What I want to build is a future that breaks cycles. Not just for me, but for the generations that come after me and for the students I will one day teach. I want to build stability where there was once chaos, purpose where there was once confusion, and hope where there was once none. I didn’t grow up with structure or guidance. Both my parents struggled with a drug addiction and instability, and because of that, I spent much of my childhood moving from home to home. I was a ward of the state, bouncing between relatives and family friends, constantly starting over. I went to multiple elementary and middle schools, and never really had a place that felt safe or consistent. But one thing remained constant was my love for school. School became my safe space. My teachers became my role models. They were the ones who saw potential in me before I ever could. Now, I’m working toward becoming a teacher myself. What I want to build isn’t just a classroom but a safe space, just like the ones that saved me. I want to build an environment where students feel seen and heard, especially the ones going through hard things at home like I did. I want to be a person who encourages dreams, builds confidence, and reminds kids that where they come from doesn’t have to define where they’re going. Building my future also means building my personal stability emotional, financial, and mental. I’m working hard to build credit, earn my degree, and prepare for the day I have a family of my own. I want to build a home that feels like safety, warmth, and love, because I know what it’s like to live without those things. This dream is bigger than me. By becoming a teacher, I hope to change lives the way mine was changed. I want to show my students that they matter, even if no one else tells them that at home. I want to build a ripple effect of kindness, strength, and belief in myself and in others,

Every day, I do my best to live with integrity. The five traits listed leadership, resilience, unselfishness, focus, and a strong work ethic are not just qualities I admire, but are traits I’ve had to build through experience. My life hasn’t been the easiest, but it’s taught me the value of each one of these quantiles. Leadership and communication show up in how I carry myself in difficult situations. I didn’t grow up with stability or strong role models. My parents struggled with a drug addiction, and I was placed in different homes throughout my childhood. Because of that, I learned early how to speak up for myself, make decisions, and take responsibility for my own life when no one else would. For me, leadership means being someone others can rely on, even when things are tough. It’s about setting an example through actions, not just words. Resilience is the trait I hold closest. I’ve been through more than most people should at my age, from moving between homes to not having my basic needs met. There were moments when I wanted to give up but I chose not to. I stayed focused on school and gave it everything I had because I knew education was my way out and to a better life. Every obstacle I’ve faced in my life have only pushed me to keep going harder. I try to live an unselfish life by always being aware of what others might be going through. You truly never know what someone is going through or fighting in daily life. I know how hard life can be behind closed doors. That’s why I try to be kind, patient, and understanding to everyone. Whether it's classmates or strangers. I treat people how I wish I had been treated when I was younger and going through a tough time. Focus and determination keep me grounded in life. I’m in college full-time and preparing to become a teacher. I’m also studying for my PRAXIS exam and getting ready to start student teaching. My mind is always on the future by focusing on the classroom I’ll one day have, the students I’ll support, and the life I’m building one step at a time. My work ethic is one of the things I’m most proud of. I don’t have a backup plan. I don’t have a safety net like most because I was pushed into an adult position as a child. Everything I do, I do because I have to. I want to break cycles. I want to be the first in my family to graduate college and to create a stable, loving life that I never had growing up. I'm pursuing a degree because I believe in the power of education. I want to not just to teach, but to heal, to uplift, and to change lives. That’s what leadership means to me: showing others what’s possible, even when the odds are against you.

Mental health has never been just a topic to me but it’s been my reality and a quiet battle I have faced. I grew up in chaos. Both of my parents struggled with a drug addiction and unhealed trauma. That meant I lived in a home where emotions were either ignored or exploded into violence. I moved between family members, family friends, and guardianships. There was no space to talk about how I was feeling, and honestly, I didn’t know how to talk about it even if I had the chance. I was never taught as a child how to process my own emotions. For a long time, I thought survival meant silence. I kept everything in all the fear, the anger, the confusion that I felt bottled inside. But bottling it up only made it worse. I started to deal with anxiety and panic attacks as a teenager I struggled to trust people due to be burned in the past even by my own parents. I struggled to feel like I was enough due to wondering how mu parents could choose substances and life of criminal activity over me their daughter. But despite it all, I decided at a young age to pour myself into school. School a lot of the time was the only place that felt safe. My teachers noticed me, encouraged me, and believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. That’s why I want to become a teacher. Not just to teach math or reading ,but to be that safe person for someone else and to pay it forward. I want my students to feel seen and heard. I want them to know that their emotions matter, that their pain doesn’t make them broken, and that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. Mental health shaped the way I view others, too. I don’t judge people as quickly. I understand that you never really know what someone is carrying or what they are going through at home. I try to lead with compassion because I know how much a kind word can mean when you’re in a dark place. This scholarship isn’t just support for my education, it’s a sign that stories like mine deserve to be heard. It’s a step toward ending the silence and showing people they are not alone. Because when we start talking about mental health openly, we make it okay for others to do the same. And that’s how healing will begin.

"Truth, Lies & Heart Eyes" The theme of the challenge is a spicy mix of romance and intuition. Think Lie Detector Test mixed with Never Have I Ever and of course a Love Island twist. Islanders are put to the test to see how well they really know who they are coupled up with and themselves. It's a use your head vs. heart game where each Islander has to separate fact from fiction. It will definitely reveal juicy truths and expose some lies. It’s emotional yet flirty. Guaranteed to stir the pot. The Islanders will be split into couples. Each round, one Islander is in a "hot seat" and their partner wears heart-shaped goggles that light up when they're correct and buzz and shock them lightly when they’re wrong. The host reads out a bold or spicy statement that may or may not be true about the person in the hot seat. The partner must guess: Truth or Lie? Some example question is “I’ve hooked up with someone famous.”, “I’ve stalked an ex’s new partner online”, “I’ve faked a connection in the villa.” etc. These can be a mix of in the villa drama as well as outside the villa secrets. Each Islander will have the opportunity to write their own truths and lies earlier in the day giving producers content . Everything revealed in the game will actually from them and personal it will be just a matter of whether their partner knows them well enough to guess what’s true. The couple with the most correct guesses wins a private date or a night in the hideaway. This challenge will encourage deep convos ,spark jealousy and test connections.

Mental health has shaped almost every part of who I am, how I see the world, how I build relationships, and what I want to do with my life. Growing up, my home was filled with instability. Both of my parents struggled with a drug addiction, and I often moved between relatives, family friends, and guardianships. I did not have the kind of home where emotions were talked about or where I felt safe being vulnerable. Because of that I carried a lot of my pain in silence. What saved me was school. It was the only place that felt safe and stable. My teachers became the first people I trusted. They gave me the space to be myself, to feel my feelings without judgment, and to feel seen. Looking back, I now understand that what they gave me was more than just an education but they gave me emotional support. That is what inspired me to become a teacher. Some people do not associate teaching with the mental health field, but I believe teachers are on the front lines of mental wellness for kids. We are often the first to notice when something is off. We are the ones students confide in when they are hurting or overwhelmed. For kids who grow up in difficult homes like I did, a teacher might be the only adult who makes them feel heard. That is why I want to be more than just someone who teaches subjects. I want to be someone who creates a safe space where students can feel seen and supported. Mental health awareness has also changed how I build relationships. I am more patient, more compassionate, and more careful with the words I use. I have learned that sometimes, what people need most is someone who simply listens. I hope to carry that into my classroom one day and into every space I enter. This scholarship would not only support me financially as I continue my studies in education, but it would also be a reminder that the work I want to do matters. I plan to be a teacher who helps young people not just succeed academically, but grow emotionally. I want my students to know that their feelings are valid, that help is available, and that they are never alone in what they are going through. By showing up for them the way my teachers once showed up for me, I hope to make a real difference one heart and one classroom at a time.

Being a first-generation college student means walking into a world I was never prepared for but dreamed of even when other told me I couldn't do it. Since I am a first generation college student neither of my parents graduated highschool and I am the youngest but first of my 5 siblings to go to college. My parents have struggled with addiction my whole life so I no longer speak or have the support to either of them. This means figuring things out as I go with no blueprint and no one at home who truly understands what I am going through. It means carrying not just my own hopes but the weight of everything my family could not be. It means choosing to break the cycle even when it feels impossible. My parents lives were shaped by addiction, instability, and lost potential. I grew up bouncing between homes sometimes with relatives, sometimes with family friends, and guardianships. I went to several different schools. But school quickly became my safe space. My teachers became the adults I trusted. They encouraged me, believed in me, and gave me hope. Education was not just about learning but it was about survival, purpose, and building a future that looked nothing like what I grew up around. Today, I am a full-time college student studying education and preparing to take my teaching certification exams. I also volunteer at my local library and a local preschool. Every step I take in school is one my parents never got to take. I am building a life they could not give me. This scholarship would mean more than financial help. It would be a reminder that my story matters. That my resilience and effort are seen. It would help relieve some of the stress of balancing school cost. I determined while studying to stay focused on my dream of becoming the kind of teacher who changes lives, just like the the teachers that changed mine. My dream is to create a classroom where every student feels safe, supported, and believed in, no matter what their home life looks like. I want to show my students that where you come from does not define where you can go. That is what being first-generation means to me: it means opening doors that were never opened before and holding them open for those who come next.

One of Taylor Swift’s most moving performances, in my opinion, was her 2021 Grammy performance of the folklore/evermore medley. She sang “cardigan,” “august,” and “willow” on a dreamy forest-themed stage, surrounded by moss-covered rooftops, wildflowers, and soft fairy lights. It looked like something out of a storybook, but what made it truly unforgettable was the emotion she brought to every note. The performance was intimate, stripped-down, and so different from the high-energy pop productions people usually associate with her. At that time, the world was still recovering from the emotional and mental toll of the pandemic. So many people had experienced loss, isolation, and uncertainty—including Taylor. Instead of trying to escape those feelings, she leaned into them, and turned them into art. That performance was a reminder that vulnerability has value. She wasn’t trying to be flashy or perfect—she was simply telling stories, in the way only she can. It felt honest, raw, and healing. For me, that moment really showed how Taylor had grown not just as a performer, but as a person. She didn’t need to rely on lights, costumes, or choreography to captivate millions. She relied on the power of her words, her voice, and her presence. It was quiet, but it was strong. If The Life of A Showgirl is about Taylor honoring her journey in the spotlight—the glitz, the pressure, and the resilience—then this Grammy performance captures the soul behind the showgirl. It shows the “life” part of her artistry: thoughtful, soft, and deeply human. That’s what made it so powerful. To me, that performance wasn't just music. It was proof that even in the middle of darkness, beauty can still be created. And Taylor Swift has always known how to turn her most personal experiences into something the whole world can feel.

I grew up in a world where survival came before dreams. My parents struggled with addiction and instability, and because of that, I was in and out of homes for most of my childhood. I was taken in by different relatives, family friends, and at times was a ward of the state. I moved schools constantly, three elementary schools, four middle schools, two high schools, but through all the chaos, I held onto my dream of wanting to become a teacher. School became more than just a place to learn. It was the only place that felt safe. While my home life was full of unpredictability, my school life gave me structure and hope. The teachers I had growing up were the first adults to show me kindness without expecting anything in return. They bought me clothes, let me nap in their classrooms when I could not sleep at home and most importantly they saw me. They believed in me when I did not know how to believe in myself. That is what lit the fire in me to become an educator and be that person for someone else. But even as I chase that dream, the challenges have not disappeared. I struggle with anxiety and panic attacks from growing up in survival mode. I still carry the emotional weight of never having a stable support system I currently do not talk to either of my parents as they ate still in active addictions and in and out of correction facilities .I am a full-time first generation college student, studying education. Neither of parents graduated high school much less college. I am the youngest of five children on my mothers side and am the first to go to college. I am dedicated to giving myself and my children a better life. There are days where the weight of it all feels heavy, but I never let it stop me. I have come too far to let go now. I may not have had the easiest start, but I am committed to creating a better future for myself and the students I will one day teach. I want to create a classroom where kids feel safe, supported, and seen. A place where they are reminded that their past or home life does not define them, and that someone believes in their ability to succeed. Reading about Audra Dominguez and her resilience reminded me so much of my own journey. Her bravery in the face of adversity and her drive to keep going is the kind of strength I have tried to carry with me my whole life. Receiving a scholarship in her honor would mean more than financial relief, it would be a recognition of everything I have fought through to get here. It would remind me that even when life is hard, bravery matters. Determination matters. And just like Audra, I hope to use my life to uplift others, create change, and leave a legacy of strength and compassion behind.

Teaching has always meant more to me than standing at the front of a classroom. To me, it’s about showing up for students the way teachers once showed up for me. I didn’t grow up with stability, structure, or a strong support system at home. My parents struggled with addiction, and I was often passed between relatives, family friends, and guardianships. I went to multiple schools and lived in many different places, but one thing that stayed the same was the comfort and support I found in school more specifically, from my teachers. It was teachers who served me, and that’s exactly why I feel so strongly about serving others. My second-grade teacher let me nap in her classroom when I wasn't getting much sleep at home. She donated shoes and clothes, and even took me to the doctor when I had a bad case of poison ivy that no one at home treated. Another teacher in third grade was a shoulder to cry on. My fifth-grade teacher brought a project I worked so hard on to my house after my guardians refused to pick it up. My seventh-grade teacher gave me the courage to speak up and ask for help with my home life. Those small acts, that probably seemed like nothing to them absolutely changed the course of my life. Now, I try to serve others the way they served me. I volunteer and get experience hours at a local preschool while going to college and preparing for student teaching. I help care for children who are learning and growing, and I do everything I can to create a space where they feel safe, heard, and supported. I also volunteer at my local library, helping younger kids with reading and homework. I know what it’s like to struggle, and I always lead with empathy, patience, and heart. As a future teacher, I want my students to gain more than academic skills. I want them to leave my classroom believing they matter. I want them to feel confident in who they are and what they’re capable of. I want to show them that someone cares not just about their grades, but about them as people. Whether they come from a stable home or a situation like mine, I want to be a consistent source of support in their lives. Teaching is my way of giving back, and I carry that responsibility with deep purpose and pride. I don’t just want to teach but I want to be someone who shows up for kids in every way that counts.

Building credit early is important to me because I didn’t grow up with financial security. I watched the people around me struggle with money—rent not getting paid, cars being repossessed, and credit cards maxed out. My parents’ instability, fueled by addiction and poor money habits, taught me the importance of taking control of my finances early. I know what it feels like to have nothing to fall back on, so building good credit isn’t just a smart move—it’s survival. It’s how I plan to create the stability I never had growing up. I plan opened a secured credit card and use it carefully to build my credit score. I will set up auto-pay on small purchases to make sure I never miss a payment, and I monitor my credit regularly. These might sound like small steps, but for someone like me—who was never taught how money or credit worked—they’re huge. One smart money move I made was learning to budget before I had much money to budget. I use a simple method where every dollar I earn has a purpose—whether it’s for rent, school, savings, or groceries. That habit has helped me stretch what little I have and avoid falling into debt. On the flip side, a hard lesson I learned was co-signing on a phone plan for someone I thought I could trust. They didn’t pay the bill, and I was left with a debt I couldn’t afford. That mistake hurt my credit early on, but it taught me to protect my financial future—even if it means saying no. What motivates me is my past. I come from a childhood full of chaos, where nothing was promised. I didn’t have parents I could count on. I didn’t have savings, guidance, or security. But I’ve always had a dream: to be someone who breaks cycles. I want to be the first in my family to graduate college, to become a teacher, and to build a stable home of my own one day. That dream pushes me every day, even when it’s hard. I’m not just trying to survive anymore—I’m trying to thrive. And learning how to manage money and build credit early is one of the best ways I can prepare myself for the future I’m determined to create. One day, I want to be able to teach my own children the lessons I had to learn the hard way—so they grow up with the financial foundation I never had.

Growing up, I wasn’t raised in a typical single-parent or blended household. I was raised in instability. Both of my parents struggled with drug addiction and were in and out of correction facilities and couldn’t provide a safe or supportive home. I wasn’t just lacking a stable parent—I was often without parents at all. I moved between family members, family friends, and was even a ward of the court more than once. My life was full of uncertainty, fear, and disappointment from people who were supposed to protect me. But that experience didn’t break me. It shaped me. It taught me exactly the kind of person I didn’t want to be. I learned early that I couldn’t depend on the people who were supposed to raise me, so I had to raise myself. And I decided that I would become someone others could depend on. The people who truly raised me were my teachers. They stepped in when no one else did. They gave me food, clothes, support, and kindness. My second-grade teacher let me sleep in her classroom when I couldn’t rest at home. She even took me to the doctor when I had a painful rash and no one at home did. In third grade, I had a teacher who was always there when I needed to cry or talk. In fifth grade, my teacher brought a school project to my house because my guardians refused to pick it up. In seventh grade, one teacher gave me the courage to speak up and finally leave a bad situation. Because of these experiences, my goals are built around doing the opposite of what I was shown at home. I want to create safety, stability, and love—whether that’s as a future teacher, a mentor, a mother, or someone who simply shows up for others. I want to build a life where I lift people up, not let them down. In the past I wouldn't have had a answer to an question like this. All my life i was asked who my role models were growing up and when most would say there parents I lacked an answer. My parents taught me who not to be. My experiences taught me the kind of difference one good person can make in someone’s life. Although my parents mostly impacted my life in a negative way I choose to find the positive in these experiences. I wouldn't be the person i am today without them.

