of life. My journey has shown me that while life is inherently hard, the true measure of success lies in how we rise from adversity and extend our strength to those around us.

On November 13, 2014, my life changed forever. I woke up to my brother’s panicked voice yelling that our house was on fire. In the chaos, I grabbed my baby cousin and rushed her outside before running back in to make sure the rest of my family was safe. My mom told me, “I’m coming, baby, wait outside.” Those were the last words she ever spoke to me. Moments later, I lost consciousness. When I woke up in the hospital, I was met with devastating news. My Grandma Margo and my four-month-old cousin had not survived the fire. My mom was in the burn unit, her body so damaged that I barely recognized her. The following morning, my family faced the hardest decision of our lives: to take her off life support. At 6:00 a.m., my mom passed away. At sixteen years old, I was left with grief that felt unbearable. For a long time, I struggled to find meaning in the pain. Then, a close friend sent me a message that has stayed with me ever since: “Bad things do happen. How I respond to them defines my character and the quality of my life. I can choose to sit in perpetual sadness, immobilized by the gravity of my loss, or I can choose to rise from my pain and treasure the most precious gift I have life itself.” That message gave me strength. It reminded me that although I couldn’t change what happened, I could choose how I moved forward. That lesson has guided me through every challenge since. In 2020, while pregnant and during the height of COVID-19, I returned to college to pursue my Associate’s degree. Balancing school, motherhood, and the uncertainty of a global pandemic was harder than I could have imagined, but I pushed through and graduated. Now, as a wife and mother of two, I am pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health Science. My children are my greatest motivation. I want to be a role model for them, showing them that even when life feels impossible, resilience and determination can carry you through. The fire that took my family members also sparked my passion to help others. I know firsthand the loneliness and confusion that comes with losing a parent as a teenager. That experience, though heartbreaking, gave me a sense of purpose. My dream is to become a behavioral health professional who specializes in supporting teens who have lost a parent. I want to be the person who listens without judgment, who understands their pain, and who helps them believe that their story is not over that their future still holds value and promise. The obstacle I faced taught me that tragedy does not have to define you; how you rise from it does. This scholarship would not only help me complete my education but also allow me to turn my pain into purpose empowering grieving teens to heal, rebuild, and embrace their future with hope.

On November 13, 2014, my life changed forever. I woke up to my brother’s panicked voice yelling that our house was on fire. In the chaos, I grabbed my cousin Tayonna and rushed her outside before running back in to make sure the rest of my family was safe. My mom told me, “I’m coming, baby, wait outside.” Those were the last words she ever spoke to me. Moments later, I lost consciousness. When I woke up in the hospital, I was met with devastating news. My Grandma Margo and my four-month-old cousin had not survived the fire. My mom was in the burn unit, her body so damaged that I barely recognized her. The following morning, my family faced the hardest decision of our lives: to take her off life support. At 6:00 a.m., my mom passed away. At sixteen years old, I was left with grief that felt unbearable. For a long time, I struggled to find meaning in the pain. Then, a close friend sent me a message that has stayed with me ever since: “Bad things do happen. How I respond to them defines my character and the quality of my life. I can choose to sit in perpetual sadness, immobilized by the gravity of my loss, or I can choose to rise from my pain and treasure the most precious gift I have life itself.” That message gave me strength. It reminded me that although I couldn’t change what happened, I could choose how I moved forward. That lesson has guided me through every challenge since. In 2020, while pregnant and during the height of COVID-19, I returned to college to pursue my Associate’s degree. Balancing school, motherhood, and the uncertainty of a global pandemic was harder than I could have imagined, but I pushed through and graduated. Now, as a wife and mother of two, I am pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health Science. My children are my greatest motivation. I want to be a role model for them, showing them that even when life feels impossible, resilience and determination can carry you through. The fire that took my family members also sparked my passion to help others. I know firsthand the loneliness and confusion that comes with losing a parent as a teenager. That experience, though heartbreaking, gave me a sense of purpose. My dream is to become a behavioral health professional who specializes in supporting teens who have lost a parent. I want to be the person who listens without judgment, who understands their pain, and who helps them believe that their story is not over that their future still holds value and promise. The obstacle I faced taught me that tragedy does not have to define you; how you rise from it does. This scholarship would not only help me complete my education but also allow me to turn my pain into purpose empowering grieving teens to heal, rebuild, and embrace their future with hope.

If I could create a class that all students in grades K–12 were required to take, it would be a Real-World Careers and Skills class. Growing up, I noticed that school often focused on preparing students for college, while very little attention was given to other career paths. The truth is, not everyone wants to go to college, and not everyone can afford it. That doesn’t mean those students don’t have dreams, talents, or the potential to succeed. I believe schools should give all students a fair chance to explore different opportunities, not just the traditional college route. This class would introduce students to practical, community-based careers that are sometimes overlooked but essential in everyday life. For example, students could learn what it’s like to be a chef, a hairdresser, an electrician, or a mechanic. These are professions that keep communities running, yet students often don’t hear about them in school. I know people in my own community who have built stable, fulfilling lives through these types of jobs. Many of them are small business owners, creating opportunities not only for themselves but for others as well. Seeing their success taught me that there are many different definitions of achievement, and young people should be exposed to all of them. The class would be hands-on and age-appropriate. In the early grades, students could take part in fun projects like cooking simple recipes, doing basic crafts, or role-playing customer service. As they get older, the lessons would grow more practical things like building a résumé, practicing interview skills, exploring trade schools, and even learning about financial literacy. By the time students graduate, they would not only know about different career paths but also have life skills they can use no matter what direction they take. The impact of a class like this would be powerful. It would help break down the stigma that sometimes comes with not going to college. Too often, students are made to feel like choosing a trade or community based career means they are “settling.” I want to change that mindset. A skilled worker, whether it’s a hairdresser who boosts someone’s confidence or a mechanic who keeps families safe on the road, contributes just as much value to society as someone with a degree. This class would also give students confidence and direction. I know from personal experience that the years leading up to graduation can be filled with anxiety about the future. Many students walk across that stage unsure of what’s next. A class like this would make sure every student leaves high school with a sense of purpose, knowing that there are multiple paths available and that each one is worthy of respect. In short, my Real-World Careers and Skills class would prepare students for life after school, whether that means college, trade school, or joining the workforce. It would celebrate every type of career and give students the tools they need to succeed in whichever path they choose. Most importantly, it would remind them that their future is not limited it is full of possibility.

On November 13, 2014, I woke to my brother yelling for everyone to get up our house was on fire. I grabbed my cousin and rushed her outside before running back in to make sure the rest of my family was coming. My mom told me, “I’m coming, baby, wait outside.” Those were the last words she ever spoke to me. Moments later, everything went black. I awoke in the hospital, confused and surrounded by doctors and family members. A doctor told me the devastating news my Grandma Margo and my four-month-old baby cousin had not made it out of the fire. My mom was in the burn unit with her heart barely beating. When I saw her, she looked so different her long, beautiful hair was gone, her small feet were no longer the same. I didn’t recognize her. That night, my family faced the hardest decision of our lives: if her heart stopped again, we would take her off life support. At 6:00 a.m. the next morning, my mom passed away. In the depths of my grief, I received a message from my best friend that has stayed with me to this day: “Bad things do happen. How I respond to them defines my character and the quality of my life. I can choose to sit in perpetual sadness, immobilized by the gravity of my loss, or I can choose to rise from my pain and treasure the most precious gift I have life itself.” That message saved me. It reminded me that I could use my pain as a stepping stone rather than a weight holding me down. In 2020, I went back to college to earn my Associate’s degree while pregnant and facing the challenges of COVID-19. Balancing motherhood, a global pandemic, and school was harder than I could have imagined, but I pushed through. Now, as a wife and mother of two, I am pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health Science. My children are my greatest motivation. They watch everything I do, and I want them to see what resilience, perseverance, and hope look like. This scholarship would help me reach my goal of becoming a behavioral health professional who specializes in supporting teens who have lost a parent. I know firsthand the pain, confusion, and sense of isolation that comes with that loss. I also know how critical it is to have someone who understands, listens without judgment, and helps guide you through the grieving process. My dream is to provide that support to help teens see that even in the midst of tragedy, their life still holds value and purpose. My own story is one of tragedy, but also of strength and determination. I understand what it feels like to be broken and how important it is to have someone believe in you when you can’t believe in yourself. This scholarship would not only help me complete my education but would also allow me to turn my pain into purpose empowering grieving teens to heal, rebuild, and embrace their future

