When I think back on why I wanted to go back to college, there is one moment that always stands out. I was sitting in my office working on my budget, like I usually do, and I remember staring at the numbers until my eyes burned. No matter how many times I rearranged things, it felt like nothing worked. I was working full-time, paying all my bills, trying to stay ahead, and covering my college tuition out of pocket. Eventually, the weight of everything hit me, and I just started crying at my desk. Life felt so hard in that moment like I was giving everything I had but still falling behind. But that moment also made something very clear to me: even if it was difficult, I wasn’t going to give up on my education. I needed to keep going. My name is Vanessa, and returning to school in my thirties has been one of the hardest but most meaningful choices I’ve made. I had to make sacrifices that I never expected, including moving back home. I loved living on my own and having my own space, but financially it just wasn’t possible anymore with tuition, bills, and the cost of living. Scholarships are extremely difficult to get, even though I’ve applied to so many, and paying for college alone has pushed me in ways I didn’t imagine. But I’m still here, still trying, and still believing in my future. One of the biggest reasons I returned to school is because I’m genuinely passionate about finance. As I’ve worked and learned more, I’ve noticed a huge gap in transparency within the financial and tax industry. Many CPAs and tax professionals don’t clearly show clients what they’re paying for, what services are included, and what ongoing support looks like. There’s often poor communication with small businesses and everyday people who just want to understand their money. I’ve seen how confused and overwhelmed people can feel, including my own family and the customers who come into our business. I don’t want people to just “get a service.” I want them to understand what’s happening with their finances, feel confident, and feel supported. Going back to school is part of my bigger goal: I want to bring clarity and education into people’s financial lives. I want to help small businesses communicate better with their accountants. I want families to understand their spending, taxes, and long-term planning. And I want to help the younger generation learn financial skills early so they don’t have to struggle the way many of us have. I want to be the person who explains things in a way that makes sense, not someone who just hands people papers to sign. I also want to help my family’s business grow. We are a small, family-run company, and we work hard every day. I want to use what I learn in school to support our bookkeeping, our systems, and our financial planning so we can be more organized, intentional, and prepared. My education isn’t just for me, it’s something I want to pour back into my family. Reading about Geneva Mabry’s story touched me in a deep way. She faced so much and still went back to school. Her determination reminds me that even when the road is long and heavy, it’s still worth walking even when tired and uncertain. This scholarship would take a huge weight off my shoulders and allow me to focus more on school without constantly worrying about how I’m going to afford everything. Thank you for the opportunity.

I had been praying for direction for a long time. Life felt full in work, church, and family. But there was a quiet stirring in my heart that something more was ahead. During a mission trip to Vietnam, that stirring became a clear calling. It was a humid afternoon when I sat with a group of local believers, listening to them share their testimonies through a translator. Their love for God, their humility, and their hunger to serve Him with everything they had moved me deeply. They didn’t have much, yet they gave freely. In that moment, I felt the Lord speak to my heart saying that I needed to go back to college to finish what I started. I knew exactly what He meant. For years, I had felt a quiet pull to return to school, but fear and finances always stood in the way. That day in Vietnam, surrounded by believers who gave all they had for the Kingdom, I understood that obedience matters more than comfort. When I came home, I applied to Colorado Christian University and began pursuing my Bachelor’s in Accounting. From the beginning, my goal hasn’t been about chasing a title it’s been about following a calling. I’ve always been passionate about helping others, whether it’s teaching Sunday school, mentoring youth, or serving in outreach events through my church. But I also realized that one of the greatest needs in both ministry and everyday life is financial stewardship. People want to honor God with their resources, but many simply don’t know how. I want to bridge that gap. Through accounting, I see an opportunity to turn faith into action to help individuals, families, and small business owners find peace, clarity, and freedom through good stewardship. Becoming a CPA and tax strategist isn’t just a career plan for me; it’s a ministry vision. I want to teach people how to handle finances with wisdom and confidence so that they can live generously and walk in the peace that comes from aligning with God’s principles. But this journey hasn’t been easy. Like many low-income, Latinx students, I’ve faced financial challenges that could have easily stopped me from pursuing higher education. Tuition, books, gas, and everyday expenses add up quickly, and there have been times I’ve had to make tough choices like moving back home to afford college. Still, every time I’ve doubted, God has provided through small blessings, extra work, or generous people who believed in what He’s doing in my life. This scholarship would relieve a tremendous burden. It would allow me to focus more on my studies, ministry, and outreach instead of constantly worrying about how to afford the next semester. More than that, it would be a confirmation of God’s faithfulness a reminder that when we take steps of faith, He meets us with provision. My walk with God has taught me that service isn’t