Social media has changed the way we connect, communicate, and view the world—but more than anything, it has changed how we view ourselves. It can be an amazing space for creativity, inspiration, and building connections, but it can also be a very toxic place when it comes to mental health and self-esteem. For many people, especially teenagers and young adults, social media becomes a constant mirror that reflects back everything we’re not—rather than everything we are. For me, social media started out as an escape. Growing up, I didn’t have much. My parents struggled with addiction, and I never had the kind of stable, loving home life that I saw other kids talk about online. I moved from house to house, often living with family friends or relatives, and I didn’t always have someone to talk to. Social media gave me a place to feel connected. At first, it was comforting to scroll and see people living happy lives—it gave me something to hope for. But that quickly changed. As I got older, I found myself constantly comparing my reality to the highlight reels of others. I saw influencers with perfect bodies, clean houses, loving families, and dream lives. Even if I was doing well in school or working hard, it never felt like enough. I started questioning my worth. Why didn’t my life look like theirs? Why didn’t I have what they had? It made me feel small and invisible. I also felt pressure to post only the best parts of my life. Even on days I was struggling, I felt like I had to put on a smile for social media. I didn’t want anyone to know I was hurting, so I filtered everything—literally and emotionally. That disconnect between who I really was and who I was pretending to be online only made things worse. Now, I’ve started being more intentional. I limit how much time I spend on social media. I’ve unfollowed accounts that make me feel insecure and started following people who are real—who talk about struggles, healing, and growth. I also remind myself often that social media is not real life. People share what they want you to see, not what they’re actually going through. To help others, I think schools should teach digital wellness early on. We teach kids how to read and do math, but not how to protect their mental health online. Teaching things like self-worth, healthy online boundaries, and how to spot unrealistic beauty standards would go a long way. Parents and adults also need to start having honest conversations with teens about the emotional weight of social media. At the end of the day, I’m learning that my value isn’t found in likes, shares, or followers. It’s in my character, my story, and my strength. And no app or algorithm can take that away from me.

My name is Samara Killian, and I am a full-time first generation college student working toward my dream of becoming an elementary school teacher. I come from a background where success was not expected of me. My parents struggled with addiction and where in and out of correction facilites my whole life, and I was in and out of unstable homes growing up. I spent time living with family members, family friends, and at times, a ward of the court. Neither of my parents graduated from high school, and I am the first in my family to attend college. I do not have contact with either of them for my own mental health, but I am proud to say that despite the chaos of my childhood, I have built a life rooted in purpose and hope. Throughout my childhood, school was my safe space. While I bounced between three elementary schools, four middle schools, and two high schools, the one thing that stayed consistent was my love for learning. My teachers were more than just educators. They were the people who noticed when I was hungry, tired, or hurting. They donated clothes and shoes when I had none. One teacher let me sleep in her classroom during electives when I could not getting rest at home. Another drove me to the doctor when I had a painful rash and no one at home took me to the doctor. These acts of kindness changed my life. Because of them, I want to become a teacher. I want to be that same light in a child’s life, especially for the ones who feel invisible or unloved. I want to create a classroom where children feel safe, seen, and inspired to become more than what the world expects of them. Today, I balance full-time college student and am currently preparing for the PRAXIS exam and student teaching. This scholarship would be a true blessing. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus more on my studies and give me the space to continue showing up for myself and my future. Financial struggles are a big reason why many people cannot get a higher education. I am lucky to have some financial aid help but any little bit helps especially since I have no support from my parents. I see so much of Kalia’s story in what I hope to become. Her work ethic, kindness, and leadership inspire me. To be chosen for a scholarship that honors someone who gave her best in everything she did would be an honor I carry with pride.

I didn’t grow up with bedtime stories, packed lunches, or parents cheering me on from the sidelines. I grew up moving from house to house, sometimes with relatives, sometimes with family friends because my parents where battling addiction and unstable so they weren’t able to care for me in the proper ways. I was a ward of the state. I experienced neglect, uncertainty. But through it all, I found one safe place: school. Teachers became the role models I didn’t have at home. They gave me clothes, let me nap in their classrooms, listened when I needed to cry, and believed in me before I knew how to believe in myself. Because of them, I found purpose. I dream of becoming a teacher who does the same. Today, I’m a full-time college student working toward my teaching degree. I nanny to support myself, while also preparing for my PRAXIS exam and upcoming student teaching. I volunteer at my local library, giving back to the kind of community that once gave to me. I enjoy working out and focusing on living a nontoxic healthy lifestyle. I mostly read in my free time and spend time with my 5 year old basset hound pup, Nova. I don’t come from a place where dreams were encouraged. This scholarship isn’t just money to me. It helps me stay in school, focus on becoming the teacher I needed, and build a future that breaks toxic and unstable generational cycles. I’m not just chasing a degree, I’m chasing healing, purpose, and a life I can be proud of. And every step I take brings me closer to helping the next little girl like me feel safe, seen, and capable of anything.

Early childhood is one of the most important and sensitive stages in a person’s life. The experiences, care, and love children receive during these early years can impact their emotional, social, and academic future in powerful ways. I plan to support early childhood development by creating a safe, nurturing, and consistent learning environment where children can grow into confident, curious, and emotionally healthy individuals. What drives me to pursue this field is my own childhood. I did not grow up with the kind of care and support every child deserves. My parents struggled with addiction and were not involved in my life in healthy or safe ways. I became a ward of the court and was moved between homes, living with relatives, family friends, and in state custody. Stability was rare. The one place that gave me safety and structure was school. My teachers became the role models I didn’t have at home. They helped me feel seen and important. Because of these experiences, I know firsthand how powerful adults can be in a young child’s life, especially during the early years. I want to be the kind of person who gives children what I often didn’t have: someone who listens, encourages, teaches, and genuinely cares. In my future classroom, I will support early childhood development by focusing not just on academics, but on emotional and social growth as well. I want to create routines that give young children a sense of safety and predictability. I will incorporate hands-on, play-based learning that stimulates brain development, creativity, and problem-solving skills. I will work to identify each child’s unique strengths and needs, and help them grow through patience and support. I also believe in the importance of trauma-informed care. Many children, like I once was, experience difficult situations at home. I want to be a teacher who recognizes signs of distress, knows how to respond with empathy, and can connect families to resources if needed. Building strong relationships with both students and their caregivers is important to me. Supporting the whole child also means supporting their family. Early childhood education isn’t just about teaching kids the ABCs or how to count but it’s about helping them build a strong foundation for life. When a child feels safe and loved, they learn better, they trust more, and they grow into healthier people. I want to be a part of that process. I’m pursuing this field not just because I love working with children, but because I understand what’s at stake when they don’t get the support they need. I am living proof that just one caring adult can make all the difference. I want to be that adult for someone else. That’s why I’m passionate about early childhood development, and that’s why I will give my heart and all my effort to the children in my care.

I want to be a teacher because teachers were my safe place growing up. I didn’t have the kind of childhood most kids do. My parents struggled with addiction, and because of that, I lived in and out of different homes sometimes with family members, other times with family friends, and eventually as a ward of the court. My life was full of constant changes and instability, but school was the one place that felt steady. It was the only space where I felt seen, heard, and cared for. While most kids had parents to lean on, I didn’t have that. I didn’t have role models at home, but I had teachers who believed in me, even when I didn’t believe in myself. They were the ones who reminded me that I was worth something, that I had potential, and that my parents mistakes didn’t have to define my future. That’s exactly the kind of teacher I want to be.Someone who can help a student feel safe, valued, and hopeful. I had many incredible teachers who made a real difference in my life. In 2nd grade, my teacher noticed that I didn’t have proper clothes or shoes. She quietly donated some to me, never making me feel embarrassed or ashamed. She also let me sleep in her classroom during elective periods because she knew I wasn’t getting much sleep at home. When I got poison ivy and no one at home took me to the doctor, she did. She didn’t have to do any of that, but she did it because she cared. That kind of kindness stays with you forever. In 3rd grade, my teacher was always there when I needed someone to talk to. She let me cry and vent when things got overwhelming. She made me feel like I wasn’t alone, even on days when I felt like the world was against me. In 5th grade, I worked really hard on a project that I was proud of, but my guardians refused to pick it up from school. My teacher went out of her way to bring it to my house. It may seem like a small thing, but to me, it meant everything. In 7th grade, one of my teachers gave me the courage to speak up about my home life. Because of her, I was finally able to get out of a bad situation. She helped me find my voice when I thought I didn’t have one. These teachers didn’t just teach me math or reading but they taught me compassion, courage, and self-worth. I am the person I am today because of them. I want to become that same source of light and strength for someone else. My dream is to create a classroom where students feel safe, supported, and inspired, just like the teacher that saved me.

Being a first-generation college student means a lot to me. No one in my family went to college, not even my mom or dad. They didn’t even finish high school. My parents struggled with drug addiction, and I didn’t really grow up with them. I don’t talk to them now for my own mental health. I mostly lived with family friends, other relatives, or was a ward of the state because my home wasn’t safe. I moved around a lot and went to many different schools including three elementary schools, four middle schools, and two high schools. Even though things were really hard, school was the one place I felt safe. I didn’t have much control over my life, but I could control how hard I worked in school. I poured everything I had into my schoolwork because I wanted to myself a better life. My teachers were my role models since I didnt have any at home. They showed me kindness, helped me believe in myself, and gave me something to look up to when I didn’t have that at home. This is also why I chose to get a degree in education. Now, being in college, I want to build a career where I can help others the way my teachers helped me. I want to show other kids, especially the ones who feel alone or don’t have a stable home, that they can still dream big and make it. I want to be living proof that where you come from doesn’t have to decide where you end up. Being a first-generation college student pushes me to work harder. I’m not just doing this for me but I’m doing it for the younger version of me who needed someone to believe in her. My past doesn’t hold me back. It gives me a reason to keep going.

If I could create a class that every student in grades K–12 was required to take, it would be a Nutrition and Healthy Living class. This class would go beyond the basics and teach students what foods are truly good for their bodies, how to read nutrition labels, how to cook simple and healthy meals, how to grocery shop on a budget, and how to understand the role of macros (proteins, fats, and carbs) and how they tie in to our overall health. It would also help students learn the difference between whole foods and the highly processed, artificial stuff that’s everywhere today. Growing up in poverty, I didn’t eat healthy or balanced meals. Most of the time, we ate what we could afford, which usually meant cheap, processed foods full of sodium, sugar, and empty calories. I didn’t realize how unhealthy that was because it was all I knew. A bag of chips or instant noodles felt like a normal dinner for me. No one ever really taught me what a nutrient-dense meal looked like, or that healthy food didn’t have to mean “diet food” or something bland. I wish I would have known the importance of whole foods. It is possible to eat healthier whole foods on a budget people are just not educated or given the resources to know how to shop and create healthier meals on a budget I’ve learned over time that many people, especially those in low-income communities, grow up with a warped idea of what “healthy” actually means. Some think it’s all about weight loss, or that it’s expensive and unrealistic. But healthy eating is really about fueling your body with the right kinds of foods including whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. The problem is, most schools don’t go deep enough into this. They might touch on the food pyramid for a week and then move on. I don't think that’s not enough. This class would be hands-on and interactive. Young students could learn about food groups by exploring colors and textures and categorizing foods, while middle and high schoolers could learn real-life skills like cooking simple meals, reading labels, portion control, and meal prepping. High schoolers could also learn how to create grocery lists based on a budget, which is something that would have helped me a lot growing up. The impact of a class like this could be huge. It could help reduce childhood obesity and prevent health problems before they start. It would also give students a real understanding of how food affects energy, mood, sleep, focus, and even mental health. If I had learned all of this at a younger age, I think I would’ve felt better, performed better in school, and had a much healthier relationship with food. In a world full of unhealthy options and confusing diet culture, teaching students how to fuel their bodies with real, whole foods should be just as important as teaching math or science. A class like this wouldn’t just change how students eat but it could change how they live.

One lyric from Olivia Rodrigo’s GUTS that really hit me when I first heard it was from her song "Teenage Dream" where she sings: “They all say that it gets better, it gets better the more you grow / Yeah, they all say that it gets better, it gets better, but what if I don't?” That line honestly felt like it was pulled straight from my brain. When GUTS came out I was 17, homeschooled, and completely disconnected from my parents because of their drug addiction. I didn’t have the kind of life where I could just cry to my mom and dad about a bad day or ask them for advice. Most days, I was alone both physically and emotionally. People would always tell me that things would “get better” when I got older. Teachers, adults online, random relatives all said I just had to hang in there, wait a little longer, and eventually life would start to line up. But what no one ever really talks about is what happens if it doesn’t. What if you grow up and still feel lost? What if the pain doesn’t go away, and you’re just left to deal with it in silence alone? That lyric said exactly what I was too scared to say out loud. Being a teenager is already hard. There’s so much pressure to figure out who you are, what you want to do with your life, how to look, how to act, who to be. But when your when your own parents feel more like stranger rather than guardians it will make everything feel heavier. I didn’t have anyone to guide me through the mess. I basically raised myself and learned a lot about life the hard way. When Olivia sings about the fear of not getting better, she captures something so real—this quiet panic that lives deep within so many of us. We pretend everything's fine but inside we are scared that this might be all life has to offer. That’s why that lyric meant so much to me at 17. It didn’t try to sugarcoat anything. It was raw, and real, and for once, it made me feel understood. Like maybe I wasn’t totally alone. Thankfully, now as I've gotten older life has gotten better. But that wasn't always so clear but Olivia's music made me feel less alone and for that I am forever thankful.

All my life, I’ve been surrounded by adults who were supposed to be role models—but weren’t. Growing up, my teachers talked about looking up to parents and guardians, but I never had that. I remember being asked about who my role models were and my mind going blank. My mother and father struggled with drug addiction and made choices that often led them down the wrong path. Neither attended college, and my father didn’t even finish high school. I’ve had no contact with my mother in years, so I’m not even sure if she graduated. My mother was a teen mom with five children, which comes with its struggles. My father left my life when I was one and returned and was granted custody of me when I was five, only to fall back into addiction a couple of years later. I was relieved to finally have a safe, stable environment—until that stability vanished. My father is a felon. From an early age, I knew I didn’t want to follow the same path. I told myself, “I want to be better than that. I will be better than that.” Because of my parents’ absence, I was moved around a lot. Between the ages of 9 and 13, I lived with various family members and spent time as a ward of the court. My guardian was abusive—mentally, emotionally, and sometimes physically. I constantly heard things like, “You’re going to turn out just like your parents,” or “You’re no good, just like your mother.” At eight years old, I started to believe it. This has taught me not to doubt myself, and I've started working toward a better life. I stayed in school, studied hard, and enrolled in dual-enrollment classes at a local community college. I’ve learned that even though I didn’t grow up with positive role models, I can be one for myself and others. Due to having no one to look up to at home, I turned to my teachers. My teachers were my role models. I had an amazing teacher who got me through the hardest times in my life. I had a second-grade teacher who donated clothes and shoes to me and even took me to the doctor when I had missed school due to having untreated poison ivy that no one else took to get treated. My third-grade teacher was always there for me as a shoulder to cry on. Another example was when my 5th-grade teacher took her own time to bring a project I worked hard on that I wanted to keep to my house when my guardian refused to pick it up and told me to throw it away. I want to be that kind of role model for my future students. My experiences have shaped my emotional intelligence and resilience. They’ve taught me what not to do and how to rise above. I am not defined by where I come from, I am defined by who I choose to become. I want to break the cycle of abuse, addiction, and neglect that has plagued my family for generations. This scholarship would allow me to pursue my dream of becoming a teacher. I want to be the kind of adult I needed when I was a child: a safe space, a mentor, and a guide. One day, I even hope to create a scholarship of my own to help students like me—students who have faced hardship and lack family support.

All my life, I’ve been surrounded by adults who were supposed to be role models—but weren’t. Growing up, my teachers talked about looking up to parents and guardians, but I never had that. I remember being asked about who my role models were and my mind going blank. My mother and father struggled with drug addiction and made choices that often led them down the wrong path. Neither attended college, and my father didn’t even finish high school. I’ve had no contact with my mother in years, so I’m not even sure if she graduated. My mother was a teen mom with five children, which comes with its own struggles. My father left my life when I was one and returned and was granted custody of me when I was five, only to fall back into addiction a couple of years later. I was relieved to finally have a safe, stable environment—until that stability vanished. My father is a felon. From an early age, I knew I didn’t want to follow the same path. I told myself, “I want to be better than that. I will be better than that.” Because of my parents’ absence, I was moved around a lot. Between the ages of 9 and 13, I lived with various family members and spent time as a ward of the court. My guardian was abusive—mentally, emotionally, and sometimes physically. I constantly heard things like, “You’re going to turn out just like your parents,” or “You’re no good, just like your mother.” At eight years old, I started to believe it. I remember one moment clearly: I was lying on the floor after a punishment, crying, after I finally stood up for myself. When my guardian said, “You’re going to be a bum just like your dad,” I looked at her and said, “No, I’m not. I’m better than him—and better than you.” That moment changed everything for me. I stopped doubting myself and started working toward a better life. I stayed in school, studied hard, and enrolled in dual-enrollment classes at a local community college. I’ve learned that even though I didn’t grow up with positive role models, I can be one for myself and others. Due to having no one to look up to at home, I turned to my teachers. My teachers were my role models. I had an amazing teacher who got me through the hardest times in my life. I had a second-grade teacher who donated clothes and shoes to me and even took me to the doctor when I had missed school due to having untreated poison ivy that no one else took to get treated. My third-grade teacher was always there for me as a shoulder to cry on. Another example was when my 5th-grade teacher took her own time to bring a project I worked hard on that I wanted to keep to my house when my guardian refused to pick it up and told me to throw it away.I want to be that kind of role model for my future students. My experiences have shaped my emotional intelligence and resilience. They’ve taught me what not to do and how to rise above. I am not defined by where I come from, I am defined by who I choose to become. I want to break the cycle of abuse, addiction, and neglect that has plagued my family for generations. This scholarship would give me the opportunity to pursue my dream of becoming a teacher. I want to be the kind of adult I needed when I was a child: a safe space, a mentor, and a guide. One day, I even hope to create a scholarship of my own to help students like me—students who have faced hardship and lack family support.