My name is Shaquasia Bowden, but I prefer to be called Quay! I am currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health Science. I’m a wife, a proud mother of two, and a first-generation college student who returned to school after earning my Associate’s degree in 2020. My journey hasn’t been easy I balanced pregnancy, motherhood, and the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic while navigating school and personal loss. But through it all, I’ve remained committed to my growth, driven by the desire to create a better future for my family and to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. What draws me to behavioral health is the opportunity to walk alongside people especially children during their most vulnerable moments and help them find hope, healing, and purpose. As someone who has faced adversity firsthand, I understand how trauma can shape a person’s outlook. I lost my mother, grandmother, and cousin in a house fire during my junior year of high school, and that tragedy reshaped my life. My mother always told me, “You’re going to be an inspiration in somebody’s life,” and I carry those words with me every day. They fuel my desire to serve and uplift others through compassionate, trauma-informed care. In my future medical career, I plan to specialize in working with children and adolescents who come from difficult backgrounds. Whether they are experiencing abuse, neglect, grief, or emotional disorders, I want to be a steady, supportive presence for them. My goal is to create safe spaces where young people can learn to express themselves, build self-worth, and see school as a place of hope and growth. For many, school may be their only safe place and I want to support the mental and emotional stability that makes learning and healing possible. I also have a long-term dream of adopting internationally, providing a loving home to a child in need, and advocating for vulnerable populations who lack access to basic resources and mental health support. I believe that no child should be overlooked or forgotten, and I want to use my career in behavioral health to ensure every child I work with feels seen, valued, and empowered. Receiving this scholarship would be a tremendous help in reaching my educational goals. Currently, my financial resources are limited. My family depends primarily on my husband’s income, which must stretch to cover our living expenses, childcare, and other essential needs. Although I receive some federal financial aid, it does not fully cover tuition, books, and other associated costs of attending college. These gaps often create stress and uncertainty, and they can become real barriers to my continued enrollment. Ultimately, I want to make a positive impact on the world by helping the next generation heal, grow, and discover their potential. Through education, empathy, and evidence-based care, I plan to be a force for change starting with one child at a time.

One of the most defining moments in my life came when I chose to make my mental and emotional health a priority after becoming a mother during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. At the time, I had just earned my Associate’s degree in 2020 while pregnant with my first child. The world felt uncertain, and I was adjusting to motherhood, remote learning, and a rapidly changing environment all while grieving significant personal losses from my past. It was a lot to carry, and I realized that if I didn’t take care of my mental and emotional well-being, I wouldn’t be able to show up for myself, my family, or the future I wanted to create. I began by giving myself grace. I stopped expecting perfection and learned how to ask for help. My husband and I built a strong support system where communication and emotional honesty became essential. I also began journaling and incorporating prayer into my daily routine. As a Christian, my faith helped me through anxiety and self-doubt, reminding me that I was not alone and that my life had purpose. I also began focusing on my physical well-being by creating healthy routines. Even simple habits like staying hydrated, taking walks with my children, or stepping away from screens helped me feel more balanced and connected. Prioritizing these small moments of care taught me that taking care of myself was not selfish it was necessary. One of the most powerful lessons I learned during that time was the importance of boundaries. I had to learn to say no to things that drained me and yes to the things that filled my cup. I realized that I could not pour into others from an empty vessel. This mindset shift prepared me to return to college years later with a clearer vision of who I am and what I want to contribute to the world. Now, as a mother of two and a student pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Behavioral Health Science, I approach school and life with a greater sense of purpose and resilience. I know how to recognize when I need rest, how to seek support, and how to advocate for my needs. These are skills that will not only help me succeed academically but will also guide me as I enter the behavioral health field, where emotional balance and empathy are essential. This experience has shaped the way I prepare for my future. I no longer see self-care as a luxury it’s part of my foundation. By valuing my mental, emotional, and physical health, I’m building the strength to help others, especially children facing challenges of their own. I want to be a light in the lives of those who need hope, and I know that starts with staying grounded and well myself.

My name is Shaquasia Bowden but I go by Quay! I am a wife, mother of two, and a passionate Behavioral Health Science student. I care deeply about helping children who face adversity, and everything I do personally and academically is driven by my desire to be a source of stability, encouragement, and hope for those who need it most. My personal mission is to use my experiences and education to positively impact the lives of children, especially those growing up in challenging environments. One issue I feel deeply connected to is childhood trauma and instability in the home. I understand firsthand how life can change in an instant during my junior year of high school, I lost my mother, grandmother, and cousin in a tragic house fire. That event shaped the way I view life, family, and the importance of creating safe spaces for children. Many kids face emotional and psychological struggles that often go unnoticed. I want to be the person who notices, who steps in, and who helps them find their voice. If I had the power to make change in this area, I would create community-based programs that offer accessible counseling, mentorship, and academic support for at-risk children. I envision a network of schools and behavioral health professionals working together to ensure every child feels seen, heard, and supported especially those who don't have that at home. I would also push for trauma informed care training in schools to better equip teachers to respond with empathy I chose to study Behavioral Health Science because I believe the mind is the key to healing, growth, and success. My academic journey began with an associate’s degree in 2020 while I was pregnant and juggling the challenges of the pandemic. Now, as a mother of two, I’ve returned to college to earn my bachelor’s degree. My children are my biggest motivation. I want to show them that hard work, resilience, and education can open doors to a better future. In the next five years, one of my goals is to work with children in underserved communities either through a school system or a nonprofit organization. I plan to gain hands-on experience through internships and volunteer work, and eventually pursue a master’s degree in counseling or social work to expand my ability to serve. Education has helped me better understand who I am and what I’m meant to do. Every class I take reinforces my passion and clarifies my purpose. I’ve learned that my pain can be my power, and that the struggles I’ve faced give me a deeper level of compassion and strength. As a woman, and especially as a mother, I’ve had to fight through fear and doubt to return to school. I've learned to balance my family responsibilities with academic goals, and I take pride in showing my children that women can lead, persevere, and inspire. To me, leadership means showing up with courage, even when things are hard. It’s mentoring, encouraging, and lifting others up. I've led my family through hard times and now I want to lead children toward hope. Currently, my financial resources are limited. My family depends primarily on my husband’s income, which must stretch to cover our living expenses, childcare, and other essential needs. Although I receive some federal financial aid, it does not fully cover tuition, books, and other associated costs of attending college. These gaps often create stress and uncertainty, and they can become real barriers to my continued enrollment.

