Entering higher education as someone who did not come from a family with academic privilege has been both a challenge and a revelation. I am the first in my family to pursue a college degree, and I have had to learn every step of the process on my own. There was no guidebook, no example to follow, and no inherited roadmap to success. What I did have was faith, resilience, and an unwavering belief that I was meant to rise higher than the limitations placed before me. My background shaped me into a learner who values perseverance over perfection. Growing up, education often felt like a distant dream, something other people achieved but that people like me rarely accessed. I come from a line of strong, hardworking individuals who survived through instinct and determination but were denied opportunities to transform that strength into advancement. Watching those patterns made me determined to break them. I knew that if I could reach higher education, I could not only change my life but open the door for my children and future generations to see what is possible. When I first enrolled in college, I felt like an outsider in every sense. I was older than most of my peers, a single mother, and a woman who had survived addiction and rebuilt her life from the ground up. I did not speak the language of academia, and I was intimidated by how naturally others seemed to understand systems that were entirely new to me. I had to learn how to manage financial aid, navigate online platforms, and balance the responsibilities of parenthood while trying to succeed in a space that was not designed for people like me. Yet every challenge deepened my faith and my determination to keep going. Education has become my way of rewriting the narrative that my ancestors could not. I am currently studying Human Resources with a concentration in Addictions Counseling at Southern New Hampshire University, maintaining a 4.0 GPA and Honor Roll standing for eleven consecutive terms. My academic success represents more than grades; it represents a generational breakthrough. Every class I complete adds a new layer to my purpose, teaching me how to combine behavioral science, empathy, and structure to create real change. I am fascinated by genetics, neuroscience, and holistic healing, and I plan to expand my studies into these areas to better understand how trauma and environment shape mental health. As an outsider entering higher education, my greatest fear has always been financial limitation. The cost of college creates barriers for families like mine who have not had generational wealth or access to academic guidance. Still, I refuse to let finances dictate my future. I have built multiple wellness-based businesses, including Ancestral Crown, Gentlemen’s Alchemy, and SolMae Studio, which allow me to merge creativity, science, and spirituality to support my education and my family. These ventures are not only income sources but reflections of my determination to make knowledge work for me instead of against me. My hope for the future is to build a Sanctuary Center that provides affordable counseling, holistic education, and community healing programs for underrepresented families. Pursuing higher education as a first-generation student has been intimidating at times, but it has also been empowering. I carry my family’s history with me in every assignment I complete. My success belongs not only to me but to everyone who came before me and everyone who will come after. Education is no longer a dream for my bloodline. It is the beginning of a legacy.

Balancing my education with being a single parent has become one of the greatest lessons in faith, structure, and perseverance I have ever learned. I see my education not as a separate part of my life but as an extension of my role as a mother and provider. Every class I take and every assignment I complete is an investment in my family’s future and a living example to my children that consistency and focus can turn dreams into reality. I am currently earning my degree in Human Resources with a concentration in Addictions Counseling at Southern New Hampshire University. My goal is to use my education to help others heal and rebuild their lives through mental health and community empowerment. This calling is deeply personal to me because I know what it means to start over. Five years ago, I made the decision to get sober after struggling with addiction and losing temporary custody of my youngest child. Through faith, accountability, and hard work, I regained custody within six months and have maintained my sobriety ever since. Since that time, I have stayed on the Honor Roll for eleven consecutive terms, holding a 4.0 GPA while raising my children and building multiple wellness-based businesses. Balancing both worlds has required intention and planning. I keep a structured schedule that prioritizes time for schoolwork, family, and self-care. Mornings are for my studies, afternoons are for business and family routines, and evenings are for connection and reflection. I use every resource available, including academic support programs, time management tools, and spiritual practices, to stay grounded. My children understand that my education is not taking me away from them but building a stronger foundation for all of us. We study together, celebrate achievements together, and encourage one another to keep pushing forward. This scholarship would make an incredible difference in helping me maintain that balance. As a single mother, tuition and material costs can be challenging, especially while also managing household responsibilities and entrepreneurship. Financial relief would allow me to reduce my work hours, dedicate more time to my studies, and continue providing emotional and academic support to my children. It would also allow me to expand my research in counseling and behavioral health, bringing me closer to my long-term vision of opening a Sanctuary Center that provides affordable counseling, job-readiness programs, and holistic healing for individuals and families in need. Beyond academics, I want to continue being an example of perseverance and possibility for my children and my community. I want them to see that discipline and heart can overcome any obstacle. Education has not only changed my perspective but has also deepened my compassion and leadership. My faith has taught me that balance does not mean perfection; it means staying centered in purpose no matter what life brings. Receiving this scholarship would represent more than financial support. It would symbolize belief, belief in the power of redemption, belief in education as a path to change, and belief in single parents like me who are doing the work to rewrite their stories. I would carry that belief with me into every classroom, every business project, and every counseling session I lead in the future. I plan to graduate with honors, open my Sanctuary Center, and dedicate my life to empowering others to find stability, healing, and strength within themselves. With this scholarship, I can continue balancing my education and family with confidence, grace, and purpose, creating a legacy my children can be proud of and a life that inspires others to rise.