I’m a fan of "Wicked" for several compelling reasons that make it a standout musical. At its core, the story reimagines the classic "Wizard of Oz," providing a new lens through which to view well-known characters. This fresh perspective encourages audiences to reconsider the complexities of good and evil, highlighting that moral ambiguity often exists in the choices we make. One of the most captivating aspects of "Wicked" is the relationship between Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, and Glinda, the Good Witch. Their journey from college roommates to rivals is both poignant and relatable. It explores themes of friendship, jealousy, and personal growth. As we watch their bond evolve, we are reminded of the complexities of our own relationships and the impact they have on our identities. This nuanced portrayal of female friendship is both refreshing and empowering. The character of Elphaba is particularly intriguing. Her struggles with her identity and her quest for acceptance resonate deeply with many people. She embodies the challenges of being different in a society that often values conformity. Through her journey, the musical encourages us to embrace our individuality and to stand up for what we believe in, even in the face of adversity. Elphaba’s transformation into the “Wicked Witch” serves as a powerful commentary on how society labels those who do not fit into its norms. Musically, "Wicked" is a triumph. The score, composed by Stephen Schwartz, features memorable songs that range from soaring ballads to upbeat numbers. Songs like “Defying Gravity” not only showcase Elphaba’s powerful voice but also encapsulate her determination to break free from societal constraints. The emotional weight of these songs adds depth to the characters and enhances the overall experience of the story. Visually, the production is stunning. The elaborate set design and vibrant costumes create a magical atmosphere that draws the audience into the world of Oz. The choreography is dynamic and complements the storytelling, making every performance a feast for the senses. In summary, "Wicked" is a masterful blend of thought-provoking themes, complex characters, and unforgettable music. It challenges us to reconsider preconceived notions of good and evil, making it a timeless and impactful piece of theatre. This rich tapestry of storytelling and artistry is why I’m such a fan of "Wicked."

Ever since I was about six years old I've known that I've wanted to become an elementary school teacher. I not only want to become one but It is a dream of mine. Growing up I had a tough childhood, especially in my elementary age. I went to about five different elementary schools. My mother and father are addicts and I moved around a lot from family members to a foster home from age 9 to 13 years old most of these placements were not the best environment for a growing child. Throughout all of this school was my safe place matter how difficult and toxic my home life was I knew I could come to school and be at ease and safe. I didn't have my parents to look up to or to be my role models so I turned to my teachers. Teachers have such a major effect on students' daily lives and how they will be as students. Many of my teachers will always have a special place in my heart for helping me through the hardest time in my life whether they were there to me as a shoulder for me to cry on or my second-grade teacher for taking me to the doctor when I had a bad case of untreated poison ivy or my fifth grade teacher for bringing my project to my house that I was so proud of and worked on for a month. Still, my foster mother refused to come get it and told me to throw it away. All these experiences and more inspired me to want this career. I want to be in a safe place and a positive person like my teachers was me, too young children struggling or not. I want to make an impact on my student's lives and be what the younger me needs for others. I strive to be an encouraging teacher who lets every student she has to know they are loved and capable of anything and that she is proud of them because my teachers throughout the years have helped me believe this. Every child deserves to have someone rooting for them and I want to be that for students. I want to touch the minds of young children and have an impact. I couldn't see myself being happy in any other career this is what I want to spend my life doing. I would not be where I am today or the person I am today if it weren't for the teachers I had supported me throughout the worst time of my life.

Growing up with broken parents who struggled with addiction, I learned about mental health very early on in life. Most of my childhood was spent away from my parents, as their addiction made it impossible for them to care for me and my siblings. I often wondered why they couldn’t just quit or what drove them to drugs in the first place. As I matured, I came to understand that mental health and addiction are two complex issues that are often intertwined, creating a challenging cycle that is difficult to break. My parents’ addiction stems from deep-rooted mental health problems, with substances acting as a form of self-harm. Their struggles with emotional regulation were evident, and they lacked the support necessary to navigate their difficult childhoods. It pains me to see how mental health disorders, such as depression and anxiety, can increase the risk of substance abuse. These experiences have solidified my resolve to be an advocate for mental health awareness and to help others who may find themselves in similar situations. I recognize that I cannot change my parents' choices, but I can actively choose to support my own mental health and the mental health of others. To manage my own recovery from the traumas of my upbringing, I prioritize my mental well-being through various practices. I engage in therapy, which has been instrumental in helping me process my childhood experiences and develop coping strategies. I also reach out to others who are struggling, providing support and understanding to those in need. I believe that by sharing my story, I can help break the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage others to seek help. As an elementary education major, I am particularly passionate about teaching my future students how to regulate their emotions in healthy and appropriate ways. I want to create a safe and supportive classroom environment where children feel comfortable expressing their feelings. I plan to incorporate social-emotional learning into my curriculum, equipping students with the skills they need to navigate their emotions and relationships throughout life. I consciously decide to be kind to everyone I encounter, including strangers, because I know how isolating it can feel to struggle with mental health issues. Simple gestures, such as a smile or a kind word, can make a significant difference in someone's day. I make it a point to talk openly about mental health with friends, family, and classmates, aiming to normalize these discussions and foster a culture of support. Mental health awareness will always be a priority for me in my daily life. Looking ahead, I am committed to continuing my journey of personal growth and recovery. I plan to remain engaged with mental health advocacy, perhaps even pursuing further education in counseling or social work to expand my ability to help others. I will actively seek out training opportunities to learn more about mental health education and support techniques, which I can incorporate into my teaching practice. In conclusion, my experiences with mental health and substance abuse have shaped who I am today. They have fueled my desire to advocate for change and to be a source of support for others. I believe that through education, compassion, and open dialogue, we can create a more understanding and supportive world for those affected by mental health issues. I am determined to make a positive impact in the lives of my students and to break the cycle of trauma that has affected my family for generations.

Growing up with broken parents who struggled with addiction, I learned about mental health very early on in life. Most of my childhood was spent away from my parents, as their addiction made it impossible for them to care for me and my siblings. I often wondered why they couldn’t just quit or what drove them to drugs in the first place. As I matured, I came to understand that mental health and addiction are two complex issues that are often intertwined, creating a challenging cycle that is difficult to break. My parents’ addiction stems from deep-rooted mental health problems, with substances acting as a form of self-harm. Their struggles with emotional regulation were evident, and they lacked the support necessary to navigate their difficult childhoods. My mother’s eventual diagnosis of depression and both parents’ diagnoses of bipolar disorder have only compounded the generational cycle of trauma. It pains me to see how mental health disorders, such as depression and anxiety, can increase the risk of substance abuse. When individuals grapple with emotional distress, they may turn to substances in search of relief, unaware that these same substances can further alter their brain chemistry and exacerbate their mental health challenges. Witnessing my father begin to seek help for his childhood trauma and mental health struggles has been a ray of hope amid the darkness. Conversely, my mother remains in denial, a stark reminder of how difficult it can be for some to confront their issues. These experiences have solidified my resolve to be an advocate for mental health awareness and to help others who may find themselves in similar situations. I recognize that I cannot change my parents' choices, but I can actively choose to support my own mental health and the mental health of others. As an elementary education major, I am particularly passionate about teaching my future students how to regulate their emotions in healthy and appropriate ways. I want to create a safe and supportive classroom environment where children feel comfortable expressing their feelings. I plan to incorporate social-emotional learning into my curriculum, equipping students with the skills they need to navigate their emotions and relationships throughout life. I consciously decide to be kind to everyone I encounter, including strangers, because I know how isolating it can feel to struggle with mental health issues. Simple gestures, such as a smile or a kind word, can make a significant difference in someone's day. I make it a point to talk openly about mental health with friends, family, and classmates, aiming to normalize these discussions and foster a culture of support. Mental health awareness will always be a priority for me in my daily life. Looking ahead, I am committed to continuing my journey of personal growth and recovery. I plan to remain engaged with mental health advocacy, perhaps even pursuing further education in counseling or social work to expand my ability to help others. I will actively seek out training opportunities to learn more about mental health education and support techniques, which I can incorporate into my teaching practice. In conclusion, my experiences with mental health and substance abuse have shaped who I am today. They have fueled my desire to advocate for change and to be a source of support for others. I believe that through education, compassion, and open dialogue, we can create a more understanding and supportive world for those affected by mental health issues. I am determined to make a positive impact in the lives of my students and to break the cycle of trauma that has affected my family for generations.

Ever since I was about six years old I've known that I've wanted to become an elementary school teacher. I not only want to become one but It is a dream of mine. Growing up I had a tough childhood, especially in my elementary age. I went to about five different elementary schools. My mother and father are addicts and I moved around a lot from family members to a foster home from age 9 to 13 years old most of these placements were not the best environment for a growing child. Throughout all of this school was my safe place matter how difficult and toxic my home life was I knew I could come to school and be at ease and safe. I didn't have my parents to look up to or to be my role models so I turned to my teachers. Teachers have such a major effect on students' daily lives and how they will be as students. Many of my teachers will always have a special place in my heart for helping me through the hardest time in my life whether they were there to me as a shoulder for me to cry on or my second-grade teacher for taking me to the doctor when I had a bad case of untreated poison ivy or my fifth grade teacher for bringing my project to my house that I was so proud of and worked on for a month. Still, my foster mother refused to come get it and told me to throw it away. All these experiences and more inspired me to want this career. I want to be in a safe place and a positive person like my teachers was me, too young children struggling or not. I want to make an impact on my student's lives and be what the younger me needs for others. I strive to be an encouraging teacher who lets every student she has to know they are loved and capable of anything and that she is proud of them because my teachers throughout the years have helped me believe this. Every child deserves to have someone rooting for them and I want to be that for students. I want to touch the minds of young children and have an impact. I couldn't see myself being happy in any other career this is what I want to spend my life doing. I would not be where I am today or the person I am today if it weren't for the teachers I had supported me throughout the worst time of my life.

Growing up with broken parents who struggled with addiction, I learned about mental health very early on in life. Most of my childhood was spent away from my parents, as their addiction made it impossible for them to care for me and my siblings. I often wondered why they couldn’t just quit or what drove them to drugs in the first place. As I matured, I came to understand that mental health and addiction are two complex issues that are often intertwined, creating a challenging cycle that is difficult to break. My parents’ addiction stems from deep-rooted mental health problems, with substances acting as a form of self-harm. Their struggles with emotional regulation were evident, and they lacked the support necessary to navigate their difficult childhoods. My mother’s eventual diagnosis of depression and both parents’ diagnoses of bipolar disorder have only compounded the generational cycle of trauma. . When individuals grapple with emotional distress, they may turn to substances in search of relief, unaware that these same substances can further alter their brain chemistry and exacerbate their mental health challenges. These experiences have solidified my resolve to be an advocate for mental health awareness and to help others who may find themselves in similar situations. I reach out to others who are struggling, providing support and understanding to those in need. I believe that by sharing my story, I can help break the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage others to seek help. As an elementary education major, I am particularly passionate about teaching my future students how to regulate their emotions in healthy and appropriate ways. I want to create a safe and supportive classroom environment where children feel comfortable expressing their feelings. I plan to incorporate social-emotional learning into my curriculum, equipping students with the skills they need to navigate their emotions and relationships throughout life. I consciously decide to be kind to everyone I encounter, including strangers, because I know how isolating it can feel to struggle with mental health issues. Simple gestures, such as a smile or a kind word, can make a significant difference in someone's day. I make it a point to talk openly about mental health with friends, family, and classmates, aiming to normalize these discussions and foster a culture of support. Mental health awareness will always be a priority for me in my daily life.

Growing up with broken parents who struggled with addiction, I learned about mental health very early on in life. Most of my childhood was spent away from my parents, as their addiction made it impossible for them to care for me and my siblings. I often wondered why they couldn’t just quit or what drove them to drugs in the first place. As I matured, I came to understand that mental health and addiction are two complex issues that are often intertwined, creating a challenging cycle that is difficult to break. My parents’ addiction stems from deep-rooted mental health problems, with substances acting as a form of self-harm. Their struggles with emotional regulation were evident, and they lacked the support necessary to navigate their difficult childhoods. My mother’s eventual diagnosis of depression and both parents’ diagnoses of bipolar disorder have only compounded the generational cycle of trauma. It pains me to see how mental health disorders, such as depression and anxiety, can increase the risk of substance abuse. When individuals grapple with emotional distress, they may turn to substances in search of relief, unaware that these same substances can further alter their brain chemistry and exacerbate their mental health challenges. Witnessing my father begin to seek help for his childhood trauma and mental health struggles has been a ray of hope amid the darkness. Conversely, my mother remains in denial, a stark reminder of how difficult it can be for some to confront their issues. These experiences have solidified my resolve to be an advocate for mental health awareness and to help others who may find themselves in similar situations. I recognize that I cannot change my parents' choices, but I can actively choose to support my own mental health and the mental health of others. To manage my own recovery from the traumas of my upbringing, I prioritize my mental well-being through various practices. I engage in therapy, which has been instrumental in helping me process my childhood experiences and develop coping strategies. I also reach out to others who are struggling, providing support and understanding to those in need. I believe that by sharing my story, I can help break the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage others to seek help. As an elementary education major, I am particularly passionate about teaching my future students how to regulate their emotions in healthy and appropriate ways. I want to create a safe and supportive classroom environment where children feel comfortable expressing their feelings. I plan to incorporate social-emotional learning into my curriculum, equipping students with the skills they need to navigate their emotions and relationships throughout life. I consciously decide to be kind to everyone I encounter, including strangers, because I know how isolating it can feel to struggle with mental health issues. Simple gestures, such as a smile or a kind word, can make a significant difference in someone's day. I make it a point to talk openly about mental health with friends, family, and classmates, aiming to normalize these discussions and foster a culture of support. Mental health awareness will always be a priority for me in my daily life. Looking ahead, I am committed to continuing my journey of personal growth and recovery. I plan to remain engaged with mental health advocacy, perhaps even pursuing further education in counseling or social work to expand my ability to help others. I will actively seek out training opportunities to learn more about mental health education and support techniques, which I can incorporate into my teaching practice. In conclusion, my experiences with mental health and substance abuse have shaped who I am today. They have fueled my desire to advocate for change and to be a source of support for others. I believe that through education, compassion, and open dialogue, we can create a more understanding and supportive world for those affected by mental health issues. I am determined to make a positive impact in the lives of my students and to break the cycle of trauma that has affected my family for generations.

Reading has been a transformative experience for me, significantly shaping my perspective and goals. The diverse range of books I’ve explored—spanning fiction, non-fiction, and self-help—has enriched my understanding of the world and my place within it. From classic literature, I’ve gained profound insights into human nature and societal dynamics. For instance, novels like To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee and 1984 by George Orwell illuminated the complexities of morality, justice, and the impacts of oppressive systems. These themes have fueled my passion for social justice, encouraging me to advocate for equality and fairness. The characters' struggles against societal norms resonated with me and inspired me to pursue a career focused on social change. I now aspire to work in fields such as community engagement or policy advocacy, aiming to contribute positively to society. Non-fiction books have also played a crucial role in refining my career aspirations. Titles like The Lean Startup by Eric Ries introduced me to innovative business principles, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and customer feedback in entrepreneurship. This knowledge has inspired me to explore starting my own venture, leading me to develop a business plan for a project that aligns with my values, such as sustainability or education. The practical frameworks and strategies presented in these texts have instilled confidence in my ability to pursue entrepreneurial ambitions. Self-help books have significantly impacted my personal development. Works like Atomic Habits by James Clear taught me the importance of small, consistent changes in behavior. By applying these principles, I’ve cultivated healthier habits, such as regular exercise and better time management, which have improved my productivity and well-being. This focus on incremental growth has reshaped my goals, motivating me to approach personal and professional challenges with a mindset of continuous improvement. Reading autobiographies, such as Becoming by Michelle Obama, has provided me with relatable narratives of resilience and determination. These stories reinforce the idea that challenges can be overcome and that personal growth is a lifelong journey. Learning about Michelle Obama's path, including her commitment to education and community service, encourages me to embrace my own journey and leverage my background to make a difference. Moreover, exploring philosophical texts has deepened my understanding of ethics and personal values. Books by authors like Viktor Frankl in Man’s Search for Meaning have taught me about the significance of purpose in overcoming adversity. This perspective has influenced my goals by reminding me that fulfillment often comes from contributing to something greater than myself. In summary, the books I’ve read have profoundly influenced my goals and aspirations. They have equipped me with knowledge, inspired my passions, and instilled a commitment to lifelong learning. As I continue to read and explore new ideas, I remain dedicated to applying these lessons in my life, ensuring that my goals are not just ambitions but reflections of the values and insights gained through literature. Each book acts as a stepping stone on my path, guiding me toward a meaningful and purpose-driven life.

o enhance my understanding of various subjects, I utilize a diverse array of online platforms, tools, and resources that cater to different learning styles and needs. Here are some of the key resources that have significantly contributed to my learning process. Online Courses and MOOCs: Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Udemy offer a wealth of courses on a multitude of topics, often taught by experts from reputable institutions. These courses typically combine video lectures, quizzes, and interactive assignments, which help in deepening my understanding of complex concepts. For instance, I enrolled in a data science course on Coursera that included hands-on projects, allowing me to apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios. Educational Videos and Tutorials: YouTube has a vast repository of educational content. Channels like Khan Academy and CrashCourse provide concise and engaging explanations of topics ranging from mathematics to history. These videos help reinforce concepts through visual aids, making difficult subjects more accessible. For instance, I often watch Khan Academy videos before diving into textbook readings, which provides a solid foundation and context. Interactive Learning Tools: Platforms like Quizlet and Kahoot! offer interactive learning experiences through flashcards and quizzes. I frequently use Quizlet to create flashcards for language vocabulary or key concepts in my studies. This active recall method has been proven to enhance memory retention, making it easier to remember information for exams or practical application. Discussion Forums and Study Groups: Websites like Reddit, Stack Exchange, and specialized forums related to my fields of study foster community engagement. Participating in discussions helps clarify doubts, gain different perspectives, and deepen my understanding. I often find that explaining concepts to others reinforces my knowledge, while receiving feedback from peers can highlight areas that need further exploration. E-books and Online Libraries: Resources like Google Books and Project Gutenberg offer access to a wealth of literature and academic texts. These platforms are invaluable for conducting research and gaining insights from historical and contemporary sources. I often refer to academic papers and e-books to supplement my learning and stay updated with the latest developments in my field. Apps for Mind Mapping and Organization: Tools like Notion and MindMeister help in organizing notes and ideas visually. Creating mind maps allows me to see the connections between different topics, facilitating a deeper understanding of the subject matter. This organizational strategy not only aids in studying but also enhances my ability to apply knowledge in practical situations. Overall, these online platforms and tools have transformed my learning experience, making it more engaging, interactive, and effective. By leveraging them, I have developed a stronger grasp of complex subjects and improved my ability to apply this knowledge in real-world contexts.

