Growing up in a single-parent, low-income household has taught me the value of perseverance and resilience. Seeing my mother work tirelessly for our family instilled in me the values of hard work and determination, which has helped shape my character and fueled my ambition for a better future. Facing financial and emotional challenges from a young age has fostered a strong sense of responsibility within me. Since I was 18, I've been financially supporting my family, which has deepened my understanding of sacrifice and the importance of education. These experiences have made me empathetic and driven to create a positive change for others in my community and for those in similar situations. I plan to use my skills in marketing and graphics to make a meaningful, social impact. My goal is to collaborate with businesses and non-profits serving underrepresented communities, creating campaigns that promote social change and amplify marginalized voices. Additionally, I'm committed to mentoring young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, and guiding them as they pursue their educational/career goals. Currently, I'm finishing my bachelor's degree in Marketing Management and Graphic Communications at Baruch College, where I'm focused on achieving my goals and finding ways to make a meaningful impact in my community.

Receiving this scholarship support would be profoundly meaningful to me, as it would alleviate significant financial burdens and allow me to focus entirely on my education and personal growth. As a first-generation scholar from a low-income, single-parent household, I have shouldered the responsibility of supporting my family since I was 18 years old. Balancing work, school, and family obligations has been incredibly challenging, but I am determined to succeed and create a better future for myself and my loved ones. This scholarship would not only provide the financial assistance needed to complete my education without incurring additional debt but also serve as a testament to the sacrifices and hard work my mother and I have invested in my journey. My plan to pay this forward is deeply rooted in my career aspirations and personal values. With a degree in Marketing Management and Graphic Communications, I aim to secure a position in the marketing industry where I can utilize my skills to support businesses and non-profit organizations in underrepresented communities. I am passionate about using my expertise to create impactful campaigns that drive social change and provide opportunities for those facing similar challenges to mine. Additionally, I plan to mentor young students from disadvantaged backgrounds, offering guidance, support, and resources to help them navigate their educational and career paths. By sharing my experiences and insights, I hope to inspire others to persevere and pursue their dreams despite the obstacles they may encounter. The adversities I have overcome thus far have shaped me into the resilient and determined individual I am today. Growing up in The Bronx with a single mother who remarried when I was nine, I witnessed firsthand the struggles and sacrifices she made to provide for our family. Her marriage was abusive, and she was left to raise three more children on her own. As the oldest sibling, I took on a parental role, providing emotional and financial support to my younger siblings, who are between the ages of 8 and 18. This responsibility intensified when I entered a 10-year relationship with a narcissistic, abusive pathological liar, which severely impacted my physical and mental health. Finding the strength to leave that toxic relationship through prayer and returning to school was a turning point in my life. Despite the immense challenges, I graduated from BMCC with honors and continued my education at Baruch College. Balancing my studies, work, and family responsibilities has not been easy, but my unwavering determination and commitment to my goals have kept me moving forward. This scholarship would be a beacon of hope and support, enabling me to continue my educational journey and ultimately give back to my community. It would honor the sacrifices made by my mother and provide a foundation for me to build a brighter future for myself and those I aim to uplift.

Mental health is often an underrated topic, yet it profoundly influences every corner and aspect of our lives. The internal battles we face can either make or break our existence and dreams. My experience with mental health, particularly during and after a deeply abusive relationship, has significantly shaped my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. During my ten-year relationship with a narcissistic, abusive, and pathological liar, I found myself physically and mentally deteriorating. The abuse I endured was so severe that I frequently ended up in the emergency room, with doctors unable to diagnose the root cause of my ailments. My relationships were falling apart, and my future aspirations seemed to be slipping away. I was trapped in a cycle of fear and manipulation, with my partner's mind games tearing me apart. My decisions, influenced by the toxic environment I was in, led me to dangerous and terrible situations. In my darkest moments, I found strength through prayer. Turning to God was the only way I could see a path out of the nightmare I was living. My faith provided me with the courage to make the difficult decision to leave the relationship. It was a pivotal moment that marked the beginning of my journey toward healing and reclaiming my life. Fast forward 365 days, and my life took a dramatic turn for the better. I returned to school and graduated with honors with my associate's degree. Currently, I am finishing my bachelor's degree, driven by a renewed sense of purpose and determination. This transformation was fueled by the support of positive, conscientious people I met along the way, and I thank God every day for the strength, light, and liberation He has given me. I feel reborn, and this newfound sense of self has deeply influenced my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. Belief-wise, my experience reinforced the importance of mental health and the power of faith. I now firmly believe that mental well-being is crucial for achieving one's dreams and maintaining healthy relationships. My faith has become a cornerstone of my life, providing me with resilience and hope even in the face of adversity. In terms of relationships, I have learned to value connections that are supportive, positive, and nurturing. I no longer tolerate toxic behavior and have built a network of friends and mentors who uplift and inspire me. This shift has had a profound impact on my well-being, allowing me to thrive both personally and academically. My career aspirations have also been shaped by my journey. I am now pursuing a bachelor's degree in Marketing Management and Graphic Communications, driven by a desire to create meaningful and impactful work. My experience has taught me the importance of empathy, resilience, and perseverance—qualities that I believe are essential in the field of marketing and creative writing. I am passionate about using my skills to tell stories that inspire and uplift others, much like how my own story has been transformed through faith and support. In conclusion, my experience with mental health has deeply influenced my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. It has taught me the value of mental well-being, the power of supportive relationships, and the importance of pursuing a career that aligns with my values and passions. Through faith and resilience, I have been able to overcome immense challenges and create a brighter future for myself and my family.