I believe mental health care should be a right, not a privilege. My mission is to make healing accessible to every person, regardless of income or background. My unique contribution to the world will be to create community-based Sanctuary Centers that combine affordable counseling, peer support, and holistic healing programs. Each center will offer mental health services funded through self-sustaining wellness programs such as nutrition classes, meditation sessions, herbal education, and self-care product lines. This model will allow individuals to receive quality support without financial strain while learning how to sustain their own wellness. As a Human Resources and Addictions Counseling student, I have learned how behavioral science, compassion, and structure can transform lives. My background as an entrepreneur through Ancestral Crown, Gentlemen’s Alchemy, and SolMae Studio has given me the skills to design accessible programs, manage resources, and inspire change. I also plan to launch an online platform that offers free mental wellness workshops, guided meditations, and direct access to volunteer professionals. By merging technology, education, and community, I want to create a global network of healing that reaches people right where they are. My faith, sobriety, and education have taught me that small acts of care can create powerful change. I will dedicate my life to helping others find balance, peace, and hope—proving that healing is not a luxury but a human right.

My experience with addiction was a chapter of my life that tested everything I thought I knew about myself. It began quietly, almost innocently, as an escape from pain I did not yet know how to face. What started as trying to numb my emotions eventually became a cycle that separated me from my purpose, my peace, and the people I loved most. I was living but not alive. I felt disconnected from my faith, my identity, and the light within me that had once guided every decision. The lowest moment of my life came when I made a poor decision to stop at a bar one night and left my youngest child asleep in the car. That moment became the turning point that shattered my old life and forced me to confront the truth about my addiction. My son was placed in foster care, and for the first time, I had to face the damage I had caused. I remember praying for forgiveness and asking for strength to rebuild. That moment of brokenness became the beginning of my awakening. I chose recovery with my whole heart. I entered sobriety determined to face every part of myself that I had once tried to escape. I replaced old habits with faith, structure, and a deep commitment to self-work. Within six months, my son was returned home to me. I have now been sober for five years, and every one of those years has been a victory of grace, discipline, and transformation. My life today is built on accountability, spiritual growth, and a genuine passion for helping others find freedom as I did. Since getting sober, I have built a new foundation rooted in education, wellness, and service. I enrolled at Southern New Hampshire University to pursue a degree in Human Resources with a concentration in Addictions Counseling. My studies have helped me understand addiction from psychological, social, and biological perspectives. Learning about the human brain, behavioral change, and the science of recovery has deepened my compassion for those still struggling. I have maintained a 4.0 GPA and earned Honor Roll recognition for eleven consecutive terms, not just because I want good grades, but because I know how powerful education is in changing lives. My goal is to use my degree to guide others toward healing and stability. I plan to open a Sanctuary Center that will offer counseling, wellness programs, and job-readiness training for individuals in recovery. I want it to be a place where people can receive therapy, learn life skills, and reconnect with their faith and purpose. I also hope to expand my education into genetics, behavioral science, and holistic medicine, to study how trauma affects the body and how science and spirituality can work together to restore wholeness. My sobriety taught me that healing begins with one decision, one prayer, one act of faith. I want to help others understand that recovery is not just the absence of addiction but the rebirth of self-worth. My journey was never about perfection; it was about awakening. Today, I live with purpose, gratitude, and a promise to turn my pain into light for others who are still searching for their way home.

I am currently pursuing my degree in Human Resources with a concentration in Addictions Counseling at Southern New Hampshire University. My studies allow me to combine my passion for psychology, behavioral science, and holistic healing with a deep desire to serve others. Through my coursework, I am learning how addiction, trauma, and environment shape human behavior and how education, empathy, and structure can transform lives. I plan to use this knowledge to help individuals rebuild their confidence, restore balance in their lives, and reconnect with their purpose. My academic journey has been one of persistence, faith, and growth. As a single mother, I have had to navigate life carefully, balancing my responsibilities at home with the demands of higher education. When I began this journey, I was rebuilding from one of the hardest moments of my life. I once struggled with addiction and made choices that led to my youngest son entering foster care. That experience became the turning point that reshaped my entire life. I committed myself to recovery, embraced my faith, and chose to rebuild. Within six months, my son returned home. I have now been sober for five years, and I have maintained a 4.0 GPA and earned a place on the Honor Roll for eleven consecutive terms. The greatest obstacle I have faced while attending school has been balancing time and emotional energy. There were days when I studied late into the night after caring for my children, days when bills and books competed for the same dollar, and moments when self-doubt crept in. But every challenge reminded me why I started. Education became my sanctuary. It gave me structure, confidence, and the reassurance that my past could become the foundation for a better future. The support of professors who believed in me and the growth I have experienced academically have kept me motivated through every storm. Another challenge I have overcome is learning to manage my many roles while building something larger than myself. In addition to being a student and mother, I am an entrepreneur. I founded Ancestral Crown, Gentlemen’s Alchemy, and SolMae Studio, creative and wellness-based businesses that focus on holistic self-care, empowerment, and transformation. These ventures have taught me leadership, organization, and the importance of perseverance. Through them, I have learned to connect science, spirit, and service — helping others heal while continuing my own growth. Once I complete my degree, I plan to open a Sanctuary Center that will combine counseling, community outreach, and education. It will serve as a safe space for individuals and families to heal emotionally, physically, and spiritually. My goal is to provide counseling services, wellness programs, and professional development training that help people create lasting change. I also hope to expand my studies into genetics, behavioral science, and holistic medicine, so I can continue researching how trauma and addiction affect the body and how science and spirituality can work together to restore wholeness. My ultimate mission is to use everything I have learned — through education, motherhood, and experience — to be a light for others. I want to show that healing, growth, and success are not defined by where you start, but by your willingness to keep moving forward. This degree is more than a personal goal; it is a calling. It represents my promise to myself, to my children, and to every person I will one day help, proving that transformation is always possible when purpose leads the way.