Returning to college after a few years away from academia has been quite a journey for me. The last time I was in school was in 2020 when I earned my Associate's degree. At that time, I was pregnant, and the onset of Covid made juggling everything much more challenging than one might expect. Nevertheless, I persevered. Now, as a mother of two and a married woman, I am finally taking the step to pursue a Bachelor's degree in Behavioral health science. My children serve as my primary motivation for this decision. I strive to be a role model for them, aiming to set the best example possible. I want my kids to recognize the endless possibilities that come from hard work and dedication. Additionally, I made the choice to return to school for my own personal growth, despite my initial fears about how I would manage it all. Deep down, I knew it was the right path for me. Looking ahead, my goal is to assist young children who find themselves in challenging circumstances, helping them navigate their struggles so they can achieve a brighter and more successful future. For many kids, school is often their only refuge, especially when they face difficulties at home. I want to instill a sense of excitement about learning and attending school in them. My family has been a significant source of inspiration for me. During my junior year of high school, I experienced the tragic loss of my mother, grandmother, and cousin in a devastating house fire. I am incredibly grateful to still be here, as such experiences teach you to cherish life even more. My mother always told me, “You’re going to be an inspiration in somebody’s life.” I can think of no greater inspiration than helping children in need. Receiving this scholarship would be a tremendous help in reaching my educational goals. As a mother of two young children and a full-time student, I am constantly balancing my responsibilities at home with my commitment to academic success. My decision to return to college and pursue a Bachelor's degree in Behavioral health science. It was not made lightly, it's a vital step toward achieving my dream of working with children in difficult circumstances, helping them feel safe, seen, and supported in the school environment. Currently, my financial resources are limited. My family depends primarily on my husband’s income, which must stretch to cover our living expenses, childcare, and other essential needs. Although I receive some federal financial aid, it does not fully cover tuition, books, and other associated costs of attending college. These gaps often create stress and uncertainty, and they can become real barriers to my continued enrollment. This scholarship would not only ease the financial burden on my family, but it would also allow me to focus more fully on my studies and on preparing for a career that will let me give back to children and families in need. It would be an investment in my future and in the futures of the students I plan to serve.

My name is Quay Bowden, and I am a wife, mother of two, and a student pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Behavioral Health Science. My journey into mental health has been shaped by both personal loss and lived experience. After taking a few years away from school, I returned with a renewed sense of purpose one deeply rooted in resilience, faith, and a desire to serve others, especially those who often go unseen or unheard. In high school, I endured the tragic loss of my mother, grandmother, and cousin in a house fire. That experience changed the course of my life. It taught me that trauma can strike without warning and that healing requires support, understanding, and hope. At the time, I didn’t have access to mental health resources or even the language to describe what I was feeling. I carried that pain with me silently. Now, as an adult, I realize how critical mental health support is, especially for those who experience trauma in marginalized communities. Mental health awareness became more personal during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, I earned my Associate’s degree while pregnant, isolated, and trying to make sense of the world around me. That season revealed my own mental health needs and opened my eyes to how many others were also silently struggling particularly women, mothers, and families of color with limited access to care. It was during that time that I truly committed myself to the field of behavioral health, determined to be a source of healing for others. My goal is to work closely with children and families in under-resourced communities. I know firsthand how easy it is to feel forgotten or invisible, especially when you're young and carrying emotional burdens. I want to be the voice that says, “You matter,” and provide tools that help kids feel safe, supported, and excited about life again. Whether it's through trauma-informed counseling, school-based programs, or advocacy work, I want to help break the cycle of silence and stigma that so often surrounds mental health in marginalized populations. My beliefs and activism are centered on equity, compassion, and empowerment. I believe everyone deserves access to quality mental health care, regardless of income, race, or background. I advocate for early intervention, community-based support, and culturally sensitive approaches that recognize the unique challenges faced by Black and Brown communities. Long-term, I also plan to adopt internationally from a region where children suffer from poverty, neglect, and displacement. I believe love and stability can change a life and I want to offer both in every space I serve. At my core, I am a survivor, a nurturer, and a future behavioral health professional with a mission. I carry my past not as a weight, but as fuel to serve others. Through education and compassion, I plan to bring healing and hope where it’s needed most.

Returning to college after a few years away from academia has been quite a journey for me. The last time I was in school was in 2020 when I earned my Associate's degree. At that time, I was pregnant, and the onset of Covid made juggling everything much more challenging than one might expect. Nevertheless, I persevered. Now, as a mother of two and a married woman, I am finally taking the step to pursue a Bachelor's degree in Behavioral health science. While earning my Associate's degree in 2020, I was pregnant and navigating the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. It was a challenging time, but I persevered. That experience taught me how powerful support can be, especially for women balancing family, education, and financial hardship. Since then, I’ve been committed to encouraging other women in similar situations, including fellow mothers returning to school, by sharing resources, emotional support, and strategies for staying focused under pressure. Whether it’s helping someone draft a college application or simply listening without judgment, I strive to be the kind of supporter I once needed. My family has been a significant source of inspiration for me. During my junior year of high school, I experienced the tragic loss of my mother, grandmother, and cousin in a devastating house fire. I am incredibly grateful to still be here, as such experiences teach you to cherish life even more. My mother always told me, “You’re going to be an inspiration in somebody’s life.” I can think of no greater inspiration than helping children in need. Receiving this scholarship would be a tremendous help in reaching my educational goals. As a mother of two young children and a full-time student, I am constantly balancing my responsibilities at home with my commitment to academic success. My decision to return to college and pursue a Bachelor's degree in Behavioral health science. was not made lightly it’s a vital step toward achieving my dream of working with children in difficult circumstances, helping them feel safe, seen, and supported in the school environment. Currently, my financial resources are limited. My family depends primarily on my husband’s income, which must stretch to cover our living expenses, childcare, and other essential needs. Although I receive some federal financial aid, it does not fully cover tuition, books, and other associated costs of attending college. These gaps often create stress and uncertainty, and they can become real barriers to my continued enrollment. This scholarship would not only ease the financial burden on my family, but it would also allow me to focus more fully on my studies and on preparing for a career that will let me give back to children and families in need. Looking ahead, I also hope to adopt a child internationally and provide them with the safety, love, and education every child deserves. Supporting the next generation of women and children requires not only compassion but action, and I’m committed to living out those values every day.

Although I am not a member of the military, the values often associated with military service discipline, sacrifice, resilience, and love of country are values I’ve come to understand more deeply through my own life journey. In many ways, my personal story parallels some of the challenges faced by those who serve, and it has given me a greater appreciation for the military and what it represents, both in how I view myself and how I view my country. My journey has not been easy. In 2020, I completed my Associate’s degree while pregnant and living through the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. Juggling school, pregnancy, and the emotional stress of that time took more strength than I realized I had. Since then, I’ve become a wife and a mother of two, and I’ve made the decision to return to school to pursue my Bachelor's degree in Behavioral Health Science. That decision didn’t come without fear or hesitation, but it came from a deep sense of purpose both for my personal growth and for the example I want to set for my children. Much like those who serve in the military, I’ve learned the importance of showing up even when things are hard, of pushing forward when you’re tired, and of keeping the bigger picture in mind. The military has taught me, from a distance, that real strength isn’t about titles or uniforms it’s about perseverance, responsibility, and service to others. I try to live those same values in my own way, whether it’s supporting my family, pursuing my education, or preparing to work with children who face trauma and instability. Losing my mother, grandmother, and cousin in a tragic house fire during high school taught me how fragile life can be and how important it is to live with purpose. My mother used to tell me, “You’re going to be an inspiration in somebody’s life.” I hold that close to my heart every day. It’s a reminder that we all have a role to play in making this world a better place just like the men and women in uniform who dedicate their lives to protecting our freedoms and values. My respect for the military and my love for this country have grown through my own hardships. I see the U.S. as a place filled with both opportunity and challenge. Like any nation, it has its flaws, but it also has the potential for healing, growth, and unity. I believe the same principles that guide military service commitment, courage, and community can also guide us as citizens, students, parents, and professionals. IN the end, while I haven’t served in the military, I’ve come to better understand myself and my country through similar values of resilience, hope, and dedication. And that’s a perspective I carry proudly into everything I do.

