I plan on making a difference in this world. As a survivor of abuse and neglect, who lived in four different foster homes before finally being adopted at age eight, I learned while you can’t always stop bad things from happening, you can’t blame yourself when they do. My dream is to build strong, healthy and caring communities by becoming either a clinical social worker or psychologist. Next year, I will graduate with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Human Services with a minor in Social Work from New England College. I already obtained an Associate’s Degree in Teacher Education from Manchester Community College. Those courses of study will teach me the skills needed to help individuals develop healthy, caring bonds within their families and strong connections to their communities. In addition, my experience last year as a NH City Year Corps member working in a 3rd grade classroom inspired me and solidified my desire to work with families in under-resourced communities. I want to ensure children’s voices are heard and listened to. I will teach kids what others taught me, “Believe in yourself and don’t believe any one who says you can’t achieve your goals and dreams.” That is one of the most vital beliefs a child can ever possess. I want to spread that belief to other children who may be struggling with self-doubt, so that they can make a difference not only in their own lives; but so they, too, can believe they are important and capable enough to make a difference in this world. It is often small acts of kindness (and a good sense of humor!) that helps the most. Even just a little effort on behalf of someone else can have a huge impact on their life (and yours!), especially if it creates a special or meaningful connection with another human being. While the individual may not be able to hold on to that person forever, they can keep and gain comfort from the positive, caring memory of that interaction. We all grow stronger by sharing such moments with each other. It is through that process that I developed trust, determination, and confidence in myself. I want to share my life lessons and attitude with others by obtaining the education and skills necessary to work with individuals and families, teaching them how to connect with others in a caring, healthy manner. Doing so will strengthen not only the families I work with directly, but will also strengthen the bonds between them and their communities. I truly believe that with confidence, self-awareness, a positive attitude and the support of my family and community, I will achieve my dream. I will not allow my childhood experiences to define me or prohibit me from succeeding. Instead, I will persevere and make a valuable difference in this world.