Upon stepping onto American soil, I not only embraced a new chapter in my life but embarked on a transformative journey that unfolded through the rhythm of two part-time jobs, each teaching me invaluable lessons about the art of earning, managing and most importantly, respecting the hard-earned dollar. Starting as a restaurant host, the job's demands tested my endurance and revealed untapped facets of my character. The exhaustion was countered by the realization that the money earned bore the imprints of my own efforts, shaping my understanding of financial independence. It wasn't just about seating guests and taking orders, it was a journey into the complexities of self-reliance. A subsequent position in a clothing store refined my skills in customer service and resilience amidst challenges. It was in these difficulties that I honed qualities crucial for navigating the worlds of work and finance. Serving diverse customers and overcoming workplace hurdles became the crucible for developing not just professional skills but personal resilience. Through these experiences, budgeting became a daily practice and financial planning transformed from an abstract concept into a tangible skill. I learned the profound connection between hard work and financial gain, a lesson extending beyond numerical representations. Every dollar earned carried with it a story of dedication and perseverance, transforming mere currency into a symbol of personal growth and achievement. In planning my future, the lessons from managing part-time job earnings will serve as a compass. I commit to avoiding thoughtless spending, opting for conscientious saving, and exploring the realm of investment. The goal is not merely financial security but the empowerment that comes from informed decisions and strategic planning. The economic situation of my family has also contributed to making me more conscious. My mother has always been the backbone of our household, providing for my younger brother and me. In my previous country, due to age restrictions, I couldn't contribute financially to our home. Nonetheless, my mother managed her financial life effectively. However, since our move, the situation has become a bit more complex. My mother practiced law in Colombia, supporting our family financially. However, upon moving to the United States for security reasons that jeopardized our small family, she has struggled to find work here. The legal system and regulations in the United States differ significantly from Colombia, making it challenging for her to practice law. As a result, my mother continues to work remotely with the Colombian entity where she can practice as a lawyer. Yet, a significant complexity arises from the fact that she earns in Colombian pesos. When converting these earnings into dollars, the amount is considerably diminished due to the recent devaluation of the Colombian currency caused by the new government's mismanagement and poor governance. Consequently, my mother tirelessly works to earn money, but the final converted amount in dollars is meager. This reality forces us to be extremely cautious and conscientious about our expenditures. Despite the challenges, my mother's resilience and determination in the face of these financial hardships serve as a constant reminder of the importance of prudence and strategic financial planning. In the grand tapestry of my financial education, these family dynamics add layers of complexity and depth. They underscore the need for not only personal financial responsibility but also a broader understanding of economic factors that impact households. This blend of personal and familiar financial experiences forms the foundation upon which I'll build my future, informed by the challenges, triumphs and lessons learned on this journey of financial growth and resilience.