I am worth the dreams I aspire to achieve because my dreams are rooted in healing, service, and the desire to create lasting change in the lives of others. Earning a degree in Behavioral Health Science is not just a personal milestone it is the foundation for the work I feel called to do: to support, guide, and uplift those who are struggling, especially children and families affected by trauma, poverty, and emotional instability. My life has been shaped by significant adversity. During my junior year of high school, I experienced the unimaginable loss of my mother, grandmother, and cousin in a house fire. That tragedy could have broken me but instead, it gave me purpose. It taught me the value of life, the power of resilience, and the importance of mental and emotional support during times of crisis. These painful experiences instilled in me a deep empathy for others, especially those who are suffering in silence. As a mother of two and a wife, I know what it means to juggle responsibilities, face challenges, and still hold on to hope. When I returned to school after earning my Associate’s degree in 2020, I was balancing motherhood, marriage, and the weight of grief all during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. It wasn’t easy, but I kept going because I believe that healing is possible, and I want to be a part of helping others find it. That’s why I’m pursuing a degree in Behavioral Health Science: to be a support system for those who may feel like they have no one. am worth my dreams because I have chosen not to let pain define me I’ve allowed it to refine me. Through my education, I am learning how to combine clinical understanding with compassion, evidence-based practices with lived experience, and professional skills with a servant’s heart. My ultimate goal is to work with children and adolescents who face emotional and behavioral challenges, especially those growing up in underserved communities. I want to create safe, trauma-informed spaces where young people feel seen, heard, and empowered. My dreams are not just about professional success they are about creating change, healing brokenness, and building futures. I am worth these dreams because I have lived through hardship and emerged with compassion, vision, and determination. With God’s guidance and my education in Behavioral Health Science, I will continue to turn my pain into purpose and walk boldly in the direction of helping others become whole.

My pro-life position has been shaped by my faith, personal experiences, and the deep value I place on the dignity of every human life born and unborn. Life, to me, is sacred from the moment of conception, and this belief has only grown stronger through the trials I’ve faced and the path I’ve chosen in education and service. During my junior year of high school, I experienced an unimaginable tragedy: I lost my mother, grandmother, and cousin in a house fire. Surviving such a traumatic event taught me just how fragile and precious life truly is. In that moment of grief, I began to understand what it means to honor the lives we’ve been given and to advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves. That experience, coupled with my Christian faith, cemented my belief that every life regardless of circumstance, stage of development, or ability is valuable and worthy of love, protection, and care. As a mother of two, I’ve experienced firsthand the miracle of life and the challenges that come with bringing children into the world. I was pregnant while finishing my Associate’s degree, and it wasn’t easy. But even through financial strain, emotional exhaustion, and fear of the unknown, I never questioned the value of the life growing inside of me. I’ve volunteered with local community centers and churches that provide baby supplies, emotional support, and parenting resources to women in crisis. I believe being pro-life means not just defending the unborn, but also uplifting the mothers, families, and children who need help and hope. I knew my child had a purpose and I believe that’s true for every child, regardless of the circumstances surrounding their conception or birth. In my work toward becoming an educator, I see another avenue to promote the dignity of all life. Many children grow up in difficult environments where they feel unloved or unwanted. I want to be a consistent, affirming presence for them someone who sees their worth, speaks life into them, and encourages them to see their future as full of purpose. I also plan to incorporate pro-life values into my teaching by fostering respect, compassion, and a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of each person. Being pro-life is not just about what I believe it’s about how I live. Through love, education, service, and advocacy, I will continue to promote the truth that all human life, especially the unborn, is worthy of protection, dignity, and hope. This belief influences how I raise my children, how I serve my community, and how I interact with every person I meet. I strive to be a voice for the voiceless, to lead with compassion, and to create environments where every life is valued no matter their age, background, or circumstance. In both word and deed, I choose life every day.

Graduating with a college degree represents more than just completing a program of study it is the realization of a dream that has been years in the making. As a wife, mother of two, and a woman of faith, my decision to return to school after earning my Associate’s degree in 2020 was not made lightly. I took time away from my academic journey to focus on my growing family, and I endured personal hardship, including the tragic loss of my mother, grandmother, and cousin during high school. These experiences shaped who I am and deepened my desire to make a lasting difference in the lives of others especially children. Now, with a renewed sense of purpose, I am pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in behavioral health, and I have clear goals for what I hope to accomplish once I graduate. My greatest aspiration is to serve children who are growing up in challenging environments. Many kids today are exposed to trauma, poverty, abuse, and emotional neglect. For some, school is the only consistent and safe place they know. I want to be a positive influence in those spaces. Once I earn my degree, I hope to become a behavioral health paraprofessional or counselor working in school settings, group homes, or nonprofits that serve youth. I want to be the trusted adult a child can turn to when they feel unheard or unseen. Through counseling, mentorship, and support, I hope to give them tools to manage their emotions, process their trauma, and build a future they can be proud of. Long-term, I have a vision to establish a youth-focused center that provides behavioral health services, educational support, and life skills training for children and teens facing difficult circumstances. This center would serve as a refuge a place where children can receive mental health care, tutoring, mentoring, and guidance in a nurturing and supportive environment. I imagine a space filled with warmth, encouragement, and a sense of belonging especially for those who may not receive that at home. I want to help children see that their past does not define them, and that with support, faith, and perseverance, they can overcome anything. My desire to work with vulnerable children stems from both my personal experiences and my Christian faith. When I lost multiple family members in a house fire during my junior year of high school, my world fell apart. I experienced trauma, grief, and loneliness that no teenager should ever have to bear. But through my faith in God, the love of those who remained in my life, and the healing power of time, I began to rebuild. I also realized that my pain could serve a greater purpose. My mother used to tell me, “You’re going to be an inspiration in somebody’s life.” I carry those words with me every day. They fuel my commitment to become someone who helps others through their darkest moments. Being a mother has also shaped my purpose. My children are my greatest motivation. I want to be a role model for them not just by telling them to pursue their dreams, but by showing them what it looks like to work hard, stay committed, and follow through. I want them to see that education is not just a means to a career, but a powerful tool for transformation. I want to instill in them a deep belief that they can overcome obstacles, that they are capable of greatness, and that faith, paired with action, can move mountains. Returning to college has not been easy. Balancing coursework, motherhood, and daily responsibilities requires discipline, time management, and sacrifice. Financially, it has also been a challenge. That is why receiving a scholarship would have a profound impact on both my academic journey and my future goals. A scholarship would not only alleviate the financial burden of tuition and books but also give me the peace of mind to fully commit to my studies without the constant stress of how I will pay for my education. It would allow me to devote more time to academic excellence, internships, and real-world experience ultimately preparing me to serve children and families with the highest level of care and professionalism. Moreover, a scholarship would affirm that others believe in my potential. That kind of encouragement can be life-changing. It tells me that the hard work, late nights, and determination are worth it and that my dream of making a difference is not just possible, but within reach. With scholarship support, I would be able to pursue specialized training and certifications in trauma-informed care, child development, and counseling further equipping me to meet the complex needs of the children I will serve. In addition to my professional goals, I also have a personal calling to one day adopt a child internationally from a region where children often lack basic necessities like food, clean water, shelter, and education. I believe that true service means opening your heart and your home. It would bring me immense joy to give a child a second chance at life in a loving and supportive family. I see this not as charity, but as an extension of my faith and a reflection of the love God has shown me. Ultimately, my future plans are centered on service. Whether in a classroom, a counseling room, or my own home, I want to be a vessel of love, support, and guidance. I want to be the person who sees potential in every child, even when others do not. I want to teach them how to believe in themselves, how to manage their emotions, and how to dream beyond their current circumstances. I want to use my education, my faith, and my life experiences to make a real and lasting impact. In conclusion, earning my college degree is not the end goal it is the beginning of a lifelong mission. A scholarship would provide critical support on this journey, allowing me to focus on my education and prepare for a career rooted in compassion, advocacy, and healing. With this support, I am confident that I will achieve my goals, fulfill my calling, and be the difference in the lives of the children who need it most.