Ever since I was about six years old I've known that I've wanted to become an elementary school teacher. I not only want to become one but It is a dream of mine. Growing up I had a tough childhood, especially in my elementary age. I went to about five different elementary schools. My mother and father are addicts and I moved around a lot from family members to a foster home from age 9 to 13 years old most of these placements were not the best environment for a growing child. Throughout all of this school was my safe place matter how difficult and toxic my home life was I knew I could come to school and be at ease and safe. I didn't have my parents to look up to or to be my role models so I turned to my teachers. Teachers have such a major effect on students' daily lives and how they will be as students. Many of my teachers will always have a special place in my heart for helping me through the hardest time in my life whether they were there to me as a shoulder for me to cry on or my second-grade teacher for taking me to the doctor when I had a bad case of untreated poison ivy or my fifth grade teacher for bringing my project to my house that I was so proud of and worked on for a month. Still, my foster mother refused to come get it and told me to throw it away. All these experiences and more inspired me to want this career. I want to be in a safe place and a positive person like my teachers was me, too young children struggling or not. I want to make an impact on my student's lives and be what the younger me needs for others. I strive to be an encouraging teacher who lets every student she has to know they are loved and capable of anything and that she is proud of them because my teachers throughout the years have helped me believe this. Every child deserves to have someone rooting for them and I want to be that for students. I want to touch the minds of young children and have an impact. I couldn't see myself being happy in any other career this is what I want to spend my life doing. I would not be where I am today or the person I am today if it weren't for the teachers I had supported me throughout the worst time of my life.

One lyric from Olivia Rodrigo’s album "GUTS" that resonates deeply with the essence of adolescence is from the song "Vampire": "I’m just trying to find a way to be alright, but it’s so hard to keep my head up sometimes." This line captures the essence of teenage experience by highlighting the internal struggle and emotional turbulence that often accompany adolescence. During these formative years, many teenagers grapple with self-doubt, identity issues, and the pressure to meet expectations from themselves and others. Rodrigo’s lyric succinctly encapsulates the challenge of navigating these complex emotions while striving to maintain a sense of stability and self-worth. Adolescence is a period marked by intense self-discovery and often conflicting feelings. The lyric reflects the universal struggle of trying to reconcile one’s inner turmoil with the desire to present a composed exterior. Teenagers frequently find themselves caught between their aspirations and the reality of their everyday struggles. The quest to "find a way to be alright" is emblematic of the broader journey of self-acceptance and personal growth that many experience during these years. It underscores the difficulty of maintaining emotional resilience when faced with the inevitable ups and downs of growing up. Furthermore, the acknowledgment that it’s “so hard to keep my head up sometimes” resonates with the frequent sense of vulnerability that teenagers feel. Adolescents are often navigating new social dynamics, academic pressures, and the challenge of making decisions that will shape their future. This lyric captures the poignant reality that despite their best efforts, it’s not always easy to stay positive or confident. The raw honesty in Rodrigo’s words reflects the genuine and often unspoken struggles that many teenagers face as they try to navigate this transitional phase of their lives. In essence, this lyric from "Vampire" serves as a powerful reminder of the emotional complexity of adolescence. It validates the feelings of uncertainty and difficulty that are common during this stage of life, offering a sense of solidarity to those who might be feeling alone in their struggles. By articulating these experiences with such clarity, Rodrigo provides a voice for the silent battles of teenagehood, helping to foster a deeper understanding of the challenges and resilience inherent in growing up. Overall, Rodrigo’s lyrics often address themes of heartbreak, self-doubt, and personal growth, which are central to the teenage experience. By articulating these feelings with honesty and depth, she provides validation to young listeners who might feel isolated in their emotions. Songs like "drivers license" and "good 4 u" encapsulate the intensity of teenage heartbreak and the complexities of navigating personal relationships, helping teens feel understood and less alone in their struggles.

As an aspiring teacher, one of my primary goals is to build a safe and encouraging classroom environment. This vision extends beyond mere physical safety; it encompasses emotional, intellectual, and social security, ensuring that every student feels valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential. Creating such an environment begins with fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity. I plan to implement practices that celebrate diversity and encourage open dialogue. By integrating diverse perspectives into the curriculum and facilitating discussions on various viewpoints, I aim to cultivate a classroom where every student’s background and experiences are acknowledged and appreciated. This inclusivity will help students develop empathy and understanding, crucial skills for their personal growth and future interactions in a global society. Another key aspect of a safe and encouraging classroom is establishing clear, fair, and consistent expectations for behavior. I believe that when students know what is expected of them and understand the reasoning behind these expectations, they are more likely to adhere to them and feel secure in their learning environment. Additionally, I will implement a positive reinforcement system to recognize and reward good behavior, academic effort, and personal achievements. This approach not only boosts students' confidence but also motivates them to engage more actively in their education. Emotional safety is just as important as physical safety. I intend to create a space where students feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment. This involves being approachable and empathetic, actively listening to students, and providing support when they face personal or academic challenges. By offering a compassionate and understanding presence, I can help students navigate their difficulties and foster a sense of belonging. The positive impact of such an environment on me, as a teacher, would be profound. A classroom where students feel safe and supported is likely to be more harmonious and productive, which in turn makes teaching more fulfilling and effective. When students are engaged and motivated, they are more likely to succeed academically, which reinforces my passion for teaching and contributes to my professional growth. In a broader sense, the ripple effects of a supportive classroom extend to the community. Students who feel valued and respected are more likely to become empathetic and responsible citizens. By promoting a culture of kindness and mutual respect, I am contributing to the development of individuals who will carry these values into their communities. Furthermore, a positive classroom environment can improve students' mental health and well-being, reducing issues such as bullying and anxiety, which benefits the entire school community. In conclusion, building a safe and encouraging classroom is not merely an aspiration but a fundamental component of effective teaching. It shapes students' academic success, personal growth, and societal contributions, creating a lasting positive impact on both the individuals I teach and the wider community.

rowing up with broken parents who are addicts I learned about mental health very early on in life. Most of my life I haven't had the opportunity to live with my parents due to their addiction. Before I understood I would wonder why they cannot just quit or why they started drugs in the first place. Mental health and addiction are two complex issues that are often intertwined, creating a challenging cycle for individuals to break free from. I have learned my parent's addiction comes from a mental health problem where they use drugs as their form of self-harm. My parents didn't have the support they needed and had a tough childhood leading to many emotional distress issues and not ever learning how to regulate their emotions. My mother later got diagnosed with depression and both parents were diagnosed with bipolar disorder which has now been passed down to my oldest sister. Mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, can increase the risk of substance abuse. When individuals struggle with emotional distress, they may turn to substances as a coping mechanism, seeking relief from their symptoms. To make it even worse substances can alter brain chemistry and contribute to the development of mental health problems. Effective treatment for mental health and addiction often involves a comprehensive approach that addresses both issues simultaneously. My father is at a place where he is starting to ask and seek help for the root cause which is his childhood trauma and mental health struggles while my mother is still currently in denial, from witnessing how much your mental health can impact your life first hand its important to be to be an advocate and attempt to help others. I try my hardest to support my mental health because of my childhood traumas from growing up with addicts as parents. I reach out to others who are struggling and try to help them through their hard times. I am an elementary education major and want to be there for my students and also help teach them how to regulate their emotions in a healthy appropriate way so they have to skills throughout their life. I consciously decide to be kind to even strangers because I know you never know who could be struggling or having a bad day. I let others know that it's okay to seek help for mental health issues. I make it a point to talk openly about mental health with friends, family, and classmates. Mental health awareness will always be a priority for me in day-to-day life.

Growing up with broken parents who are addicts I learned about mental health very early on in life. Most of my life I haven't had the opportunity to live with my parents due to their addiction. Before I understood I would wonder why they cannot just quit or why they started drugs in the first place. Mental health and addiction are two complex issues that are often intertwined, creating a challenging cycle for individuals to break free from. I have learned my parent's addiction comes from a mental health problem where they use drugs as their form of self-harm. My parents didn't have the support they needed and had a tough childhood leading to many emotional distress issues and not ever learning how to regulate their emotions. My mother later got diagnosed with depression and both parents were diagnosed with bipolar disorder which has now been passed down to my oldest sister. Mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, can increase the risk of substance abuse. When individuals struggle with emotional distress, they may turn to substances as a coping mechanism, seeking relief from their symptoms. To make it even worse substances can alter brain chemistry and contribute to the development of mental health problems. Effective treatment for mental health and addiction often involves a comprehensive approach that addresses both issues simultaneously. My father is at a place where he is starting to ask and seek help for the root cause which is his childhood trauma and mental health struggles while my mother is still currently in denial, from witnessing how much your mental health can impact your life first hand its important to be to be an advocate and attempt to help others. I try my hardest to support my mental health because of my childhood traumas from growing up with addicts as parents. I reach out to others who are struggling and try to help them through their hard times. I am an elementary education major and want to be there for my students and also help teach them how to regulate their emotions in a healthy appropriate way so they have to skills throughout their life. I consciously decide to be kind to even strangers because I know you never know who could be struggling or having a bad day. I let others know that it's okay to seek help for mental health issues. I make it a point to talk openly about mental health with friends, family, and classmates. Mental health awareness will always be a priority for me in day-to-day life.

Growing up with broken parents who are addicts I learned about mental health very early on in life. Most of my life I haven't had the opportunity to live with my parents due to their addiction. Before I understood I would wonder why they cannot just quit or why they started drugs in the first place. Mental health and addiction are two complex issues that are often intertwined, creating a challenging cycle for individuals to break free from. I have learned my parent's addiction comes from a mental health problem where they use drugs as their form of self-harm. My parents didn't have the support they needed and had a tough childhood leading to many emotional distress issues and not ever learning how to regulate their emotions. My mother later got diagnosed with depression and both parents were diagnosed with bipolar disorder which has now been passed down to my oldest sister. Mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, can increase the risk of substance abuse. When individuals struggle with emotional distress, they may turn to substances as a coping mechanism, seeking relief from their symptoms. To make it even worse substances can alter brain chemistry and contribute to the development of mental health problems. Effective treatment for mental health and addiction often involves a comprehensive approach that addresses both issues simultaneously. My father is at a place where he is starting to ask and seek help for the root cause which is his childhood trauma and mental health struggles while my mother is still currently in denial, from witnessing how much your mental health can impact your life first hand its important to be to be an advocate and attempt to help others. I try my hardest to support my mental health because of my childhood traumas from growing up with addicts as parents. I reach out to others who are struggling and try to help them through their hard times. I am an elementary education major and want to be there for my students and also help teach them how to regulate their emotions in a healthy appropriate way so they have to skills throughout their life. I consciously decide to be kind to even strangers because I know you never know who could be struggling or having a bad day. I let others know that it's okay to seek help for mental health issues. I make it a point to talk openly about mental health with friends, family, and classmates. Mental health awareness will always be a priority for me in day-to-day life.

I Imagine a cozy, sunlit corner filled with a towering bookshelf overflowing with diverse and captivating tales. My ideal bookshelf would feature a mix of classic and contemporary favorites. Must-Have Titles: "The Song of Achilles" by Madeline Miller: This is a historical fiction masterpiece that has captivated #BookTok with its stunning prose, unforgettable characters, and exploration of love, loyalty, and the Greek myths. "The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue" by V.E. Schwab: This enchanting novel has sparked countless discussions about identity, freedom, and the power of storytelling. Its unique premise and well-developed characters have made it a #BookTok sensation. "The Priory of the Orange Tree" by Samantha Shannon: This epic fantasy saga, filled with dragons, magic, and complex political intrigue, has become a beloved series among #BookTok readers. Its intricate world-building and diverse cast of characters have made it a must-read for fantasy enthusiasts. "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" by Taylor Jenkins Reid: This historical fiction novel, set in Hollywood's golden age, has captivated audiences with its glamorous setting and exploration of love, fame, and the complexities of human relationships. "The Hate U Give" by Angie Thomas: This powerful contemporary novel, which addresses themes of racism, police brutality, and social justice, has sparked important conversations and inspired countless readers to become advocates for change. "The Guest List" by Lucy Foley: A suspenseful mystery set on a remote island, this book has kept readers guessing until the very end. Personal Romance Must-have titles "The Hating Game" by Sally Thorne: This workplace romance has become a beloved classic among fans of the genre. "The Kiss Quotient" by Helen Hoang: A heartwarming romance featuring a neurodivergent protagonist. "The Wedding Date" by Jasmine Guillory: A fun and lighthearted rom-com that has captured the hearts of many readers. These titles have played a significant role in shaping the #BookTok community. They have introduced new readers to diverse genres, sparked passionate discussions about important social issues, and fostered a sense of community among book lovers. The enthusiasm and engagement generated by these books have helped to elevate them to must-read status. My ideal bookshelf would be a reflection of the diverse and vibrant #BookTok community, filled with stories that inspire, challenge, and entertain. These titles, along with countless others discovered through the platform, would serve as a testament to the power of books to connect people and enrich lives. They have introduced readers to new genres, sparked passionate discussions, and fostered a sense of community among book lovers.

Growing up my teachers would talk about role models, I never saw that in my parents or guardians like most of my peers. My parents are addicts. My father is addicted to Methamphetamine and my mother to an array of substances from heroin to pills. Growing up with addicted parents can have profound and lasting effects on a child's emotional, psychological, and social development. Neither one of my parents attended college, and my dad didn't even graduate high school. My mother was a teen mother of five children who struggled to get by. My father left when I was one year old and popped back up at age five and got custody of me. Even as young as five years old I was relieved I had a safe healthy environment only for him to fall back into addiction and criminal activities when I turned about seven years old. I rarely ever lived with parents growing up usually I lived with family friends or family members off and on. I went to four different elementary schools and four separate middle schools as well as two different high schools never really getting to fully settle down. Children of addicted parents often experience trauma due to the chaotic and unpredictable environment. I've always told myself “I wanna be better than that” and “I will be better than that”. How am I supposed to break this family cycle? I asked myself. Ever since I was about six years old I've known that I've wanted to become an elementary school teacher. I not only want to become one but It is a dream of mine. I knew I could come to school and be at ease and safe. I didn't have my parents to look up to or to be my role models so I turned to my teachers. Many of my teachers will always have a special place in my heart for helping me through the hardest time in my life whether they were a shoulder for me to cry on or my second-grade teacher for taking me to the doctor when I had a bad case of untreated poison ivy or my fifth grade teacher for bringing my project to my house that I was so proud of and worked on for a month that my foster mother refused to come get it and told me to throw it away. This opportunity will help me further my education in early childhood and elementary education. I want to be that safe place and stability for my future students who are struggling or not. My passion for education, coupled with my belief in the formative years of childhood, drives my desire to become an elementary school teacher. Additionally, I can instill in them a strong sense of self-esteem and a positive outlook on life. I want to be a support system for my students as my teachers were for me. I believe that by connecting with my students on a personal level, I can inspire them to become the best version of themselves. As a teacher I could introduce, my future students to Philately can introduce stamps to them young and teach them about the different kinds and such, maybe even start a stamp club. I can have children create stamp-related projects, such as stamp art, stamp albums with personalized designs, or even stamp-themed stories. By providing opportunities to explore, learn, and connect with others through philately, you can help young people develop a lifelong passion for this fascinating hobby.

