My experience with mental health, particularly as a mother of an autistic child, has profoundly shaped my goals, relationships, and understanding of the world. The journey to support my son through his unique challenges has not only strengthened my resilience but also deepened my empathy and compassion for others who face similar struggles. Raising a child with autism requires an extraordinary level of patience, understanding, and dedication. I quickly realized that I needed to learn as much as possible about his condition so that I could teach him in a way that resonated with him. This process involved educating myself on various learning strategies, therapies, and support systems that could aid his development. I immersed myself in research, attended workshops, and connected with other parents who were going through similar experiences. Through this, I became not only my son’s advocate but also a more informed and compassionate individual. This experience has shaped my goals in significant ways. My primary goal has always been to ensure that my son has the tools and support he needs to thrive, both academically and socially. But beyond that, it has motivated me to advocate for greater awareness and understanding of mental health issues, especially in educational settings. I’ve seen firsthand how early intervention and the right support can make a world of difference for children with special needs, and I am passionate about promoting these resources to benefit other families. My relationships have also been deeply impacted by this journey. I’ve learned the importance of building a strong support network, not just for my son, but for myself as well. Over the years, I’ve developed close bonds with other parents, educators, and mental health professionals who have supported us along the way. These relationships have been invaluable, providing me with the emotional support and practical advice needed to navigate the challenges we faced. Moreover, my understanding of empathy and patience has deepened, allowing me to be more present and supportive in all my relationships. My understanding of the world has also evolved through this experience. I’ve become more aware of the diversity in how people think, learn, and interact with the world around them. This has made me more accepting and open-minded, recognizing that everyone has their own unique challenges and strengths. I’ve also come to appreciate the importance of mental health and the need for greater resources and support for those who struggle. The world can be a challenging place for individuals with mental health issues, and my experience has made me more committed to advocating for change. In conclusion, my experience with mental health, particularly in raising and advocating for my autistic son, has profoundly shaped who I am today. It has influenced my goals, strengthened my relationships, and expanded my understanding of the world. I am more determined than ever to continue advocating for mental health awareness and support, both for my son and for others who face similar challenges. This journey has taught me the power of resilience, empathy, and the importance of being a voice for those who need it most.

Throughout my life, I have always been the person who is there for others, offering a listening ear whenever someone needs to talk. My natural inclination to help others has led me to be a source of comfort and support for those around me, even during times when I was facing my own struggles. One particular instance that stands out is when a close friend of mine was going through a very difficult time, and I was able to provide the support she needed, which had a profound impact on both of our lives. A few years ago, one of my closest friends was dealing with a series of personal challenges—family issues, financial stress, and a growing sense of hopelessness. She felt isolated and overwhelmed, and it was clear that she needed someone to talk to, someone who would listen without judgment and offer genuine support. At the time, I was also going through a tough period in my life, juggling my responsibilities as a mother, student, and business owner. Despite my own struggles, I made it a priority to be there for her. I would spend hours on the phone with her, listening as she poured out her heart, expressing her fears and frustrations. I didn’t have all the answers, but I knew that sometimes, what people need most is simply someone who will listen. I would remind her that she wasn’t alone, that I was there for her, and that she had the strength to get through whatever she was facing. Even when I was exhausted from my own challenges, I made sure to be present for her, to check in regularly, and to offer words of encouragement whenever she needed them. Over time, I noticed a change in her. She began to regain her confidence, her outlook on life became more positive, and she started taking steps to improve her situation. She told me how much it meant to her that I had been there, how my support had given her the strength to keep going when she felt like giving up. It was a humbling experience for me, realizing that by simply being there for someone else, I could make such a significant difference in their life. This pattern of kindness—offering a listening ear, providing support even when I was struggling—has had a ripple effect. My friend, inspired by the support she received, began reaching out to others in her life who were going through tough times. She became more empathetic and understanding, offering the same kind of listening ear that had helped her. It created a cycle of kindness and support that extended beyond just the two of us. For me, this experience reinforced the importance of kindness and compassion in our daily lives. It showed me that even when we feel like we have little to give, our presence and our willingness to listen can have a powerful impact on others. It also taught me that kindness doesn’t just benefit the person receiving it; it enriches the giver as well. In helping my friend, I found strength in myself that I didn’t know I had, and it helped me navigate my own struggles with more resilience. In conclusion, the pattern of kindness I have shown throughout my life, particularly in offering a listening ear and support to those who need it, has had a profound and positive impact on others. It has helped people feel less alone in their struggles, given them the strength to overcome challenges, and inspired them to extend the same kindness to others. This experience has deepened my belief in the power of empathy and compassion, and it continues to motivate me to be there for others, no matter what challenges I might be facing myself.

