“Kimia, you will need to pay for college all on your own.” The words hit me like a cold wave, and the room fell silent. The once comforting hum of conversation around the dinner table vanished, replaced by the thick, almost suffocating silence. My family's eyes held a mixture of concern and helplessness, as the pungent yet comforting aroma of ghormeh sabzi — the dish that had always been a symbol of family and warmth — seemed louder than any words spoken. In that moment, my dreams of becoming the first generation in my family to attend college felt like they had been shattered. Feelings of hopelessness rushed in, drowning the self-esteem and confidence I had once felt about my future. For as long as I could remember, I had believed that education was the key to upward mobility, a pathway that would open doors to opportunities my family had never had. Attending university had always been part of my plan. I knew that higher education could provide me with the skills and opportunities to break free from financial instability and build a brighter future for myself. Despite the overwhelming discouragement, I refused to let this setback define me. I was determined not to let financial struggles rob me of my dreams. So, I took it upon myself to figure out how I could make my college aspirations a reality. I began researching every option I could find to improve my situation. Through hours of searching online and speaking with school advisors, I stumbled upon a dual enrollment program with my local community college. This opportunity was a game-changer. The program would allow me to take college-level courses while still in high school, giving me a head start on my degree and, most importantly, saving money on tuition. Choosing to attend community college for the first two years of my higher education journey was not just a financial decision—it was a strategic one. In addition to saving money, the experience provided me with a unique opportunity to grow. Living away from home for the first time, I gained a sense of independence that would serve me well throughout my life. It was a period of personal development, during which I learned to balance academics, work, and personal responsibilities on my own. By the time I transfer to a four-year university, I will not only have saved money but will also be better prepared to succeed in my studies. Through this process, I’ve come to understand that success requires both hard work and discipline. I quickly realized that, unlike many of my classmates, I would not have the luxury of financial support from my parents. This fact became a constant reminder of how much more effort I would need to invest in my future. It was not just about doing well in school; it was about doing everything I could to set myself up for success, both academically and financially. The lack of financial support was a challenge, but it also pushed me to think more creatively and proactively about my future. I knew that achieving my dream would require more than just attending college—it would require perseverance, resilience, and determination. In the end, overcoming the challenges of paying for college on my own has only made me more resolute in my goals. It has taught me that success is not determined by the obstacles we face, but by how we choose to confront them. And with the right mindset, hard work, and a relentless drive to succeed, I know I will achieve my dreams—no matter what hurdles come my way.

The recent exodus of insurance companies from states like Florida, Texas, and California due to natural disasters like hurricanes, floods, and wildfires has created a severe insurance crisis. Homeowners, especially retirees and single parents, face skyrocketing premiums, leaving many unable to afford coverage. To address this, several solutions could be implemented to benefit homeowners, insurance companies, and the broader insurance market. One solution is the creation or expansion of state-backed insurance pools. States like Florida have already established programs, such as the "Citizens Property Insurance Corporation," to provide affordable coverage when private insurers withdraw. Expanding these pools could help ensure that homeowners in high-risk areas continue to have access to insurance at reasonable rates. Insurance companies could also benefit by participating in these pools, as it would reduce their exposure to catastrophic losses. The state could incentivize insurers to join the pools through tax breaks or other incentives, fostering a public-private partnership. Another critical solution is incentivizing homeowners to reduce risks through mitigation measures. Insurance companies could offer discounts for properties that are fortified against hurricanes, floods, or fires, such as installing hurricane-resistant windows or fire-resistant materials. States could also pass building codes that encourage safer construction in disaster-prone areas. By lowering the frequency and severity of claims, these efforts could reduce premiums for all policyholders, helping both insurers and homeowners. Reinsurance programs, where insurance companies share risk with other insurers or third-party entities, are another viable option. By pooling resources, insurers can spread catastrophic risk more broadly, preventing any single company from being overwhelmed by a disaster. Large-scale reinsurance programs could help stabilize the market and ensure that companies remain in high-risk states without raising premiums drastically. Technology also offers significant potential to improve the insurance market. Advances in data analytics, artificial intelligence, and satellite imagery can help insurers assess risk more accurately, allowing for more precise pricing. By using these technologies, insurance companies can better predict the likelihood of disasters and price premiums accordingly. Homeowners could also use apps or sensors to monitor risk factors like flooding or fire hazards, helping them take preventative measures that could reduce premiums. Finally, federal involvement could provide further stability to the insurance market. The federal government could offer reinsurance options to private insurers or provide subsidies to keep premiums affordable for homeowners. By sharing the financial risk of catastrophic events, the federal government could prevent insurance companies from withdrawing from high-risk areas. In conclusion, solving the insurance crisis in disaster-prone states requires a combination of state-backed insurance pools, risk mitigation incentives, reinsurance programs, and technological advancements. Insurance companies, state governments, and the federal government all have roles to play in stabilizing the market and making coverage more affordable. With these strategies in place, homeowners can continue to access insurance, and the financial stability of insurers can be preserved.