limited to Sunday mornings. It’s lived out in how we love others daily how we use our time, talents, and education for His glory. In my church, I’ve taught young children about God’s Word, mentored teenagers who were struggling, and volunteered for community events. I’ve also had the privilege of tutoring international students in English, helping them find confidence in learning ESL. Every one of those experiences reminds me that serving is less about what we have and more about what we’re willing to give. I want my career to carry that same heart. Once I become a CPA, I plan to host free community workshops teaching families and small business owners how to budget, manage debt, and prepare for taxes in a way that honors God. I want to develop bilingual resources so both English and Spanish-speaking families can access practical financial tools. I also hope to partner with churches and nonprofits to provide financial guidance to those who can’t afford professional help. Education is not just an investment in myself it’s an investment in the people I’ll one day serve. I see this degree as training for ministry, preparing me to use my skills to advance God’s kingdom in a very practical way. Through this scholarship, I would be able to complete my education with less financial strain and more focus on becoming the person God has called me to be. Being a good steward of what God gives us is something I take seriously. I’ve learned to stretch every dollar, manage my time carefully, and seek wisdom in every decision. This scholarship would not only help with immediate costs but would also multiply into something much greater, a ripple effect of generosity and service in my community. When I think back to that day in Vietnam, I remember the peace that came with saying “yes” to God’s call. It wasn’t a loud or dramatic moment it was quiet, but powerful. That trip reminded me that our lives aren’t about comfort or control; they’re about obedience and purpose. Going back to college wasn’t the easiest decision, but it was the right one. It’s allowed me to grow in both faith and knowledge, preparing me to serve others in ways I never could have before. I’m grateful for this opportunity not just to receive financial help, but to share the story of what God is doing through education, faith, and obedience. If chosen, I will continue to walk in humility, serve with compassion, and give back as much as I can to the people and communities around me. This scholarship wouldn’t just change my financial situation it would strengthen my mission: to serve others with excellence, to reflect Christ in all I do, and to remind others that when God calls, He also equips.

The first time I taught Sunday school, I was nervous. The kids were energetic, the lesson was short, and I wasn’t sure I had made much of an impact. But at the end of class, one quiet student tugged on my sleeve and said, “Thank you for praying for me last week.” I hadn’t realized he even noticed. In that small, unexpected moment, I understood that community service isn’t about grand gestures or recognition, it’s about showing up faithfully for others, even when you don’t see the results right away. That moment planted something in me. Since then, I’ve served in many ways teaching youth lessons, helping organize church outreach events, teaching ESL to international students, and mentoring teens. Each opportunity reminded me that service is less about position and more about heart. Whether I’m cleaning up after an event or helping a student pronounce a new word, I’ve learned that genuine service begins with compassion. Community service, to me, means looking beyond yourself. It’s seeing someone else’s need and deciding to step into that space with humility and finding ways to encourage others. I’ve watched students light up when they realize they can actually communicate in English. I’ve seen children grow in confidence because someone believed in them. And I’ve felt the quiet joy of knowing that even small efforts can ripple farther than I might ever see. My faith has shaped how I view service. I believe that God calls each of us to use our gifts to uplift others. For me, that calling has led to a desire to bring clarity and peace into one of the most stressful areas of people’s lives: their finances. I’m currently pursuing a degree in Accounting at Colorado Christian University, and my goal is to become a CPA and tax strategist who helps families and small business owners build stability and confidence. I have recognized a gap in this area and part of that gap is providing transparency in a way that the client understands. Also, being there side by side with clients to make them feel confident to make good choices. I’ve seen firsthand how financial stress can weigh down a household or a dream. Through my future career, I want to give people tools that free them, not just spreadsheets and budgets, but understanding. I plan to offer free financial literacy workshops for my community, teaching practical skills like budgeting, debt management, and saving for the future. I want to create an environment where people feel safe to ask questions, learn, and rebuild without feeling ashamed. Community service will always be at the center of what I do. Whether in a classroom, a church, or an office, I want my work to carry the same heart I’ve learned through volunteering, the heart to see people, serve them, and remind them that they are capable of more than they think. Allison Thomas Swanberg’s legacy resonates deeply with me. She dedicated her life to helping students achieve their goals, often working behind the scenes to make their dreams possible. That kind of selfless service is something I aspire to emulate. Like Allison, I want my life to be measured not by titles or achievements, but by the people I’ve helped along the way. I may never know the full impact of every act of service, but I know this: when we give our time, skills, and compassion, we make the world a little more whole. Through my faith, my career, and my daily actions, I want to continue helping others build a future they once thought was out of reach.