Success to me is stability and to feel secure. I know for most this is the bare minimum but I've felt truly secure and stable in life very few times. My parents are both addicts. My father is addicted to Methamphetamine and my mother to an array of substances from heroin to pills. Growing up with addicted parents can have profound and lasting effects on a child's emotional, psychological, and social development. My mother lived in a different state than me most of my childhood so I never really had her support. My father has been in and out of jail my whole life the most recent time he just got out a few days ago and checking himself into rehab. Due to these factors, I was in and out of homes. My father would get sober for months and either get custody awarded back or almost but he always relapsed shortly after. As a child, you have so much hope. I lived with family friends or family members all of which wasn't for too long. I went to four different elementary schools and four separate middle schools as well as two different high schools never really getting to fully settle down. Children of addicted parents often experience trauma due to the chaotic and unpredictable environment. I crave stability, I always have. Now that I am an adult I am working towards this. I am making it a priority to set myself up to be stable and secure by going to college and working through my childhood not only want stability for myself but also for my future children and family. This opportunity will help me further my education in early childhood and elementary education. Growing up with no true role models in my home life I turned to my teachers as role models. With my home life being unstable school was often my safe place to get me through my struggles had some amazing teachers growing up who made me the person I am today. I want to be that safe place and stability for my future students who are struggling or not. My passion for education, coupled with my belief in the formative years of childhood, drives my desire to become an elementary school teacher. I am committed to creating engaging and meaningful experiences that will inspire them to reach their full potential. Additionally, I can instill in them a strong sense of self-esteem and a positive outlook on life. I want to be a support system for my students as my teachers were for me. I recognize the crucial role that elementary school teachers play in a child's development. Teaching is not just about imparting knowledge; it's about building relationships and creating a lasting impact. I believe that by connecting with my students on a personal level, I can inspire them to become the best version of themselves. I am the person I am because of my obstacles but I am determined to break the cycle for myself and my future children and family. Success for me is being everything the child I needed and deserved.

The human mind has always been drawn to the mysteries of the cosmos. Our quest to understand the nature of the universe is driven by a deep-seated curiosity, a desire to find meaning and purpose in our existence. This pursuit has led to countless discoveries and innovations that have shaped our world. Humans have an innate desire to understand the world around us. One of the primary reasons why it's crucial to explore the universe is that such endeavors can have significant practical applications. For instance, advancements in astronomy and astrophysics have led to breakthroughs in technology, such as GPS, satellite communications, and materials science. Understanding the universe can also help us address pressing global challenges like climate change, energy shortages, and resource scarcity. A better understanding of the universe can help us identify and manage resources more effectively. For instance, knowledge of celestial bodies can aid in the exploration of potential sources of minerals and energy. A particularly intriguing aspect of the universe is the concept of dark matter and dark energy. These mysterious substances make up a significant portion of the universe but remain largely invisible to our current scientific instruments. Moreover, the study of the universe can expand our understanding of ourselves and our place in the cosmos. It can challenge our assumptions, broaden our perspectives, and inspire us to think critically about the big questions in life. As we delve deeper into the mysteries of the universe, we may uncover profound truths about the nature of reality, consciousness, and the meaning of existence. To further our understanding of the universe, I believe it is essential to employ a multidisciplinary approach that combines various fields of study. This includes: Scientific inquiry: Rigorous experimentation, observation, and data analysis are fundamental to scientific progress. Philosophical exploration: Considering the philosophical implications of scientific discoveries can help us understand the broader context of our knowledge. Technological innovation: Developing new tools and instruments allows us to explore the universe in greater detail. Interdisciplinary collaboration: Working together with experts from different fields can lead to new insights and breakthroughs .Ethical considerations: Addressing the ethical implications of scientific research is crucial to ensure that our exploration of the universe is conducted responsibly. By embracing these ideas and concepts, we can continue to push the boundaries of our knowledge and deepen our understanding of the universe. This pursuit is not only intellectually stimulating but also essential for the progress of humanity.

Growing up with broken parents who are addicts I learned about mental health very early on in life. Most of my life I haven't had the opportunity to live with my parents due to their addiction. Before I understood I would wonder why they cannot just quit or why they started drugs in the first place. Mental health and addiction are two complex issues that are often intertwined, creating a challenging cycle for individuals to break free from. I have learned my parent's addiction comes from a mental health problem where they use drugs as their form of self-harm. My parents didn't have the support they needed and had a tough childhood leading to many emotional distress issues and not ever learning how to regulate their emotions. My mother later got diagnosed with depression and both parents were diagnosed with bipolar disorder which has now been passed down to my oldest sister. Mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, can increase the risk of substance abuse. When individuals struggle with emotional distress, they may turn to substances as a coping mechanism, seeking relief from their symptoms. To make it even worse substances can alter brain chemistry and contribute to the development of mental health problems. Effective treatment for mental health and addiction often involves a comprehensive approach that addresses both issues simultaneously. My father is at a place where he is starting to ask and seek help for the root cause which is his childhood trauma and mental health struggles while my mother is still currently in denial, from witnessing how much your mental health can impact your life first hand its important to be to be an advocate and attempt to help others. I try my hardest to support my mental health because of my childhood traumas from growing up with addicts as parents. I reach out to others who are struggling and try to help them through their hard times. I am an elementary education major and want to be there for my students and also help teach them how to regulate their emotions in a healthy appropriate way so they have to skills throughout their life. I consciously decide to be kind to even strangers because I know you never know who could be struggling or having a bad day. I let others know that it's okay to seek help for mental health issues. I make it a point to talk openly about mental health with friends, family, and classmates. Mental health awareness will always be a priority for me in day-to-day life.

Ever since I was about six years old I've known that I've wanted to become an elementary school teacher. I not only want to become one but It is a dream of mine. Growing up I had a tough childhood, especially in my elementary age. I went to about five different elementary schools. My mother and father are addicts and I moved around a lot from family members to a foster home from age 9 to 13 years old most of these placements were not the best environment for a growing child. Throughout all of this school was my safe place matter how difficult and toxic my home life was I knew I could come to school and be at ease and safe. I didn't have my parents to look up to or to be my role models so I turned to my teachers. Teachers have such a major effect on students' daily lives and how they will be as students. Many of my teachers will always have a special place in my heart for helping me through the hardest time in my life whether they were there to me as a shoulder for me to cry on or my second-grade teacher for taking me to the doctor when I had a bad case of untreated poison ivy or my fifth grade teacher for bringing my project to my house that I was so proud of and worked on for a month. Still, my foster mother refused to come get it and told me to throw it away. All these experiences and more inspired me to want this career. I want to be in a safe place and a positive person like my teachers was me, too young children struggling or not. I want to make an impact on my student's lives and be what the younger me needs for others. I strive to be an encouraging teacher who lets every student she has to know they are loved and capable of anything and that she is proud of them because my teachers throughout the years have helped me believe this. Every child deserves to have someone rooting for them and I want to be that for students. I want to touch the minds of young children and have an impact. I couldn't see myself being happy in any other career this is what I want to spend my life doing. I would not be where I am today or the person I am today if it weren't for the teachers I had supported me throughout the worst time of my life.

Ever since I was about six years old I've known that I've wanted to become an elementary school teacher. I not only want to become one but It is a dream of mine. Growing up I had a tough childhood, especially in my elementary age. I went to about five different elementary schools. My mother and father are addicts and I moved around a lot from family members to a foster home from age 9 to 13 years old most of these placements were not the best environment for a growing child. Throughout all of this school was my safe place matter how difficult and toxic my home life was I knew I could come to school and be at ease and safe. I didn't have my parents to look up to or to be my role models so I turned to my teachers. Teachers have such a major effect on students' daily lives and how they will be as students. Many of my teachers will always have a special place in my heart for helping me through the hardest time in my life whether they were there to me as a shoulder for me to cry on or my second-grade teacher for taking me to the doctor when I had a bad case of untreated poison ivy or my fifth grade teacher for bringing my project to my house that I was so proud of and worked on for a month. Still, my foster mother refused to come get it and told me to throw it away. All these experiences and more inspired me to want this career. I want to be in a safe place and a positive person like my teachers was me, too young children struggling or not. I want to make an impact on my student's lives and be what the younger me needs for others. I strive to be an encouraging teacher who lets every student she has to know they are loved and capable of anything and that she is proud of them because my teachers throughout the years have helped me believe this. Every child deserves to have someone rooting for them and I want to be that for students. I want to touch the minds of young children and have an impact. I couldn't see myself being happy in any other career this is what I want to spend my life doing. I would not be where I am today or the person I am today if it weren't for the teachers I had supported me throughout the worst time of my life.

Ever since I was about six years old I've known that I've wanted to become an elementary school teacher. I not only want to become one but It is a dream of mine. Growing up I had a tough childhood, especially in my elementary age. I went to about five different elementary schools. My mother and father are addicts and I moved around a lot from family members to a foster home from ages 9 to 13 years old. Most of these placements were not the best environment for a growing child. Throughout all of this school was my safe place matter how difficult and toxic my home life was I knew I could come to school and be at ease and safe. I didn't have my parents to look up to or to be my role models so I turned to my teachers. Teachers have such a major effect on students' daily lives and how they will be as a person. Many of my teachers will always have a special place in my heart for helping me through the hardest time in my life whether they were there to me as a shoulder for me to cry on or my second-grade teacher for taking me to the doctor when I had a bad case of untreated poison ivy or my fifth grade teacher for bringing my project to my house that I was so proud of and worked on for a month that my foster mother refused to come get it and told me to throw it away. All these experiences and more inspired me to want this career. I want to be in a safe place and a positive person like my teachers was me, too young children struggling or not. I want to make an impact on my student's lives and be what the younger me needs for others. I truly believe it is my duty to help young children in any way I can. My amazing teachers have inspired me to want to pursue this career. I really feel I need to be that safe place for students like my teachers were for me. My teachers were my only role models as a growing child because my family were the exact opposite of the type of person I want to be. I strive to be an encouraging teacher who lets every student she has know they are loved and capable of anything and that I am proud of them. Every child deserves to have someone rooting for them and I want to be that for students. I want to touch the minds of young children and have an impact. I couldn't see myself being happy in any other career. This is what I want to spend my life doing. I would not be where I am today or the person I am today if it weren't for the teachers I had supported me throughout the worst times of my life. Pursue teaching is my biggest goal, achievement and what I'm most proud of.

Ever since I was about six years old I've known that I've wanted to become an elementary school teacher. I not only want to become one but It is a dream of mine. Growing up I had a tough childhood, especially in my elementary age. I went to about five different elementary schools. My mother and father are addicts and I moved around a lot from family members to a foster home from ages 9 to 13 years old. Most of these placements were not the best environment for a growing child. Throughout all of this school was my safe place matter how difficult and toxic my home life was I knew I could come to school and be at ease and safe. I didn't have my parents to look up to or to be my role models so I turned to my teachers. Teachers have such a major effect on students' daily lives and how they will be as a person. Many of my teachers will always have a special place in my heart for helping me through the hardest time in my life whether they were there to me as a shoulder for me to cry on or my second-grade teacher for taking me to the doctor when I had a bad case of untreated poison ivy or my fifth grade teacher for bringing my project to my house that I was so proud of and worked on for a month that my foster mother refused to come get it and told me to throw it away. All these experiences and more inspired me to want this career. I want to be in a safe place and a positive person like my teachers was me, too young children struggling or not. I want to make an impact on my student's lives and be what the younger me needs for others. I truly believe it is my duty to help young children in any way I can .I strive to be an encouraging teacher who lets every student she has know they are loved and capable of anything and that I am proud of them. Every child deserves to have someone rooting for them and I want to be that for students. I want to touch the minds of young children and have an impact. I couldn't see myself being happy in any other career. This is what I want to spend my life doing. I would not be where I am today or the person I am today if it weren't for the teachers I had supported me throughout the worst times of my life.

Growing up my teachers would talk about role models, I never saw that in my parents or guardians like most of my peers. My mother and father are drug addicts and criminals in many ways. Neither one of my parents attended college, and my dad didn't even graduate high school. I have no contact with my mom so I am not aware if she graduated high school or not. My mother was a teen mother of 5 children who struggled to get by. My father left when I was one year old and popped back up at age 5 and got custody of me. Even at 5 years old I was relieved I had a safe healthy environment only for him to fall back into addiction and criminal activities when I turned about seven years old. I've always told myself “I wanna be better than that” and “I will be better than that”. Growing up I was moved around a lot due to my parent's absence. I lived in many different family members' houses and even a foster home from the ages of 9 to 13. My foster family was mentally abusive, even sometimes physically. I've heard from my foster family over and over “You are gonna turn out just like your parents”, “you're no good just like your mother” and more. What else is a 9-year-old girl supposed to believe if she is hearing that constantly, over time I started to question myself. How am I supposed to break this family cycle? I asked myself. How am I supposed to do the right thing if I have no one to learn from? I knew I was capable of good and amazing things in life and I could be better. Ever since I was about six years old I've known that I've wanted to become an elementary school teacher. I not only want to become one but It is a dream of mine. I knew I could come to school and be at ease and safe. I didn't have my parents to look up to or to be my role models so I turned to my teachers. Many of my teachers will always have a special place in my heart for helping me through the hardest time in my life whether they were a shoulder for me to cry on or my second-grade teacher for taking me to the doctor when I had a bad case of untreated poison ivy or my fifth grade teacher for bringing my project to my house that I was so proud of and worked on for a month that my foster mother refused to come get it and told me to throw it away. I want to be in a safe place and a positive person like my teachers was me, too young children struggling or not. I strive to be an encouraging teacher who lets every student know they are loved and capable of anything and that she is proud of them because my teachers throughout the years have helped me believe this. Every child deserves to have someone rooting for them and I want to be that for students. I want to touch the minds of young children and have an impact. I couldn't see myself being happy in any other career this is what I want to spend my life doing. I would not be where I am today or the person I am today if it weren't for the teachers I had supported me throughout the worst time of my life.

Ever since I was about six years old I've known that I've wanted to become an elementary school teacher. I not only want to become one but It is a dream of mine. Growing up I had a tough childhood, especially in my elementary age. I went to about five different elementary schools. My mother and father are addicts and I moved around a lot from family members to a foster home from age 9 to 13 years old most of these placements were not the best environment for a growing child. Throughout all of this school was my safe place matter how difficult and toxic my home life was I knew I could come to school and be at ease and safe. I didn't have my parents to look up to or to be my role models so I turned to my teachers. Teachers have such a major effect on students' daily lives and how they will be as students. Many of my teachers will always have a special place in my heart for helping me through the hardest time in my life whether they were there to me as a shoulder for me to cry on or my second-grade teacher for taking me to the doctor when I had a bad case of untreated poison ivy or my fifth grade teacher for bringing my project to my house that I was so proud of and worked on for a month. Still, my foster mother refused to come get it and told me to throw it away. All these experiences and more inspired me to want this career. I want to be in a safe place and a positive person like my teachers was me, too young children struggling or not. I want to make an impact on my student's lives and be what the younger me needs for others. I strive to be an encouraging teacher who lets every student she has know they are loved and capable of anything and that she is proud of them because my teachers throughout the years have helped me believe this. Every child deserves to have someone rooting for them and I want to be that for students. I want to touch the minds of young children and have an impact. I couldn't see myself being happy in any other career this is what I want to spend my life doing. I would not be where I am today or the person I am today if it weren't for the teachers I had supported me throughout the worst time of my life.

Ever since I was about six years old I've known that I've wanted to become an elementary school teacher. I not only want to become one but It is a dream of mine. Growing up I had a tough childhood, especially in my elementary age. I went to about five different elementary schools. My mother and father are addicts and I moved around a lot from family members to a foster home from age 9 to 13 years old most of these placements were not the best environment for a growing child. Throughout all of this school was my safe place matter how difficult and toxic my home life was I knew I could come to school and be at ease and safe. I didn't have my parents to look up to or to be my role models so I turned to my teachers. Teachers have such a major effect on students' daily lives and how they will be as students. Many of my teachers will always have a special place in my heart for helping me through the hardest time in my life whether they were there to me as a shoulder for me to cry on or my second-grade teacher for taking me to the doctor when I had a bad case of untreated poison ivy or my fifth grade teacher for bringing my project to my house that I was so proud of and worked on for a month. Still, my foster mother refused to come get it and told me to throw it away. All these experiences and more inspired me to want this career. I want to be in a safe place and a positive person like my teachers was me, too young children struggling or not. I want to make an impact on my student's lives and be what the younger me needs for others. I strive to be an encouraging teacher who lets every student she has to know they are loved and capable of anything and that she is proud of them because my teachers throughout the years have helped me believe this. Every child deserves to have someone rooting for them and I want to be that for students. I want to touch the minds of young children and have an impact. I couldn't see myself being happy in any other career this is what I want to spend my life doing. I would not be where I am today or the person I am today if it weren't for the teachers I had supported me throughout the worst time of my life.

220,000 children under 14 are taken to the emergency room every year for playground injuries, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.220,000 is an unimaginable amount of people to truly grasp in our head. 220,000 is over 600 children every single day getting injured on the playground in my book that's way too many injuries that can be prevented. Playgrounds can be dangerous for children without proper precautions set into place. As an education major, we are taught proper playground safety for children. My number 1 goal as a future teacher is that every one of my students feels safe. As a child who grew up with addict parents, I often didn't have much supervision and this led to me getting hurt on multiple occasions Although at school I wasn't allowed to do certain things for my safety as I child those rules seemed useless but now as an adult, I understand how badly a child can get injured just from falls or improper use of equipment. I have personally taken a Child health and safety course that has a whole unit on playground safety. The course taught me about proper supervision, playground rules, a checklist for equipment and play area, and age-appropriate playground equipment. In my state to get approved by the Department of Human Resources to work in a childcare facility you must of over their standards. The DHR standard outlines how many adults must be present based on the amount of children. It outlines what is age-appropriate equipment for every age group. The DHR standards even come with a playground checklist. In my child health and safety course, one of my assignments where to get field experience at a preschool go to recess with a class, and fill out a checklist of safety precautions for the playground, this personally helped me analyze the playground equipment and area and helped me learn about the different percussion and hazards that can be present. As a teacher, it is your job to set proper rules for students based on their age and the requirements given. It is your job as a teacher to pay attention to students and make sure they are following the rules and being safe. It is your job as a teacher to check the equipment for damages and other hazards. I make a conscious effort to promote safety in my classroom by following the curriculum and standards I have been taught in my education courses and to stay up to date on standards that may change throughout my career.

