Finalist 5Vote Now

I haven’t always known what I wanted to do. It actually took me a very long time, 32 years to be exact. There has been one thing that has always brought me joy. That feeling you get after you have helped someone, or made them laugh, or smile. That is the feeling I am chasing. When I first went to college, I wanted to be a psychologist. But I realized quickly that I am not cut out for that. So, I went on to pursue another passion of mine. That would be art. I graduated with a bachelor's degree in painting and thought to myself, “ok, how can we put these two passions together to help people?”

That thought was put on the back burner because I had my first child and then my second and then my third. My life was a whirlwind and I felt that I did not have time to pursue my passions. I had others to worry about first. There were other circumstances in my life that also prevented me from diving deep into my hopes and dreams. I had unknowingly found myself in an abusive relationship. I was told I could not have dreams; I could not have freedom; I was someone else’s property and I had to do what they told me. Well, I knew none of those things were true, and I had to for my sake and my children’s escape this way of life.

So, I did just that. I persevered and found a way out. But now I was a single mother with only the support of my own mom. Thankfully, that was enough. It took me five years to finally find my light again. I could still bring joy to others. But because of my experience I wanted to help people emotionally and physically. I did not have that when I needed it and I know how great that pain is. So, after some time I decided to try to get into the Physical Therapist Assistant Program at College of DuPage. And you guessed it, I got in! Only 20 people were accepted, and I was one of them!

I have made it through a whole year of the program so far and I love it. I will very soon be able to bring joy to people mentally and physically. I have finally been able to have the freedom to piece all of my passions together to do the most for others. Oh, and my passion for art, well I haven’t forgotten about that either. I still paint and create art for others whenever I can find the time. Not only have I proven to myself just how capable I am, but I am showing my three boys how to care about others. The cycle will be stopped. They will know nothing but hopes and dreams and love.

This scholarship would mean so much to me. I would greatly appreciate financial assistance. I have been working so hard, going to school, and taking care of my children on my own. This left no time for a job. I have been grateful to have the help of my mother, but it is my time to give back. That is what this college education will be able to provide.