I did not expect to be moving back home at 32, but here I am. I gave up living on my own so I could afford to continue my education and work toward my degree in accounting. I do not qualify for financial aid, and working full-time while going to school has pushed me to my limit. But I am committed. I have made sacrifices because I believe in what I am building, not just a career, but a future I can be proud of. Accounting has always felt like a natural fit for me. There is something rewarding about making things balance, finding clarity in the details, and helping people feel more confident with their finances. I want to support individuals, families, and small business owners, especially those in communities like mine where financial literacy can make a lasting difference. As I work toward this goal, I have thought a lot about how artificial intelligence is changing the accounting field. AI is already being used to automate tasks that once required manual entry, including expense categorization, bank reconciliations, tax preparation, and financial reporting. These tools are becoming more advanced and more accurate, and they are playing a growing role in how firms manage their day-to-day operations. There are many benefits to this technology. AI improves efficiency, reduces human error, and gives accountants more time to focus on analysis, forecasting, and decision-making. It helps businesses operate more smoothly and gives smaller companies access to tools that were once only available to large firms. But there are also real concerns. Many entry-level roles are being replaced by automation, which makes it harder for students like me to gain experience and build a foundation. There is also a risk of relying too heavily on technology and losing the deep understanding of accounting principles. And while AI can process data, it cannot offer human judgment, communicate with empathy, or understand the ethical weight of financial decisions. Personally I like AI for more personal use to create schedules for me so I believe it is something everyone should learn to use. It’s beneficial, but there are also studies that show that people are using it so much that people are having a hard time making hard decisions on their own without using AI. I believe that accounting will always need people who can think critically, care deeply, and build trust with others. I want to become that kind of accountant, someone who uses AI as a tool but leads with skill, integrity, and compassion. This scholarship would ease a heavy financial burden and allow me to keep moving forward to help others.

