Marely Mejia

Being a first-generation college student is one of the most important parts of my identity, and it has encouraged how I approach my education and goals. As an Accounting major with a 3.5 GPA and I am proud of myself with the progress that I have made so far because every accomplishment shows years of effort, the sacrifice, and the determination for my parents and myself. Coming from a family where no one has had the opportunity to attend college but it feels a responsibility to push myself to show it is possible to break the cycle and build a better future.

My decisions to study Accounting come from what I have seen and experienced in my community. Many families, including my own, have often struggled with financial planning or understanding how to make long-term financial decisions. I saw how confusing saving and budgeting can be for people who do not have the knowledge of financial decisions. This motivated me to pursue a field where I could become a resource for others. Throughout my coursework, I have developed strong skills in problem-solving. Every class brings me closer to understanding how the financial system works, and I am able to use that knowledge to help my community and have confidence in their financial decisions.

Maintaining a 3.5 GPA while having college classes and high school for the first time in my daily life has not been easy, but it shows determination and independence. While this can be challenging, it has shown me to learn for myself, ask for help, and stay disciplined even though it is overwhelming. These experiences have strengthened my work and have prepared me for my career in Accounting.

My studies are closely connected to my personal goals. I want to become a certified public accountant, and my community to give education and support to families who are not able to handle money. I hope I am able to become someone who is able to guide others with financial stability and help them avoid difficulties from my own family experience. I want to give back to the community through my profession, but being a role model of my community as a first-generation student.

Being able to receive this scholarship would allow me to continue my education without worrying much about my financial challenges that come with a college experience. It would help me stay on track academically and prepare for my future internship, as well as achieve the career goals I once dreamed of. Most importantly, it would bring me close to honoring all my sacrifices from my parents, who have encouraged me. Being a first-generation student carrying my dream as my own, this scholarship would support me to build a future that my parents and community proud of.

Journal#8 (Your Major)
My major started at home because I saw my dad handle money in little stacks to give to his workers. It inspires me how my father was able to keep track of his money because he always has money on the side just in case of emergencies. I always wonder why my dad is saving and spending it in a good way, without making us go into debt, but also having money to pay off the bills.
My major is accounting because I enjoy learning how to solve problems. I want to learn how to manage a business's finances and make something similar to my dad's. I love to help people with their finances and help find a better way to save while you still buy the things you want. The university that I chose has an amazing accountant class that will allow me to learn and give me opportunities like internships. An internship that will allow me to have real-life experience and help me prepare for my future career.
The university that I choose will allow me to join a club like Accounting or a group about managing money. I want to volunteer at events that give me experience that allow me to help people manage their taxes. My goal is to become an accountant to help others manage their money, as I watched my dad.

Listing to music
Building legos