“We mothers stand still so our daughters can look back to see how far they have come,” is a quote from the 2023 movie Barbie that resonated deeply with me. Being raised by a single mother was both challenging and rewarding. My mother’s unwavering determination and love served as an invaluable foundation for my character and worldview. One of the most significant lessons I learned from watching my mother was the importance of independence and self-reliance. As the sole provider for our household, I watched her work long hours to make ends meet, instilling a sense of responsibility from a young age. Eager to alleviate some of the financial burdens from her shoulders, I began working as soon as I could, all while maintaining my grades in high school to remain on the honor roll and being involved with theater and volleyball. Through this experience, I learned the value of hard work as well as the satisfaction that came with completing tasks independently. I learned to face challenges head-on and embrace them as opportunities for personal growth. Being raised by a single mother also meant our bond was exceptionally strong. We relied on each other for emotional support, and my mother became my most trusted confidant. This closeness enabled me to develop strong communication skills. She taught me to empathize with others, fostering my ability to connect with people on a deeper level. Above all, my mother’s love and unwavering resolve helped me develop a strong sense of self-worth and a belief in the power of compassion. My mother’s love for me propelled her to support my dreams and aspirations relentlessly. And now, my goal is to return to her the gift she gave to me: freedom to fulfill her own dreams. I aspire to instill this freedom in the next generation, as well. Regardless of the hardships one faces, I believe that with hard work and determination, even the most unconventional dreams can come true. Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Game Design at Georgia State University, I envision using my education to establish a non-profit organization focused on introducing tabletop role-playing games to underserved high schools, much like the environment I grew up in. Through these games, young minds can revel in the joy of crafting characters, building worlds, and fostering a sense of community. Beyond the element of fun, these games also cultivate creativity, improvisation, and critical thinking skills, invaluable assets that translate to success in the workforce and in life. These same traits, I am grateful to my mother for teaching me. Reflecting on my upbringing and the values my mother instilled in me, I am motivated to make a positive impact on the lives of others, just as she did in mine. I want to be a guiding force for the next generation, especially those who may be facing challenges similar to those I encountered growing up. I believe that every individual deserves the opportunity to dream big and work hard to turn those dreams into reality.