Ever since I was about six years old I've known that I've wanted to become an elementary school teacher. I not only want to become one but It is a dream of mine. Growing up I had a tough childhood, especially in my elementary age. I went to about five different elementary schools. My mother and father are addicts and I moved around a lot from family members to a foster home from age 9 to 13 years old most of these placements were not the best environment for a growing child. Throughout all of this school was my safe place matter how difficult and toxic my home life was I knew I could come to school and be at ease and safe. I didn't have my parents to look up to or to be my role models so I turned to my teachers. Teachers have such a major effect on students' daily lives and how they will be as students. Many of my teachers will always have a special place in my heart for helping me through the hardest time in my life whether they were there to me as a shoulder for me to cry on or my second-grade teacher for taking me to the doctor when I had a bad case of untreated poison ivy or my fifth grade teacher for bringing my project to my house that I was so proud of and worked on for a month. Still, my foster mother refused to come get it and told me to throw it away. All these experiences and more inspired me to want this career. I want to be in a safe place and a positive person like my teachers was me, too young children struggling or not. I want to make an impact on my student's lives and be what the younger me needs for others. I strive to be an encouraging teacher who lets every student she has know they are loved and capable of anything and that she is proud of them because my teachers throughout the years have helped me believe this. Every child deserves to have someone rooting for them and I want to be that for students. I want to touch the minds of young children and have an impact. I couldn't see myself being happy in any other career this is what I want to spend my life doing. I would not be where I am today or the person I am today if it weren't for the teachers I had supported me throughout the worst time of my life.

Ever since I was about six years old I've known that I've wanted to become an elementary school teacher.I not only want to become one but It is a dream of mine.Growing up I had a tough childhood especially in my elementary age.My mother and father are addicts and I moved around alot from family members to a foster home from age 8/9-13 years old most of these placements were not the best environment for a growing child.The foster home I was in from ages 9 to 13 years old my foster mother and father were extremely abusive.The would tell me things like “you will turn out just like your good for nothing mom and dad” and much more.I have been determined to prove them wrong.I am going to be better and inspire my students to fight the odds.Throughout all of this school was my safe place.No matter how difficult and toxic my home life was I knew I could come to school and be at ease and safe.I didn't have my parents to look up to or to be my role models so I turned to my teachers.It’s extreme hard on a young girl to not have a support system at home when they are going through so much.Many of my teachers will always have a special place in my heart for helping me through the hardest time in my life whether they were there to me as a shoulder for me to cry on or my second grade teacher for taking me to the doctor when I kept missing school because I had a bad case of untreated poison ivy that none of my guardians took me to the doctor for or my fifth grade teacher for bringing my project to my house that I was so proud of and worked on for a month but my foster mother refused to come get and told me to throw away.All these experiences and more inspired me to want this career.I want to be the safe place and positive person like my teacher where to me to young children struggling or not.I want to make an impact on my students life and be what younger me needed to others.I strive to be an encouraging teacher who lets ever students she has know they are loved and capable of anything and that she is proud of them because my teachers throughout the years help me believe this.Every child deserve to have someone rooting for them and I want to be that for students.I want to touch the minds of young children and have an impact.I couldn't see myself being happy in any other career this is what I want to spend my life doing.I would not be where I am today or the person I am today if it wasn't for the teachers I had supporting be throughout the worst time of my life.

My whole life my parents have fought addiction. My mother and father are addicted to a range of substances, and because of this have not been around very much. My biggest obstacle in life was never having anyone to look up to. All the adults in my life have been bad influences from my parents being addicts, and criminals to my foster mother and father being abusive and spiteful. Growing up I always thought “I don't want to be like them”. I was the adult figure in many situations when all I wanted was to be a kid and have someone to guide me through the crazy and suspenseful thing, we call life. How is a growing mind supposed to go on the right track in life if all they see is people going down bad and degrading paths? I’ve asked myself this countless times. I grew up asking and doubting myself because I didn't believe I could turn out any different, how was I supposed to break the generational patterns? It’s only natural for a child to learn and mold into their influences. I’ve had dozens of people from my foster family to hateful kids tell me “You're going to be just like your parents”. I’ve since realized I want to be better. Although I haven't got the luxury of having people to look up to, good influences or as many people call “heroes” I've gotten the opportunity to have countless examples of what not to do. I will break these generational barriers. I will be successful and better. I will be the first person in my family to go to college. I will make a great life for myself and my future children. Most of all I will be a good influence on the people around me, from my future students, peers, and most importantly to me my children. Growing up the only people I had to look up to were my teachers. School has been a safe place for me for as long as I can remember. No matter what crazy stressful situations were going on at home I knew I could come to school and feel at ease and safe. I want to be a safe place for children like me. I want to be a person a child struggling can look up to, just like the amazing teachers I had throughout my school career. From my 2nd grade teacher who would buy me clothes and shoes and bring me breakfast because she knew sometimes I didn’t have it or let me sleep when she knew I was tired from a hectic night in my unstable household, she even took me to the doctor when I missed too many days of school because I had an infection and wasn't taken to the doctor my father. To my 3rd grade teacher who sat in the hallway holding me while crying to her and even when I had my anger outburst, she still understood me and helped. To my 4th and 5th-grade teachers who did the same as my 3rd-grade teacher as well as bringing my history project, which I worked on for a month to my house so I could keep it after my foster mother refused to come to get it. These are just a few examples of countless teachers who touched my heart and life as a child and made my life better and made me realize I am not my parents and that I have people on my side encouraging me. This is why I want to pursue a career in the teaching field.

Ever since I was about six years old, I've known that I wanted to become an elementary school teacher. I not only want to become one, but it is a dream of mine. Growing up I had a tough childhood, especially in elementary age. My mother and father are addicts and I moved around a lot from family members to a foster home from age 8/9-13 years old most of these placements were not the best environment for a growing child. In elementary school, I went to 4 different schools and lived in 5 different households. In the foster home, I was in from ages 9 to 13 years old my foster mother and father were extremely abusive. They would tell me things like “you will turn out just like your good-for-nothing mom and dad” and much more. I have been determined to prove them wrong. I am going to be better and inspire my students to fight the odds. Throughout all this school was my safe place. No matter how difficult and toxic my home life was I knew I could come to school and be at ease and safe. I didn't have my parents to look up to or to be my role models, so I turned to my teachers. It’s extremely hard for a young girl that doesn't have a support system at home when they are going through so much. Many of my teachers will always have a special place in my heart for helping me through the hardest time in my life whether they were there to me as a shoulder for me to cry on or my second-grade teacher for taking me to the doctor when I kept missing school because I had a bad case of untreated poison ivy that none of my guardians took me to the doctor for or my fifth grade teacher for bringing my project to my house that I was so proud of and worked on for a month but my foster mother refused to come to get and told me to throw away. All these experiences and more inspired me to want this career. I want to be a safe place and a positive encouraging person like my teachers were to me for all my students struggling or not. I want to make an impact on my student’s life and be what the younger me needed for others. I strive to be an encouraging teacher who lets every student she has known they are loved and capable of anything and I am proud of them because my teachers throughout the years helped me believe this. Every child deserves to have someone rooting for them and I want to be that for students. Without the teachers I had growing up I don’t believe I would have continued through school or be where I am today. I want to touch the minds of young children and have an impact. I couldn't see myself being happy in any other career this is what I want to spend my life doing. I would not be where I am today or the person I am today if it wasn't for the teachers I had supported me throughout the worst time of my life.

Ever since I was young I've always looked up to my grandfather. I call him Pepaw. My mother and father had me young at 20 years old, they are both addicts. They would pass around custody of me out of spite. When I was about 7 years old my father went to jail, which he was constantly in and out of. This time I went to go live with my grandfather. My grandfather supported everyone he would support my father and pay for countless lawyers and rehabs to help with his addiction. Constantly people were living with us that had nowhere else to go. I was around many adults who taught me what not to do especially my parents. I grew up seeing constant substance, mental and physical abuse. My grandfather tried to shield me from this but the court system generally favors parents and would give them visitation and custody on many occasions. I grew up constantly questioning how I was supposed to be any different than the toxic people around me until one day it hit me my grandfather was constantly around the cautious as well but he still creates a good life for himself. My grandfather would always tell me you can do anything you want in this life. He would make me go to school and teach me the importance of getting an education to break all the generational cycles that have been placed on me. My grandfather had full custody of me from 14-16 years old when he then passed away unexpectedly from cancer we were not aware he had. I always took school seriously but something switch in me when he passed. I started taking school and my educational goal of becoming a teacher more seriously. I knew I had to make him proud and keep my word of being the first person in my family to graduate from college and build a good life for me and my future children and grandchildren like my grandfather attempted to do himself. I know he is watching over me and encouraging me still to push and break all the generational cycles. Even in death, my grandfather is my biggest supporter and motivator. Every time I feel myself giving up on a class or feeling down about a grade I think about how proud pepaw would be of me and what he would tell me. He would say" you can do this sammy I know you can, you will reach whatever goals you place upon yourself"

My whole life my parents have fought with addiction.My mother and father are addicted to a range of substances,and because of this have not been around very much.My biggest obstacle in life was never having anyone to look up too.All the adults in my life have been bad influences from my parents being addicts,criminals and from my foster mother and father being abusive and spiteful.Growing up I always though “I don't wanna be like them”.I was the adult figure in many situations when all I wanted was to be a kid and have someone to guide me through the crazy and suspenseful thing we call life.How is a growing mind supposed to go on the right track in life if all they see is people going down bad and degrading paths?I've asked myself this countless times.I grew up asking and doubting myself because I didn't believe I could turn out any different ,how was I supposed to break the generational patterns?.It's only natural for a child to learn and mold into their influences.I've had dozens of people from my foster family,to hateful kids tell me “You're gonna be just like your parents”.Although I haven't got the luxury of having people to look up too,good influences or as many people call it “heros” I've gotten the opportunity to have countless examples of what not to do.Once i realized this I started to have hope in my future.I will break these generational barriers.I will be successful and better.I will finish high school unlike my parents.I will be the first person in my family to go to college.I will make a great life for me and my future children.Most of all I will be a Good influence to the people around me from my future students,peers,and most importantly to me my children.Growing up the only people I had to look up too where my teachers.School has been a safe place for me as long as I can remember.No matter what crazy stressful situations where going on at home I knew I could come to school and feel at ease and safe.I want to be that safe place for children like myself.I want to be a person a child struggling can look up to,just like the amazing teachers I had throughout my school carrer.From my 2nd grade teacher who would buy me clothes and shoes and bring me breakfast because she knew sometimes I didnt have it or letting me sleep when she knew I was tried from a hectic night in my unstable household,she even took me to the doctor when i missed too many days of school because I had an infection and wasn't taken to the doctor my father.To my 3rd grade teacher who sit in the hallway holding me while crying to her and even when I had my anger outburst she still understood me and helped.To my 4th and 5th grade teacher who did the same as my 3rd grade teacher as well as bringing my history project I worked on for a month to my house so I could keep it after my foster mother refused to come get it.My 7th grade english teacher a cheer coach who was there for me through the hardest period of my life and the peak of the abuse.These are just a few examples out of countless teachers who touch my heart and life as a child and made my life better and made me realize I am not my parents and I have people on my side encouraging me.This is why I want to pursue a career in the teaching field.

My whole life my parents have fought addiction. My mother and father are addicted to a range of substances, and because of this have not been around very much. My biggest obstacle in life was never having anyone to look up to. All the adults in my life have been bad influences from my parents being addicts, and criminals to my foster mother and father being abusive and spiteful. Growing up I always thought “I don't want to be like them”. I was the adult figure in many situations when all I wanted was to be a kid and have someone to guide me through the crazy and suspenseful thing, we call life. How is a growing mind supposed to go on the right track in life if all they see is people going down bad and degrading paths? I’ve asked myself this countless times. I grew up asking and doubting myself because I didn't believe I could turn out any different, how was I supposed to break the generational patterns? It’s only natural for a child to learn and mold into their influences. I’ve had dozens of people from my foster family to hateful kids tell me “You're going to be just like your parents”. Before I grew up and realized how broken the people around me were, I looked up to my dad I remember riding around with him in his big red truck and thinking “I want to be just like my daddy”, I’ve since realized I want to be better. Although I haven't got the luxury of having people to look up to, good influences or as many people call “heroes” I've gotten the opportunity to have countless examples of what not to do. Once I realized this, I started to have hope for my future. I will break these generational barriers. I will be successful and better. I will finish high school, unlike my parents. I will be the first person in my family to go to college. Growing up the only people I had to look up to were my teachers. The school has been a safe place for as long as I can remember. No matter what crazy stressful situations were going on at home I knew I could come to school and feel at ease and safe. I want to be that safe place for children like me. I want to be a person a child struggling can look up to, just like the amazing teachers I had throughout my school career. From my 2nd grade teacher who would buy me clothes and shoes and bring me breakfast because she knew sometimes I didn’t have it or let me sleep when she knew I was tired from a hectic night in my unstable household, she even took me to the doctor when I missed too many days of school because I had an infection and wasn't taken to the doctor my father. To my 3rd grade teacher who sit in the hallway holding me while crying to her and even when I had my anger outburst, she still understood me and helped. My 7th grade English teacher was a cheer coach who was there for me through the hardest period of my life and the peak of the abuse. These are just a few examples of countless teachers who touch my heart and life as a child and made my life better and made me realize I am not my parents and that I have people on my side encouraging me. This is why I want to pursue a career in teaching.

My whole life my parents have fought addiction. My mother and father are addicted to a range of substances, and because of this have not been around very much. My biggest obstacle in life was never having anyone to look up to. All the adults in my life have been bad influences from my parents being addicts, and criminals to my foster mother and father being abusive and spiteful. Growing up I always thought “I don't want to be like them”. I was the adult figure in many situations when all I wanted was to be a kid and have someone to guide me through the crazy and suspenseful thing, we call life. How is a growing mind supposed to go on the right track in life if all they see is people going down bad and degrading paths? I’ve asked myself this countless times. I grew up asking and doubting myself because I didn't believe I could turn out any different, how was I supposed to break the generational patterns? It’s only natural for a child to learn and mold into their influences. I’ve had dozens of people from my foster family to hateful kids tell me “You're going to be just like your parents”. Before I grew up and realized how broken the people around me were, I looked up to my dad I remember riding around with him in his big red truck and thinking “I want to be just like my daddy”, I’ve since realized I want to be better. Although I haven't got the luxury of having people to look up to, good influences or as many people call “heroes” I've gotten the opportunity to have countless examples of what not to do. Once I realized this I started to have hope for my future. I will break these generational barriers. I will be successful and better. I will finish high school, unlike my parents. I will be the first person in my family to go to college. Growing up the only people I had to look up to were my teachers. School has been a safe place for as long as I can remember. No matter what crazy stressful situations were going on at home I knew I could come to school and feel at ease and safe. I want to be that safe place for children like me. I want to be a person a child struggling can look up to, just like the amazing teachers I had throughout my school career. From my 2nd grade teacher who would buy me clothes and shoes and bring me breakfast because she knew sometimes I didn’t have it or let me sleep when she knew I was tired from a hectic night in my unstable household, she even took me to the doctor when I missed too many days of school because I had an infection and wasn't taken to the doctor my father. To my 3rd grade teacher who sit in the hallway holding me while crying to her and even when I had my anger outburst, she still understood me and helped. My 7th grade English teacher was a cheer coach who was there for me through the hardest period of my life and the peak of the abuse. These are just a few examples of countless teachers who touch my heart and life as a child and made my life better and made me realize I am not my parents and that I have people on my side encouraging me. This is why I want to pursue a career in teaching.

Ever since I was about six years old, I've known that I wanted to become an elementary school teacher. I not only want to become one, but it is a dream of mine. Growing up I had a tough childhood, especially in elementary age. My mother and father are addicts and I moved around a lot from family members to a foster home from age 8/9-13 years old most of these placements were not the best environment for a growing child. In elementary school, I went to 4 different schools and lived in 5 different households. In the foster home, I was in from ages 9 to 13 years old my foster mother and father were extremely abusive. They would tell me things like “you will turn out just like your good-for-nothing mom and dad” and much more. I have been determined to prove them wrong. I am going to be better and inspire my students to fight the odds. Throughout all this school was my safe place. No matter how difficult and toxic my home life was I knew I could come to school and be at ease and safe. I didn't have my parents to look up to or to be my role models, so I turned to my teachers. It’s extremely hard for young girls to not have a support system at home when they are going through so much. Many of my teachers will always have a special place in my heart for helping me through the hardest time in my life whether they were there to me as a shoulder for me to cry on or my second-grade teacher for taking me to the doctor when I kept missing school because I had a bad case of untreated poison ivy that none of my guardians took me to the doctor for or my fifth grade teacher for bringing my project to my house that I was so proud of and worked on for a month but my foster mother refused to come to get and told me to throw away. All these experiences and more inspired me to want this career. I want to be a safe place and a positive encouraging person like my teachers was to me all my students struggling or not. I want to make an impact on my student's life and be what the younger me needed for others. I strive to be an encouraging teacher who lets every student she has known they are loved and capable of anything and I am proud of them because my teachers throughout the years helped me believe this. Every child deserves to have someone rooting for them and I want to be that for students. Without the teachers I had growing up I don’t believe I would have continued through school or been where I am today. I want to touch the minds of young children and have an impact. I couldn't see myself being happy in any other career this is what I want to spend my life doing. I would not be where I am today or the person I am today if it wasn't for the teachers I had supported me throughout the worst time of my life. If I can get this scholarship I can use this to pursue my dreams of not only higher education but also my dreams of helping our younger generation and being a teacher our broken school systems need.