Graduating with a college degree represents more than just completing a program of study it is the realization of a dream that has been years in the making. As a wife, mother of two, and a woman of faith, my decision to return to school after earning my Associate’s degree in 2020 was not made lightly. I took time away from my academic journey to focus on my growing family, and I endured personal hardship, including the tragic loss of my mother, grandmother, and cousin during high school. These experiences shaped who I am and deepened my desire to make a lasting difference in the lives of others especially children. Now, with a renewed sense of purpose, I am pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in behavioral health, and I have clear goals for what I hope to accomplish once I graduate. My greatest aspiration is to serve children who are growing up in challenging environments. Many kids today are exposed to trauma, poverty, abuse, and emotional neglect. For some, school is the only consistent and safe place they know. I want to be a positive influence in those spaces. Once I earn my degree, I hope to become a behavioral health paraprofessional or counselor working in school settings, group homes, or nonprofits that serve youth. I want to be the trusted adult a child can turn to when they feel unheard or unseen. Through counseling, mentorship, and support, I hope to give them tools to manage their emotions, process their trauma, and build a future they can be proud of. Long-term, I have a vision to establish a youth-focused center that provides behavioral health services, educational support, and life skills training for children and teens facing difficult circumstances. This center would serve as a refuge a place where children can receive mental health care, tutoring, mentoring, and guidance in a nurturing and supportive environment. I imagine a space filled with warmth, encouragement, and a sense of belonging especially for those who may not receive that at home. I want to help children see that their past does not define them, and that with support, faith, and perseverance, they can overcome anything. My desire to work with vulnerable children stems from both my personal experiences and my Christian faith. When I lost multiple family members in a house fire during my junior year of high school, my world fell apart. I experienced trauma, grief, and loneliness that no teenager should ever have to bear. But through my faith in God, the love of those who remained in my life, and the healing power of time, I began to rebuild. I also realized that my pain could serve a greater purpose. My mother used to tell me, “You’re going to be an inspiration in somebody’s life.” I carry those words with me every day. They fuel my commitment to become someone who helps others through their darkest moments.Being a mother has also shaped my purpose. My children are my greatest motivation. I want to be a role model for them not just by telling them to pursue their dreams, but by showing them what it looks like to work hard, stay committed, and follow through. I want them to see that education is not just a means to a career, but a powerful tool for transformation. I want to instill in them a deep belief that they can overcome obstacles, that they are capable of greatness, and that faith, paired with action, can move mountains.Returning to college has not been easy. Balancing coursework, motherhood, and daily responsibilities requires discipline, time management, and sacrifice. Financially, it has also been a challenge. That is why receiving a scholarship would have a profound impact on both my academic journey and my future goals. A scholarship would not only alleviate the financial burden of tuition and books but also give me the peace of mind to fully commit to my studies without the constant stress of how I will pay for my education. It would allow me to devote more time to academic excellence, internships, and real-world experience ultimately preparing me to serve children and families with the highest level of care and professionalism. Moreover, a scholarship would affirm that others believe in my potential. That kind of encouragement can be life-changing. It tells me that the hard work, late nights, and determination are worth it and that my dream of making a difference is not just possible, but within reach. With scholarship support, I would be able to pursue specialized training and certifications in trauma-informed care, child development, and counseling further equipping me to meet the complex needs of the children I will serve. In addition to my professional goals, I also have a personal calling to one day adopt a child internationally from a region where children often lack basic necessities like food, clean water, shelter, and education. I believe that true service means opening your heart and your home. It would bring me immense joy to give a child a second chance at life in a loving and supportive family. I see this not as charity, but as an extension of my faith and a reflection of the love God has shown me.Ultimately, my future plans are centered on service. Whether in a classroom, a counseling room, or my own home, I want to be a vessel of love, support, and guidance. I want to be the person who sees potential in every child, even when others do not. I want to teach them how to believe in themselves, how to manage their emotions, and how to dream beyond their current circumstances. I want to use my education, my faith, and my life experiences to make a real and lasting impact. In conclusion, earning my college degree is not the end goal it is the beginning of a lifelong mission. A scholarship would provide critical support on this journey, allowing me to focus on my education and prepare for a career rooted in compassion, advocacy, and healing. With this support, I am confident that I will achieve my goals, fulfill my calling, and be the difference in the lives of the children who need it most.

On November 13, 2014, my life changed forever. I woke to my brother screaming, “Everyone get up, the house is on fire!” I immediately grabbed my baby cousin and rushed outside. I ran back in to make sure the rest of my family was coming. My mom called out, “I’m coming, baby. Wait outside.” Those were the last words she ever said to me. Moments later, everything went black. I woke up in the hospital confused and disoriented. I didn’t remember much only the fire and then darkness. Surrounded by doctors and family, I was told the unthinkable: my Grandma Margo and four-month-old cousin didn’t survive. My mother had been resuscitated, but was in critical condition in the burn unit. I went to see her. She looked nothing like the vibrant woman I knew. Her long, beautiful hair was gone. Her delicate features were replaced with burns and bandages. My heart broke all over again. Later that night, my family made the heartbreaking decision: if her heart stopped again, we would not resuscitate her. At 6:00 a.m. the next morning, my mother passed away. That experience shattered me. But it also shaped me. When I felt like I couldn’t go on, I received a message from my best friend that changed everything: “Bad things do happen. How I respond to them defines my character and the quality of my life. I can choose to sit in perpetual sadness, immobilized by the gravity of my loss, or I can choose to rise from my pain and treasure the most precious gift I have – life itself.” Those words gave me the strength to stand again. I realized that while I couldn’t control what happened to me, I could choose what I did with my life moving forward. In 2020, I returned to school and earned my Associate’s degree while pregnant and navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. It was far from easy but I pushed through. Today, I’m married with two children and pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in behavioral health. My children are my greatest motivation. I want them to see that no matter how difficult life gets, we can rise above it. I want to be their role model someone who demonstrates resilience, compassion, and purpose. My long-term goal is to work with children who have experienced trauma or adversity. I want to help them navigate their pain and find hope and healing. I know what it feels like to carry heavy grief at a young age, and I believe that I can turn my pain into purpose by helping others through theirs. Receiving this scholarship would not only support my educational journey it would empower me to continue becoming the person my children and my community need. I am committed to using my education, my experiences, and my heart to make a lasting difference in the lives of others.

My identity is shaped by several important elements my faith, my role as a mother, my experiences with loss, and my cultural and educational journey. Each of these has shaped how I view the world and helped define my purpose within it. I don’t just see the world as it is; I see it through the lens of hope, resilience, and the belief that every person has value and potential, no matter their circumstances. As a Christian, my faith is the foundation of who I am. It influences how I view others with compassion and a desire to serve. I believe that every person is made in the image of God and is worthy of love and respect Being a mother has also deeply shaped my identity. My children are my greatest blessings and my greatest motivation. They have taught me to lead by example, to persevere even when things are hard, and to always seek growth for their sake and mine. Motherhood has given me a new lens through which I view the world. I see injustice more clearly, and I feel the pain of others more deeply because I think of my children and what I want for their future. I strive to be a role model for them and for other young people, showing that it is never too late to pursue your dreams or to rise above difficult circumstances.

