As both a parent and a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, my identities have had a profound impact on my educational journey. These experiences have shaped who I am, driven my passion for helping others, and pushed me to persevere through the challenges I’ve faced along the way.
Becoming a mother at 16 presented me with a host of challenges that most young adults don’t experience. At a time when many of my peers were focused solely on school and their social lives, I was balancing motherhood, high school, and supporting my husband as a military wife. During my husband’s first deployment to Afghanistan, I was pregnant with our second child. I gave birth and raised both children on my own for nine months while completing high school and graduating as valedictorian. These challenges reinforced my resilience and showed me the value of hard work, time management, and dedication. These skills have carried me through my academic journey, helping me maintain a 4.0 GPA while supporting my family and working as a paraeducator. My children remain my greatest motivation, inspiring me to further my education so I can provide them with a better life and show them the importance of pursuing their dreams.
My identity as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community has also played a significant role in my educational journey. While this part of my life wasn’t always easy to navigate, especially while living in an environment that wasn’t always accepting, it has taught me the importance of authenticity and self-advocacy. As I grew more confident in my identity, I began to see how crucial representation, inclusivity, and acceptance are—values I’ve worked to uphold in my academic and professional life. Being part of this community has also given me a greater sense of empathy, particularly toward marginalized individuals who face challenges not only related to their identity but also to trauma, mental health struggles, and societal pressures.
As I continue my education in psychology and social work, I am more committed than ever to creating spaces where individuals, especially children, feel safe, valued, and supported. I want to help others, particularly those who may feel isolated or overlooked, find healing and acceptance. Both my journey as a parent and my identity as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community have shaped this vision and drive my passion to make a positive impact on the lives of others.
Thank you for your consideration, time and generosity.
Sitting at my desk late one night, with my son asleep in the next room, I realized just how much my life had changed in the past year. Coming out as bisexual after 28 years of only dating men was a transformative experience. Balancing my identity with the responsibilities of being a mother and a student has profoundly shaped my educational journey.
When I decided to return to college after a 10-year break, I knew it would be challenging. I am currently majoring in Hospitality, a field that perfectly aligns with my interests and skills. My son is my greatest source of motivation. Every time I see his curious eyes light up when he learns something new, I am reminded of why I embarked on this journey. I want to set a positive example for him, showing that it is never too late to pursue your dreams and that education is a lifelong journey.
Coming out as bisexual was both a liberating and daunting experience. Embracing my true identity allowed me to live more authentically, but it also came with challenges. Navigating the world as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community has deepened my empathy and resilience. I have faced moments of acceptance and adversity, each shaping my resolve and my understanding of the importance of diversity and inclusion.
Being a part of the LGBTQIA+ community has connected me with a supportive network of individuals who have provided encouragement and strength. These connections have been invaluable, offering a sense of belonging and solidarity. Participating in LGBTQIA+ advocacy events has furthered my understanding of the importance of representation and inclusivity in all aspects of life, including education. I strive to foster these values as a principal secretary at a collegiate academy. I work to create an environment that embraces diversity and supports all students, regardless of their background or identity.
Returning to college has been a transformative experience. I decided to pursue a degree in Hospitality because I wanted to create a better future for my son and achieve personal fulfillment. Balancing the responsibilities of being a student, a professional, and a mom has required exceptional time management and resilience. These experiences have taught me the importance of prioritizing and staying focused, skills that are essential both in academia and in life.
My role as an entrepreneurial baker has also enriched my educational journey. Running a small baking business and hosting workshops for children and teens has taught me valuable lessons in time management, creativity, and perseverance. These workshops not only teach baking skills but also foster creativity, teamwork, and a sense of accomplishment. Seeing young people gain confidence and discover new interests through these activities is incredibly rewarding.
As I pursue my degree, I am continually reminded of the importance of creating inclusive environments. The hospitality industry is inherently diverse, and my experiences as a parent and a member of the LGBTQIA+ community have equipped me with the empathy, resilience, and dedication needed to excel in this field. I am committed to making a positive impact by advocating for inclusive practices and fostering environments where everyone feels valued and respected.
In conclusion, my identities as a parent and a bisexual woman have profoundly shaped my educational journey. These aspects of my life have taught me resilience, empathy, and the importance of advocating for inclusivity. They drive me to set an example for my son and to contribute to a more diverse and inclusive world. My journey is about more than personal achievement; it’s about creating a better future for my family and positively impacting my community.