Most people wouldn’t expect a child from a violent, drug-addicted home to dream of becoming a business owner, community leader, and educator. But I’ve always known that the life I was born into didn’t have to be the life I stayed in. I remember lying in bed at night as a child, praying for peace. There were many nights filled with fear—fear of yelling, fear of doors slamming, fear of not knowing what would happen next. But even in the middle of that chaos, I dreamed. I knew I wanted to be someone who helped others, someone who created safety and structure. Now, at 32, I am living proof that transformation is possible, and I’m working hard to turn those dreams into a reality—not just for myself, but for everyone I serve. Currently, I’m pursuing my bachelor’s degree in accounting while working full-time at my family’s flooring and blinds business. My days are long, often starting at 4:30 a.m. and ending late at night after I’ve completed homework or studied for a test. I’ve learned firsthand the importance of financial literacy, accurate bookkeeping, and entrepreneurship. I’ve also experienced what happens when those skills are missing—confusion, disorganization, missed opportunities, and added stress. My dream is to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and run a successful faith-based bookkeeping and consulting firm that supports small businesses, nonprofits, and families—especially those who come from disadvantaged backgrounds like mine. Graduating with my accounting degree is more than a personal milestone. It’s the foundation for everything I hope to build: a business that not only provides services but also educates and empowers others. I want to teach financial literacy to youth and families, create job opportunities, and eventually offer mentorship programs for women rebuilding their lives. I also plan to create printables, journals, planners, and tools that help people manage their money, time, and goals with purpose and confidence. But my aspirations don’t end there. I’m also currently working toward my TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification, with plans to launch an international English program—first virtually, then physically in Vietnam. I’ve already started tutoring Vietnamese learners online, and I’m designing a curriculum tailored to adults with no English background. My long-term goal is to open a physical school in Vietnam where language learning is paired with business skills, faith-based leadership, and community building. I want students to leave not just fluent in English but confident in their purpose and equipped to thrive globally. These goals are big. They will take time, effort, and resources to bring to life. And that’s where this scholarship plays a crucial role. For years, I’ve worked hard to stay out of debt, but life hasn’t always made that easy. I’ve been in three car accidents that totaled my vehicles and resulted in unexpected expenses. I live on my own and manage all of my finances independently. I work 40+ hours a week, attend college full-time, and still make time to volunteer with my church—teaching Sunday School, helping with the youth ministry, and supporting church billing and administrative work. Every dollar counts. Receiving this scholarship would lift a huge weight off my shoulders and allow me to fully focus on my education without worrying how I’m going to afford textbooks, tuition, or the gas I need just to get to class and work each day. Beyond my work and academic life, I’ve embraced personal development as a lifestyle. I recently implemented a structured morning routine that includes prayer, Bible reading, and exercise. I’ve committed to a 77-day challenge that incorporates daily progress photos, water intake, outdoor walks, financial discipline, and language learning. These habits keep me grounded and strengthen my ability to manage stress, prioritize goals, and grow in every area of my life. I’ve already used the tools I have to create real impact—streamlining financial processes for my family’s business, mentoring teens at church, and launching a planner that blends time management with spiritual growth. Imagine what I could do with the full support of a college education and financial stability. This scholarship wouldn’t just help me graduate—it would accelerate everything I’ve been working toward for over a decade. It would help me complete my degree, pass my CPA exam, launch my business, and expand my ESL teaching initiatives. Most importantly, it would allow me to continue giving back—to serve more people, create more impact, and help others rise above their own challenges the way I’ve been rising above mine. My future plans are rooted in a desire to serve, create, and empower. I see myself traveling to teach financial and language skills, building businesses that are run with integrity and heart, and writing curriculum that makes learning accessible and meaningful. I see myself helping women recover from brokenness and guiding youth who’ve been told they won’t amount to anything. Because I’ve lived those realities, and I know that with the right support, those stories can be rewritten. Graduating with my degree is the key to unlocking these possibilities. It’s more than a personal goal—it’s a mission. I’m not just chasing a title or income. I’m chasing impact, transformation, and generational change. I am also committed to helping my family. One of my goals is to pay off my parents’ mortgage and assist in scaling the family business so it can run more efficiently, with clearly defined roles, systems, and pricing strategies. I want my parents to enjoy the fruit of their labor while knowing that the business is in good hands. I believe the best way I can honor their sacrifices is by using my education to create something lasting and sustainable. I’m deeply grateful for opportunities like this scholarship. They remind me that I’m not alone. That even when things feel overwhelming, there are people and organizations who see value in helping others succeed. I am ambitious, not because I want to be great for myself, but because I want to be great for others—for the little girl I used to be, for the students I teach, and for the women I hope to inspire. I know I have a long road ahead, but I also know I’m prepared to walk it—with faith, perseverance, and gratitude. I am not just a survivor—I am a builder. And this scholarship would be one more building block in the legacy I’m creating: a legacy of hope, service, and success built on a foundation of faith, hard work, and purpose.

