Engaging in family therapy alongside my family has further eased this burden and facilitated a deeper connection between us. In addition, I've dedicated myself to self-education by exploring topics such as mental health, domestic violence, and sexual assault. During this process of learning, I have made profound realizations about my own identity and experiences. I realized that I neglected my own needs and emotions. I’m currently rebuilding my sense of self by re-evaluating my own (personal/individual) values that align with my current needs. My experiences have endowed me with a heightened sense of empathy, the ability to hold multiple viewpoints simultaneously, and a propensity for critical analysis. However, it would be dishonest to suggest that these efforts have led to a complete resolution of my struggles. The wounds of my past continue to shape my journey and are not something that can be presented neatly. However, I remain steadfast in my commitment to overcome obstacles and better myself everyday. I am determined to pursue higher education and succeed both academically and personally. I have outlined a general plan to succeed in post-secondary education