I am living in a difficult time. Political unrest, blatant racism with white supremacists marching in the streets, and the coronavirus pandemic is worsening as people have pandemic fatigue and are lowering their guard.

In growing up in an alcoholic and dysfunctional family, I clung to hope. I prayed and hope that one day I would be in a better place. I would find a way to escape the hard times around me and that I would survive.

And I succeeded.

What helped me escape?

Education.

I used hoped to help me see a brighter day, but it was education that saved me. The more I learned, the more I understood, the more doors I opened for myself.

I worked hard to get ahead in school, went to college, and I received a partial scholarship to study abroad for a few weeks in Paris, France during my Junior year.

When I traveled out of the country, I learned that the world is a much bigger place than where I grew up. I realized that there are so many more opportunities available for me if I applied myself to working hard, learning, and for trying. Instead of being a victim, I became a survivor.

And you can do the same.

Embrace hope, invest in yourself, and learn all that you can. Education will help set you free.

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