I grew up in a home filled with chaos, where addiction, violence, and instability were a part of daily life. As a young girl, I learned to shrink myself to survive, to walk on eggshells, and to carry a strength far beyond my years. But even then, deep inside, I carried dreams. Dreams that one day I would be free, that I would be whole, that I would use my pain to help others rise too. I am worth the dreams I aspire to achieve because I’ve fought for them through every storm and I’m still standing. At 13, my brother and I began attending church with a neighbor in search of peace. That small decision changed the course of our lives. It introduced me to a God who heals, a community that uplifts, and a future I had never known was possible. Today, I teach Sunday School, volunteer with my church’s bus ministry, and help lead a STEAM project for youth. I pour into the next generation because I know what it’s like to grow up without guidance, and I want these kids to believe they are worth something too. But I don’t just dream of being a light, I’m building a foundation to make it last. I am currently a full-time college student pursuing my bachelor’s degree in accounting, while working full-time at my family’s small flooring and blinds business. I’m also launching my own bookkeeping firm and developing ESL resources for Vietnamese learners. My goals are bold, but so is my resolve. I want to become a CPA, run a faith-based financial education business, and eventually open a physical school for English learners in Vietnam. These dreams are not just about me. They’re about creating a legacy, about empowering women, youth, and underserved communities to believe in their worth and walk in purpose. I’ve already helped bring structure to my family’s business, mentored students at church, and created printable tools to help others stay organized, grounded in faith, and focused on their goals. I know I’m worth the dreams I’m building because I’m not waiting for perfect conditions, I’m working through the hard and showing up anyway. The journey hasn’t been easy. I’ve been in three car accidents, each totaling my vehicle. I live alone and manage my own finances, trying to stay out of debt while investing in my education. I juggle classwork, ministry, work responsibilities, and family. Some days, I’m exhausted. But I know who I am. I am a woman of faith. I am resilient. I am resourceful. And I believe that God placed these dreams in my heart for a reason. I aspire to be the kind of woman who multiplies what she’s given. Who speaks life into others. Who leads by example, not perfection. I don’t dream for comfort, I dream for impact. I want young girls who come from brokenness to see that their story doesn’t disqualify them; it qualifies them to lead with compassion and courage. This scholarship would help me move forward without the financial stress that too often slows women like me down. As I know what it is like to live on my own and still have to pay the bills while working and finding time to relax without getting to burned out. I am worth the dreams I aspire to achieve—not because of what I’ve been through, but because of who I’ve become because of it.

The first time I realized life could be different, I was 13. Up to that point, I lived in a home surrounded by addiction, physical violence, and mental abuse. My parents struggled with drugs and alcohol, and our household was filled with chaos. I never knew peace or stability as a child. I often hid in silence, unsure of who to trust or what “normal” even looked like. At one point, my brother and I decided to escape by going to church with our neighbors. That moment sparked a turning point—not just in my life, but in my family's story. Eventually, my father began attending church too. He experienced a spiritual transformation that led him to sobriety. Our family, once broken and hopeless, started finding healing. While I’m grateful for how far we’ve come, I still live with the emotional scars of those early years. Even now, at 32, I am learning to heal and work through the trauma of my childhood. Fear and anxiety often try to hold me back, but I’m committed to healing and creating a new future. One of the ways I’m doing that is through education. I work full-time while attending college full-time to earn my bachelor’s degree in accounting. Although I am not the first in my family to go this far in higher education, I am trying to provide a better future for me and my family through education. Balancing work, classes, assignments, and daily responsibilities on my own hasn’t been easy, especially with the weight of past trauma still affecting my mental and emotional energy. But I’m determined. I’m doing this not only for myself but to show others that your beginning doesn’t have to determine your end. Life has thrown me more than my fair share of curveballs. In the last few years, I’ve been in three separate car accidents—none of them my fault. Each time, my vehicle was totaled, and I faced unexpected medical bills and transportation struggles. I’ve worked hard to remain debt-free, but these setbacks made that goal difficult. I’ve had to rebuild financially while still pushing forward with school, work, and healing. There have been days when I felt like giving up—but I didn’t. Because I’ve made a commitment to myself: to grow, to overcome, and to finish what I started. Accounting isn’t just a career for me—it’s a calling. I want to use my skills to help others gain control of their finances, especially those who have gone through trauma or poverty. Money should be a tool, not a trap. With the right education and support, people can be empowered to make better choices and create a brighter future. My goal is to become a Certified Public Accountant and eventually run my own firm that helps small businesses, churches, and families thrive. This scholarship would provide more than just financial assistance—it would give me breathing room. It would mean one less bill to worry about, one step closer to financial stability, and one more reminder that others believe in my journey. I’m committed to rising above my past and building a life rooted in faith, purpose, and resilience. Thank you for considering me for this opportunity. Your investment in my education would not go to waste—it would ripple out to others who need someone to believe in them, just like I needed when I was a little girl praying for peace.

