Pursuing my GED as a first-generation student in a low-income, single-parent household has certainly not been easy. Throughout the year, I have struggled with the decisions and choices I have made and will make in the future, whether financial or academic. In considering tuition costs, I have questioned whether or not I should have taken a gap year to work in order to build up my finances and be able to feel more secure, or if I should have chosen a college closer to home and gave more financial aid. I have worried about my family's financial situation and my contribution to it. In this way, I have been shaped in that I have become more mature and cautious about the financial actions I can and should take. In terms of academics, I have had some obstacles as well. I was unsure of the path I should pursue, having to consider financial aspects again, personal interests, and many other factors. I have had many discussions with family, friends, academic advisors, and others, and have spent many hours researching various career paths. Having been inspired by the people around me, many of whom are pursuing health-related paths such as nursing, I decided that I would declare my major to be health sciences. I am passionate about learning about what others need and helping them through their difficulties. I want to go into the healthcare field to make an impact on others. I am determined to accomplish my goals and work hard so that the time and money I have spent are not wasted. By working to obtain my GED, I have a better understanding of myself and my values. I have also been gradually building confidence in asking others for help and learning to be proud of my academic accomplishments through my efforts. In five years, I see myself working and/or volunteering in a hospital or a similar setting, assisting patients in need. I will most likely also be furthering my education in health science to gain further knowledge and be more suited to work in this field. As I am still exploring my interests and passions, I hope to have a better understanding of the career path that I will be taking and be able to enjoy interests outside of my job. I hope to be able to balance work and school, and take time to build relationships with coworkers, family, and friends.