In 2008 I was a 21-year-old undergraduate student pursuing a degree in English, with a goal to go on to graduate school and become a librarian. I worked part-time as a library clerk and lived at home with my parents and younger brother. My whole life was upended when my mom became ill in June 2009. She was quickly diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and had surgery to try and remove the tumor, but it had spread beyond what the doctors had initially thought. She immediately started chemo and radiation, but the cancer was too strong. The doctors began discussing options for hospice with us. Before this, I had no experience with serious illness but knew what hospice meant. The idea that my mom would soon be in heaven was beyond anything I could comprehend. It felt like a fever dream, and this could not possibly happen to us. She entered hospice on April 8, 2009, and passed on April 10, 2009. After her death, I took a week off school and work and dutifully resumed my normal life. I did not tell any of my professors about my mother, partly because I did not want pity and partly because I was still in shock. I continued attending classes the rest of the semester and barely passed my classes. I enrolled in the following two semesters but rarely attended class, failing many quizzes and tests. My final grades were often D’s and F’s. I did not know it then, but I fell into a depression. I did not see the point in continuing my education and was not motivated to do so. I decided to drop out. Deep down, I knew this was the wrong decision, but I felt that I had no other choice and thought I would go back one day, sometime in the future. I spent a long time believing that my mom was disappointed in me for not finishing college. She never went to college, and I felt I had failed her. Anyone looking at me would never know I felt so ashamed, but it was a huge regret of mine. My mom was always in my heart, but it was too painful to think about her and how I let her down. I continued to float like this until one rainy Saturday in February 2021. I was working with a co-worker who mentioned that her son had just finished his associate's degree by attending a free college that our union had provided as a benefit. I had heard a little about this but had wrongly assumed it was only for students who had yet to gain undergraduate experience. It turns out that any member of the union and their immediate family could attend community college or a four-year university in Ohio, completely free and asynchronous. I applied that very same day and began in late May 2021. Because of this huge blessing, I slowly regained my confidence and began to believe that I could finish college and that it was within my reach. I graduated summa cum laude in December 2022. I am proud to say that I am starting my master's program in library science at SUNY Buffalo this August. I know now my mom has been with me the whole time, cheering me on, and as a mom myself, I now see that she was never disappointed in me.

Balancing the responsibilities of being a student and a single parent to my two sons is an extraordinary challenge that requires immense dedication and perseverance. Navigating the journey of pursuing higher education while shouldering the responsibilities of raising two children poses unique and demanding obstacles. In this essay, I will explore the specific difficulties I face as I undertake these dual roles. Additionally, I will discuss how receiving a scholarship can significantly impact not only my future but also that of my two sons. One of the most formidable challenges I face as a student-parent is the art of time management. Dividing limited time and energy between academic commitments and the constant demands of caring for two children can be overwhelming. I must skillfully balance attending classes, completing assignments, and meeting the individual needs of each son. Effective time management becomes crucial to ensure progress in both my studies and parenting responsibilities. Financial strain is another significant obstacle that I encounter as a student-parent. Balancing the cost of tuition, textbooks, and living expenses while supporting a family on a single income can be immensely challenging. The financial pressure often leads to additional stress and may require me to work longer hours or take on multiple jobs, further reducing the time available for studying and parenting. Scholarships can provide critical financial relief, allowing me to provide for my two sons' needs and invest more time and energy into my education. Maintaining my emotional and psychological well-being can be exceptionally challenging as well. The constant demands of academic and parenting responsibilities, coupled with the unique dynamics and needs of each child, can lead to feelings of exhaustion, stress, and guilt. The emotional toll of juggling multiple roles and ensuring the well-being of my two sons can often be overwhelming. I must seek support networks, prioritize self-care, and develop strategies to effectively manage my emotions. Scholarships not only alleviate financial burdens but also provide a sense of validation and recognition for my determination. This boost in self-esteem can contribute to improved emotional well-being, empowering me to navigate my dual roles with greater confidence and resilience for the sake of my children. Receiving a scholarship offers invaluable support and catalyzes positive change in the lives of students like myself. Scholarships alleviate financial burdens by providing essential financial aid, enabling me to focus more on my education and the well-being of my two sons. By reducing the need to work extensive hours or take on multiple jobs, scholarships free up time for me to study, engage in extracurricular activities and spend quality time with my children individually. Moreover, scholarships offer access to educational resources and opportunities that may otherwise be inaccessible. They may provide funds for textbooks, educational materials, and networking events, opening doors to a wider range of experiences and enhancing the educational journey for me and my family. For my two sons, a scholarship has a transformative impact on their future. It sets an example of the value of education, inspiring them to pursue their own academic goals. Additionally, with the financial burden alleviated, I can provide better support and resources for their education, ensuring their success and opening doors to a brighter future. Being a student and a single parent simultaneously is an extraordinary feat that presents numerous challenges. However, with the support of scholarships, these challenges can be overcome. Scholarships provide financial relief, recognition, and enhanced educational opportunities, enabling me to pave a brighter future not only for myself but also for my two sons. Through my determination and the assistance of scholarships, I can break the cycle of limited opportunities and create a path toward a successful and fulfilling life for myself and a promising future for my children.

As a single mom, I understand my profound influence on my children's lives. Through my journey of self-improvement and unwavering determination, I have the opportunity to provide a shining example that will shape their character and inspire their future endeavors. In this essay, I will explore how my commitment to personal growth and resilience as a single mother demonstrates to my children the importance of self-improvement and determination. I firmly believe in the value of personal growth and continuous learning. I am dedicated to expanding my knowledge, honing my skills, and embracing new experiences. By pursuing education, attending workshops, and reading books, I demonstrate to my children the transformative power of self-improvement. They witness my enthusiasm for learning firsthand and understand that growth is a lifelong journey. My commitment to personal growth instills in them the belief that they too can achieve their dreams through dedication and continuous improvement. I encourage them to explore their interests, set goals, and invest in their development. Single parenthood presents its share of challenges, from financial constraints to emotional hardships. However, I am determined to face these obstacles head-on with resilience and unwavering determination. My children observe how I handle adversity, witnessing my ability to stay positive and proactive in the face of difficulties. Through my example, I teach them the invaluable life lesson that setbacks are temporary and can be overcome with determination and a strong spirit. I encourage them to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and to never give up in the pursuit of their dreams. By demonstrating resilience, I empower them to develop their resilience and perseverance. As a working mother, I have multiple responsibilities that require careful balancing and effective prioritization. I understand the importance of managing my time and resources wisely. My children see firsthand how I handle work, household duties, and quality time with them. I show them the value of hard work and dedication by making sacrifices and setting clear priorities. I teach them the importance of being organized, disciplined, and resilient in the face of demanding circumstances. Through my example, they learn to navigate their responsibilities and cultivate a strong work ethic. They witness the rewards that come from determination and understand that success requires sacrifice and commitment. I am committed to painting a powerful example for my children through self-improvement and unwavering determination. By nurturing my personal growth, overcoming challenges with resilience, and balancing responsibilities, I inspire my children to embrace self-improvement, face adversity with courage, and prioritize their goals. Through my journey, I empower them to become resilient individuals who believe in their abilities and are determined to achieve greatness. My unwavering commitment to self-improvement and determination will leave a lasting impact on their lives.