While I was in high school, I always enjoyed volunteering at a school near my home. During my time there, I met a diverse group of children. A girl caught my attention because of her aggressive behavior. The girl was always involved in physical fights because she was very defensive, especially towards boys. I took it upon myself to advise her when I volunteered in her classroom. I gave this girl my ears and she was able to open up to me. He explained to me that he always felt like he had to defend himself because of his situation at home. She lived with her aunt and uncle (her guardians) where domestic violence was impacting the family. She opened up to me because of the empathy I showed her. This young girl inspired me to take action to help other children who are in the same situation. I decided to study at the University of Illinois at Chicago to become an elementary teacher because I thought it was the only way to reach children and teenagers. As I advanced in my professional career, I continued to volunteer as a catechist teacher of the Blessed Sacrament. Parish to acquire teaching skills. While I enjoyed educating students, I felt I had something more to offer in another field. A student helped me understand that the career path I was on wasn't the right one because I would easily get frustrated with her. I would focus on teaching the materials instead of getting to know my students. I lost my passion for helping children and teenagers until she revealed to me the impact of domestic violence on her life. From that moment on I started recommending her before and after lessons. I stayed in touch with her to give her the support and resources she needed to get through this part of... middle of paper... ls, but also to improve the leadership skills I have within me. Through this program, there will be difficult times, but I have the determination to complete it. I have the strength to broaden my knowledge thanks to my family. Being Latina, the importance of getting an education has always been instilled in me. My parents always told me that education was one of the greatest treasures they could give me and that it could never be taken away from me. My education will help me stay strong despite all the obstacles I face. So I want to further my education by getting my masters, I always remember their words of inspiration because they drive my determination to overcome anything. This determination will help me overcome the rigorous demands during my university study. My motivation and family will help push me further in achieving my degree.