My faith has been the compass that guided every chapter of my life. It taught me that every storm carries a lesson and that grace is not something we earn, but something we awaken to. I have walked through fire and come out with a heart refined by faith. When I battled addiction years ago, it was faith that kept me standing when shame tried to silence me. After a painful mistake led to my youngest child being placed in foster care, I made a promise to God and to myself that I would rebuild my life with purpose. Through prayer, accountability, and determination, I became sober and have remained so for five years. My son came home within six months, and I have been walking in light ever since. Faith not only restored my family but also reshaped my calling. It showed me that my purpose was to serve others, to guide people through their own valleys with compassion and truth. Today, I am pursuing my degree in Human Resources with a concentration in Addictions Counseling at Southern New Hampshire University, maintaining a 4.0 GPA and earning the Honor Roll for eleven consecutive terms. My education is not just a personal pursuit; it is my way of equipping myself to serve. I believe that faith without works is incomplete, so I put my beliefs into action by mentoring women in recovery and offering guidance to single mothers who are learning to rebuild. My passion for service also shines through my entrepreneurial work. I founded Ancestral Crown, Gentlemen’s Alchemy, and SolMae Studio, brands rooted in healing, self-respect, and personal growth. Through these businesses, I create wellness products and digital content that teach people the importance of caring for their mind, body, and spirit. What may look like skincare or grooming on the surface is truly about self-worth and inner transformation. It is my way of reminding others that they are whole, worthy, and capable of renewal. Family, both biological and chosen, remains my anchor. They remind me why I continue to strive for excellence. Family taught me unconditional love, sacrifice, and faith in action. I have learned to preserve family traditions of cooking, prayer, and storytelling while creating new traditions that focus on mental and emotional wellness. Whether it is helping a relative through hard times or mentoring a young mother who feels alone, I treat every act of care as sacred. Family has taught me that love and support can heal wounds deeper than medicine ever could. As I look toward the future, I see myself blending science, spirituality, and service into one mission. My dream is to build a Sanctuary Center, a space that offers counseling, wellness programs, and mentorship for individuals and families seeking to heal and evolve. I want to teach people how to understand their own biology, habits, and emotions in a way that empowers them to make sustainable changes. Just as my faith and education transformed me, I want to pass that same light to others. Receiving this scholarship would help me continue my education and expand my ability to serve. It would allow me to complete my degree, deepen my research in behavioral health and wellness science, and bring my vision to life. I hope to carry forward the legacy of Ed and Aline Patane by living a life of compassion, service, and faith-driven action, building communities where small acts of kindness lead to lasting change. Dear Patane Family, Thank you for continuing the legacy of Ed and Aline through this scholarship. Their example of compassion, faith, and service lives on through opportunities like this one, and I am truly grateful for the chance to be considered. Although I never met them, I can feel the love and intention behind their mission. The way they lived with purpose and kindness reflects the same values that guide my own journey. Like your parents, I believe that serving others is a sacred calling. My life has been shaped by faith, healing, and transformation, and I have dedicated myself to helping others do the same. Through my studies and my work, I strive to create safe spaces where people can rebuild their confidence, nurture their health, and rediscover hope. If I am selected for this scholarship, I will carry the spirit of Ed and Aline forward by living with integrity, compassion, and faith in action. Every step I take toward my degree and every life I touch will honor their example. Thank you for keeping their light alive and for inspiring others, including me, to do the same. With gratitude and respect, Willa Allen

Giving back has always been a part of who I am, not because it looks good on paper but because service is sacred to me. I believe we all carry a light that was never meant to be hidden. My way of giving back begins with using my story, my education, and my creativity to remind others that healing and growth are possible for everyone. Right now, I give back through mentorship, creative education, and community healing. I mentor other single mothers and women in recovery who are rebuilding their lives, offering encouragement, guidance, and resources. I also use my wellness brands — Ancestral Crown, Gentlemen’s Alchemy, and SolMae Studio — to teach self-care and emotional restoration through small, meaningful habits. Every product I create comes with intention, reminding people that caring for themselves is an act of healing. I also give back through my writing and digital content, using storytelling and science-based inspiration to encourage self-awareness, balance, and faith. Education has become one of my greatest tools for service. I am currently earning my degree in Human Resources with a concentration in Addictions Counseling, maintaining a 4.0 GPA and eleven terms on the Honor Roll. My studies help me understand the science behind human behavior, addiction, and healing. I share what I learn with others in my community, helping them recognize that transformation can start with one small decision — like choosing therapy, journaling, or a single sober day. In the future, I plan to expand that work on a larger scale. My vision is to build a Sanctuary Center, a space dedicated to holistic healing, education, and empowerment. The center will combine counseling, mental health support, science-based wellness programs, and creative workshops. It will be a place where people can learn about nutrition, genetics, mindfulness, and the emotional connection between body and spirit. I want to bridge spirituality and science in a way that helps people understand themselves fully — mind, body, and soul. I also plan to partner with schools and organizations to teach youth wellness programs that focus on emotional regulation, nutrition, and self-worth. I want to empower the next generation to break cycles of trauma through knowledge and compassion. My goal is not just to help people survive but to teach them how to thrive and sustain their growth through daily practices that strengthen their physical, emotional, and spiritual health. Giving back is not just something I do; it is the rhythm of my life. Every degree I earn, every life I touch, and every product or message I share is rooted in the same mission — to help others find the light within themselves. I believe that even the smallest act of kindness can change the direction of someone’s life. Through education, service, and faith, I will continue to use everything I have learned to inspire others to heal, grow, and rise into their full potential.