The journey to achieving my educational goals has been a collective effort, deeply rooted in the unwavering support of my family, particularly my mother and younger siblings. Their encouragement has been instrumental, but my journey is also defined by my own resilience and determination to support them financially. My mother, who raised me alone until I was nine, has been a beacon of strength and perseverance. Unfortunately, when she remarried, their relationship turned abusive, leaving her alone with three more children to care for. Witnessing my mother's struggle and determination to keep a roof over our heads, clothes on our backs, and warm food on the table every night instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility and drive. Despite the hardships, my mother never gave up, and her relentless spirit became a source of inspiration for me. When I turned 18 (2016), I took on the financial responsibility for my family, ensuring that my siblings and I had what we needed. This responsibility has been challenging and exhausting, but it has also been incredibly motivating. I know firsthand the difficulties of being raised by a single parent who is doing everything possible to provide for her children. This experience has fueled my commitment to my education as a pathway to a better future for all of us. My siblings, who range in age from 8 to 18 years old, have also been a tremendous source of support. Their trust in me to help lead our family is both humbling and motivating. They support me in ways that go beyond the tangible; they support me emotionally and mentally, simply by being themselves. They strive to do their best in school, share their ideas, dreams, and troubles with me, and stand by me through thick and thin. Their laughter lifts my spirits when I’m down, and their cheers resonate with me when I succeed. Knowing that they believe in me and count on me pushes me to keep going, even when times are tough. Their belief in our future and their small acts of kindness and support are what keep me grounded and focused on my goals. Whether it’s holding my hand when I’m sad or making me laugh when I need it most, my siblings remind me of why I’m working so hard. Their dreams and aspirations fuel my determination to succeed, so I can provide them with better opportunities. In essence, the support from my mother and siblings is multifaceted. It is rooted in shared experiences of hardship and resilience. They give me the strength to continue my educational journey, knowing that every step I take is not just for me, but for all of us. Our shared dreams and collective efforts create a powerful support system that drives me to strive for excellence and to build a brighter future for my family. Ultimately, their unwavering faith in me, combined with the love and support they offer daily, keeps me motivated and steadfast in my pursuit of educational success. It is through their support and my own determination that I am able to continue this journey, despite the challenges we face.

Being a 26-year-old, non-traditional college student has profoundly shaped both my educational journey and my future aspirations. This path has brought unique challenges and opportunities that have contributed to my personal growth and professional development. Returning to college after a three-year break provided me with a renewed sense of purpose and determination. It allowed me to approach my studies with a greater level of maturity and focus. Unlike many traditional students who transition directly from high school to college, I brought with me life experiences and a clearer understanding of my academic and career goals. This perspective has enabled me to appreciate the value of education more deeply and to prioritize my studies effectively. Moreover, being a non-traditional student has taught me resilience and adaptability. Balancing academic responsibilities with personal and financial commitments has been challenging at times, but it has also strengthened my time management skills and ability to juggle multiple priorities. These skills are invaluable as I prepare to enter the competitive field of marketing and creative communications, where agility and efficiency are essential. In terms of my future goals, this experience has reinforced my commitment to achieving academic excellence and pursuing meaningful career opportunities. It has instilled in me a sense of perseverance and grit, knowing that success is not defined by the conventional timeline but by the effort and dedication put into one's endeavors. This mindset has driven me to excel in my studies and to seek out help and experiences that will further my professional growth. Additionally, my journey as a non-traditional student has influenced my aspirations to contribute meaningfully to my community and to advocate for educational equity. I am passionate about using my platform to support other non-traditional students and underrepresented groups in pursuing their educational and career goals. This commitment to inclusivity and social impact informs my career ambitions, motivating me to seek roles where I can make a positive difference and promote diversity within the marketing industry. Overall, being a non-traditional college student has been a transformative experience that has shaped my educational journey and influenced my future goals in profound ways. It has taught me resilience, strengthened my determination, and fueled my passion for making a meaningful impact through my career. I am grateful for the opportunities and challenges that this path has presented, as they have prepared me to navigate the complexities of the professional world with confidence and purpose.