November 13, 2014 I was awoken by my brother yelling for everyone to get up, our house is on fire, I woke up at once, grabbed my cousin and brought her outside. I reentered my house to see if the rest of the family were coming. My mom said “I’m coming baby wait outside” then like a ghost in the night everything went black and those were the last words my mom ever spoke to me. As I awakened in the hospital I was so confused I didn't know what was going on. The last thing I remember was the house and everything going black. The rest was just a blur to me. As the doctors and family members crowd around me in a room. One of the doctors said she had some very bad news. As I tense up expecting the worst. The doctors then tell me that my Grandma Margo and my 4-month-old baby cousin didn’t make it out of the fire alive, your mother isn’t doing well but we have her heart back pumping and she’s in the burn unit. As I made my way up the stairs with the doctor’s assistance I went to see my mom as I looked at her, she looked so different. All her long pretty hair was gone, her pretty little feet weren’t little and pretty she just wasn’t my mom I didn’t know who that was. When I came out of the room my Aunt Shavon brought me to a family room in the hospital. My sister, brother and step dad were there. We decided to take my mom off of life support the next time her heart stopped beating. It was a very difficult choice for all of us, but we had to do what was best. 6:00 am the next morning my mom left this world. Then I got this powerful text from my best friend. This text saved my life and made me keep going. “Bad things do happen, how I respond to them defines my character and the Quality Of my life. I can choose to sit in perpetual sadness, immobilized by the gravity of my loss, Or I can choose to rise from my pain and treasure the most precious gift I have – Life itself. Going back to college after you have been out of school for a few years, I last attended in 2020 where I received my Associates degree. I was pregnant at the time and Covid had just started and jiggling all of this was a lot harder than you think but I pushed through. Now having two children, and being married, I’m finally pursuing a Bachelor's degree. I would have to say that my children are my motivation behind this choice. I am their role model and example and I aim to be the best one possible. My plan for the future is to help young children who are in difficult situations find a way to pass their struggle so that they can have a brighter, successful future.

My Christian faith has profoundly shaped my leadership style, grounding it in the values of humility, service, compassion, and perseverance. I believe true leadership is not about titles or authority.it is about serving others, meeting people where they are, and helping them grow into who God has called them to be. Jesus Christ modeled the perfect example of servant leadership, and I strive to follow that example in both my personal and professional life. One of the most significant ways my faith has influenced my leadership is by teaching me to lead with empathy and resilience. During my junior year of high school, I experienced unimaginable loss. A house fire took the lives of my mother, grandmother, and cousin. It was one of the darkest times of my life. I questioned everything and felt overwhelmed by grief. However, it was my faith that carried me through that storm. I clung to God’s promises and found strength in prayer, scripture, and the support of my church community. In that season of pain, I began to understand what it truly means to lead through faith. Even in my sorrow, I felt called to be a light for others. I started to open up about my experiences, sharing my story with classmates and younger students who were struggling with their own hardships. I didn’t have all the answers, but I offered them hope, prayer, and encouragement. Many of them told me they felt seen and understood for the first time. That was when I realized that faith-based leadership isn’t about perfection; it’s about showing up with authenticity, compassion, and the willingness to walk beside others in their trials. This experience planted the seed for my future vision. I feel called to work with children who are facing difficult circumstances whether it's poverty, loss, trauma, or instability at home. I know firsthand how important it is to have someone who believes in you, encourages you, and reminds you that your story isn’t over. Through God’s grace, I survived what could have broken me, and now I want to use that experience to serve others. In every leadership role I’ve held since then whether in church, school, or within my family my faith continues to guide my actions. I lead with a heart of service, I listen more than I speak, and I pray before making decisions. I strive to reflect Christ’s love in all that I do. My ultimate goal is to create environments especially in education where children feel safe, valued, and empowered to dream beyond their circumstances. As I continue my education and prepare for a future in behavioral health or education, I know my leadership will always be rooted in faith. It’s not just something I believe in it’s how I live, lead, and hope to make a lasting impact on the lives of others.

To be a purposeful, responsible, and productive community member means actively contributing to the well-being of others while staying grounded in values, integrity, and service. These qualities go beyond individual success they speak to how we use our talents, time, and experiences to uplift those around us and create meaningful change. For me, living with purpose means aligning my goals with a greater mission; being responsible means staying accountable to my commitments and community; and being productive means using my energy not just to grow personally, but to empower others as well. Purpose has guided much of my journey. As a first-generation college student, wife, and mother of two, I’ve had to overcome challenges that required resilience and vision. My purpose is rooted in helping others, particularly women and children who, like me, may be navigating systems that weren’t built with them in mind. I want to create safe, encouraging spaces for people who are striving to improve their lives despite barriers. This sense of purpose pushes me to continue my education and pursue a career in behavioral health, where I can support children experiencing emotional or mental health challenges and help their families build stronger, more stable futures. Responsibility is something I’ve carried since becoming a young mother. It means showing up even when things are hard and keeping promises to myself and others. In school, I hold myself accountable by maintaining strong academic performance while balancing parenting and work. In my community, I take responsibility by mentoring other women returning to school, sharing resources, and volunteering through church outreach efforts that serve local families. I know that my actions influence others, especially my children, and I take that responsibility seriously. Productivity isn’t just about being busy it’s about being effective and intentional. I strive to make the most of my time by setting goals, staying organized, and helping others move forward too. Whether I’m helping someone draft a college application, tutoring a child, or organizing a supply drive, I focus on creating outcomes that matter. My goal is to bring that same energy into my career in behavioral health, where I plan to design support systems that help children not just survive, but thrive. In the future, I plan to continue embodying these values by remaining involved in community advocacy, expanding my work with underserved families, and eventually starting a nonprofit focused on empowering mothers and children through education and mental health services. I also hope to adopt a child internationally an act that reflects my long-term commitment to giving a child a loving, supportive home. Ultimately, I believe that being a purposeful, responsible, and productive community member starts with empathy and continues with action. I am committed to living those values daily, knowing that even small efforts can create ripple effects in the lives of others.

November 13, 2014 I was awoken by my brother yelling for everyone to get up, our house is on fire, I woke up at once, grabbed my cousin and brought her outside. I reentered my house to see if the rest of the family were coming. My mom said “I’m coming baby wait outside” then like a ghost in the night everything went black and those were the last words my mom ever spoke to me. As I awakened in the hospital I was so confused I didn't know what was going on. The last thing I remember was the house and everything going black. The rest was just a blur to me. As the doctors and family members crowd around me in a room. One of the doctors said she had some very bad news. As I tense up expecting the worst. The doctors then tell me that my Grandma Margo and my 4-month-old baby cousin didn’t make it out of the fire alive, your mother isn’t doing well but we have her heart back pumping and she’s in the burn unit. As I made my way up the stairs with the doctor’s assistance I went to see my mom as I looked at her, she looked so different. All her long pretty hair was gone, her pretty little feet weren’t little and pretty she just wasn’t my mom I didn’t know who that was. When I came out of the room my Aunt Shavon brought me to a family room in the hospital. My sister, brother and step dad were there. We decided to take my mom off of life support the next time her heart stopped beating. It was a very difficult choice for all of us, but we had to do what was best. 6:00 am the next morning my mom left this world. Then I got this powerful text from my best friend. This text saved my life and made me keep going. “Bad things do happen, how I respond to them defines my character and the Quality Of my life. I can choose to sit in perpetual sadness, immobilized by the gravity of my loss, Or I can choose to rise from my pain and treasure the most precious gift I have – Life itself. Returning to college after a few years away from academia has been quite a journey for me. The last time I was in school was in 2020 when I earned my Associate's degree. At that time, I was pregnant, and the onset of Covid made juggling everything much more challenging than one might expect. Nevertheless, I persevered. Looking ahead, my goal is to assist young children who find themselves in challenging circumstances, helping them navigate their struggles so they can achieve a brighter and more successful future. For many kids, school is often their only refuge, especially when they face difficulties at home. I want to instill a sense of excitement about learning and attending school in them.