I have always believed that true healing begins with small, intentional steps repeated with faith and consistency. When I learned about Dr. Steve Aldana’s mission to create meaningful health improvements through simple, sustainable habits, it felt like a mirror to my own life philosophy. My journey from addiction to wellness taught me that transformation does not happen overnight. It happens one decision at a time — the decision to breathe, to move, to nourish, and to believe in your own power to change. As a student pursuing a degree in Human Resources with a concentration in Addictions Counseling at Southern New Hampshire University, I have learned how interconnected the mind, body, and environment are. I want to use my education to build bridges between behavioral health, holistic science, and everyday wellness. Dr. Aldana’s vision of empowering individuals through small health choices aligns perfectly with how I live and lead. I have seen firsthand how teaching people to take small, daily steps toward improvement creates lasting transformation. Through my studies and work, I have developed a deep passion for DNA, genetics, and the science of human behavior. I believe the most meaningful health improvements come when we understand how our biology responds to our habits and environments. When we combine scientific awareness with personal accountability, healing becomes not just possible but natural. I plan to expand my education into medical and wellness research, exploring how cellular and behavioral changes can help prevent addiction relapse and improve mental and physical health. Beyond the classroom, I apply these principles through my wellness brands, Ancestral Crown and Gentlemen’s Alchemy. I create natural self-care products and educational content that encourage people to take small steps toward wellness — nourishing their hair, skin, and confidence while connecting to their roots. What may seem like a simple daily routine becomes an act of restoration. These small habits ripple outward, shaping healthier families and communities. My long-term goal is to open a Sanctuary Center, a community space that unites counseling, holistic health, and education. The center will teach families how to make small, manageable changes that lead to lasting wellness. From nutrition and mindfulness to goal-setting and stress management, my mission is to help people create a sustainable lifestyle of healing. Just as Dr. Aldana transformed workplace culture, I hope to transform community culture — helping people understand that well-being is built one mindful action at a time. I see myself carrying Dr. Aldana’s mission forward through teaching, counseling, and leading by example. My sobriety, now five years strong, began with the smallest decision — to stop, to heal, and to believe that I could. That experience taught me that every major transformation begins with a single moment of courage repeated until it becomes habit. Through education, science, and service, I want to remind people that healing is not unreachable. It is in the way we breathe, eat, think, speak, and love ourselves daily. I will continue to share this truth wherever I go, helping others see that every small choice holds the power to change a life.

The Alchemy of My Becoming My name is Willa Allen, and my journey as a single mother has been one of transformation, redemption, and awakening. I have lived through both shadow and light, and through it all I found my purpose. My life once reflected survival, but today it reflects service, knowledge, and spirit. Every choice I’ve made, every lesson I’ve learned, and every challenge I’ve faced has shaped the woman I have become. Years ago, I struggled with addiction. At the time, I made a mistake that changed everything I went into a bar, leaving my youngest child in the car. It was a moment that broke me and rebuilt me. When my son was placed in foster care, I had to face every part of myself I had avoided. I did everything before being court ordered on my own. I chose to get sober, to heal, and to become the kind of mother and woman my children could look up to. Within six months, my son came home to me. I have now been sober for four and a half years, and I guard that sobriety with faith, gratitude, and purpose. Since that turning point, I have dedicated my life to transformation mine and others’. I enrolled at Southern New Hampshire University, where I am pursuing a degree in Human Resources with a concentration in Addictions Counseling. I have maintained a 4.0 GPA and achieved Honor Roll for eleven consecutive terms. My education has become my second chance, and every course I complete feels like an answered prayer. I am living proof that mistakes can become miracles when you choose to rise. My curiosity and love for science guide me. I am fascinated by DNA, genetics, and the connection between biology and behavior. I believe our cells carry both our stories and our potential for healing. This passion drives my desire to one day study within the School of Medicine, to understand how trauma and addiction imprint on the body and how science and spirituality can work together to restore balance. I want to merge the knowledge of modern medicine with the wisdom of the soul to heal the human being in full. In addition to my studies, I built several small businesses that reflect my purpose and creativity. Through Ancestral Crown, Gentlemen’s Alchemy, and SolMae Studio, I have created wellness and self-care products inspired by science, nature, and spirit. These businesses taught me discipline, strategy, and how to transform ideas into reality. They also prepared me for my ultimate goal to build a Sanctuary Center, a space that provides counseling, holistic healing, education, and job readiness for families in need of renewal. Receiving this scholarship would be a sacred investment in purpose. It would allow me to continue my education, deepen my research, and expand my ability to serve others. It would lift financial weight from my shoulders so I can focus fully on the mission that called me, to bring together healing, science, and community. My life no longer revolves around what I lost but around what I’ve become. I am a mother, a scholar, a healer, and a creator. Sobriety gave me clarity. Education gave me power. Purpose gave me peace. I will use all three to guide others through their darkness into their own light. This scholarship would not only help me achieve my dreams, it would help me share the proof that transformation is possible for anyone willing to believe in it.

