As I approach my senior year of my undergraduate studies, I have been reflecting on one special person in my life that has made everything possible for me to do what I am doing today. Education after high school is very important. Ever since I was little, my mom would let me know how important education was, and how much she wanted to see me succeed. Growing up, her parents were not supportive about her going to school. Growing up for my mom was different than it is for me. She grew up when enhancing your education after high school was not recommended. Her parents wanted her to get a job when she graduated. But she knew she had to make a life for herself and if she didn't go to school, she knew other people would be passing her by. She didn't want this happening because she wanted to be able to support her family. My mom didn't go to college until she was in her 30's. This was the only time she had the chance considering she worked a full-time job. My mom was ambitious enough to get her education and make a life for herself because she knew if she didn't do this, no one else would do it for her. I tell you this story because my mom has sacrificed a lot for me to be where I am today. Her goal for me is to have the least amount of student debt when I get out of school as possible.

My mom is one in a million...I see all these other people my age struggling with paying car payments on top of rent and tuition. I can't imagine how hard that is. But I know one thing, my mom has done what she has because she believes in me. She believes in the future I want to live for myself. She has never given up on me even at my darkest moments in my life. I am truly blessed to have a mother who is helping me pay for my schooling and on top of that helping me pave the way to my future. She has been a remarkable mother to me throughout my years of living and I hope one day I can be half the mom she has to me to my children one day. She always lets me know how proud she is of me and all of my accomplishments.

One day I hope I can do the same for my children like she has done for me. It makes a huge difference when you have a positive support system behind you through anything. Whenever I need help with something whether it be explaining a homework question or needing help with my car, she is always there. I have never met someone who is so kind and who is always willing to help someone whenever she can. I mean she is my mom so I guess I may be a little bias but I know the people that know her and have had the chance to get to know her would absolutely agree with me. Not only is she my mother but also she is my best friend and will always be.

Thank you, mom, for being you and giving me the best life possible. Without you, nothing would be possible. You have made such an impact on my life and you are my role model. I don't know if I can ever truly show you how much I appreciate everything you have done for me. Just know, you will always be taken

care of and I will love you forever. I love you, Mom.