The military holds a deep, personal significance for me, shaped by the experiences of being married to my childhood sweetheart, a Navy veteran. His service has given me a profound respect for those who dedicate their lives to protecting our country. The sacrifices that military families make, and the courage it takes for service members to face the unknown every day, have shown me the true meaning of commitment and bravery. When my husband went on tours, I was often overwhelmed with fear. The uncertainty of not knowing what could happen while he was away was one of the most challenging aspects of being a military spouse. Every goodbye was laced with anxiety, and every moment of waiting felt like an eternity. But it was in these moments of fear that I also found a deeper appreciation for the values that the military upholds—courage, honor, and dedication to something greater than oneself. Protecting our country is not just about defending borders; it’s about safeguarding the freedoms and values that we hold dear. It’s about ensuring that future generations can live in a world where they are free to pursue their dreams, speak their minds, and live without fear. The military embodies this commitment to protection and service, and I’ve seen firsthand the immense personal cost that comes with it. This has made me incredibly grateful for the men and women who put their lives on the line for our safety. What motivates me in life is deeply connected to these experiences. Watching my husband serve our country with such dedication has inspired me to approach my own life with the same level of commitment and purpose. I am motivated by the desire to make a difference, whether it’s through my work, my family, or my community. The values of resilience, perseverance, and service to others are central to who I am and how I live my life. Knowing that my husband and others like him have sacrificed so much motivates me to be strong, even in the face of fear or uncertainty. It pushes me to be a supportive partner, a caring mother, and a dedicated professional. I strive to create a life that honors the sacrifices made by those in the military, by making the most of the freedoms and opportunities that their service has protected. In conclusion, the military and the protection of our country mean everything to me. It represents not only the defense of our nation but also the embodiment of values that are fundamental to a strong and just society. My husband’s service has shaped my understanding of these values and has motivated me to live a life of purpose, resilience, and dedication. I am driven by the desire to honor the sacrifices made by our service members and to contribute in my own way to the world they work so hard to protect.

I haven't lost a parent to cancer, but I did lose my favorite uncle in 2016, and his passing has left a profound impact on my life. My uncle was not just a relative; he was a confidant, a mentor, and someone who truly understood and supported my passion for music. His sense of humor was something I loved most about him—he had a way of making even the most mundane moments feel light and joyous. No matter what was going on in life, he could always make me laugh and see the brighter side of things. Music runs through my veins, and my uncle was my biggest fan. He believed in my talent even when I had doubts. Around the time he passed away, I was promoting my mixtape, and I’ll never forget the time I spent with him in the hospital. Despite his condition, he was still so enthusiastic about the music I was creating. I remember playing him all the songs on the mixtape, and he had a favorite—track number 7, titled "Do What I Wanna Do." That song resonated with him, and his excitement about it is a memory that will stay with me forever. That night, as I played the mixtape for him, was his last good day where he was still coherent and full of life. It was my favorite moment with him because it was our last shared experience, one filled with the music that connected us so deeply. His eyes lit up as he listened to the songs, especially his favorite track, and I could see how much he genuinely enjoyed it. That was a special moment for me because it encapsulated everything our relationship was about—laughter, music, and a deep, mutual appreciation for each other’s presence. His loss has impacted me in many ways. Every time I play that song, "Do What I Wanna Do," I’m instantly transported back to that night in the hospital. It’s bittersweet because while it brings back the pain of losing him, it also reminds me of the joy and connection we shared through music. His passing made me realize how precious time is and how important it is to cherish the moments we have with our loved ones. In the years since his death, I’ve used the memory of his support and love as motivation to keep pursuing my passion for music. I know he would have wanted me to continue making music and doing what I love. His belief in me still drives me to push forward, even when things get tough. I’ve also found that through my music, I can keep his memory alive. Every song I write, every performance I give, I do it with the thought that he’s still out there somewhere, cheering me on. Losing my uncle to cancer has been one of the most difficult experiences of my life, but it’s also shaped me in profound ways. It’s made me more determined, more passionate about my music, and more grateful for the people who are still here with me. His memory lives on in my music, and I will always carry a part of him with me in everything I do.

