Despite the fact that I have been a single teenage mother and a survivor of domestic violence, with statistics and odds stacked against me, I am determined to not let it hold me back in my pursuit of education and to empower others. The fact that I will be the first in my family to earn a Bachelor's degree and set such an example for my child furthers that determination. Putting in long days and sleepless nights to give my child the best life possible and overcome the barriers in my path, I have re-enrolled in school for this Fall, to finish earning my Bachelor’s degree. I am also planning to continue on to a Master's level program afterwards. Earning this education will enable me to pursue a career in the human services field, working especially with children, families, and other domestic violence victims. This is to not only support mental and emotional health, but to aid those in at-risk situations as well. As a mother, helping children will always be a priority to me, and as a domestic violence survivor, I know how dark the situation can seem at the time, but also how supportive and empowering it can feel to have someone on your side offering a helping hand. I want to give that support and elevate others to overcome their challenges and to reach their goals. Such an accomplishment will allow me to serve my community and those in need while providing a greater future in the long run for my child – the one who has been my inspiration and has driven me to achieve these goals.