I am Sophia Loza, a 26-year-old Latina from The Bronx, whose journey has been shaped by the unwavering dedication of a single parent and a profound belief in the transformative power of education. Raised by my mother, I learned early on the value of hard work and resilience. Her sacrifices to provide for our family instilled in me a deep-seated determination to pursue my dreams and break barriers. Education has been my guiding light through this journey. I began my academic path at Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC), where I earned my associate's degree in Business Administration with honors. Despite facing challenges, including a three-year hiatus from my studies, I returned to school in January 2023 with renewed vigor to complete my bachelor's degree at Baruch College. Currently majoring in Marketing Management and Graphic Communications, I am determined to leverage my education to its fullest potential. My career aspirations are deeply rooted in the fields of marketing and creative communications. I am passionate about the intersection of creativity and strategy, particularly in how they can be harnessed to drive business growth and foster meaningful connections with audiences. My goal is to build a career that allows me to blend these passions seamlessly, whether through innovative branding initiatives, strategic digital marketing campaigns, or impactful creative direction. Beyond professional ambitions, my journey is driven by a desire to give back to my community and support my family. As a first-generation scholar, I understand the transformative impact of education on individuals and communities. My experiences have fueled a commitment to advocacy for educational access and equity, particularly for underrepresented groups. Looking ahead, I envision myself playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of marketing and creative communications. I aspire to work in a dynamic environment where innovation thrives and where I can contribute my skills to drive positive change. Whether collaborating with diverse teams to launch compelling campaigns or refining brand strategies that resonate globally, I aim to leave a lasting impact through my work. My journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of seizing opportunities. As I navigate the complexities of academia and prepare to enter the professional world, I am guided by a sense of purpose—to excel in my field, to uplift those around me, and to pave the way for future generations of aspiring professionals. In summary, my story is one of determination, fueled by the support of my family and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. I am eager to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, confident that my journey will continue to be defined by growth, resilience, and a commitment to making a difference.

My decision to pursue a career in sales and marketing is deeply rooted in a blend of personal inspiration, passion, and a strong desire to create meaningful impacts within the business world. From a young age, I've been captivated by the power of storytelling and its ability to forge connections and influence perceptions. My passion for advertising, campaigns, and branding strategies grew as I discovered how marketing can evoke emotions, spark curiosity, and drive consumer behavior. I see marketing as a dynamic field where creativity meets strategy, offering endless opportunities to innovate and shape the success of businesses. Beyond the allure of creativity, my interest in sales and marketing is driven by the joy of analyzing data, identifying trends, and translating insights into actionable strategies that drive business growth. This analytical aspect of marketing appeals to my logical mindset while allowing me to continually learn and adapt in a rapidly evolving industry. On a personal level, my journey as a first-generation student has instilled in me a deep appreciation for education as a pathway to opportunity and success. Being raised by a single mother has taught me resilience, determination, and the importance of perseverance. These experiences have shaped my values and aspirations, motivating me to excel in my goals so I can create a better future not only for myself but also for my family. Earning an associate degree in Business Administration with honors and now pursuing a bachelor's degree in Marketing Management and Graphic Communications at Baruch College, has equipped me with a solid foundation in business principles and marketing strategies. Each course has deepened my understanding of consumer psychology, market research, digital marketing, and brand management, further fueling my enthusiasm for a career in marketing. Looking ahead, I am excited about the prospect of applying my skills and knowledge to contribute to the success of innovative marketing campaigns. I am particularly drawn to opportunities where I can merge my creative talents with strategic insights to create compelling narratives that resonate with diverse audiences. Whether through digital storytelling, brand development, or market research, I am committed to driving business growth and making a positive impact in the dynamic world of sales and marketing. In conclusion, my journey into sales and marketing is driven by a passion for creativity, a fascination with consumer behavior, and a commitment to promoting diversity and inclusivity. I am eager to embark on a career where I can leverage my education, skills, and personal experiences to craft impactful marketing strategies that not only drive business success but also connect with and inspire audiences globally.