As a wife, mother, preschool teacher, and student, managing mental health is crucial to balancing my academic performance and personal life. The demands of these roles can be overwhelming at times, and maintaining good mental health is essential for ensuring that I can meet these challenges head-on. My mental health significantly impacts my academic performance. When I am feeling mentally well, I am more focused, motivated, and able to engage deeply with my studies. I can process information more effectively, manage my time better, and stay on top of assignments and deadlines. On the other hand, when my mental health is strained, it becomes harder to concentrate, leading to procrastination and a decline in the quality of my work. Stress and anxiety can make it difficult to retain information, participate in class discussions, or even find the energy to complete my studies. This, in turn, can create a cycle of stress, where falling behind in schoolwork increases anxiety, further impacting my mental well-being. In my personal life, mental health plays a pivotal role in my ability to care for my family and perform my duties as a preschool teacher. When I am mentally well, I am more patient, present, and able to provide the emotional support that my family and students need. However, when my mental health is challenged, I may find myself becoming more irritable, less patient, and struggling to balance the demands of home and work life. This can lead to feelings of guilt and frustration, as I want to be fully available to my loved ones and my students, but find it difficult when my mental health is compromised. To make my mental health a priority, I take several proactive steps. First, I practice self-care by ensuring that I get enough rest, eat nutritious meals, and engage in regular physical activity. These basic health practices are foundational to maintaining mental well-being. I also make time for activities that bring me joy and relaxation, such as spending time with my family, reading, or engaging in hobbies. These moments of relaxation help me recharge and manage stress more effectively. Mindfulness and stress management techniques are also important tools in my mental health toolkit. I practice mindfulness meditation regularly, which helps me stay grounded and present, reducing anxiety and improving my focus. Additionally, I’ve learned to set realistic goals and manage my time effectively to avoid burnout. This means being honest with myself about what I can realistically accomplish and not overcommitting, even when I feel pressured to do so. Another key aspect of maintaining my mental health is seeking support when needed. I reach out to friends, family, or a counselor when I need to talk through challenges or just need a listening ear. Having a support system in place is crucial for navigating the ups and downs of life, especially when juggling so many responsibilities. In conclusion, my mental health is integral to both my academic success and my ability to fulfill my roles as a wife, mother, and preschool teacher. By prioritizing self-care, mindfulness, realistic goal-setting, and seeking support, I am able to maintain my mental well-being, which in turn allows me to perform at my best both in school and in my personal life.

As a wife, mother, business owner, preschool teacher, and student, the five traits of strong leadership and communication skills, resilience, unselfishness, focus, determination, and a strong work ethic are integral to my daily life. These qualities not only help me manage my many responsibilities but also drive me toward achieving my goals. Strong leadership and communication skills are essential in both my business and teaching roles. As a business owner, I lead my team by setting clear expectations, providing guidance, and fostering an environment where open communication is encouraged. This ensures that my business runs smoothly and that my team feels valued and supported. In the classroom, effective communication helps me connect with my students, parents, and colleagues, creating a positive and collaborative learning environment. I believe that good leadership involves not just directing others but also listening, understanding, and adapting to the needs of those around me. Resilience is a trait that I rely on daily, especially when balancing the demands of my multiple roles. There are times when challenges arise, whether in managing the business, dealing with the complexities of family life, or navigating the rigors of academic study. My resilience allows me to stay focused and motivated, even in the face of adversity. I’ve learned to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, knowing that my perseverance will lead to success. Unselfishness is at the heart of everything I do. As a mother and teacher, my days are spent caring for others, ensuring that my children and students have what they need to thrive. In my business, I prioritize the well-being of my team, often putting their needs before my own. This unselfish approach creates a supportive atmosphere where everyone feels valued and appreciated. It also aligns with my belief that true success comes from helping others achieve their potential. Focus and determination are crucial in managing my time and energy effectively. With so many responsibilities, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. However, I stay focused on my goals and remain determined to achieve them, whether it’s expanding my business, excelling in my studies, or being present for my family. My determination pushes me to keep going, even when the path is difficult, and my focus ensures that I make steady progress toward my objectives. A strong work ethic is the foundation of my daily routine. I approach each task with commitment and diligence, whether it’s preparing lessons for my students, managing business operations, or studying for an exam. I believe that success is the result of consistent, hard work and that every effort I make today brings me closer to my future goals. My future goals include continuing to grow my business, advancing in my teaching career, and completing my degree to enhance my professional skills. I am pursuing a degree because I believe that education is key to unlocking new opportunities and achieving my full potential. Leadership, to me, means inspiring and empowering others to reach their goals while also working tirelessly toward my own. It’s about setting an example through hard work, resilience, and a commitment to helping others succeed.