My life has been my greatest teacher. Every struggle, loss, and lesson has shaped the woman I am and the career path I have chosen. I come from experiences that taught me about pain, resilience, and transformation. I have known what it feels like to fall and rebuild, to be judged and to rise above it, and to find strength when it seemed impossible. Those experiences became the foundation for my purpose and the reason I decided to dedicate my life to helping others heal and create better futures. There was a time when survival was my only focus. As a single mother rebuilding my life, I faced financial hardship, personal mistakes, and moments of deep self-doubt. I did not have the luxury of giving up because I had children watching me. I wanted them to see more than my struggle. I wanted them to see my growth. The determination to show them what perseverance looks like inspired me to return to school and turn my pain into purpose. I chose to pursue a degree in Human Resources with a concentration in Addictions Counseling because I understand what it means to feel lost and to crave change. I want to be that guiding light for others who are still fighting their way out of difficult situations. My life experience has given me compassion and perspective that cannot be learned from a textbook. I know how powerful it is when someone believes in you at your lowest point, and I want to be that person for others. Through my own healing and faith, I began creating outlets for my purpose. I founded brands such as Ancestral Crown, Gentlemen’s Alchemy, and SolMae Studio, which focus on wellness, creativity, and empowerment. These ventures are not just businesses. They are extensions of my story and the first steps toward building my future community sanctuary, a space that will offer counseling, wellness, job training, and mentorship programs. I want to create a center where people can find hope, healing, and guidance to rebuild their lives just as I did. Every part of my journey has taught me how to serve others with empathy, patience, and vision. My hardships made me more understanding, my education is giving me the skills to make real change, and my children give me the reason to keep going. My dream career is not just about professional success. It is about creating a legacy that changes lives, heals communities, and shows that no matter where you start, you can always rise again. I have learned that my purpose is not defined by my past but by what I choose to do with it. The same pain that once held me back now drives me to uplift others. I see my future in every person who feels unseen, every child who needs encouragement, and every family trying to start over. I want to stand as proof that transformation is real and that your story can become your strength. My life experiences did not break me. They built me. They turned me into a woman who no longer hides from her past but uses it to lead and inspire others. Every step I take toward my degree and career is a promise to continue turning my lessons into purpose and to help others find that same power within themselves.

My name is Willa Allen, and I am a proud mother, student, and entrepreneur with a heart for healing and helping others. My life has been a journey of resilience, faith, and growth. I know what it feels like to start over with nothing but determination and a dream. I once believed my past defined me, but through education and personal growth, I learned that every setback was preparing me for something greater. I am currently pursuing my degree in Human Resources with a concentration in Addictions Counseling at Southern New Hampshire University. My goal is to use my education to build a community sanctuary that offers counseling, career training, wellness programs, and mentorship for families in need. I want to create a safe place where people can heal, learn, and rebuild their confidence. My vision is to bring together mental health support, holistic healing, and economic empowerment under one roof so no one feels forgotten or without hope. Outside of school, I manage several small business ventures that reflect my passion for wellness and creativity. Through my brands Ancestral Crown, Gentlemen’s Alchemy, and SolMae Studio, I create natural products and digital content that empower others to care for themselves, embrace their roots, and believe in their own potential. Every part of my business is rooted in the same mission as my studies: to help others rise above hardship and find peace in their transformation. This scholarship will be a blessing for me and my family. I currently balance motherhood, full-time coursework, and entrepreneurship. Financial challenges often make that balance difficult, but my commitment to finishing my degree never wavers. Receiving this scholarship would relieve a tremendous burden and allow me to focus more on my studies and community projects. It would give me the freedom to keep investing in my education and continue building the foundation for the sanctuary I dream of opening. I am not just seeking assistance; I am seeking the opportunity to turn my vision into reality. I want to be a counselor who understands pain from experience, a businesswoman who empowers others, and a leader who builds spaces of safety and healing. With this scholarship, I will continue transforming my lessons into light for others who are still searching for hope. I am determined to leave a legacy my children can be proud of. I want them to see that no matter where you begin, faith, education, and perseverance can rewrite your entire story. This scholarship is not just an investment in my education; it is an investment in every life I will touch through my future work.

My name is Willa Allen, and my path back to school has been one of faith, struggle, and transformation. I am a mother, a survivor, and a woman who has learned that purpose can rise out of the very pain meant to destroy you. Every challenge I faced became a lesson that shaped the woman I am today. I did not return to school for recognition or status. I did it because I refused to let my story end. For a long time, life felt like a constant battle. I was focused on surviving instead of growing. Between raising my children, rebuilding my life, and healing from past, I often wondered if I had missed my chance. One day I looked at my son and realized that even when I felt lost, he was still watching me. I want him to see that his mother never gave up. That moment changed everything. It reminded me that I still had purpose and that my dreams were waiting for me to choose them again. Returning to school at Southern New Hampshire University to study Human Resources with a focus on Addictions Counseling became the start of my new chapter. I wanted to turn everything I had been through into something meaningful. I wanted to help others who were fighting silent battles and searching for a second chance at life. Now when I sit at my desk late at night, I do not see exhaustion. I see progress. Every class I complete, every paper I submit, and every grade I earn reminds me that it is never too late to rebuild. My dream is to create a community center that provides counseling, job training, and support for families who feel overlooked. I want to use my experiences to show others that their past does not define their future. I came from a background where strength was not a choice but a requirement. I learned how to keep pushing even when the world told me I should stop. I have been the woman who had to start over from nothing. I have cried through lessons, smiled through pain, and kept faith when everything seemed uncertain. I am proud of the woman I am becoming because I had to earn every step of this journey. I no longer look at my life through the lens of regret. I see resilience, and I see growth. I am motivated by my children more than anything else. They remind me every day why I started this journey. I want them to see me graduate. I want them to know that hard work and faith can rebuild a life from the ground up. I want them to carry the belief that no matter where you come from or what mistakes you make, you always have the power to change your story. They are my greatest reason and my greatest reward. I found purpose in the small victories, like understanding a new concept or sharing my story with classmates who related to my experiences. I learned that knowledge does more than open doors. It heals, it empowers, and it gives you the ability to make change. I want to use what I am learning to serve others and to build a legacy that stands for compassion, understanding, and strength. This journey has been about more than earning a degree. It has been about reclaiming my voice, my confidence, and my faith in what is possible. Education has become my redemption story, and through it I have learned that no matter how far you have fallen, you can always rise again.

