The Fall 2024 Daniel R. Bacalis, P.C. Striving Solo Parent Scholarship

Sarah Tezeno

In her essay, Sarah shares her experience adjusting to life as a single parent. She remains determined to provide a secure future for her daughter, balancing full-time employment with her educational course load. Congratulations, Sarah, and we admire your resilience and hard work.

Read Sarah’s Essay:

Being thrust into the role of a single parent was never a part of my life's blueprint. The year 2019 marked a tragic turning point when my child's father was senselessly shot and killed, leaving me to navigate the daunting journey of single parenthood. In the aftermath of this devastating loss, I felt an overwhelming sense of responsibility to be there for my daughter in ways I had never imagined before.

This unforeseen circumstance compelled me to dig deeper within myself, pushing me to my limits and beyond. There were moments when I found myself sacrificing precious hours of sleep, driven by an unwavering determination to provide a secure and promising future for my child. Despite the exhaustion and challenges, this experience served as a catalyst for personal growth, igniting within me a newfound sense of bravery, ambition, and unyielding resilience.

Balancing the demands of full-time employment with a rigorous 15-hour course load, I have been thrust into a whirlwind of responsibilities. Yet, paradoxically, amidst the chaos, I have never felt more driven or determined to pursue my educational aspirations. Each day presents its own set of obstacles, but with every hurdle overcome, I am reminded of the strength and tenacity that lie within me.

As I march towards the completion of my degree, with just 30 hours remaining, I find myself at a critical juncture where I must seek assistance. Juggling two jobs to make ends meet has become increasingly taxing, and I recognize the need to reach out for support in order to cover the financial costs associated with my education. It is a humbling realization, as I am not one to typically ask for help, but I understand now that it is a necessary step towards securing my future and that of my daughter.

My daughter, now in the third grade, is a constant source of inspiration and motivation. Her dreams of attending Texas Southern University to pursue her passion for cheerleading or dancing fill me with immeasurable pride and joy. Though she may not fully grasp the depth of my happiness in witnessing her aspirations, I am forever in awe of her unwavering determination to follow in my footsteps.

In this journey of single parenthood and pursuit of higher education, I have come to understand the true value of resilience, perseverance, and the power of a supportive community. The road ahead may be fraught with challenges, but I am fortified by the knowledge that I am not alone. With the assistance of kind-hearted individuals like yourself, I am confident that I can overcome any obstacle that stands in the way of my dreams.

Receiving financial support to cover the remaining costs of my education would be nothing short of a blessing. It would not only alleviate the burden of financial strain but also serve as a beacon of hope and encouragement as I continue to strive towards a brighter future for myself and my daughter. I am profoundly grateful for your consideration and assistance during this pivotal moment in my journey.

While the path of single parenthood and pursuing higher education may be riddled with challenges, it is also a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the unwavering determination to create a better future. With your support, I am confident that I can overcome any obstacle and emerge stronger and more resilient than ever before. Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and belief in my potential.