I enrolled in my current program in early childhood education because of my deep passion for working with young children and my desire to positively impact their formative years. As a preschool teacher, I have seen firsthand how crucial these early years are in shaping a child’s cognitive, social, and emotional development. My motivation to pursue formal education in this field stems from my commitment to providing the best possible foundation for young learners and equipping myself with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in this role. One of the primary reasons I enrolled in this program is to deepen my understanding of child development theories and best practices in early childhood education. While my experience in the classroom has provided me with practical insights, I believe that a strong academic foundation will enhance my ability to create and implement effective learning strategies. I am particularly interested in learning more about inclusive education and how to cater to the diverse needs of children, including those with special needs or from different cultural backgrounds. The knowledge and skills I acquire through this program will be used to benefit society in several ways. First, I will be able to apply evidence-based practices in my classroom, ensuring that every child receives the support and guidance they need to thrive. This includes fostering a love for learning, promoting social-emotional development, and preparing children for future academic success. Additionally, I plan to share my knowledge with colleagues and parents, creating a community of learners who are committed to supporting young children’s development. By doing so, I hope to contribute to a society where all children have the opportunity to reach their full potential, regardless of their circumstances. Working while being a college student has been a challenging yet rewarding experience. Balancing my responsibilities as a preschool teacher with my academic commitments has required me to develop strong time management and organizational skills. I have learned to prioritize my tasks efficiently, ensuring that I meet the demands of both my job and my studies. This experience has also taught me the importance of self-discipline and perseverance, as there have been times when I had to sacrifice personal time to stay on top of my assignments and work responsibilities. Despite the challenges, working while studying has provided me with valuable opportunities to apply what I learn in real-time. Concepts and strategies I learn in class can be directly implemented in my teaching, allowing me to see the immediate impact of my education on my students. This practical application reinforces my learning and makes my studies more meaningful and relevant to my career goals. In conclusion, my decision to enroll in this program was driven by my commitment to becoming a more effective and knowledgeable preschool teacher. The knowledge I gain will not only enhance my teaching practice but also contribute to the broader goal of improving early childhood education in society. While balancing work and studies has been challenging, it has also strengthened my resolve and provided me with practical insights that will continue to benefit me and the children I teach.

Being a non-traditional college student while managing the responsibilities of single motherhood and running a hair business has profoundly shaped both my educational experience and my future goals. The journey has been one of immense growth, challenges, and determination, leading to a deeper understanding of what it means to pursue higher education later in life. Balancing my roles as a mother, entrepreneur, and student has required me to develop a high level of discipline and time management skills. Each day is a juggling act, ensuring that my child’s needs are met, my business runs smoothly, and my academic responsibilities are fulfilled. This constant balancing act has not only made me more resilient but also more adaptable. I’ve learned to prioritize tasks efficiently, knowing that my time is limited and valuable. This ability to manage multiple roles simultaneously has spilled over into my academic work, where I approach assignments and projects with a strategic mindset, focusing on quality and relevance. My experience as a non-traditional student has also given me a unique perspective in the classroom. Unlike many traditional students, I bring a wealth of real-world experience to my studies. Running a hair business has taught me about customer service, financial management, and the importance of perseverance. These lessons have been invaluable in my academic work, where I often draw on my business experience to inform discussions and assignments. For example, when studying topics related to business management, marketing, or even psychology, I can apply theoretical concepts directly to my business operations. This practical knowledge has made my education more meaningful and relevant to my life. Moreover, my journey as a non-traditional student has fostered a deep sense of determination and purpose. Returning to school after years in the workforce and raising 3 children has not been easy. There have been moments of doubt, exhaustion, and frustration. However, these challenges have only strengthened my resolve. My desire is to create a better future for my children and to set an example of perseverance and commitment to education. Knowing that the sacrifices I make today will pay off in the long run. Looking forward, my experience as a non-traditional student has significantly influenced my future goals. Initially, my primary focus was on expanding my hair business, but my educational journey has opened my eyes to new possibilities. I have developed a passion for learning and a desire to share my knowledge and experiences with others. This has led me to consider a future in teaching, where I can inspire and mentor other non-traditional students who may also be balancing multiple roles. Additionally, I see the potential to integrate my business experience with my academic knowledge in creative ways. For instance, I could offer workshops or courses on entrepreneurship, specifically tailored for women and single mothers, helping them to navigate the challenges of running a business while pursuing higher education. My ultimate goal is to create a platform that empowers others to achieve their educational and professional dreams, regardless of their circumstances. In conclusion, being a non-traditional college student as a single mother with a hair business has been a transformative experience. It has taught me resilience, adaptability, and the value of education. These lessons have not only enhanced my academic journey but also reshaped my future goals, inspiring me to pursue a path that combines my love for business, education, and helping others. I am excited about the future and the opportunities that lie ahead, knowing that the skills and knowledge I am gaining today will enable me to achieve my dreams and make a positive impact on the lives of others.