Being a first-generation college student means stepping into spaces no one in my immediate family has ever been before. It means learning to navigate systems without a roadmap, carrying the dreams of my family on my shoulders, and trusting that even when the path feels overwhelming, I have the strength to keep moving forward. For me, it also means honoring the sacrifices and love that made it possible for me to get here. I was adopted at age twelve into a large foster-to-adopt family. My parents eventually adopted thirty-eight children, many of them with special needs. Growing up in a family where resources were limited but love and resilience were abundant taught me early that education is a privilege and a responsibility. College wasn’t a guarantee for me—it was a dream I had to pursue with determination. Being first-generation means I get to pave a new path not just for myself, but for my siblings who look up to me and believe that if I can do it, they can too. The challenges I’ve faced along the way have been real. Coming from a low-income household, I’ve had to balance school with financial strain and limited guidance on how to navigate higher education. There were times when I felt like giving up because the process felt too complicated or the stress too heavy. But each challenge has only strengthened my perseverance. I’ve learned to ask questions, seek mentors, and advocate for myself in spaces that weren’t designed with first-generation students in mind. My dreams are big, but they are rooted in service. I am currently pursuing my bachelor’s degree in Addiction Counseling, with plans to attend medical school and eventually earn a Ph.D. in Bioethics. My motivation comes from seeing how deeply people are affected by trauma, mental health struggles, and addiction, and knowing that with the right support, healing is possible. I want to dedicate my life to helping people rebuild, while also shaping ethical systems of care that treat every person with dignity. This scholarship would help me move closer to those goals by easing the financial burden that comes with higher education. It would allow me to focus more fully on my studies and my service to the community, rather than worrying about how to make ends meet. Most importantly, it would be an investment not just in me, but in the many people I hope to serve in the future. Being a first-generation student means walking a difficult path, but it also means creating a legacy of hope and resilience. With this scholarship, I will continue that journey, honoring the challenges I’ve overcome while building a future that makes a difference in the lives of others.

Losing my adoptive brother was one of the most painful experiences of my life. His passing was made even heavier by the circumstances—his birth mother had taken her own life. Experiencing loss in this way, within a family already built on adoption and second chances, was devastating. It was a reminder of how fragile life can be, how deeply mental health struggles can wound, and how far the impact of suicide reaches. The grief I felt was layered: I mourned for my brother, for his birth mother, and for the family we all shared. I struggled with questions I couldn’t answer—about loss, about pain, and about what could have been done differently. At times, it felt like an impossible weight to carry, especially as I tried to support my family while navigating my own sadness. But through this tragedy, I learned that grief is not a straight line. Some days are harder than others, but each day is an opportunity to honor their lives by the way I choose to live mine. This loss taught me lessons that continue to shape who I am. I’ve learned that compassion is not optional; we never truly know the struggles someone carries, and kindness may be the lifeline they need. I’ve learned the importance of talking openly about mental health, breaking the silence that so often surrounds it. Most importantly, I’ve discovered that resilience doesn’t mean avoiding pain—it means allowing pain to transform into purpose. Finding hope again was not easy, but it came through faith, family, and service. My adoptive family, which has grown to include thirty-eight children, became my anchor. Watching my parents and siblings grieve yet continue to love and support one another reminded me of the strength that comes from unity. My church community also played a powerful role, giving me a place to process loss and a reminder that even in tragedy, God’s love remains. This journey has inspired my future. I am now a junior in college pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Addiction Counseling, with plans to attend medical school and earn a Ph.D. in Bioethics. I want to dedicate my career to helping people who are struggling—whether with addiction, mental health challenges, or ethical barriers in healthcare. Losing my brother and witnessing the devastating effects of suicide gave me a passion to advocate for others, to create systems of care that don’t leave people feeling hopeless or unseen. I carry my brother’s memory, and his birth mother’s story, with me every day. Though their lives were cut short, their impact continues through me. I honor them by choosing compassion, by serving others, and by refusing to let tragedy be the end of the story. Instead, I am building a life of resilience, hope, and purpose—because even in loss, there can be healing, and even in grief, there can be love.

My journey has been shaped by both my upbringing and my desire to make a difference in the lives of others. I was adopted at age twelve into a large foster-to-adopt family in Minnesota. My parents eventually adopted thirty-eight children, many of them with special needs. Growing up in this environment taught me compassion, patience, and the belief that everyone—regardless of background or ability—has the potential to achieve more than the world expects. Those lessons inspired me to pursue a career in human services. I am currently a junior in college working toward my bachelor’s degree in Addiction Counseling, with plans to continue to medical school and ultimately earn a Ph.D. in Bioethics. My motivation comes from seeing how deeply people struggle with issues like trauma, mental health, and addiction, and knowing that with the right support, they can heal and thrive. I want to be part of that process of restoration. I have served my community through both church and volunteer work. At River Valley Church in Rosemount, where I began attending at age eleven, I was baptized and became actively involved in youth programs and outreach events. From organizing food drives to supporting community gatherings, these experiences gave me hands-on opportunities to help people in need. I also draw from my experiences at home, where helping care for my siblings—many with disabilities—taught me how to support others with empathy and respect. My long-term goal is to bridge science, ethics, and compassion. Addiction counseling will allow me to serve individuals and families directly, while my future studies in medicine and bioethics will equip me to advocate for systemic change in how healthcare is delivered and how ethical issues are addressed. What motivates me most is the hope of creating a world where no one feels invisible or without help—where services meet people where they are and empower them to move forward. In short, my upbringing, my education, and my service experiences have all pointed me toward a life dedicated to human services. I see every act of service, whether small or large, as part of a larger mission: to use my gifts to help people heal, grow, and discover their potential. That mission is what motivates me every single day, no matter what. I am becoming the role model I want to be for both my sons. That’s more than I could ever ask for in this life of mines.