My name is Kimia, and I am a first-generation college student and the oldest of three sisters. Growing up, I saw the challenges my family faced without the benefit of higher education or financial stability. These experiences have shaped who I am today: resilient, determined, and deeply committed to creating opportunities not just for myself, but for my siblings and future generations. I am currently pursuing a pre-law track, with the goal of attending law school and ultimately becoming a lawyer who advocates for those who are often overlooked by the system. In addition to my studies, I am a yoga instructor, which allows me to share a practice that promotes well-being, mindfulness, and stress relief. I am paying for school on my own, balancing academics, work, and personal commitments, which has only strengthened my drive to succeed. This scholarship will provide crucial financial relief, allowing me to focus more on my academic and professional goals rather than financial stress. As a first-generation college student, I am navigating the challenges of higher education without the financial support that many others may have. I am currently paying for my tuition, textbooks, and living expenses on my own while working part-time. This scholarship will help ease that burden, enabling me to devote more time to my studies and extracurricular activities like internships, which are critical for my pre-law path. Additionally, it will allow me to continue my work as a yoga instructor, which provides me with the flexibility to pursue my education without compromising my financial independence. I am pursuing a pre-law track with the long-term goal of attending law school and becoming an attorney who fights for social justice and civil rights. I am particularly passionate about addressing systemic inequities in the legal system and advocating for underrepresented communities. I want to use my education to help those who are often ignored or marginalized, ensuring that they have access to fair representation and equal rights. I am committed to breaking down barriers for others, particularly those who face social or economic adversity, just as I have. As a yoga instructor, I have contributed to my community by offering free or affordable yoga classes to individuals who may not have access to wellness resources otherwise. I’ve worked with community centers and local organizations to make yoga accessible, especially for those facing financial challenges or high levels of stress. Yoga has been a transformative practice for me, helping me manage stress and stay grounded, and I believe it can offer the same benefits to others. Additionally, I volunteer my time to mentor younger students, helping them navigate the challenges of school and life. I understand how important it is to have role models and support systems, especially for individuals facing socio-economic barriers, and I try to be that resource for others. During my first semester of college, I struggled to balance the demands of academics, a part-time job, and taking care of my responsibilities at home as the oldest of three sisters. My grades slipped, and I felt overwhelmed by the pressure to succeed while managing so many things at once. This experience taught me the importance of time management, self-care, and asking for help when needed. One of my greatest strengths is my resilience. I’ve had to face many challenges in my life—growing up as a first-generation student, navigating the complexities of higher education, and working to support myself—but each challenge has only fueled my determination to succeed. I am also a strong communicator, whether I am instructing a yoga class, helping a friend, or advocating for my beliefs.

My name is Kimia, and I’m a determined mother focused on both personal growth and providing a better future for my children. Growing up without strong financial support or resources, I learned resilience and the importance of taking ownership of my future. My upbringing taught me that success is not just about what you're born into, but about how you respond to life’s challenges. Now, as a parent, I want to give my children the opportunities I didn’t have, and be a role model who shows them that perseverance, education, and self-improvement are key to success. My vision for the future is to create a stable, fulfilling life for my family, one that is centered around education, empowerment, and opportunity. I want my children to grow up in an environment where learning is celebrated and where they can pursue careers that bring both financial independence and personal fulfillment. Education has always been a foundation of my aspirations because it offers a path forward, a means to break free from cycles of financial insecurity and limited opportunities. To achieve this, continuing my education is essential—not only for me but for my children as well. I want to show them that education is not just a way to get a job, but a lifelong journey that empowers you to create positive change in your life and the lives of others. Pursuing higher education will equip me with the skills and qualifications I need to enter a stable career, which will provide financial security and long-term opportunities for my family. But more importantly, it will give me the knowledge and confidence to advocate for myself and my children, to make decisions that impact our future in a meaningful way. I want to be a role model to my children by showing them that education is not simply about achieving a degree, but about developing critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and the ability to navigate life’s challenges with confidence. I hope to inspire them to view learning as a lifelong pursuit, one that goes beyond the classroom and into every aspect of their lives. I want my children to see that facing challenges head-on is part of the journey, and not something that should hold them back. Earning a degree will demonstrate that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible. By continuing my education, I am not only securing a better future for myself but also providing my children with the tools they need to achieve their own dreams. They will understand that education is the key to unlocking their full potential, and I want them to grow up believing in themselves and their ability to succeed no matter the obstacles they may face. Pursuing higher education will not only create a better future for my family, but it will also provide me with the ability to give back to others in my community. By breaking down barriers for my own family, I hope to contribute to the broader goal of creating more opportunities for those who have faced similar challenges. Ultimately, the education I gain will allow me to support and guide my children in ways that will set them up for success, while also helping to create a ripple effect that extends far beyond our own household.

