Growing up in a household where financial literacy was not readily accessible, I learned early on how the lack of economic understanding can limit opportunity. This sparked my passion for finance not just as a field of study, but as a vehicle for empowerment. My mission is to help communities like mine navigate financial systems with confidence and clarity. As a female identifying student in a traditionally male dominated field, I’ve often walked into classrooms and conversations where I felt unseen. But rather than be discouraged, I’ve used those moments to build resilience and develop a perspective grounded in empathy and inclusion. I’ve since committed myself to learning not only the technical tools of finance, but also how those tools can be used to address income inequality, promote generational wealth, and reshape outdated systems. One area where I see potential for meaningful change is in expanding financial education for underrepresented groups especially in high schools and community centers. I hope to become a financial advisor who doesn’t just manage portfolios but creates programs that teach budgeting, credit management, and investment basics to those left out of traditional narratives. By earning a finance degree, passing the SIE exam, and immersing myself in both classroom and real-world experiences, I aim to be part of a new generation of professionals who bring compassion and accessibility into the financial services industry. My goal is to not only succeed, but to pull others up with me. My journey as a woman pursuing finance has not been without challenges. The lack of representation in classroom settings and professional spaces can be intimidating, but I’ve come to see it as fuel for change. I’ve realized that being one of the few is not a limitation—it’s an invitation to lead. It’s a chance to pave a path for others who are watching, wondering if there’s a place for them in this field. I want to be the proof that there is. What truly motivates me is the transformative power that financial knowledge holds. I envision a future where underserved communities have the tools and confidence to take control of their financial futures. But that won’t happen without intention. One of the most pressing issues I see is the lack of early financial education. Students graduate high school understanding how to solve for X in algebra but not how to budget, avoid debt traps, or build credit. I believe that real change begins with access