Growing up with a single mother was both a challenge and a blessing. While our circumstances were often difficult, they gave me a front-row seat to witness a woman’s relentless strength and endless sacrifice, experiences that shaped me into the determined, individual I am today. There were many sleepless nights when I quietly watched tears roll down my mother's face, tears she thought no one saw. Still, she always wore a smile that lit up any room. No matter what burden, she faced each day with courage and grace. She never let anyone see her struggle, not even me. But I saw it anyway - behind her tired eyes, and beneath the weight of juggling multiple jobs just to keep food on our table. We didn't have much. My mother worked long hours working for people who often didn’t appreciate her. She came home exhausted but always made sure I did my homework, ate dinner, and stayed focus on school. Even when she didn’t eat herself, she made sure I had enough. Her selflessness was remarkable. She sacrificed everything-her social life, her rest, even her dreams, so I could have a better life. In many ways, she gave up her life for mine. After school, I watched the other children participate in sports and dance, and I longed to join them. Every day I would ask her if I could join, and each day she would gently say no, not because she didn’t want to give it to me, but because we simply couldn't afford it. Her eyes filled with disappointment, not at me, but at the situation. She always told me, “Hard work will get us to where we want to be. God is working on our behalf. One day, we'll have more than we could ever imagine.” At the time, I didn’t fully understand what she meant, but I held onto her words. Later on, I found an outlet in school sports—one of the few things I could participate in at no cost. That opportunity changed everything. Now, I do understand. Those moments of sacrifice and quiet strength were lessons in resilience. I watched my mother endure so much without complaint. Instead of growing bitter, she instilled in me a sense of hope, faith, and purpose. I learned that life isn’t about what we don’t have, it's about what we do with what we’re given. Because of her, I became focused on my education and personal growth. I pushed myself in academics, sports, and leadership. I graduated high school as the Overall Female Sports Athlete, a recognition of my dedication to excellence and discipline. On top of that, I turned drive into action by starting a small business, learning what it means to manage responsibility and time. Each accomplishment is rooted in the values my mother displayed: hard work, sacrifice, and perseverance. When things got tough, I didn’t give up, I pushed harder. I didn’t want her hard work to be in vain. My mother gave me everything she had so I could have a chance at something better. I carry that with me every day. Growing up with a single mother taught me more than any textbook ever could. It taught me to lead with empathy, to work with integrity, and to believe in the power of perseverance. I know I have a responsibility-not just to myself, but to the woman who made every sacrifice so I could stand where I am today. I am committed to building a future that honors everything she gave up for me. That future begins with my education.

One of my greatest strengths is my ability to connect with others through communication. I’ve always found it natural to speak to people in a way that makes them feel heard, supported, respected, and wanted. Growing up, I was fortunate to have the constant encouragement of my mother, who reminded me every day that I could achieve anything I put my mind to. Her words stayed with me through every challenge I faced, especially those that came with not having access to the same resources or opportunities that others around me had. As I worked through financial and personal obstacles, I learned to view the world through a more compassionate lens. I began to understand how important it is to be kind and patient with others because we never truly know what someone else is going through. These lessons and early experiences have shaped the way I approach people and have helped me to develop empathy as a core value in my life. I have always tried to be a source of encouragement for others, whether through offering a listening ear, a helping hand, uplifting words, or simply a smile. Even small acts of kindness can make a lasting impact, and I’ve seen firsthand how encouragement can help someone feel confident and capable, even in difficult times. That belief is what led me to pursue a career in education. I am currently studying to become an elementary and special education teacher because I want to support children in the same way I was supported, especially those who may be struggling silently. To me, teaching is more than just helping students learn facts and skills; it’s about building trust, creating a safe environment, and making sure every student feels seen and valued. In special education, especially, students may face barriers that make them feel isolated or misunderstood. My goal is to be the kind of teacher who shows them that they are capable, important, and never alone. I want to be the one who notices when a student needs a little extra support, whether that’s academic help, words of encouragement, or a shoulder they can lean on. I believe that empathy is the foundation of both strong teaching and building strong communities. It is one of the most important tools an educator can bring to the classroom and, in turn, to the larger world and throughout the community. As a future educator, I want to help shape a generation that values understanding and compassion over judgment. Whether I am working one-on-one with a student who needs extra support or creating inclusive lessons that allow every child to shine, I will use my voice and my heart to build connections that matter. A more empathetic world starts in our classrooms, and I am excited to be part of that change. My motto is: one student, one moment, and one act of kindness at a time. In building a more empathetic and understanding global community, I believe we must start with the small moments of compassion in our everyday lives. I plan to continue growing as a communicator and as a compassionate leader, one who lifts others up, especially those who feel left behind. Through understanding, encouragement, and kindness, I hope to be a source of support for others, just as my mom was for me.