Numbers tell stories. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been fascinated by the way finances can shape lives not just as dollars and cents but as tools to create stability, opportunity, and even hope. My passion for accounting and my dream of becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Certified Financial Planner (CFP) are the foundation for this belief. Growing up in a household that struggled with addiction and instability, I witnessed firsthand the stress and chaos that financial insecurity can bring. That experience ignited a desire in me to help others navigate their finances and build a foundation for their futures. Accounting isn’t just about balancing books or preparing taxes; it’s about solving problems and offering guidance. It’s about helping a small business owner understand their cash flow so they can keep their doors open or showing a young family how to save for their first home. These moments make the work deeply personal for me. I’m not just passionate about accounting because it’s practical or lucrative. I’m passionate because it is something that can help everyone and society. Volunteering in my church’s missions department has given me a firsthand view of the difference financial clarity can make. By managing bookkeeping for the department, I’ve seen how even a small amount of organization and planning can have a ripple effect, allowing resources to go further and impacting more lives. Additionally, each year, I teach an eight-week financial literacy course to individuals struggling to manage their money. Watching participants learn to budget, save, and take control of their finances inspires me to keep going. These experiences have solidified my commitment to opening my own accounting firm, where I can provide accessible and compassionate financial services to those who need it most. But my passion doesn’t stop at accounting. I’ve recently begun teaching English as a second language to Vietnamese learners and hope to earn my certification to expand this endeavor. Teaching has shown me how empowering education can be, and it’s made me curious about exploring international finance certifications in the future. By understanding global financial systems and helping individuals worldwide, I hope to make an even broader impact. What drives me most in this field is the potential to change lives. not just by solving immediate financial challenges but by giving people the tools to sustain their success. I see accounting as a way to serve others. This is why I am so passionate about my chosen major and future career path, it’s not just about numbers; it’s about people. As I work toward my degree, I envision a future where my skills in accounting and financial planning can help others turn their dreams into reality. Whether it’s a family finally getting out of debt, a nonprofit reaching more people with its mission, or a small business thriving in a competitive market, I want to be part of those success stories. I chose this path because I believe in the power of numbers to tell stories and in my ability to help others write theirs.

