As a little girl I was taken by DCF from my mother and so were my other three siblings at the time. Up until I was 16 I was never in contact with any of my siblings until I was able to visit. After that visit I was informed my mother has been able to have more children and keep them within the same poor and abusive conditions, however this time nobody is brave enough to save my siblings. I have done everything in my power to become knowledgeable in the field of law and social services in order to help those who can’t help themselves. I want to be the voice for the child that couldn’t speak up and braver than the ones who wouldn’t. My short term educational goals are to earn my degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Forensic Science to prepare myself for an impactful career in the legal system. I then would like to pursue law school to become an attorney focused in both child protection and criminal defense. I am passionate about the correct application of justice and fairness and promoting public safety. I am a voice in my community and volunteer to gain personal experience with law enforcement to then apply my experience to help work toward a more equitable justice system. My selected career field is founded in my education and outside experience to sharpen my necessary skills for the job. I constantly strive to sharpen my critical thinking and attention to detail. With my gained understanding of forensic analysis, procedures, and ethics from my degree I am confident it will help me excel as a lawyer as I will be able to understand and apply concepts from all sides of the legal system. I have taken courses in criminal law, ethics, and corrections, which have all deepened my understanding of the legal system and apply what I have learned in everyday situations where possible. Outside of the classroom I’ve volunteered in my neighborhood as a source of knowledge for where to gain legal resources and as a tutor for younger kids. When available I participate in workshops and ride a longs with our community law enforcement to gain first hand insight in the field. Every move I make is a calculated purposeful step to pursuing a successful career in the justice system. Receiving this scholarship or will help ease some of the financial burden I have while currently trying to provide for my education, living expenses, and raise a baby.