Academic challenges by Tiffany

Academic challenges by Tiffany - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

As a single parent pursuing my degree in occupational therapy, I often find myself navigating a complex balance between the demands of my studies, the responsibilities of raising my son, and the financial burden that comes with being an independent student. While the challenges can be daunting, they also shape my motivation to continue my education and pursue a career that can provide long-term stability and fulfillment for both me and my child. On top of everything, my school just notified me that tuition will go up in 2025 and that I will run out of federal financial aid summer 2025. This is another challenge I must face alone, along with the daily tasks I face as a single parent and student require a great deal of organization, time management, and flexibility. My son, who is still young, depends on me for both emotional and physical support. As a result, I’ve developed strategies to manage my time effectively, even when I feel overwhelmed by the competing demands of coursework, studying, household chores, and caregiving. Being a single parent means I am also a role model to my child. I want my son to see firsthand the value of perseverance, hard work, and the importance of education. I aim to show him that challenges are part of life, but they can be overcome through determination, problem-solving, and a positive mindset.My inspiration to continue my education stems from the desire to create a better life for myself and my son. Growing up, I faced many of the same struggles that many single parents face today, financial insecurity, lack of resources, and uncertainty about the future. However, I was fortunate to have strong role models who taught me the value of education as a way to break the cycle of poverty and achieve personal growth. The decision to pursue occupational therapy as a career was not made lightly. I’ve always been drawn to helping others, particularly those facing physical and mental challenges.
Balancing the demands of being a student and a single parent can sometimes feel overwhelming, but I make it a priority to spend quality time with my son. I believe that the time we spend together is far more important than the quantity of time. I try to create special moments, whether it’s through reading together, working on a craft project, or simply having a conversation about our day. He knows I am still in school and while my schoolwork sometimes requires long hours of studying or attending classes, I make sure to be fully present during our time together. This means putting away my textbooks or laptop when we are together and focusing on him.
On weekends, we enjoy outdoor activities of his choice such as hiking, going to the park, or visiting museums, which provide both educational and recreational experiences. He has autism so I try my best to do activities that are centered around his well being. These outings are not only an opportunity for us to bond but also help my son develop a sense of curiosity and wonder about the world. Even though I am often juggling multiple responsibilities, I strive to maintain a sense of balance by ensuring that the moments I spend with him are meaningful and enriching.

As the child of a single parent, my son is learning valuable life lessons from an early age. He sees me working hard to pursue my dreams while simultaneously managing the responsibilities of parenthood. While I never want him to feel the weight of these challenges, I do hope he understands the importance of resilience, time management, and the sacrifices that sometimes come with achieving one’s goals. Growing up in a single-parent household can be challenging, and while I
Receiving this scholarship would have a profound impact on both my academic journey and my family’s financial situation. Starting in Fall 2025, I will need to pay for school out of pocket, which poses a significant challenge given my responsibilities as a single parent. By this time I will have run out of Federal financial aid. The cost of tuition, textbooks, and other educational expenses is a financial burden that I am committed to overcoming, but this scholarship would ease that pressure and allow me to focus more on my studies and my son’s well-being. With less financial strain, I could dedicate more time to my coursework, reduce the amount of part-time work I need to do, and invest more in activities that will benefit my family in the long run.

My aspirations extend beyond merely obtaining a degree. I aspire to become a compassionate and skilled occupational therapist who can make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals facing physical, mental, or emotional challenges. I want to work with diverse populations, from children with disabilities to older adults recovering from illness or injury. My ultimate goal is to work in a community-based setting where I can advocate for individuals who may not have access to the resources they need to thrive.