When I first walked into River Valley Church in Rosemount, Minnesota at eleven years old, I didn’t realize how deeply it would shape my life. What started as attending Sunday services soon grew into a true spiritual home. By the time I was fourteen, I was attending youth nights every Wednesday, where I built friendships, grew in my faith, and discovered the importance of serving others. Eventually, I made the decision to be baptized there—a moment that not only strengthened my personal relationship with God but also deepened my commitment to living a life of service. Through River Valley, I began to understand that faith isn’t just about believing—it’s about living those beliefs out through action. I’ve had the chance to volunteer at community events, help organize drives, and support church activities that bring people together. These experiences taught me that service, whether big or small, can impact lives in powerful ways. Seeing people’s needs met and their spirits lifted showed me how much of a difference one person, or one community, can make. My time at River Valley also gave me opportunities to step into responsibility and leadership. Wednesday youth nights weren’t just about learning; they were about participating, encouraging others, and growing into someone who could make an impact on my peers. Being surrounded by leaders who poured into me gave me an example of the kind of person I want to become—someone who uplifts, inspires, and serves with humility. These experiences have influenced not just my beliefs but also my future goals. My faith has taught me to see people with compassion and equality, and I want to carry that into everything I do. Whether I pursue a career in health, community outreach, or education, my hope is to create spaces where people feel supported and empowered. The foundation I built at River Valley—rooted in faith, service, and community—guides me to live beyond myself. Being part of River Valley since childhood has been more than just attending church; it has been a journey of growth, belonging, and calling. From Sunday mornings to Wednesday youth nights, and from baptism to service opportunities, this church has shaped my character and prepared me for a life dedicated to helping others. My prayer and my goal is to continue carrying that light into the world, using my talents to make a lasting difference in the lives of others. Best place to be.

The first time I realized how important mental health was in shaping a person’s future, I was still a child. I had just been adopted into a large foster-to-adopt family that specialized in caring for children with special needs. I was the fourteenth child adopted, and eventually my parents would adopt thirty-eight in total. Many of my siblings struggled not only with physical disabilities but also with emotional and mental health challenges brought on by their pasts. Living in that environment gave me a firsthand understanding of how deeply mental health influences our outlook, our relationships, and our potential. Growing up in this unique family, I witnessed resilience every single day. I saw siblings battle depression, anxiety, and trauma from experiences before adoption, yet still find ways to smile, connect, and grow stronger with support. My mom always told us that no one was defined by their struggles—mental, emotional, or physical—and she raised us all as equals. That shaped my belief that mental health should never be a source of shame, but something we should acknowledge and nurture just like physical health. My own journey with mental health has also played a role in shaping my values. Like many others, I’ve faced moments of doubt, stress, and sadness. In a family as large as mine, it’s easy to feel lost at times, but those experiences taught me empathy. I know what it feels like to need someone to listen, and I know how powerful it is when someone shows up for you. This has influenced the way I build relationships—I try to approach people with patience, understanding, and compassion, because you never know what they may be carrying on the inside. These experiences have also helped me shape my future goals. While I may not know my exact career path yet, I know it will involve helping others in some way, especially those who feel unseen or unheard. I could see myself working in health, education, or community outreach, but the common theme is using my talents to lift people up. My background has taught me that success isn’t just about personal achievement—it’s about reaching back and helping others move forward. In the end, mental health has influenced me to be more compassionate, more resilient, and more determined to build a career rooted in service. I believe that the challenges people face do not define them—what matters most is how we support one another through them. My hope is to carry that belief into my future and use it to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others.

I still remember the first time I walked into the foster home that would one day become my forever family. I was twelve years old, nervous, and unsure of what my future would look like. What I didn’t know then was that this family would not only adopt me, but also teach me lessons about resilience, equality, and compassion that would shape who I am today. My parents had already adopted thirteen children before me, and eventually adopted thirty-eight in total, many of whom had special needs. Growing up in such a large adoptive family meant we didn’t have much money. Providing for so many children on one income and with constant medical expenses wasn’t easy. But what we lacked financially, we made up for in love, discipline, and determination. My parents never let poverty define us. We might not have had the newest clothes, the biggest house, or extra luxuries, but we had encouragement, structure, and opportunity. I learned quickly how to be resourceful, grateful, and mindful of what truly matters. Being surrounded by siblings with different abilities and challenges also gave me a perspective on perseverance that I carry with me today. My mom raised us all as equals—she never treated children with disabilities as though they were limited. Instead, she pushed every one of us to strive, to achieve, and to never use our circumstances as excuses. Watching my siblings reach milestones doctors and teachers once said were impossible showed me that no obstacle is too great when love and belief are present. Living in a low-income household also taught me the value of hard work and responsibility. I learned how to share, how to contribute, and how to prioritize needs over wants. I understand sacrifice, because I saw it daily in my parents’ choices and in the way my older siblings helped care for the younger ones. These experiences built my character and instilled in me humility, compassion, and an unwavering determination to push toward my goals. Looking ahead, my goal is to take these lessons and use them to serve others. I may not know my exact career path yet, but I know it will involve helping people overcome barriers—whether physical, emotional, or financial. I want to empower others the way my family empowered me, reminding them that their background or limitations do not define their future. My ambition is to build a life where I can give back, create opportunities, and continue the legacy of resilience that my parents started. Growing up in a low-income adoptive family wasn’t easy, but it was a blessing. It gave me values that money can’t buy: compassion, perseverance, gratitude, and faith in the potential of every human being. These values will continue to guide me as I work hard to build a future not only for myself, but also for the communities I hope to serve.