Growing up in a circle of relatives with low earnings, I saw the challenges of dealing with financial hardship. From an early age, I learned that money would not always flow in the same direction, and that survival let alone prosperity required flexibility, and a deep sense of responsibility. This reality taught me the value of adaptability and the importance of hard work in achieving even small successes. I understood early on that perseverance and self-reliance were critical to overcoming obstacles. These experiences shaped the way I approach my own life and the way I view my role in helping others who face similar struggles. Paying for my education and handling rent on my own has been one of my biggest challenges and, simultaneously, one of my proudest successes. Balancing full-time schoolwork, part-time jobs, and financial responsibilities has instilled in me a strong work ethic and the ability to prioritize and manage time efficiently. Each day is a careful balancing act, whether it's preparing for exams or teaching yoga classes in the evenings to make ends meet. These skills of time management and resilience were honed under pressure, and they have been invaluable in navigating my academic and personal life. Working part-time while pursuing a college education also gave me a deeper understanding of the realities of financial instability and how challenging it can be for individuals to pursue their passions or long-term goals without a reliable support system. My role as a yoga instructor has been transformative in shaping my perspective on service and community. Yoga is not just a physical practice; it’s a mental and emotional one. I’ve seen firsthand how it can be life-changing, especially for those dealing with stress and the challenges of socioeconomic adversity. I made it a priority to offer classes that were accessible to people of all economic backgrounds. I believe it is a tool for self-care, healing, and stress relief, particularly for individuals who are facing financial strain or social hardship. Many of my students have shared how yoga has helped them manage anxiety, cope with life transitions, and improve their overall well-being. These stories have reinforced my belief in the power of wellness and mindfulness practices as vital tools for overcoming adversity. Experiencing financial hardship has also deepened my empathy and understanding for others in my community who are struggling. It has shaped my belief that everyone deserves access to opportunities, regardless of their background, and that we have the power to make a difference by offering support to those who need it most. My own journey has shown me that it’s not only possible to overcome adversity, but that adversity can serve as a catalyst for growth—provided that there is a strong support system and the willingness to help others along the way. As I continue on my path, I plan to use the skills and experiences I’ve gained to give back to my community. I want to advocate for more equitable access to education, wellness resources, and financial support systems. Whether through offering free or low-cost yoga classes for underserved communities, mentoring students who are navigating the financial burdens of higher education, or volunteering with organizations that support individuals facing economic hardship, I am committed to making a positive impact. My personal experiences have motivated me to be an ally and advocate for those who feel like their dreams are out of reach due to financial barriers. By sharing my story and offering support, I hope to inspire others to push forward in the face of adversity, knowing that resilience, creativity, and community support can make all the difference.

“Kimia, you will need to pay for college all on your own”. The dinner table went silent; Faces went blank; The pungent yet delicious smell of ghormeh sabzi became louder than the room itself. My dreams of being a first-generation college student in my family felt crushed at this moment. Feelings of hopelessness drowned my once-present self-esteem. I always believed that education opened up a new path leading toward upward mobility. For this reason, attending a university has always been part of my plans. I knew I could make this dream a reality, I just had to figure out how to overcome this new obstacle. As immigrants from Iran, my parents had unique paths of education. While my mother never attended college, my father completed some community college classes after immigrating to the US. My parents moved to America with hopes that my sisters and I would receive the best education opportunities which would further promise successful futures. Though the news that my parents would not pay for my college left me discouraged. However, I knew that it would not stop me from achieving my dream, a dream shared with my parents- attending a university. My mother is one of the biggest motivators in my life. Realizing the sacrifices she has made for me to be able to pursue and live my dreams is one of the greatest reasons I work as hard as I can. She continues to push me to take big risks since that's the only way one can truly grow as a person. Through my career of being an attorney, I intend on dedicating a lot of my time to use my knowledge to help other families who did the same things my own parents did. I know little girls and families personally in Iran who are struggling to successfully immigrate to a country where they can be able to be given the same opportunities I've been blessed with. To pave the way for success I understand that hard work and extreme discipline are necessary. It became prominent how much more time and effort I would have to invest in my future when I noticed how many of my classmates have it easier than I did. As a goal-oriented person, I never let obstacles like a lack of financial support divert my hopes and dreams. Going above and beyond in this situation to set myself up for success characterizes any future achievements on which I will embark.

“Kimia, you will need to pay for college all on your own”. The dinner table went silent; Faces went blank; The pungent yet delicious smell of ghormeh sabzi became louder than the room itself. My dreams of being a first-generation college student in my family felt crushed at this moment. Feelings of hopelessness drowned my once-present self-esteem. I always believed that education opened up a new path leading toward upward mobility. For this reason, attending a university has always been part of my plans. I knew I could make this dream a reality, I just had to figure out how to overcome this new obstacle. As immigrants from Iran, my parents had unique paths of education. While my mother never attended college, my father completed some community college classes after immigrating to the US. My parents moved to America with hopes that my sisters and I would receive the best education opportunities which would further promise successful futures. Though the news that my parents would not pay for my college left me discouraged. However, I had faith and knew that it would not stop me from achieving my dream of attending a university. I began researching everything that might help me improve my situation, finally stumbling upon a dual enrollment program with my local community college. This program allowed me to get a head start on my college classes whilst simultaneously saving money. In addition to these evident benefits, I would also get the chance to challenge myself in college classes, further preparing me for my future in higher education. Being completely asynchronous, the classes would also help me strengthen my self-disciple, time management skills, and overall balance in life. While the program may be difficult and time-consuming, it benefits my future as a student. The decision I had to make was apparent - I would participate in the program. To pave the way for success I understand that hard work and extreme discipline are necessary. It became prominent how much more time and effort I would have to invest in my future when I noticed how many of my classmates have it easier than I did. As a goal-oriented and faithful person, I knew how blessed I was to stumble upon such an opportunity. I would never let obstacles like a lack of financial support divert my hopes and dreams. Going above and beyond in this situation to set myself up for success characterizes any future achievements on which I will embark. When covid initially hit, my father was part of those whose career was heavily impacted. As the owner of a small business, and being the only parent who worked, we were put in a vulnerable and scary position when the economy began to decline as a response to Covid-19. My father as the owner of his business had to let go of his employees since he couldn’t afford to pay them. I began to come in most days before school, after school any free time I had to help him with paperwork and other tasks. I began sacrificing the time I spent with friends, and the sports I played to be there for my family and provide support. I was balancing working for my dad alongside my lifeguarding and babysitting jobs, as well as my community college courses in addition to my high school classes. Everyday I pray to find the strength to continue pushing myself and working to ensure my dreams come true. This scholarship would allow me to make my dreams, and my family's dreams as a first-generation student to go to a university.