My first concert is my favorite concert memory. It's what ignited my passion for live music and sparked my interest in the music industry. At 20, I was working full-time and bought front-row tickets to see Romeo Santos at Madison Square Garden during his Golden Tour in 2018. Although I was heavier back then and didn’t own an iPhone, so the photos are buried in an email archive, the memories from that night are unforgettable. Romeo Santos (aka the King of Bachata, aka the Hispanic Cupid) didn't just perform; he sang for three hours straight, bringing out Nicky Jam, Daddy Yankee, and Cardi B (who was hiding her pregnancy with Kulture). It was a legendary night in NYC—one you had to be there for! Fast forward to 2024, I took my mom to see Romeo Santos for Mother's Day at MSG. This marked her first concert since she was a teenager, my first time seeing Romeo in six years, and it has now become my new favorite memory. This time, I have photos to capture the spectacular night. The stadium was filled with heart-crushing, romantic Spanish love songs, and I teared up when Romeo hit the stage and started singing. Growing up, I understood Spanish but was self-conscious about speaking it until my early 20s. I often got stuck translating my thoughts from English to Spanish. Spanish music, especially Romeo Santos, gave me the confidence to express myself in a different language. The first time I heard Romeo sing was at one of my uncle’s infamous parties when I was eight. When I got my first cell phone (a Boost Mobile flip phone with a walkie-talkie), I had a Romeo Santos song as my ringtone. Later, at another one of my uncle’s parties, I met my first crush, and Romeo Santos became the soundtrack to my heart. It’s incredible how an artist can be with you through so many stages of life and still bring you to tears at a show. I'm grateful I was able to connect with my Latina heritage during his first concert and then share that experience with my mom six years later, feeling like we’ve both come full circle. Attending these concerts has not only deepened my love for music but also strengthened my bond with my family and culture. It's moments like these that remind me why music is such a powerful force in our lives. Overall, these concerts with Romeo Santos have been more than just events; they have been transformative experiences that have shaped my identity, aspirations, and relationships.

Growing up as a first-generation Latina student, my journey through school has been shaped by unique challenges. My mother became a parent at 17 years old, facing disability at 25 years old, once I finished high school I took on the role of supporting her and my three younger siblings while being a full-time student. Life wasn't easy; we spent our early years in the shelter system until I finished high school. At just 13 years old, I started working off the books to help at home. These experiences helped me learn the importance of hard work and resilience early on. These experiences have been the driving force behind my determination to break the cycle of adversity and encourage others to do the same. My commitment to public service stems from these personal struggles. I've been involved in community programs and mentorship initiatives, aiming to make education more accessible for those facing similar challenges. A recent experience was during my 2023 Spring semester at Boughouh of Manhattan Community College, I was one of ten students chosen to travel abroad to Brazil, to perform community service work. While in Brazil, we visited the favelas and connected with the children and families within the community. Beyond supporting my family and engaging in community service, I'm pursuing a business degree as a stepping stone to law school. This path is a conscious choice, driven by the goal of using my knowledge to advocate for justice and equality. Legal education will provide the tools to address systemic issues and create meaningful change for those without representation and the low-income families in my community. My career goals align with the scholarship's vision for empowering historically disadvantaged minorities. Through a business and law education, I hope to contribute to policies that break down barriers and ensure fair opportunities for everyone. Whether it's advocating for affordable housing, accessible healthcare, or educational reforms, I aim to create a society where everyone can thrive, regardless of their background. In conclusion, my journey as a first-generation Latina student, overcoming challenges, and supporting my family has fueled my dedication to higher education and public service. By pursuing a business degree and aiming for law school, I'm laying the foundation for a career focused on dismantling systemic barriers. I'm excited to contribute to the scholarship's mission of empowering individuals like me to create positive change and build a more inclusive and equitable future.

