Hardship should never hinder anyone from attempting to fulfill a set of goals or dreams. In my case, my background of adversity and the complete absence of role models throughout my youth never kept me from desiring something more. In fact, it fueled a desire to rise above my circumstances. I knew from a young age that I was fortunate to have a taste for passion and an admiration for hard work. I remember thinking in grade school, “I’m...

Although my academic record was not necessarily as strong as many of my peers, I set myself apart via my determination and resolve to always reach my goals and serve as a...