As a future political science major, I knew being an attorney would always be my future career path. “Kimia, you will need to pay for college all on your own”. The dinner table went silent; Faces went blank; The pungent yet delicious smell of ghormeh sabzi became louder than the room itself. My dreams of being a first-generation college student in my family felt crushed at this moment. Feelings of hopelessness drowned my once-present self-esteem. I always believed that education opened up a new path leading toward upward mobility. For this reason, attending a university has always been part of my plans. I knew I could make this dream a reality, I just had to figure out how to overcome this new obstacle. As immigrants from Iran, my parents had unique paths of education. While my mother never attended college, my father completed some community college classes after immigrating to the US. My parents moved to America with hopes that my sisters and I would receive the best education opportunities which would further promise successful futures. Though the news that my parents would not pay for my college left me discouraged. I began researching everything and anything that might help me improve my situation, finally stumbling upon a dual enrollment program with my local community college. This program allowed me to get a head start on my college classes whilst simultaneously saving money. In addition to these evident benefits, I would also get the chance to challenge myself in college classes, further preparing me for my future in higher education. Being completely asynchronous, the classes would also help me strengthen my self-disciple, time management skills, and overall balance in life. While the program may be difficult and time-consuming, it benefits my future as a student. The decision I had to make was apparent - I would participate in the program. To pave the way for success I understand that hard work and extreme discipline are necessary. It became prominent how much more time and effort I would have to invest in my future when I noticed how many of my classmates have it easier than I did. As an extremely goal-oriented person, I would never let obstacles like a lack of financial support divert my hopes and dreams. Becoming an immigration attorney would allow me to be the voice for immigrants like my own parents once needed.

At the start of September, I became familiarized with the non-profit organization Hope’s Corner. This program was created by those seeking to provide resources to the homeless community in my area. After doing some research into the program, I learned about how much they truly do for the homeless community, and I became adamant about helping out myself. There were two shifts during the weekends either volunteering to serve breakfast or lunch. I signed up for a shift for the following Sunday breakfast. During my time on the shift, I had the opportunity to interact with many people with so many various backgrounds and histories. I had always had a negative set view on those who are homeless, however, after the first shift I was overwhelmed by how many were voluntarily homeless, and how many had experienced traumatizing lives and childhoods that resulted in their lives being the way they are now. Not only was I able to help my community through this program, but I also learned so much more about the impact of having an open mindset when meeting others, because their stories can mean so much more than how they come off to be. This past summer I was lucky enough to be selected to participate in an internship with the California Innocence Project. This internship allowed me to receive hands-on experience in the law field. The project works with criminal defense lawyers to seek justice for the undeserving of being locked up. Being able to see only glimpses of how much lawyers can help to change people’s lives, opened my eyes to what mattered to me most- being of service to others. After learning about how vast the law field truly was, I realized that I could be part of the solution to the problem I had been seeking to solve. I look forward to all the difficulties I will overcome and the newfound knowledge I will gain as a pre-law student and later on as a law student. My great ambition to change people’s lives would not be suppressed by any obstacle I may face in the future; my purpose is known. When covid initially hit, my father was part of those whose career was heavily impacted. As the owner of a small business, and being the only parent who worked, we were put in a vulnerable and scary position when the economy began to decline as a response to Covid-19. My father as the owner of his business had to let go of his few employees since he couldn’t afford to pay them. I began to come in most days before school, after school any free time I had to help him with paperwork and other tasks. I began sacrificing the time I spent with friends, and the sports I played to be there for my family and provide support. I was balancing working for my dad alongside my lifeguarding and babysitting jobs, as well as my community college courses in addition to my high school classes. After covid began to die away, business began to slowly go back to normal, however normal still isn’t enough for my parents to put my two younger sisters along with me to college with no help. This scholarship would allow me to make my dreams, and my family's dreams as a first-generation student to go to a university.