“It is not what you do for your children, but what you have taught them to do for themselves that will make them successful human beings (Landers).” When you see police officers, doctors, lawyers and even the president they all started off in a classroom and I know there was at least one or two teachers that gave them that push or confidence that got them to where they are now. I truly believe that my calling has always been to teach, I have the desire to make a difference inside the classroom and outside the classroom as well. I know becoming a teacher has a lot of negatives but the positives outweighs the negatives and there’s nothing more rewarding than having a classroom full of students that’s looking for you to fill their heads with knowledge. I personally believe in the idea of no child left behind because I'll push my students to their highest potential, additionally I understand that it takes some children longer than others to get certain things but I'm willing to spend more time with those students to fully grasp the subject. Furthermore, actually getting to know your students inside of the classroom as well as outside because children look to their teacher for stability and comfort. Returning to college after a few years away from academia has been quite a journey for me. The last time I was in school was in 2020 when I earned my Associate's degree. At that time, I was pregnant, and the onset of Covid made juggling everything much more challenging than one might expect. Nevertheless, I persevered. Now, as a mother of two and a married woman, I am finally taking the step to pursue a Bachelor's degree. My children serve as my primary motivation for this decision. I strive to be a role model for them, aiming to set the best example possible. I want my kids to recognize the endless possibilities that come from hard work and dedication. Additionally, I made the choice to return to school for my own personal growth, despite my initial fears about how I would manage it all. Deep down, I knew it was the right path for me. Looking ahead, my goal is to assist young children who find themselves in challenging circumstances, helping them navigate their struggles so they can achieve a brighter and more successful future. For many kids, school is often their only refuge, especially when they face difficulties at home. I want to instill a sense of excitement about learning and attending school in them. My family has been a significant source of inspiration for me. During my junior year of high school, I experienced the tragic loss of my mother, grandmother, and cousin in a devastating house fire. I am incredibly grateful to still be here, as such experiences teach you to cherish life even more. My mother always told me, “You’re going to be an inspiration in somebody’s life.” I can think of no greater inspiration than helping children in need.

Returning to college after several years away from academia has deepened my understanding of what it means to support and uplift others especially exceptional women striving to change their lives and their communities. As a first-generation college student, a wife, and a mother of two, I know the value of encouragement and advocacy, because I’ve needed it and I’ve made it my mission to offer that same support to others. While earning my Associate's degree in 2020, I was pregnant and navigating the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. It was a challenging time, but I persevered. That experience taught me how powerful support can be, especially for women balancing family, education, and financial hardship. Since then, I’ve been committed to encouraging other women in similar situations, including fellow mothers returning to school, by sharing resources, emotional support, and strategies for staying focused under pressure. Whether it’s helping someone draft a college application or simply listening without judgment, I strive to be the kind of supporter I once needed. My greatest motivation comes from my children and the memory of my late mother, who always told me, “You’re going to be an inspiration in somebody’s life.” I carry that message with me as I work toward a career helping children in need many of whom come from homes where education is their only safe space. I want to show young girls, including my own daughter, that with perseverance and support, they can become game changers in their own right. Looking ahead, I also hope to adopt a child internationally and provide them with the safety, love, and education every child deserves. Supporting the next generation of women and children requires not only compassion but action, and I’m committed to living out those values every day. Currently, my financial resources are limited. My family depends primarily on my husband’s income, which must stretch to cover our living expenses, childcare, and other essential needs. Although I receive some federal financial aid, it does not fully cover tuition, books, transportation, and other associated costs of attending college. These gaps often create stress and uncertainty, and they can become real barriers to my continued enrollment. This scholarship would not only ease the financial burden on my family, but it would also allow me to focus more fully on my studies and on preparing for a career that will let me give back to children and families in need. It would be an investment in my future and in the futures of the students I plan to serve. With this support, I could continue setting a strong example for my children and for others in my community who dream of transforming their lives through education.

November 13, 2014 I was awoken by my brother yelling for everyone to get up, our house is on fire, I woke up at once, grabbed my cousin and brought her outside. I reentered my house to see if the rest of the family were coming. My mom said “I’m coming baby wait outside” then like a ghost in the night everything went black and those were the last words my mom ever spoke to me. As I awakened in the hospital I was so confused I didn't know what was going on. The last thing I remember was the house and everything going black. The rest was just a blur to me. As the doctors and family members crowd around me in a room. One of the doctors said she had some very bad news. As I tense up expecting the worst. The doctors then tell me that my Grandma Margo and my 4-month-old baby cousin didn’t make it out of the fire alive, your mother isn’t doing well but we have her heart back pumping and she’s in the burn unit. As I made my way up the stairs with the doctor’s assistance I went to see my mom as I looked at her, she looked so different. All her long pretty hair was gone, her pretty little feet weren’t little and pretty she just wasn’t my mom I didn’t know who that was. When I came out of the room my Aunt Shavon brought me to a family room in the hospital. My sister, brother and step dad were there. We decided to take my mom off of life support the next time her heart stopped beating. It was a very difficult choice for all of us, but we had to do what was best. 6:00 am the next morning my mom left this world. Then I got this powerful text from my best friend. This text saved my life and made me keep going. “Bad things do happen, how I respond to them defines my character and the Quality Of my life. I can choose to sit in perpetual sadness, immobilized by the gravity of my loss, Or I can choose to rise from my pain and treasure the most precious gift I have – Life itself. Going back to college after you have been out of school for a few years, I last attended in 2020 where I received my Associates degree. I was pregnant at the time and Covid had just started and jiggling all of this was a lot harder than you think but I pushed through. Now having two children, and being married, I’m finally pursuing a Bachelor's degree. I would have to say that my children are my motivation behind this choice. I am their role model and example and I aim to be the best one possible. My plan for the future is to help young children who are in difficult situations find a way to pass their struggle so that they can have a brighter, successful future.

November 13, 2014 I was awoken by my brother yelling for everyone to get up, our house is on fire, I woke up at once, grabbed my cousin and brought her outside. I reentered my house to see if the rest of the family were coming. My mom said “I’m coming baby wait outside” then like a ghost in the night everything went black and those were the last words my mom ever spoke to me. As I awakened in the hospital I was so confused I didn't know what was going on. The last thing I remember was the house and everything going black. The rest was just a blur to me. As the doctors and family members crowd around me in a room. One of the doctors said she had some very bad news. As I tense up expecting the worst. The doctors then tell me that my Grandma Margo and my 4-month-old baby cousin didn’t make it out of the fire alive, your mother isn’t doing well but we have her heart back pumping and she’s in the burn unit. As I made my way up the stairs with the doctor’s assistance I went to see my mom as I looked at her, she looked so different. All her long pretty hair was gone, her pretty little feet weren’t little and pretty she just wasn’t my mom I didn’t know who that was. When I came out of the room my Aunt Shavon brought me to a family room in the hospital. My sister, brother and step dad were there. We decided to take my mom off of life support the next time her heart stopped beating. It was a very difficult choice for all of us, but we had to do what was best. 6:00 am the next morning my mom left this world. Then I got this powerful text from my best friend. This text saved my life and made me keep going. “Bad things do happen, how I respond to them defines my character and the Quality Of my life. I can choose to sit in perpetual sadness, immobilized by the gravity of my loss, Or I can choose to rise from my pain and treasure the most precious gift I have – Life itself. Going back to college after you have been out of school for a few years, I last attended in 2020 where I received my Associates degree. I was pregnant at the time and Covid had just started and jiggling all of this was a lot harder than you think but I pushed through. Now having two children, and being married, I’m finally pursuing a Bachelor's degree. I would have to say that my children are my motivation behind this choice. I am their role model and example and I aim to be the best one possible. My plan for the future is to help young children who are in difficult situations find a way to pass their struggle so that they can have a brighter, successful future.