Ever since I was about six years old, I've known that I wanted to become an elementary school teacher. I not only want to become one, but it is a dream of mine. Growing up I had a tough childhood, especially in elementary age. My mother and father are addicts and I moved around a lot from family members to a foster home from age 8/9-13 years old most of these placements were not the best environment for a growing child. In elementary school, I went to 4 different schools and lived in 5 different households. In the foster home, I was in from ages 9 to 13 years old my foster mother and father were extremely abusive. They would tell me things like “you will turn out just like your good-for-nothing mom and dad” and much more. I have been determined to prove them wrong. I am going to be better and inspire my students to fight the odds. Throughout all this school was my safe place. No matter how difficult and toxic my home life was I knew I could come to school and be at ease and safe. I didn't have my parents to look up to or to be my role models, so I turned to my teachers. It’s extremely hard for young girls to not have a support system at home when they are going through so much. Many of my teachers will always have a special place in my heart for helping me through the hardest time in my life whether they were there to me as a shoulder for me to cry on or my second-grade teacher for taking me to the doctor when I kept missing school because I had a bad case of untreated poison ivy that none of my guardians took me to the doctor for or my fifth grade teacher for bringing my project to my house that I was so proud of and worked on for a month but my foster mother refused to come to get and told me to throw away. All these experiences and more inspired me to want this career. I want to be a safe place and a positive encouraging person like my teachers was to me all my students struggling or not. I want to make an impact on my student's life and be what the younger me needed for others. I strive to be an encouraging teacher who lets every student she has known they are loved and capable of anything and I am proud of them because my teachers throughout the years helped me believe this. Every child deserves to have someone rooting for them and I want to be that for students. Without the teachers I had growing up I don’t believe I would have continued through school or been where I am today. I want to touch the minds of young children and have an impact. I couldn't see myself being happy in any other career this is what I want to spend my life doing. I would not be where I am today or the person I am today if it wasn't for the teachers I had supported me throughout the worst time of my life.

To me, higher education is breaking generation cycles and being the person I needed as a struggling child. Ever since I was about six years old, I've known that I wanted to become an elementary school teacher. I not only want to become one, but it is a dream of mine. Growing up I had a tough childhood, especially in elementary age. My mother and father are addicts and I moved around a lot from family members to a foster home from age 8/9-13 years old most of these placements were not the best environment for a growing child. In elementary school, I went to 4 different schools and lived in 5 different households. In the foster home, I was in from ages 9 to 13 years old my foster mother and father were extremely abusive. They would tell me things like “you will turn out just like your good-for-nothing mom and dad” and much more. I have been determined to prove them wrong. I am going to be better and inspire my students to fight the odds. Throughout all this school was my safe place. No matter how difficult and toxic my home life was I knew I could come to school and be at ease and safe. I didn't have my parents to look up to or to be my role models, so I turned to my teachers. It’s extremely hard for young girls to not have a support system at home when they are going through so much. Many of my teachers will always have a special place in my heart for helping me through the hardest time in my life whether they were there to me as a shoulder for me to cry on or my second-grade teacher for taking me to the doctor when I kept missing school because I had a bad case of untreated poison ivy that none of my guardians took me to the doctor for or my fifth grade teacher for bringing my project to my house that I was so proud of and worked on for a month but my foster mother refused to come to get and told me to throw away. All these experiences and more inspired me to want this career. I want to be a safe place and a positive encouraging person like my teachers was to me all my students struggling or not. I want to make an impact on my student's life and be what the younger me needed for others. I strive to be an encouraging teacher who lets every student she has known they are loved and capable of anything and I am proud of them because my teachers throughout the years helped me believe this. Every child deserves to have someone rooting for them and I want to be that for students. Without the teachers I had growing up I don’t believe I would have continued through school or been where I am today. I want to touch the minds of young children and have an impact. I couldn't see myself being happy in any other career this is what I want to spend my life doing. I would not be where I am today or the person I am today if it wasn't for the teachers I had supported me throughout the worst time of my life. If I can get this scholarship I can use this to pursue my dreams of not only higher education but also my dreams of helping our younger generation and being a teacher our broken school systems need.

Ever since I was about six years old, I've known that I've wanted to become an elementary school teacher. I not only want to become one but it is a dream of mine. Growing up I had a tough childhood especially in my elementary age. My mother and father are addicts and I moved around a lot from family members to a foster home from age 8/9-13 years old most of these placements were not the best environment for a growing child. In elementary school I went to 4 different schools and lived in 5 different households. The foster home I was in from ages 9 to 13 years old my foster mother and father were extremely abusive. They would tell me things like “you will turn out just like your good for nothing mom and dad” and much more. I have been determined to prove them wrong. I am going to be better and inspire my students to fight the odds. Throughout all this school was my safe place. No matter how difficult and toxic my home life was I knew I could come to school and be at ease and safe. I didn't have my parents to look up to or to be my role models so I turned to my teachers. It’s extreme hard on a young girl to not have a support system at home when they are going through so much. Many of my teachers will always have a special place in my heart for helping me through the hardest time in my life whether they were there to me as a shoulder for me to cry on or my second grade teacher for taking me to the doctor when I kept missing school because I had a bad case of untreated poison ivy that none of my guardians took me to the doctor for or my fifth grade teacher for bringing my project to my house that I was so proud of and worked on for a month but my foster mother refused to come get and told me to throw away. All these experiences and more inspired me to want this career. I want to be the safe place and a positive encouraging person like my teachers where to me for all my students struggling or not. I want to make an impact on my students life and be what younger me needed to others. I strive to be an encouraging teacher who lets ever students she has known they are loved and capable of anything and that I am proud of them because my teachers throughout the years helped me believe this. Every child deserves to have someone rooting for them and I want to be that for students. Without my teacher I had growing up I don’t believe I would have continued through school or be where I am today. I want to touch the minds of young children and have an impact. I couldn't see myself being happy in any other career this is what I want to spend my life doing. I would not be where I am today or the person I am today if it wasn't for the teachers I had supporting be throughout the worst time of my life.

Ever since I was about six years old I've known that I've wanted to become an elementary school teacher.I not only want to become one but It is a dream of mine.Growing up I had a tough childhood especially in my elementary age.My mother and father are addicts and I moved around alot from family members to a foster home from age 8/9-13 years old most of these placements were not the best environment for a growing child.The foster home I was in from ages 9 to 13 years old my foster mother and father were extremely abusive.The would tell me things like “you will turn out just like your good for nothing mom and dad” and much more.I have been determined to prove them wrong.I am going to be better and inspire my students to fight the odds.Throughout all of this school was my safe place.No matter how difficult and toxic my home life was I knew I could come to school and be at ease and safe.I didn't have my parents to look up to or to be my role models so I turned to my teachers.It’s extreme hard on a young girl to not have a support system at home when they are going through so much.Many of my teachers will always have a special place in my heart for helping me through the hardest time in my life whether they were there to me as a shoulder for me to cry on or my second grade teacher for taking me to the doctor when I kept missing school because I had a bad case of untreated poison ivy that none of my guardians took me to the doctor for or my fifth grade teacher for bringing my project to my house that I was so proud of and worked on for a month but my foster mother refused to come get and told me to throw away.All these experiences and more inspired me to want this career.I want to be the safe place and positive person like my teacher where to me to young children struggling or not.I want to make an impact on my students life and be what younger me needed to others.I strive to be an encouraging teacher who lets ever students she has know they are loved and capable of anything and that she is proud of them because my teachers throughout the years help me believe this.Every child deserve to have someone rooting for them and I want to be that for students.I want to touch the minds of young children and have an impact.I couldn't see myself being happy in any other career this is what I want to spend my life doing.I would not be where I am today or the person I am today if it wasn't for the teachers I had supporting be throughout the worst time of my life.

I was In the foster care system and a ward of the state and currently under guardianship with a non family member. Ever since I was about six years old I've known that I've wanted to become an elementary school teacher.I not only want to become one but It is a dream of mine.Growing up I had a tough childhood especially in my elementary age.My mother and father are addicts and I moved around alot from family members to a foster home from age 8/9-13 years old most of these placements were not the best environment for a growing child.The foster home I was in from ages 9 to 13 years old my foster mother and father were extremely abusive.The would tell me things like “you will turn out just like your good for nothing mom and dad” and much more.I have been determined to prove them wrong.I am going to be better and inspire my students to fight the odds.Throughout all of this school was my safe place.No matter how difficult and toxic my home life was I knew I could come to school and be at ease and safe.I didn't have my parents to look up to or to be my role models so I turned to my teachers.It’s extreme hard on a young girl to not have a support system at home when they are going through so much.Many of my teachers will always have a special place in my heart for helping me through the hardest time in my life whether they were there to me as a shoulder for me to cry on or my second grade teacher for taking me to the doctor when I kept missing school because I had a bad case of untreated poison ivy that none of my guardians took me to the doctor for or my fifth grade teacher for bringing my project to my house that I was so proud of and worked on for a month but my foster mother refused to come get and told me to throw away.All these experiences and more inspired me to want this career.I want to be the safe place and positive person like my teacher where to me to young children struggling or not.I want to make an impact on my students life and be what younger me needed to others.I strive to be an encouraging teacher who lets ever students she has know they are loved and capable of anything and that she is proud of them because my teachers throughout the years help me believe this.Every child deserve to have someone rooting for them and I want to be that for students.I want to touch the minds of young children and have an impact.I couldn't see myself being happy in any other career this is what I want to spend my life doing.I would not be where I am today or the person I am today if it wasn't for the teachers I had supporting be throughout the worst time of my life.

All my life my parents have struggled with drug addiction. My mother became addicted when she was only 15 years old due to trying to cope with all the childhood trauma she endured. To try to cope she would turn to abusive men and her children. My mother had five kids, we all had different fathers and all of our fathers also struggled with addiction. When I was five years old my father won full custody of me and I moved from Florida to Alabama to be with him. My first five years of life were full of instability and fear, I expected things to be different. I and my mother lost contact after about a year of me living with my father. When I was about seven my father started abusing drugs again after being clean for years. He started doing drugs when he was very young and always had a struggle with this. He became very unstable and was in and out of jail, even to this day. I was in and out of foster homes, family members' and family friends' houses from 8-13. When I was 14 I started to gain a good relationship with my father and started to trust he was not going to relapse this time. He gained custody of me back, and not even 6 months went by until he lost custody and was in jail for Meth use. My grandfather then took over custody by passing away 3 months after gaining custody.I now live with a family friend. It is a struggle to see your parents who are supposed to be your role models and the people you look up to struggle with addiction. I had to be the adult in many situations as a child I felt I was the parent, not the daughter. In the main foster home I lived in for the longest I experience severe mental abuse they would tell me things like “you will turn out just like your good-for-nothing mom and dad” and much more, I love my parents but I would never want to go through addiction and live that life. I want better for myself and most of all my children. Through all of these school has been my safe haven from all the struggles of my home life. School stayed consistent, I felt safe and had wonderful teachers that help me through the hardest times in my life whether they were there to me as a shoulder for me to cry on or my second-grade teacher for taking me to the doctor when I kept missing school because I had a bad case of untreated poison ivy that none of my guardians took me to the doctor for or my fifth-grade teacher for bringing my project to my house that I was so proud of and worked on for a month but my foster mother refused to come to get and told me to throw away. All these experiences and more have made me dream of becoming a teacher. I want to be a safe place and encouragement for students who struggled like I did growing up. I strive to be an encouraging teacher who lets every student she has know they are loved and capable of anything and that she is proud of them because my teachers throughout the years help me believe this.Eve.I would not be where I am today or the person I am today if it wasn't for the teachers I had supported throughout the worst time of my life.

I was In the foster care system and a ward of the state and currently under guardianship with a non family member. Ever since I was about six years old I've known that I've wanted to become an elementary school teacher.I not only want to become one but It is a dream of mine.Growing up I had a tough childhood especially in my elementary age.My mother and father are addicts and I moved around alot from family members to a foster home from age 8/9-13 years old most of these placements were not the best environment for a growing child.The foster home I was in from ages 9 to 13 years old my foster mother and father were extremely abusive.The would tell me things like “you will turn out just like your good for nothing mom and dad” and much more.I have been determined to prove them wrong.I am going to be better and inspire my students to fight the odds.Throughout all of this school was my safe place.No matter how difficult and toxic my home life was I knew I could come to school and be at ease and safe.I didn't have my parents to look up to or to be my role models so I turned to my teachers.It’s extreme hard on a young girl to not have a support system at home when they are going through so much.Many of my teachers will always have a special place in my heart for helping me through the hardest time in my life whether they were there to me as a shoulder for me to cry on or my second grade teacher for taking me to the doctor when I kept missing school because I had a bad case of untreated poison ivy that none of my guardians took me to the doctor for or my fifth grade teacher for bringing my project to my house that I was so proud of and worked on for a month but my foster mother refused to come get and told me to throw away.All these experiences and more inspired me to want this career.I want to be the safe place and positive person like my teacher where to me to young children struggling or not.I want to make an impact on my students life and be what younger me needed to others.I strive to be an encouraging teacher who lets ever students she has know they are loved and capable of anything and that she is proud of them because my teachers throughout the years help me believe this.Every child deserve to have someone rooting for them and I want to be that for students.I want to touch the minds of young children and have an impact.I couldn't see myself being happy in any other career this is what I want to spend my life doing.I would not be where I am today or the person I am today if it wasn't for the teachers I had supporting be throughout the worst time of my life.

Ever since I was about six years old I've known that I've wanted to become an elementary school teacher.I not only want to become one but It is a dream of mine.Growing up I had a tough childhood especially in my elementary age.I went to about 5 different elementary schools.My mother and father are addicts and I moved around alot from family members to a foster home from age 8/9-13 years old most of these placements were not the best environment for a growing child. Throughout all of this school was my safe place.No matter how difficult and toxic my home life was I knew I could come to school and be at ease and safe.I didn't have my parents to look up to or to be my role models so I turned to my teachers.Teacher’s have such a major effect on students daily life’s and how they will be as a student.Many of my teachers will always have a special place in my heart for helping me through the hardest time in my life whether they were there to me as a shoulder for me to cry on or my second grade teacher for taking me to the doctor when I had a bad case of untreated poison ivy or my fifth grade teacher for bringing my project to my house that I was so proud of and worked on for a month but my foster mother refused to come get and told me to throw away.All these experience and more inspired me to want this career.I want to be the safe place and positive person like my teacher where to me to young children struggling or not.I want to make an impact on my students life and be what younger me needed to others.I strive to be an encouraging teacher who lets ever students she has know they are loved and capable of anything and that she is proud of them because my teachers throughout the years help me believe this.Every child deserve to have someone rooting for them and I want to be that for students.I want to touch the minds of young children and have an impact.I couldn't see myself being happy in any other career this is what I want to spend my life doing.I would not be where I am today or the person I am today if it wasn't for the teachers I had supporting be throughout the worst time of my life.

Ever since I was about six years old I've known that I've wanted to become an elementary school teacher.I not only want to become one but It is a dream of mine.Growing up I had a tough childhood especially in my elementary age.My mother and father are addicts and I moved around alot from family members to a foster home from age 8/9-13 years old most of these placements were not the best environment for a growing child. Throughout all of this school was my safe place.No matter how difficult and toxic my home life was I knew I could come to school and be at ease and safe.I didn't have my parents to look up to or to be my role models so I turned to my teachers.Many of my teachers will always have a special place in my heart for helping me through the hardest time in my life whether they were there to me as a shoulder for me to cry on or my second grade teacher for taking me to the doctor when I had a bad case of untreated poison ivy or my fifth grade teacher for bringing my project to my house that I was so proud of and worked on for a month but my foster mother refused to come get and told me to throw away.All these experience and more inspired me to want this career.I want to be the safe place and positive person like my teacher where to me to young children struggling or not.I want to make an impact on my students life and be what younger me needed to others.I strive to be an encouraging teacher who lets ever students she has know they are loved and capable of anything and that she is proud of them because my teachers throughout the years help me believe this.Every child deserve to have someone rooting for them and I want to be that for students.I want to touch the minds of young children and have an impact.I couldn't see myself being happy in any other career this is what I want to spend my life doing.I would not be where I am today or the person I am today if it wasn't for the teachers I had supporting be throughout the worst time of my life.

My whole life my parents have fought with addiction.My mother and father are addicted to a range of substances,and because of this have not been around very much.My biggest obstacle in life was never having anyone to look up too.All the adults in my life have been bad influences from my parents being addicts,criminals and from my foster mother and father being abusive and spiteful.Growing up I always though “I don't wanna be like them”.I was the adult figure in many situations when all I wanted was to be a kid and have someone to guide me through the crazy and suspenseful thing we call life.How is a growing mind supposed to go on the right track in life if all they see is people going down bad and degrading paths?.It's only natural for a child to learn and mold into their influences.I've had dozens of people from my foster family,to hateful kids tell me “You're gonna be just like your parents”Before I grew up and realized how broken the people around me where,i looked up to my dad i remember riding around with him in his big red truck and thinking “I wanna be just like my daddy".I've since realized I wanna be better.Although I haven't got the luxury of having people to look up too,good influences or as many people call it “heros” I've gotten the opportunity to have countless examples of what not to do.Once i realized this I started to have hope in my future.I will break these generational barriers.I will be successful and better.I will finish high school unlike my parents.I will be the first person in my family to go to college.IMost of all I will be a Good influence to the people around me from my future students,peers,and most importantly to me my children.Growing up the only people I had to look up too where my teachers.School was a safe place for me as long as I can remember.No matter what crazy stressful situations where going at home I knew I could come to school and feel at ease and safe.I want to be that safe place for children like myself.I want to be a person a child struggling can look up to,just like the amazing teachers I had throughout my school carrer.From my 2nd grade teacher who would buy me clothes and shoes and bring me breakfast because she knew sometimes I didnt have it or letting me sleep when she knew I was tried from a hectic night in my unstable household,she even took me to the doctor when i missed too many days of school because I had an infection and wasn't taken to the doctor my father.To my 3rd grade teacher who sit in the hallway holding me while crying to her and even when I had my anger outburst she still understood me and helped.To my 4th and 5th grade teacher who did the same as my 3rd grade teacher as well as bringing my history project I worked on for a month to my house so I could keep it after my foster mother refused to come get it.My 7th grade english teacher a cheer coach who was there for me through the hardest period of my life and the peak of the abuse.These are just a few examples out of countless teachers who touch my heart and life as a child and made my life better and made me realize I am not my parents and I have people on my side encouraging me.This is why I want to pursue a career in the teaching field.

