From an early age, my parents have always emphasized the importance of receiving a quality education. On my dad's side of the family, my grandparents were immigrants from Central America and came to the United States in hopes of achieving the American Dream. On my mom's side, my grandparents struggled to make ends meet on a daily basis while simultaneously sending five children through the private school system from primary to secondary education even though they could not afford it. Both of my grandparents sacrificed on behalf of their children to give them better lives than they had themselves.

Growing up, my parents sacrificed on my behalf just like their parents did by enrolling me in the private school system and sending me to the University of my choice, even with the costly out-of-state tuition rates. My parents do this out of love and because they wanted me to achieve more than what they have. I have never taken their sacrifice or my education for granted.

Throughout the years, I have learned that receiving an education is more than just being able to establish a successful career and future for yourself. Receiving an education gives us the knowledge to become the leaders of today, tomorrow and for future generations to learn from. With an education, we have the proper tools to change the world for the better and the power to change lives.

For people like me, I am truly lucky to not know what hardship is. However, there are children and adults alike in third world countries that do not have access to the materials and supplies necessary to have an education. Not only does this create economic and social barriers between us, but it also promotes systemic oppression in education.

Fortunately, this has improved over the years, but it is still not enough.

That is why I would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone that regardless of what kind of education you receive, it is of the utmost importance that you receive one and do not waste it. Pursuing an education isn't only about the lessons you learn from textbooks, but the lessons you learn in life.