My goal is to make a lasting, positive impact on the world by supporting vulnerable children and empowering the women who care for them. Through my educational journey and future career in behavioral health, I plan to work with children facing trauma, poverty, and instability many of whom live in environments where school is their only source of safety and consistency. I believe every child deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported, and I want to be the kind of professional who helps them access the emotional tools, guidance, and encouragement they need to thrive. I am currently working toward a degree that will allow me to become a behavioral health paraprofessional. Long-term, I hope to work in schools or community organizations where I can provide one-on-one support to children struggling with behavioral or emotional challenges. I also want to help bridge the gap between families and schools by offering culturally sensitive, trauma-informed care that addresses not only the child’s needs but the needs of their caregivers. I believe that when we support and uplift families especially mothers we create healthier, more resilient communities. My drive to make a difference is deeply personal. As a mother of two, a first-generation college student, and someone who returned to school while pregnant during the COVID-19 pandemic, I understand how difficult it can be to balance family life, financial stress, and academic goals. I’ve leaned on the support of others to get through those hard times, and now, I’m passionate about being that source of support for someone else. Whether it’s guiding a peer through a college application or sharing resources with another parent who wants to go back to school, I view my journey not just as personal growth, but as preparation to serve others with compassion and empathy. In terms of experience, I’ve volunteered with church-based outreach programs that focus on youth mentorship and family support. I’ve helped organize community events for children, such as back-to-school drives, holiday toy giveaways, and parenting workshops. These opportunities allowed me to connect with families from diverse backgrounds and understand the complex challenges they face from food insecurity to lack of mental health resources. I’ve also spent time working informally with children in my community, often stepping in to provide homework help, emotional support, or simply a safe space to talk. Looking ahead, I also hope to adopt a child internationally offering a home filled with love, stability, and opportunity. For me, making a positive impact is not just a career goal, but a lifelong mission rooted in service, compassion, and action. Through education, advocacy, and direct care, I am committed to helping children and families feel empowered, valued, and capable of building a better future.

Returning to college after a few years away from academia has been quite a journey for me. The last time I was in school was in 2020 when I earned my Associate's degree. At that time, I was pregnant, and the onset of Covid made juggling everything much more challenging than one might expect. Nevertheless, I persevered. Now, as a mother of two and a married woman, I am finally taking the step to pursue a Bachelor's degree. My children serve as my primary motivation for this decision. I strive to be a role model for them, aiming to set the best example possible. I want my kids to recognize the endless possibilities that come from hard work and dedication. Additionally, I made the choice to return to school for my own personal growth, despite my initial fears about how I would manage it all. Deep down, I knew it was the right path for me. Looking ahead, my goal is to assist young children who find themselves in challenging circumstances, helping them navigate their struggles so they can achieve a brighter and more successful future. For many kids, school is often their only refuge, especially when they face difficulties at home. I want to instill a sense of excitement about learning and attending school in them. My family has been a significant source of inspiration for me. During my junior year of high school, I experienced the tragic loss of my mother, grandmother, and cousin in a devastating house fire. I am incredibly grateful to still be here, as such experiences teach you to cherish life even more. My mother always told me, “You’re going to be an inspiration in somebody’s life.” I can think of no greater inspiration than helping children in need. I also have plans to adopt a child internationally from a region where children often lack basic necessities like a safe home, clean water, food, and clothing. There would be nothing more fulfilling than knowing I have made a positive impact on someone else's life. I believe in the transformative power of education and the importance of empowering the next generation to make a difference in the world. I understand that my aspirations and dreams hinge on my commitment to returning to college and completing my degree in education. That’s why I am dedicated to staying focused on my studies, ensuring that my dreams can become a reality.

My goal is to make a lasting, positive impact on the world by supporting vulnerable children and empowering the women who care for them. Through my educational journey and future career in behavioral health, I plan to work with children facing trauma, poverty, and instability many of whom live in environments where school is their only source of safety and consistency. I believe every child deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported, and I want to be the kind of professional who helps them access the emotional tools, guidance, and encouragement they need to thrive. I am currently working toward a degree that will allow me to become a behavioral health paraprofessional. Long-term, I hope to work in schools or community organizations where I can provide one-on-one support to children struggling with behavioral or emotional challenges. I also want to help bridge the gap between families and schools by offering culturally sensitive, trauma-informed care that addresses not only the child’s needs but the needs of their caregivers. I believe that when we support and uplift families especially mothers we create healthier, more resilient communities. My drive to make a difference is deeply personal. As a mother of two, a first-generation college student, and someone who returned to school while pregnant during the COVID-19 pandemic, I understand how difficult it can be to balance family life, financial stress, and academic goals. I’ve leaned on the support of others to get through those hard times, and now, I’m passionate about being that source of support for someone else. Whether it’s guiding a peer through a college application or sharing resources with another parent who wants to go back to school, I view my journey not just as personal growth, but as preparation to serve others with compassion and empathy. In terms of experience, I’ve volunteered with church-based outreach programs that focus on youth mentorship and family support. I’ve helped organize community events for children, such as back-to-school drives, holiday toy giveaways, and parenting workshops. These opportunities allowed me to connect with families from diverse backgrounds and understand the complex challenges they face from food insecurity to lack of mental health resources. I’ve also spent time working informally with children in my community, often stepping in to provide homework help, emotional support, or simply a safe space to talk. Looking ahead, I also hope to adopt a child internationally offering a home filled with love, stability, and opportunity. For me, making a positive impact is not just a career goal, but a lifelong mission rooted in service, compassion, and action. Through education, advocacy, and direct care, I am committed to helping children and families feel empowered, valued, and capable of building a better future.

What makes me different is not just my identity as a first-generation college student, a wife, and a mother of two but the journey I’ve walked to get here. Returning to college after several years away from academia wasn’t easy, especially while pregnant during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. That experience taught me about grit, grace, and the power of perseverance. It also opened my eyes to the silent strength so many women carry as they balance education, family, and financial challenges all while trying to build a better future for themselves and their children. What makes me unique is my knack for connecting with and supporting women who are on a similar journey. I totally get what it’s like to doubt yourself, wonder if you can handle everything, and feel alone in those tough moments. That’s why I always try to show up not just for myself, but for others too. Whether it’s helping someone with their college application, chatting about balancing school and life, or just being a friendly ear, I aim to be the person I needed back then. I love sharing resources, offering encouragement, and providing real strategies that helped me stay focused when things got tough, because sometimes, even the smallest gesture can make a huge difference. Even when I don’t realize it, I know someone is always watching whether it’s my children, fellow classmates, or a woman silently questioning whether she, too, is capable of doing something extraordinary. My late mother used to tell me, “You’re going to be an inspiration in somebody’s life,” and I carry that with me in everything I do. It reminds me that leadership isn’t always loud. Sometimes, it’s simply living with purpose, compassion, and integrity. My ultimate goal is to work with children who need safe, supportive environments to thrive, especially those for whom school may be their only refuge. I also hope to adopt internationally one day, providing a child with the stability and love every child deserves. I want my daughter to grow up seeing that strength isn’t about being perfect it’s about being present, persistent, and willing to use your story to light the way for someone else. I leverage my distinct attributes to create a meaningful difference by living purposefully, providing steadfast support to others, and continually working to be the person that someone may quietly turn to in moments of need or doubt.