My parents sacrificed everything moving from Iran to ensure a better life for my family. The bravery they possessed as immigrants has always been a motivating factor for me, pushing me to seize every presented opportunity to secure a successful future. I have been inspired by them to ensure success in my future. As the only members of my family able to attain their Visas, I know my parents were part of the lucky few who were given a chance to move to America for a better life. After my father received his visa, he was forced to leave my mother behind. They spent almost 5 years apart, and my father had to work with little to nothing to his name in an unfamiliar country. After my parents were reunited, my father's small business began to grow successful. My parents’ story causes me to wonder how many other families have their lives on pause in hopes they might receive that call. The legal issues behind immigration have always been of interest to me because of how close it hits home. Hence, law has always been my desired career path. This past summer I was lucky enough to be selected to participate in an internship with the California Innocence Project. This internship allowed me to receive hands-on experience in the law field. The project works with criminal defense lawyers to seek justice for those undeserving of being locked up. Being able to see only glimpses of how much lawyers can help to change people’s lives, opened my eyes to what mattered to me most- being of service to others. After learning about how vast the law field truly was, I realized that I could be part of the solution to the problem I had been seeking to solve. I look forward to all the difficulties I will overcome and the newfound knowledge I will gain as a pre-law student and later on as a law student. I plan on using my attained knowledge to help other families in the immigration process have as much support as they need to be successful in the US. My great ambition to change people’s lives would not be suppressed by any obstacle I may face in the future; my purpose is known. When covid initially hit, my father was part of those whose career was heavily impacted. As the owner of a small business, and being the only parent who worked, we were put in a vulnerable and scary position when the economy began to decline as a response to Covid-19. My father as the owner of his business had to let go of his few employees since he couldn’t afford to pay them. I began to come in most days before school, after school any free time I had to help him with paperwork and other tasks. I began sacrificing the time I spent with friends, and the sports I played to be there for my family and provide support. I was balancing working for my dad alongside my lifeguarding and babysitting jobs, as well as my community college courses in addition to my high school classes. After covid began to die away, business began to slowly go back to normal, however normal still isn’t enough for my parents to put my two younger sisters along with me to college with no help. This scholarship would allow me to make my dreams, and my family's dreams as a first-generation student to go to a university.

“Kimia, you will need to pay for college all on your own”. The dinner table went silent; Faces went blank; The pungent yet delicious smell of ghormeh sabzi became louder than the room itself. My dreams of being a first-generation college student in my family felt crushed at this moment. Feelings of hopelessness drowned my once-present self-esteem. I always believed that education opened up a new path leading toward upward mobility. For this reason, attending a university has always been part of my plans. I knew I could make this dream a reality, I just had to figure out how to overcome this new obstacle. As immigrants from Iran, my parents had unique paths of education. While my mother never attended college, my father completed some community college classes after immigrating to the US. My parents moved to America with hopes that my sisters and I would receive the best education opportunities which would further promise successful futures. Though the news that my parents would not pay for my college left me discouraged. However, I knew that it would not stop me from achieving my dream, a dream shared with my parents- attending a university. I began researching everything and anything that might help me improve my situation, finally stumbling upon a dual enrollment program with my local community college. This program would allow me to get a head start on my college classes whilst simultaneously saving money. In addition to these evident benefits, I would also get the chance to challenge myself in college classes, further preparing me for my future in higher education. Being completely asynchronous, the classes would also help me strengthen my self-disciple, time management skills, and overall balance in life. While the program may be difficult and time-consuming, it benefits my future as a student. The decision I had to make was apparent - I would participate in the program. To pave the way for success I understand that hard work and extreme discipline are necessary. It became prominent how much more time and effort I would have to invest in my future when I noticed how many of my classmates have it easier than I did. As a goal-oriented person, I never let obstacles like a lack of financial support divert my hopes and dreams. Going above and beyond in this situation to set myself up for success characterizes any future achievements on which I will embark. When covid hit, my father was part of those whose career was heavily impacted. As the owner of a small business, and being the only parent who worked, we were put in a vulnerable and scary position when the economy began to decline as a response to Covid-19. My father as the owner of his business had to let go of his employees since he couldn’t afford to pay them. I began to come in most days before school, after school any free time I had to help him with paperwork and other tasks. I began sacrificing the time I spent with friends, and the sports I played to be there for my family and provide support. I was balancing working for my dad alongside my lifeguarding and babysitting jobs, as well as my community college courses in addition to my high school classes. I acquired the knowledge of how much my future decisions would impact my future and success. The sacrifices my family has made for me push me to take any opportunity to achieve more in my life, with fear that their sacrifices were for nothing.