Growing up, I never imagined I’d be here, 32 years old, managing a single-income household, working full-time, and pursuing a college degree to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Certified Financial Planner (CFP). The path hasn’t been easy. Living on my own, with no one else to lean on financially, has taught me the value of perseverance and resourcefulness. Today, I stand at the intersection of where I’ve been and where I want to go, driven by a vision to make a difference in my life and the lives of others. I’ve always been passionate about helping people reach their potential, especially when it comes to their finances. For years, I’ve volunteered at my church’s missions department, assisting with bookkeeping. I also teach an annual eight-week financial literacy class, helping people understand how to budget, save, and take control of their money. Seeing someone go from feeling overwhelmed to confident in managing their finances is why I do what I do. It’s also why I dream of opening my own accounting firm, where I can provide affordable bookkeeping and tax services to individuals and small businesses. This scholarship would allow me to focus on my studies without the constant worry of how I’ll make ends meet. With rising costs and the responsibilities of living alone, financial stress can be daunting. This support would help me continue my education debt-free, giving me the freedom to fully invest in my future and, by extension, the futures of those I hope to serve. But my aspirations don’t stop at becoming a CPA and CFP. I’ve also begun working toward my certification to teach English as a second language. Currently, I teach English to a group of Vietnamese learners, an experience that has opened my eyes to the power of education in breaking barriers. My hope is to expand this work, teaching English to non-native speakers worldwide while exploring international finance certifications. I want to bridge cultures and create opportunities for others. Of course, every journey comes with setbacks. Earlier this year, I found myself in a difficult financial situation after a car accident. Despite all my knowledge and the lessons I teach others, I struggled to manage my own expenses. For a while, I felt like a failure, overwhelmed and unsure of how to move forward. But through prayer and reflection, I realized that worrying will not solve problems. That experience taught me to take things one day at a time and reminded me of the importance of practicing the same patience with myself that I show to others. Every week, I teach Sunday school to teenagers, helping them in life’s challenges and dream big for their future. I also run a bus program that ensures children from all walks of life can attend church, where they find not just spiritual guidance but also a sense of belonging. These roles are deeply personal to me because I know what it’s like to need someone to believe in you. By giving my time and energy to young people, I hope to be that someone for them. I believe my greatest strengths lie in my adaptability, organization, and ability to connect with people. Whether it’s creating systems to make work more efficient, breaking down complex financial concepts into understandable steps, or encouraging someone to see their potential, I thrive on finding solutions and building relationships. This scholarship is not just a financial opportunity, it’s an investment in a vision. With this support, I will not only achieve my academic and career goals but also continue to help others through financial literacy and language education.

“Pain doesn’t define me.” Those were the words my sister said to me shortly after she returned home from the military, her back fractured in four places and newly diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. At just 19, she had joined the military to escape the confines of what was her life at the time, but what she gained through her service and the challenges she faced afterward have left an indelible mark on me. Not long into her service, little did she know that the trajectory of her life would change. The injury was severe, and the subsequent diagnosis of a chronic condition added to her struggles. Watching her go through a world of daily pain could have been disheartening, but instead, her resilience became a source of inspiration. Rather than focusing on what she lost, my sister chose to focus on what she could still give, and that perspective taught me some of the most important lessons I carry today. The first lesson she taught me is one of perspective. My sister’s days are filled with challenges, yet she greets them with gratitude and joy daily. I’ve seen her grimace through pain but still smile, refusing to let hardship overshadow her joy. She often reminds me that no matter how tough life feels, it could always be harder. Watching her live this truth has transformed the way I approach my own difficulties. I’ve learned to find silver linings, to appreciate the small victories, and to take life one day at a time. And trust me there have been plenty of times to apply this lesson. What’s even more remarkable is the shift in her demeanor since her military service. Before she joined, my sister was prone to emotional reactions, her heart often worn on her sleeve. Now, she carries a calm, almost unshakable presence. I’ve yet to see her worry or succumb to fear, no matter the situation. Her faith in God and trust in His plan have grounded her, and through her example, I’ve learned to let go of the things I cannot control. She taught me that I don’t need to fight every storm outside me if I can calm the one within. Her transformation has taught me the power of resilience and faith. I’ve come to realize that true strength doesn’t come from avoiding challenges but from facing them head-on with trust that everything will workout. When life feels overwhelming, I hear her words in my mind: “God’s got this.” Her steadfast belief in those words gives me the courage to keep going, no matter what. Beyond the personal lessons, my sister’s story has deepened my appreciation for what military service truly entails. It’s not just about wearing a uniform it’s about sacrifice, perseverance, and the courage to keep giving even when the personal cost is high. My sister’s pain is a daily reminder of that sacrifice, but her resilience is a testament to the strength of those who serve. Her journey has left an indelible imprint on my life. Whether I’m helping others in my community, pursuing my education, or navigating my own struggles, I carry the lessons she’s taught me: to stay positive, to trust God’s plan, and to approach life’s challenges with calm and courage. My sister’s story began with a desire for a fresh start, but it became so much more, a journey of transformation, faith, and strength. Watching her navigate her pain with such grace has taught me that life’s challenges, no matter how daunting, can shape us into stronger, more compassionate versions of ourselves. For that, I’m forever grateful to her.