To me, being passionate means having a deep sense of pure excitement and enthusiasm towards something. This is exactly how I feel when speaking about pursuing a career in special education. Growing up, I was inspired by the stories my grandmother told me about her adopted sibling with special needs and her brother, who became a slower-paced learner due to medical conditions. She spoke about the care, patience, and commitment it took to support them, and she saw the need to help them. I have always had a love for children, even from a very young age, and the way she described supporting her siblings with significant needs, and the success and great feeling of joy that came along with helping them to progress in different areas of life that gave her a sense of purpose deeply connected with me. It sparked something in me, a desire to follow in her footsteps and do the same for other children. I’m passionate about special education because I believe every child deserves the opportunity to learn in a way that respects their individuality and celebrates their strengths. I want to be the person who lifts others up, helps students break through barriers, feel seen for who they are, and discover their unique potential, never giving up on them. At first, when I thought of what it means to bring a student to a sense of their own presence, I immediately thought of it as helping them to be mindfully present. While mindfulness is beneficial to helping them develop a sense of their own presence, I came to the realization after reading the statement again, that it has a much deeper meaning than just helping them to be in the present moment. It means guiding each student to discover and become aware of who they are as individuals, developing self-recognition. It’s about helping them find and use their voice, because they do have a voice and should not feel as if they aren’t able to speak how they feel. They should know that their thoughts and feelings matter, are valid, and deserve to be expressed. It also means guiding and supporting them in becoming emotionally grounded, which helps them to recognize what they are feeling, be able to remain calm, regulate, and be in control of their emotions so that they can make thoughtful decisions rather than impulsive ones. Ultimately, it's about helping each student understand that they matter, not just as learners, but as individuals who have purpose, a voice, and are of value. Mission: To foster a safe and supportive learning environment where each student, regardless of their ability, discovers their self-identity, voice, worth, and potential to learn, grow, and succeed. Guiding a special needs student takes a tremendous amount of patience, understanding, and thoughtfulness. First, I would create a calm and welcoming environment to establish a supportive classroom. From the moment they enter the classroom, I must make it my duty to build a rapport with each student to understand their needs. I will observe their interests, engage with them individually, and communicate using simple language. As I begin to understand each student’s needs, I will develop age-appropriate tasks and responsibilities, using visual cues such as mirrors and recordings. Each day, we all will look in the mirror, self-reflecting, while repeating affirmations, “I am seen, I matter, I belong, and I am loved!” The use of these visual cues will help to promote self-identity as the students can hear and see themselves, recognize their reflections, and observe their facial expressions and body language, helping them to connect with their emotions. This also encourages social and motor skills as they practice interactions, observe their behavior, and correct their movements. These will be reinforced by consistent daily routines to foster predictability. Frequent positive reinforcements will be given to support their learning and understanding of their tasks. By doing this, they become more confident in themselves and develop independence. It helps them to recognize and value their unique contributions and individuality. Encouraging self-expression is vital. I will incorporate art, music, and storytelling in the classroom based on the students’ needs and preferences, along with reflective discussions. Some students have difficulty understanding their emotions and expressing themselves, therefore, mindfulness exercises will be integrated into lessons to help each student become aware of their emotions. Safe spaces will be available in the classroom for students to use to calm and regulate themselves when they feel upset or overwhelmed. The reflective discussions will provide opportunities for each student to talk about their thoughts and feelings, encouraging them to express themselves. These discussions are where I will teach and guide them on how they can deal with their emotions. This will also help students learn how to connect their actions to outcomes, fostering better decision-making and accountability. By processing and making sense of challenging situations, students would be able to reduce anxiety and confusion. Every accomplishment, no matter how small, will be celebrated to encourage students to recognize their personal growth and capabilities. Once upon a time, in a classroom filled with light, There gathered children whose potential was hidden from plain sight. I arrived with a mission for their voices to be heard, To help them find confidence in every action and every word. I raised the enchanted mirror to show them true, They are seen, they matter, they belong, and they’re loved too. Through art and song, through stories told, I helped them find strength and learn to be bold. No matter what, always let your truth be told, A flame of courage is ready to unfold. When emotions flared and became overwhelming, We practiced mindfulness, staying calm and present. With every lesson, their fears disappeared, Confidence grew, and their voices cheered. Step by step, with patience, love, and care, We created a world where they could dare, They learned to believe in themselves and become aware. Each step they took, no matter how small, Became a victory, a lesson for all. I witnessed their growth, their courage unfold, A tale of resilience, more precious than silver or gold. They’ve now found the sense of their own presence, My goal is accomplished. How beautiful to see, they have found their true essence.