“Kimia, you will need to pay for college all on your own”. The dinner table went silent; Faces went blank; The pungent yet delicious smell of ghormeh sabzi became louder than the room itself. My dreams of being a first-generation college student in my family felt crushed at this moment. Feelings of hopelessness drowned my once-present self-esteem. I always believed that education opened up a new path leading toward upward mobility. For this reason, attending a university has always been part of my plans. I knew I could make this dream a reality, I just had to figure out how to overcome this new obstacle. As immigrants from Iran, my parents had unique paths of education. While my mother never attended college, my father completed some community college classes after immigrating to the US. My parents moved to America with hopes that my sisters and I would receive the best education opportunities which would further promise successful futures. Though the news that my parents would not pay for my college left me discouraged. However, I knew that it would not stop me from achieving my dream, a dream shared with my parents- attending a university. I began researching everything and anything that might help me improve my situation, finally stumbling upon a dual enrollment program with my local community college. This program would allow me to get a head start on my college classes whilst simultaneously saving money. In addition to these evident benefits, I would also get the chance to challenge myself in college classes, further preparing me for my future in higher education. Being completely asynchronous, the classes would also help me strengthen my self-disciple, time management skills, and overall balance in life. While the program may be difficult and time-consuming, it benefits my future as a student. The decision I had to make was apparent - I would participate in the program. To pave the way for success I understand that hard work and extreme discipline are necessary. It became prominent how much more time and effort I would have to invest in my future when I noticed how many of my classmates have it easier than I did. As a goal-oriented person, I never let obstacles like a lack of financial support divert my hopes and dreams. Going above and beyond in this situation to set myself up for success characterizes any future achievements on which I will embark. When covid hit, my father was part of those whose career was heavily impacted. As the owner of a small business, and being the only parent who worked, we were put in a vulnerable and scary position when the economy began to decline as a response to Covid-19. My father as the owner of his business had to let go of his employees since he couldn’t afford to pay them. I began to come in most days before school, after school any free time I had to help him with paperwork and other tasks. I began sacrificing the time I spent with friends, and the sports I played to be there for my family and provide support. I was balancing working for my dad alongside my lifeguarding and babysitting jobs, as well as my community college courses in addition to my high school classes. I acquired the knowledge of how much my future decisions would impact my future and success. The sacrifices my family has made for me push me to take any opportunity to achieve more in my life, with fear that their sacrifices were for nothing.

“Kimia, you will need to pay for college all on your own”. The dinner table went silent; Faces went blank; The pungent yet delicious smell of ghormeh sabzi became louder than the room itself. My dreams of being a first-generation college student in my family felt crushed at this moment. Feelings of hopelessness drowned my once-present self-esteem. I always believed that education opened up a new path leading toward upward mobility. For this reason, attending a university has always been part of my plans. I knew I could make this dream a reality, I just had to figure out how to overcome this new obstacle. As immigrants from Iran, my parents had unique paths of education. While my mother never attended college, my father completed some community college classes after immigrating to the US. My parents moved to America with hopes that my sisters and I would receive the best education opportunities which would further promise successful futures. Though the news that my parents would not pay for my college left me discouraged. However, I knew that it would not stop me from achieving my dream, a dream shared with my parents- attending a university. I began researching everything and anything that might help me improve my situation, finally stumbling upon a dual enrollment program with my local community college. This program would allow me to get a head start on my college classes whilst simultaneously saving money. In addition to these evident benefits, I would also get the chance to challenge myself in college classes, further preparing me for my future in higher education. Being completely asynchronous, the classes would also help me strengthen my self-disciple, time management skills, and overall balance in life. While the program may be difficult and time-consuming, it benefits my future as a student. The decision I had to make was apparent - I would participate in the program. To pave the way for success I understand that hard work and extreme discipline are necessary. It became prominent how much more time and effort I would have to invest in my future when I noticed how many of my classmates have it easier than I did. As a goal-oriented person, I never let obstacles like a lack of financial support divert my hopes and dreams. Going above and beyond in this situation to set myself up for success characterizes any future achievements on which I will embark. When covid hit, my father was part of those whose career was heavily impacted. As the owner of a small business, and being the only parent who worked, we were put in a vulnerable and scary position when the economy began to decline as a response to Covid-19. My father as the owner of his business had to let go of his employees since he couldn’t afford to pay them. I began to come in most days before school, after school any free time I had to help him with paperwork and other tasks. I began sacrificing the time I spent with friends, and the sports I played to be there for my family and provide support. I was balancing working for my dad alongside my lifeguarding and babysitting jobs, as well as my community college courses in addition to my high school classes. I acquired the knowledge of how much my future decisions would impact my future and success. The sacrifices my family has made for me push me to take any opportunity to achieve more in my life, with fear that their sacrifices were for nothing.