This past year, I felt a strong calling to go on a mission to Vietnam a trip that, little did I know, would forever shape my faith. Preparing for this journey, I carefully planned and saved, sensing in my heart that something extraordinary awaited. What I didn’t realize was how challenging the road would be, and how profoundly my faith would be tested along the way. September 11, 2023, started like any other day. I was following my morning routine, one designed to keep me grounded and motivated. After 30 minutes of prayer and devotion, I headed out to the gym in the pouring Colorado rain, not knowing my life was about to take a sharp turn. As I approached a four-way light, my signal turned yellow, so I kept moving. But as I crossed the intersection, another driver, who should have stopped at their red light, didn’t. In an instant, they collided with my car, throwing my plans and my life into a tailspin. My car was totaled, and my knee was injured, requiring weeks of physical therapy. As I grappled with medical bills and rent, the mission to Vietnam started feeling more like a distant dream than a possibility. Stress began to creep in. My finances were stretched thin, and with the expenses piling up, the $3,000 I needed for the mission seemed out of reach. Yet, despite the overwhelming doubts, something in me said to keep going. I kept praying, kept pushing forward, hoping that if this trip was truly God’s will, somehow, the path would open. December came, and though I had managed to find a replacement car, financial pressures loomed. I wrestled with the uncertainty, but through the fog of anxiety, I held onto my faith, believing that God would make a way. Then, out of nowhere, I received a call from the head of missions at my church, and he shared the news that changed everything: someone had made a substantial donation to cover most of my trip costs. Suddenly, all I needed to provide for was my food and accommodations. With that, I knew this journey was truly meant to be. The mission trip to Vietnam touched me in ways words can hardly capture. I connected with people, witnessed lives being changed, and felt an undeniable stirring in my heart to do more. On my return, this calling blossomed into action: I began teaching English to non-native speakers, and, with a newfound sense of purpose, I enrolled in college to further my education and serve my community in even greater ways. This journey taught me that faith is not just about believing in the good times it’s about holding on when things feel impossible, trusting that God’s provision will find us even in our darkest moments. This chapter of my life was a reminder that, even when I couldn’t see the way forward, faith was there to light my path. Through this experience, I learned that the obstacles we face are often the very tools that refine our purpose. I am excited to see where my path of service and faith will lead me next.

What inspires me to get involved in my community stems from my own childhood experiences. Growing up in a home marked by addiction and abuse, I knew I wanted something better for my life, my family, and for others, particularly young people. From a young age, I made a conscious decision not to follow in my parents’ footsteps. This determination to break away from that cycle has shaped much of what I do today, driving my passion for helping the next generation pursue their dreams. I believe that many young people in my community are often told they have to live a certain way, confined by the same struggles that have surrounded them. But I know firsthand that there is so much more to life than the limitations placed upon us by circumstance. It’s incredibly important to me that others realize they can break free from those boundaries and discover passions and dreams they may not have even known existed. I find joy in encouraging and guiding youth to explore their potential and see the world beyond their current environment. One of the main ways I’ve worked to inspire and influence change in my community is through education. I teach Sunday school to ages 13 and up at my church, where I try to provide more than just lessons on faith—I strive to show these kids that they are capable of much more than they might think. Through these sessions, I aim to open their eyes to new possibilities, teaching them about not only spiritual growth but also personal development. In addition, I volunteer weekly at a local school, teaching science to 12- to 14-year-olds. I make time for this despite a busy work schedule because I believe that offering my knowledge and encouragement to students is one of the most impactful things I can do. Watching them engage in new concepts and helping them develop a love for learning fuels my passion for serving my community. Beyond the classroom, I also help run a Sunday school bus at Christian Growth Center in Pueblo, CO, where we pick up children from the community and bring them to church. There, we teach them valuable life lessons, provide them with a safe space, and ensure they are fed—both physically and emotionally. Being part of these children's lives, even in small ways, motivates me to continue giving back and making a difference in my community, one young person at a time.