My twin brother and I were born 17 weeks early. Our parents were given the option to either institute lifesaving medical care or hold us in their arms while we took our last breaths. They chose life and our 122 day NICU journey began. We came so close to not making it, but eventually, we were able to go home. Years of therapy and special education services ensued. My brother has significant disabilities as a result of his extreme preterm birth while mine are less noticeable. I can still see the tiny scars from IVs, heel sticks, and surgeries. I have cerebral palsy, and I gained my distinctive voice due to a paralyzed vocal cord; a result of an injury during heart surgery I had when I weighed only a pound. I have overcome many of my early challenges, although my experience of being born prematurely has shaped my life in many ways. I help take care of my brother, who will require full-time care throughout his life. I want to pursue a career in either school psychology or ABA to support and advocate for students with disabilities. In addition to my work as a PCA, I have volunteered over 100 hours in a special education classroom at a public middle school in my city. Giving back is so important and my commitment to service is something I want to continue in college and beyond. I will be attending Assumption University in the fall of 2024. Receiving scholarships will help me pursue my college and career aspirations without putting an added financial burden on my family who will care for my brother throughout his life. Thank you for your consideration!