“Kimia, you will need to pay for college all on your own”. The dinner table went silent; Faces went blank; The pungent yet delicious smell of ghormeh sabzi became louder than the room itself. My dreams of being a first-generation college student in my family felt crushed at this moment. Feelings of hopelessness drowned my once-present self-esteem. I always believed that education opened up a new path leading toward upward mobility. For this reason, attending a university has always been part of my plans. I knew I could make this dream a reality, I just had to figure out how to overcome this new obstacle. As immigrants from Iran, my parents had unique paths of education. While my mother never attended college, my father completed some community college classes after immigrating to the US. My parents moved to America with hopes that my sisters and I would receive the best education opportunities which would further promise successful futures. Though the news that my parents would not pay for my college left me discouraged. However, I knew that it would not stop me from achieving my dream, a dream shared with my parents- attending a university. I began researching everything and anything that might help me improve my situation, finally stumbling upon a dual enrollment program with my local community college. This program would allow me to get a head start on my college classes whilst simultaneously saving money. In addition to these evident benefits, I would also get the chance to challenge myself in college classes, further preparing me for my future in higher education. Being completely asynchronous, the classes would also help me strengthen my self-disciple, time management skills, and overall balance in life. While the program may be difficult and time-consuming, it benefits my future as a student. To pave the way for success I understand that hard work and extreme discipline are necessary. It became prominent how much more time and effort I would have to invest in my future when I noticed how many of my classmates have it easier than I did. As a goal-oriented person, I never let obstacles like a lack of financial support divert my hopes and dreams. Going above and beyond in this situation to set myself up for success characterizes any future achievements on which I will embark. When covid hit, my father was part of those whose career was heavily impacted. As the owner of a small business, and being the only parent who worked, we were put in a vulnerable and scary position when the economy began to decline as a response to Covid-19. My father as the owner of his business had to let go of his employees since he couldn’t afford to pay them. I began to come in most days before school, after school any free time I had to help him with paperwork and other tasks. I began sacrificing the time I spent with friends, and the sports I played to be there for my family and provide support. I was balancing working for my dad alongside my lifeguarding and babysitting jobs, as well as my community college courses in addition to my high school classes. I acquired the knowledge of how much my future decisions would impact my future and success. Through dealing with adversity, many of my friendships were lost, however, relationships with those who supported me strengthened. Especially the relationship with my family. I learned how to stay true to who I am and who I wish to become.

“Kimia, you will need to pay for college all on your own”. The dinner table went silent; Faces went blank; The pungent yet delicious smell of ghormeh sabzi became louder than the room itself. My dreams of being a first-generation college student in my family felt crushed at this moment. Feelings of hopelessness drowned my once-present self-esteem. I always believed that education opened up a new path leading toward upward mobility. For this reason, attending a university has always been part of my plans. I knew I could make this dream a reality, I just had to figure out how to overcome this new obstacle. As immigrants from Iran, my parents had unique paths of education. While my mother never attended college, my father completed some community college classes after immigrating to the US. My parents moved to America with hopes that my sisters and I would receive the best education opportunities which would further promise successful futures. Though the news that my parents would not pay for my college left me discouraged. However, I knew that it would not stop me from achieving my dream, a dream shared with my parents- attending a university. I began researching everything and anything that might help me improve my situation, finally stumbling upon a dual enrollment program with my local community college. This program would allow me to get a head start on my college classes whilst simultaneously saving money. In addition to these evident benefits, I would also get the chance to challenge myself in college classes, further preparing me for my future in higher education. Being completely asynchronous, the classes would also help me strengthen my self-disciple, time management skills, and overall balance in life. While the program may be difficult and time-consuming, it benefits my future as a student. The decision I had to make was apparent - I would participate in the program. To pave the way for success I understand that hard work and extreme discipline are necessary. It became prominent how much more time and effort I would have to invest in my future when I noticed how many of my classmates have it easier than I did. As a goal-oriented person, I never let obstacles like a lack of financial support divert my hopes and dreams. Going above and beyond in this situation to set myself up for success characterizes any future achievements on which I will embark. When covid hit, my father was part of those whose career was heavily impacted. As the owner of a small business, and being the only parent who worked, we were put in a vulnerable and scary position when the economy began to decline as a response to Covid-19. My father as the owner of his business had to let go of his employees since he couldn’t afford to pay them. I began to come in most days before school, after school any free time I had to help him with paperwork and other tasks. I began sacrificing the time I spent with friends, and the sports I played to be there for my family and provide support. I was balancing working for my dad alongside my lifeguarding and babysitting jobs, as well as my community college courses in addition to my high school classes. I acquired the knowledge of how much my future decisions would impact my future and success. The sacrifices my family has made for me push me to take any opportunity to achieve more in my life, with fear that their sacrifices were for nothing.

As a future political science major, I knew being an attorney would always be my future career path. “Kimia, you will need to pay for college all on your own”. The dinner table went silent; Faces went blank; The pungent yet delicious smell of ghormeh sabzi became louder than the room itself. My dreams of being a first-generation college student in my family felt crushed at this moment. Feelings of hopelessness drowned my once-present self-esteem. I always believed that education opened up a new path leading toward upward mobility. For this reason, attending a university has always been part of my plans. I knew I could make this dream a reality, I just had to figure out how to overcome this new obstacle. As immigrants from Iran, my parents had unique paths of education. While my mother never attended college, my father completed some community college classes after immigrating to the US. My parents moved to America with hopes that my sisters and I would receive the best education opportunities which would further promise successful futures. Though the news that my parents would not pay for my college left me discouraged. However, I knew that it would not stop me from achieving my dream, a dream shared with my parents- attending a university. I began researching everything and anything that might help me improve my situation, finally stumbling upon a dual enrollment program with my local community college. This program would allow me to get a head start on my college classes whilst simultaneously saving money. In addition to these evident benefits, I would also get the chance to challenge myself in college classes, further preparing me for my future in higher education. Being completely asynchronous, the classes would also help me strengthen my self-disciple, time management skills, and overall balance in life. While the program may be difficult and time-consuming, it benefits my future as a student. The decision I had to make was apparent - I would participate in the program. To pave the way for success I understand that hard work and extreme discipline are necessary. It became prominent how much more time and effort I would have to invest in my future when I noticed how many of my classmates have it easier than I did. As an extremely goal-oriented person, I would never let obstacles like a lack of financial support divert my hopes and dreams. Going above and beyond in this situation to set myself up for success characterizes any future achievements on which I will embark. When covid initially hit, my father was part of those whose career was heavily impacted. As the owner of a small business, and being the only parent who worked, we were put in a vulnerable and scary position when the economy began to decline as a response to Covid-19. My father as the owner of his business had to let go of his employees since he couldn’t afford to pay them. I began to come in most days before school, after school any free time I had to help him with paperwork and other tasks. I began sacrificing the time I spent with friends, and the sports I played to be there for my family and provide support. I was balancing working for my dad alongside my lifeguarding and babysitting jobs, as well as my community college courses in addition to my high school classes. I acquired the knowledge of how much my future decisions would impact my future and success.