Growing up in a foster family home that eventually became my forever family has shaped who I am in every possible way. I was adopted at the age of twelve, and from that moment forward I became part of something much bigger than myself—a family of thirty-eight children, all brought together by love, perseverance, and the belief that every child deserves a chance. I am the fourteenth child adopted into this extraordinary household, where my parents have dedicated their lives to fostering and adopting children, many with special needs. Being raised in such a large and diverse family taught me lessons that cannot be found in any textbook. My parents never believed in limiting us or labeling us by our disabilities, circumstances, or challenges. Instead, they raised every single one of us as equals, with the same expectations to work hard, love deeply, and believe in ourselves. Growing up alongside siblings with different abilities helped me develop a natural compassion for people and a belief that everyone is capable of achieving far more than the world sometimes assumes. Living in a household with children who had special needs also reshaped my perspective on strength and resilience. I watched my siblings overcome obstacles that seemed impossible, and I learned that determination paired with encouragement can break through barriers. I came to understand that disabilities do not define a person’s worth or their potential. These lessons became part of me, and they guide the way I move through the world today. Being adopted into such a unique family also gave me a deep sense of belonging and responsibility. I know what it means to be given a chance when the odds feel stacked against you, and I don’t take that gift lightly. My parents’ example of selflessness and unconditional love inspires me to carry that forward in my own life. Whether through mentoring, working with children, or helping in my community, I want to continue building on the values that were instilled in me from a young age: compassion, perseverance, and equality. As I look toward my future, I see myself using my talents to help people, especially those who might feel overlooked or underestimated. I may not know the exact career path I will follow yet, but I know it will be rooted in service, healing, and empowerment. Whether through health, education, or advocacy, my goal is to uplift others and remind them of their potential—just as my parents did for me and my siblings. Being part of a foster family that grew into an enormous, loving adoptive family has taught me that family is not defined by blood, but by commitment, compassion, and resilience. I carry those lessons with me every day, and they continue to shape my dreams for the future. My story is not only about being adopted; it is about being raised in an environment that showed me the power of equality, love, and belief in others. That foundation drives me to pursue my goals with ambition and to dedicate my life to making a meaningful impact on those around me.

Writing has always been more than just a form of communication for me-it's a lifeline, a way to connect with others on a deeply human level. From a young age, I found solace in the written word, whether it was journaling through difficult moments in my life or writing letters to express feelings I couldn't quite say out loud. Writing allows me to explore complex emotions and ideas with clarity and empathy, and, most importantly, it has power to bring people together. The act of putting pen to paper) or fingers to keyboard) feels like a conversation between hearts, a way of understanding ourselves and each other better. What I love most about writing is that it offers both the writer and the reader a chance to pause, reflect, and feel truly seen. One pivotal moment that solidified my passion for writing happened when I watched a close friend overcome addiction. It was a difficult journey, marked by relapses, moments of despair, and a lot of courage. I remember the countless conversations we had, where words became the very thing that bridged the gap between hope and hopelessness. As i wrote letters and journal entries, reflecting on our talks, I realized how much I relied on writing to process those emotions and to offer him the encouragement he needed. Writing became a way for me to help him see his worth and potential, even when he couldn't see it himself. The profound impact of those moments ignited a deeper understanding of the power of words sparked my desire to use writing not just to tell stories but to heal, uplift, and transform lives. That personal experience, coupled with my ongoing involvement in my community, inspired me to pursue a career in Addictions Counseling. I have seen, up close, how addiction devastates lives, not just for the individual but for the families and communities around them. What struck me most was how often people felt misunderstood, stigmatized, and isolated. Addiction is not just a physical struggle but an emotional and mental one, in most cases what individuals need most is someone who truly listens, understands, and offers hope. This is where my passion for writing intersects with my desire to become an addictions counselor. I will be that person who can give voice to those who are struggling, who can help translate their pain into a story of recovery and resilience. Furthering my education in addictions is the next step in this journey. I believe that combining my skills with love for writing will allow me to approach healing from a unique perspective. Writing is a therapeutic tool-it gives people a space to express themselves, to face difficult truths, and to imagine new possibilities. By incorporating creative and reflective writing into my counseling practice, I hope to empower individuals to reclaim their narratives. For me, it's about helping people rewrite their stories in a way that gives them hope. Moreover, I want to become a writer not just for personal fulfillment, but because I believe in the social impact of storytelling. We live in a world where addiction is often misunderstood, and I want to use my voice to shed light on the human experience behind it. My passion for writing and my commitment to addictions counseling come from a place of deep empathy and a desire to make a difference. I see writing as a tool for both personal and social transformation, and I am eager to pursue this path as my calling. I am to refine my skills and continue using words to heal and empower those in need.