Embarking on the path toward a business degree is not merely a personal pursuit for me; it's a deliberate journey toward empowerment and community upliftment. The Morgan Levine Dolan Community Service Scholarship is significant in aiding my mission to bring positive change to the South Bronx. My academic journey, starting with an Associate in Business Administration, serves as a foundation for broader aspirations. The next chapter involves pursuing my Bachelor's in Marketing Analytics at NYU’s SPS school. This goal aligns seamlessly with my vision of using data-driven insights to fuel my entrepreneurial dreams and future success. My ultimate goal is to establish a business that transcends profit margins and becomes a catalyst for positive change in my community. Having been the "big sister" and main financial provider for my family, I intimately understand the struggles faced by single mothers and low-income families in the South Bronx. This insight fuels my commitment to returning to my community and establishing a non-profit organization. This organization will provide crucial support in the form of food and rent assistance, alongside fostering the holistic development of children through afterschool programs and sports initiatives. My personal experience managing finances while being a full-time student has instilled in me a sense of responsibility and resilience. These qualities are integral to the success of my future business and the non-profit organization. I firmly believe that empowering single mothers and low-income families alleviates immediate financial burdens and creates a space for others to think about their dreams and aspirations. One tangible step I've taken towards community betterment is enrolling my younger brothers in baseball, recognizing the transformative power of sports in fostering discipline, teamwork, and physical well-being. Witnessing my brothers not only embrace the sport but also share their newfound skills with friends underscores the ripple effect of positive influence. This initiative is a testament to my belief in the potential of the younger generation to shape the future positively. Moreover, my volunteer efforts in Brazil were part of a comprehensive program involving myself and nine other BMCC students. Accompanied by our college president, vice president, and student affairs leader, we visited schools to teach elementary to high school students about American culture, English, and the importance of pursuing higher education. Engaging with local kids from the favelas and volunteers in their communities, we played sports that fostered camaraderie and shared meaningful experiences. These experiences expanded my worldview and deepened my commitment to addressing systemic issues. One of the organized events that stood out to me was the day we went to the Sugarloaf Mountains. The experience of witnessing an entire city built within the mountains, forests, and oceans was unique and eye-opening. Museum tours provided insights into Brazilian culture and history, including an honest acknowledgment of the country's struggles with corruption and systemic racism. What resonated deeply with me was the transparency of each museum and speaker about Brazil's history. It emphasized the importance of acknowledging wrongs and educating future generations to prevent further transgressions of hate, control, and racism. This experience further fuels my determination to use my education and future endeavors to create positive change. In conclusion, the Morgan Levine Dolan Community Service Scholarship is instrumental in facilitating my pursuit of a business degree and, consequently, my mission to bring about positive change in the South Bronx. Through entrepreneurial ventures, community-focused initiatives, and a global perspective gained through volunteer efforts, I aim to create a lasting impact. The scholarship's support is not just an investment in my education but a commitment to the transformative power of education, community service, and a broader understanding of the world!

Embarking on a journey towards a business degree is more than just a personal endeavor for me; it's a deliberate path toward empowerment and community upliftment. My decision to pursue a degree in business stems from a profound desire to be not just well-equipped for my future career, but to harness the knowledge and skills gained to make a meaningful impact on the community I call home—the South Bronx. My academic journey began with an Associate in Business Administration, a stepping stone towards my broader aspirations. The next chapter involves delving into Marketing Analytics, a specialization that aligns with my vision of leveraging data-driven insights to fuel entrepreneurial success. My ultimate goal is to establish my own business, a venture that transcends profit margins to become a catalyst for positive change. Having experienced firsthand the challenges of being the "big sister" and main financial provider in my family, I understand the struggles faced by single mothers and low-income families in my community. This insight fuels my commitment to returning to the South Bronx and founding a non-profit organization. This organization will be dedicated to providing crucial support in the form of food and rent assistance, alongside fostering the holistic development of children through afterschool programs and sports initiatives. My personal experience managing finances while being a full-time student has ingrained in me a sense of responsibility and resilience. These qualities will be instrumental in the success of my future business and the non-profit organization. I believe that empowering single mothers and low-income families not only alleviates immediate financial burdens but also paves the way for a brighter future for the community as a whole. One tangible step I've taken towards community betterment is enrolling my younger brothers in baseball, recognizing the transformative power of sports in fostering discipline, teamwork, and physical well-being. Witnessing my brothers not only embrace the sport but also share their newfound skills with friends underscores the ripple effect of positive influence. This initiative is a testament to my belief in the potential of the younger generation to shape the future positively. In conclusion, my pursuit of a business degree is a purposeful endeavor to equip myself with the tools necessary to bring about positive change in the South Bronx. Through a combination of entrepreneurial ventures and community-focused initiatives, I aim to create a lasting impact, uplifting those who face challenges similar to those my family and I have overcome. My journey is not just about personal success but about becoming a beacon of hope and empowerment for my community