Ever since I was about six years old I've known that I've wanted to become an elementary school teacher.I not only want to become one but It is a dream of mine.Growing up I had a tough childhood especially in my elementary age.My mother and father are addicts and I moved around alot from family members to a foster home from age 8/9-13 years old most of these placements were not the best environment for a growing child.Through out all of this school was my safe place.No matter how difficult and toxic my home life was I knew I could come to school and be at ease and safe.I didn't have my parents to look up to or to be my role models so I turned to my teachers.Many of my teachers will always have a special place in my heart for helping me through the hardest time in my life whether they were there to me as a shoulder for me to cry on or my second grade teacher for taking me to the doctor when I had a bad case of untreated poison ivy or my fifth grade teacher for bringing my project to my house that I was so proud of and worked on for a month but my foster mother refused to come get and told me to throw away.All these experience and more inspired me to want this career.I want to be the safe place and positive person like my teacher where to me to young children struggling or not.I want to make an impact on my students life and be what younger me needed to others.I strive to be an encouraging teacher who lets ever students she has know they are loved and capable of anything and that she is proud of them because my teachers throughout the years help me believe this.Every child deserve to have someone rooting for them and I want to be that for students.I want to touch the minds of young children and have an impact.I couldn't see myself being happy in any other career this is what I want to spend my life doing.

Ever since I was about six years old I've known that I've wanted to become an elementary school teacher.I not only want to become one but It is a dream of mine.Growing up I had a tough childhood especially in my elementary age.My mother and father are addicts and I moved around alot from family members to a foster home from age 8/9-13 years old most of these placements were not the best environment for a growing child.Through out all of this school was my safe place.No matter how difficult and toxic my home life was I knew I could come to school and be at ease and safe.I didn't have my parents to look up to or to be my role models so I turned to my teachers.Many of my teachers will always have a special place in my heart for helping me through the hardest time in my life whether they were there to me as a shoulder for me to cry on or my second grade teacher for taking me to the doctor when I had a bad case of untreated poison ivy or my fifth grade teacher for bringing my project to my house that I was so proud of and worked on for a month but my foster mother refused to come get and told me to throw away.All these experience and more inspired me to want this career.I want to be the safe place and positive person like my teacher where to me to young children struggling or not.I want to make an impact on my students life and be what younger me needed to others.I strive to be an encouraging teacher who lets ever students she has know they are loved and capable of anything and that she is proud of them because my teachers throughout the years help me believe this.Every child deserve to have someone rooting for them and I want to be that for students.I want to touch the minds of young children and have an impact.I couldn't see myself being happy in any other career this is what I want to spend my life doing.

Ever since I was about six years old I've known that I've wanted to become an elementary school teacher.I not only want to become one but It is a dream of mine.Growing up I had a tough childhood especially in my elementary age.My mother and father are addicts and I moved around alot from family members to a foster home from age 8/9-13 years old most of these placements were not the best environment for a growing child.Through out all of this school was my safe place.No matter how difficult and toxic my home life was I knew I could come to school and be at ease and safe.I didn't have my parents to look up to or to be my role models so I turned to my teachers.Many of my teachers will always have a special place in my heart for helping me through the hardest time in my life whether they were there to me as a shoulder for me to cry on or my second grade teacher for taking me to the doctor when I had a bad case of untreated poison ivy or my fifth grade teacher for bringing my project to my house that I was so proud of and worked on for a month but my foster mother refused to come get and told me to throw away.All these experience and more inspired me to want this career.I want to be the safe place and positive person like my teacher where to me to young children struggling or not.I want to make an impact on my students life and be what younger me needed to others.I strive to be an encouraging teacher who lets ever students she has know they are loved and capable of anything and that she is proud of them because my teachers throughout the years help me believe this.Every child deserve to have someone rooting for them and I want to be that for students.I want to touch the minds of young children and have an impact.I couldn't see myself being happy in any other career this is what I want to spend my life doing.

Going to college is very important to me because.All my life I've been around adults that were major parts in my life that I couldn't look up to.Growing up my teachers would talk about role models,I never saw that in my parents or guardians like most of my peers.My mother and father are drug addicts and criminals in many ways.Neither one of my parents attended a college ,and my dad didnt even graduate high school.I have no contact with my mom so I am not aware if she graduated high school or not.My mother was a teen mother of 5 children who struggled to get by.My father left when I was one years old and popped back up at age 5 and got custody of me.Even at 5 years old I was relieved I had a safe healthy environment only for him to fall back into addiction and criminal activities when I turned about seven years old.My dad is a felon. I've always told myself “I wanna be better than that” and “I will be better than that”. Growing up I was moved around alot due to my parents absence.I lived with many different family members houses and even a foster home from the ages 9 to 13. My foster family was mental abusive, even sometimes physical.I've heard from my foster family over and over “you are gonna turn out just like your parents”, “you're no good just like your mother” and more.What else is a 8 year old girl supposed to be believe if she is hearing that costently ,over time I started to question myself.How am I supposed to break this family cycle? I asked myself.How am I supposed to do the right thing if I have no one to learn from.A core memory of mine is lying on my carpet floor after getting a whopping for standing up for myself.My foster mother has said “You are gonna be a bum just like your dad” and I stuck up to myself and said “no,no im not im better then him and you”.As I layed on that floor crying I still believed what I said in my heart.After that I stopped questioning myself I knew I was capable of good and amazing thing in life and I can be better.Ever since them I have done things to set me up for success.I've stayed in school and worked hard and have even started community college dual enrollment and most of all I have self respect for myself and awareness of what not to do.I've realized just because I haven't had many role models growing up that i doesn't matter because I can be my own role model and a role model for others.Watching all my elders do the wrong things growing up have increased my emotional intelligence and showed me what not to do and how to be better.I am Better.I will be the role model little me needed growing up.All my life i've seen my family struggles with addiction almost every adult in my family has some addiction from drugs to alcohol.I've witnessed addicts losing life's,homes and jobs due to there addiction.College can help me give myself a good education and career to break generational patterns of addiction,abuse,and neglect and financial struggles.I have no financial help from family due to where there addiction has put them so this scholarship can help me be the first person in my family to graduate from college.

All my life I've been around adults that were major parts in my life that I couldn't look up to.Growing up my teachers would talk about role models,I never saw that in my parents or guardians like most of my peers.My mother and father are drug addicts and criminals in many ways.Neither one of my parents attended a college ,and my dad didnt even graduate high school.I have no contact with my mom so I am not aware if she graduated high school or not.My mother was a teen mother of 5 children who struggled to get by.My father left when I was one years old and popped back up at age 5 and got custody of me.Even at 5 years old I was relieved I had a safe healthy environment only for him to fall back into addiction and criminal activities when I turned about seven years old.My dad is a felon. I've always told myself “I wanna be better than that” and “I will be better than that”. Growing up I was moved around alot due to my parents absence.I lived with many different family members houses and even a foster home from the ages 9 to 13. My foster family was mental abusive, even sometimes physical.I've heard from my foster family over and over “you are gonna turn out just like your parents”, “you're no good just like your mother” and more.What else is a 8 year old girl supposed to be believe if she is hearing that costently ,over time I started to question myself.How am I supposed to break this family cycle? I asked myself. How am I supposed to do the right thing if I have no one to learn from.A core memory of mine is lying on my carpet floor after getting a whopping for standing up for myself.My foster mother has said “You are gonna be a bum just like your dad” and I stuck up to myself and said “no,no im not im better then him and you”.As I layed on that floor crying I still believed what I said in my heart.After that I stopped questioning myself I knew I was capable of good and amazing thing in life and I can be better.Ever since them I have done things to set me up for success.I've stayed in school and worked hard and have even started community college dual enrollment and most of all I have self respect for myself and awareness of what not to do. I've realized just because I haven't had many role models growing up that i doesn't matter because I can be my own role model and a role model for others.Watching all my elders do the wrong things growing up have increased my emotional intelligence and showed me what not to do and how to be better.I am Better.I will be the role model little me needed growing up.I want to break negative generational cycle from my family of abuse,neglect and addiction.Almost everyone in my family is addicted to substances whether is ciggerate,hard drugs,or alcohol and I want to be better due to what I have seen and experience throughout my life.I have seen my family struggle and lose lifes,Jobs,home and more from addiction and I never want to experience this as an adult.

All my life I've been around adults that were major parts in my life that I couldn't look up to.Growing up my teachers would talk about role models,I never saw that in my parents or guardians like most of my peers.My mother and father are drug addicts and criminals in many ways.Neither one of my parents attended a college ,and my dad didnt even graduate high school.I have no contact with my mom so I am not aware if she graduated high school or not.My mother was a teen mother of 5 children who struggled to get by.My father left when I was one years old and popped back up at age 5 and got custody of me.Even at 5 years old I was relieved I had a safe healthy environment only for him to fall back into addiction and criminal activities when I turned about seven years old..My dad is a felon. I've always told myself “I wanna be better than that” and “I will be better than that”. Growing up I was moved around alot due to my parents absence.I lived with many different family members houses and even a foster home from the ages 9 to 13. My foster family was mental abusive, even sometimes physical.I've heard from my foster family over and over “you are gonna turn out just like your parents”, “you're no good just like your mother” and more.What else is a 8 year old girl supposed to be believe if she is hearing that costently ,over time I started to question myself.How am I supposed to break this family cycle? I asked myself.How am I supposed to do the right thing if I have no one to learn from.A core memory of mine is lying on my carpet floor after getting a whopping for standing up for myself.My foster mother has said “You are gonna be a bum just like your dad” and I stuck up to myself and said “no,no im not im better then him and you”.As I layed on that floor crying I still believed what I said in my heart.After that I stopped questioning myself I knew I was capable of good and amazing thing in life and I can be better.Ever since them I have done things to set me up for success.I've stayed in school and worked hard and have even started community college dual enrollment and most of all I have self respect for myself and awareness of what not to do.I've realized just because I haven't had many role models growing up that i doesn't matter because I can be my own role model and a role model for others.Watching all my elders do the wrong things growing up have increased my emotional intelligence and showed me what not to do and how to be better.I am Better.I will be the role model little me needed growing up.I want to break generational cycles of abuse and neglect and substance abuse to give myself and my future family a better life.I currently have no support from my parents due to there situations from there addictions.I am under guardianships with a non family member who is elderly and has little support to help me financial with college this scholarship will give me the opportunity to pursue my dreams of becoming at teacher.I plan to be a safe place for my future students.I will pay it forward by hopefully one day being able to create a scholarship to help students who face hardship and have little family support.

The characteristic I value most in myself is Self Awareness.All my life I've been around adults that were major parts in my life that I couldn't look up to.Growing up my teachers would talk about role models,I never saw that in my parents or guardians like most of my peers.My mother and father are drug addicts and criminals in many ways.Neither one of my parents attended a college ,and my dad didnt even graduate high school.I have no contact with my mom so I am not aware if she graduated high school or not.My mother was a teen mother of 5 children who struggled to get by.My father left when I was one years old and popped back up at age 5 and got custody of me.Even at 5 years old I was relieved I had a safe healthy environment only for him to fall back into addiction and criminal activities when I turned about seven years old..My dad is a felon. I've always told myself “I wanna be better than that” and “I will be better than that”. Growing up I was moved around alot due to my parents absence.I lived with many different family members houses and even a foster home from the ages 9 to 13. My foster family was mental abusive, even sometimes physical.I've heard from my foster family over and over “you are gonna turn out just like your parents”, “you're no good just like your mother” and more.What else is a 8 year old girl supposed to be believe if she is hearing that costently ,over time I started to question myself.How am I supposed to break this family cycle? I asked myself.How am I supposed to do the right thing if I have no one to learn from.A core memory of mine is lying on my carpet floor after getting a whopping for standing up for myself.My foster mother has said “You are gonna be a bum just like your dad” and I stuck up to myself and said “no,no im not im better then him and you”.As I layed on that floor crying I still believed what I said in my heart.After that I stopped questioning myself I knew I was capable of good and amazing thing in life and I can be better.Ever since them I have done things to set me up for success.I've stayed in school and worked hard and have even started community college dual enrollment and most of all I have self respect for myself and awareness of what not to do.I've realized just because I haven't had many role models growing up that i doesn't matter because I can be my own role model and a role model for others.Watching all my elders do the wrong things growing up have increased my emotional intelligence and showed me what not to do and how to be better.I am Better.I will be the role model little me needed growing up.

Ever since I was about six years old I've known that I've wanted to become an elementary school teacher.I not only want to become one but It is a dream of mine.Growing up I had a tough childhood especially in my elementary age.My mother and father are addicts and I moved around alot from family members to a foster home from age 8/9-13 years old most of these placements were not the best environment for a growing child. Through out all of this school was my safe place.No matter how difficult and toxic my home life was I knew I could come to school and be at ease and safe.I didn't have my parents to look up to or to be my role models so I turned to my teachers.Many of my teachers will always have a special place in my heart for helping me through the hardest time in my life whether they were there to me as a shoulder for me to cry on or my second grade teacher for taking me to the doctor when I had a bad case of untreated poison ivy or my fifth grade teacher for bringing my project to my house that I was so proud of and worked on for a month but my foster mother refused to come get and told me to throw away. All these experience and more inspired me to want this career.I want to be the safe place and positive person like my teacher where to me to young children struggling or not.I want to make an impact on my students life and be what younger me needed to others.I strive to be an encouraging teacher who lets ever students she has know they are loved and capable of anything and that she is proud of them because my teachers throughout the years help me believe this.Every child deserve to have someone rooting for them and I want to be that for students.I want to touch the minds of young children and have an impact.I couldn't see myself being happy in any other career this is what I want to spend my life doing.

I was In the foster care system and a ward of the state and currently under guardianship with a non family member. Ever since I was about six years old I've known that I've wanted to become an elementary school teacher.I not only want to become one but It is a dream of mine.Growing up I had a tough childhood especially in my elementary age.My mother and father are addicts and I moved around alot from family members to a foster home from age 8/9-13 years old most of these placements were not the best environment for a growing child. Throughout all of this school was my safe place.No matter how difficult and toxic my home life was I knew I could come to school and be at ease and safe.I didn't have my parents to look up to or to be my role models so I turned to my teachers.Many of my teachers will always have a special place in my heart for helping me through the hardest time in my life whether they were there to me as a shoulder for me to cry on or my second grade teacher for taking me to the doctor when I had a bad case of untreated poison ivy or my fifth grade teacher for bringing my project to my house that I was so proud of and worked on for a month but my foster mother refused to come get and told me to throw away. All these experience and more inspired me to want this career.I want to be the safe place and positive person like my teacher where to me to young children struggling or not.I want to make an impact on my students life and be what younger me needed to others.I strive to be an encouraging teacher who lets ever students she has know they are loved and capable of anything and that she is proud of them because my teachers throughout the years help me believe this.Every child deserve to have someone rooting for them and I want to be that for students.I want to touch the minds of young children and have an impact.I couldn't see myself being happy in any other career this is what I want to spend my life doing.I would not be where I am today or the person I am today if it wasn't for the teachers I had supporting be throughout the worst time of my life.

My name is Samara K Killian.I am 17 years old and a senior at Shelby County High School and a Dual enrollment student at Jefferson State Community College and will be getting a basic certificate in Child Development.Ever since I was about six years old I've known that I've wanted to become an elementary school teacher.I not only want to become one but It is a dream of mine. Growing up I had a tough childhood especially in my elementary age.My mother and father are addicts and I moved around alot from family members to a foster home from age 8/9-13 years old most of these placements were not the best environment for a growing child.Through out all of this school was my safe place.No matter how difficult and toxic my home life was I knew I could come to school and be at ease and safe.I didn't have my parents to look up to or to be my role models so I turned to my teachers. Many of my teachers will always have a special place in my heart for helping me through the hardest time in my life whether they were there to me as a shoulder for me to cry on or my second grade teacher for taking me to the doctor when I had a bad case of untreated poison ivy or my fifth grade teacher for bringing my project to my house that I was so proud of and worked on for a month but my foster mother refused to come get and told me to throw away. All these experience and more inspired me to want this career.I want to be the safe place and positive person like my teacher where to me to young children struggling or not.I want to make an impact on my students life and be what younger me needed to others.I strive to be an encouraging teacher who lets ever students she has know they are loved and capable of anything and that she is proud of them because my teachers throughout the years help me believe this.Every child deserve to have someone rooting for them and I want to be that for students .I want to touch the minds of young children and have an impact.I couldn't see myself being happy in any other career this is what I want to spend my life doing.I want to be a positive part of every students day because that might be the only positive part.If it wasn't for my teacher's impacting my life who knows where I would be today I truly believe teacher shape the minds of the future.