“Kimia, you will need to pay for college all on your own”. The dinner table went silent; Faces went blank; The pungent yet delicious smell of ghormeh sabzi became louder than the room itself. My dreams of being a first-generation college student in my family felt crushed at this moment. Feelings of hopelessness drowned my once-present self-esteem. I always believed that education opened up a new path leading toward upward mobility. For this reason, attending a university has always been part of my plans. I knew I could make this dream a reality, I just had to figure out how to overcome this new obstacle. As immigrants from Iran, my parents had unique paths of education. While my mother never attended college, my father completed some community college classes after immigrating to the US. My parents moved to America with hopes that my sisters and I would receive the best education opportunities which would further promise successful futures. Though the news that my parents would not pay for my college left me discouraged. However, I knew that it would not stop me from achieving my dream of attending a university. I began researching everything that might help me improve my situation, finally stumbling upon a dual enrollment program with my local community college. This program allows me to get a head start on my college classes whilst simultaneously saving money. In addition to these evident benefits, I would also get the chance to challenge myself in college classes, further preparing me for my future in higher education. Being completely asynchronous, the classes would also help me strengthen my self-disciple, time management skills, and overall balance in life. While the program may be difficult and time-consuming, it benefits my future as a student. The decision I had to make was apparent - I would participate in the program. To pave the way for success I understand that hard work and extreme discipline are necessary. It became prominent how much more time and effort I would have to invest in my future when I noticed how many of my classmates have it easier than I did. As a goal-oriented person, I would never let obstacles like a lack of financial support divert my hopes and dreams. Going above and beyond in this situation to set myself up for success characterizes any future achievements on which I will embark. When covid initially hit, my father was part of those whose career was heavily impacted. As the owner of a small business, and being the only parent who worked, we were put in a vulnerable and scary position when the economy began to decline as a response to Covid-19. My father as the owner of his business had to let go of his employees since he couldn’t afford to pay them. I began to come in most days before school, after school any free time I had to help him with paperwork and other tasks. I began sacrificing the time I spent with friends, and the sports I played to be there for my family and provide support. I was balancing working for my dad alongside my lifeguarding and babysitting jobs, as well as my community college courses in addition to my high school classes. After covid began to die away, business began to slowly go back to normal, however normal still isn’t enough for my parents to put my two younger sisters along with me to college with no help. This scholarship would allow me to make my dreams, and my family's dreams as a first-generation student to go to a university.

The first period in school is always the most dreaded. Waking up only an hour before class, the tasks which follow feel almost robotic. Half awake, I brush my teeth when realization hits and I realize what class awaits me first. AP Gov is the class that I truly feel excited about. Since I was younger in elementary and middle school, I was always drawn to the subject of history. My interest in history stems from my father. When I was younger, I would anticipate his arrival home from work, and often watch documentaries with him. If we weren't watching documentaries, I was telling him all about what I learned in history that day. As I got older, it became clear that I would pursue a career related to the topic of history and government. I was intrigued by how events in the past had played a role in altering how we live our lives today. Whether they were big or small events, those outcomes impacted countless amounts of people in some way, and they still continue to. I often wonder how life would differ if events like WW2 or the Civil War never occurred. The lessons which we learned from wars, successes, deaths, and new-found knowledge all shape how we live today. As the daughter of two immigrants, my parents sacrificed everything moving from Iran to ensure a better life for my family’s well-being. It was after I heard of how much my parents endured during the immigration process, that I became interested in the legal issues behind immigration. My father attained his visa before my mother and moved to the US, which was an unknown country all by himself. My parents were separated for five years, while my mother was still waiting for her visa in Iran. My father was forced to work numerous part-time jobs to make a living for himself and my mother. Their lives were put on pause for years. I think about all of the other families like mine who have the same dream as my parents but are still waiting for that call. It frustrates me how since my parents were from the Middle East, it was more difficult for them to receive their visas. I was curious if there was a legal or political path I could take to help make a change for those in hopes of immigrating. Historically we have learned how much of America is built by immigrants, and that our nation would not be what it is today without the diversity of ideas and cultures we possess in our country. I think it is unjust that people from other countries have more of an opportunity to change their lives by moving here than people from the Middle East do. I want to be a part of a change that seeks equality in the US immigration system to change the lives of everyone around the world with the same American dream my parents once had.