Since I was young, my parents always made sure to teach a lesson out of every experience I had. Whether it had to do with budgeting money, safe choices, smart planning and so much more, they found little opportunities to show me smart… and not so smart decisions. Throughout the years they built up some quotes I can think back and pair with specific life lessons. To this day I use them to guide me when they aren't an "arms-reach" away.

Live and learn.

Mistakes are okay as long as you don't make the same one twice.

Follow the unbeaten path.

Make us (mom and dad) the bad guys whenever you need an out.

When college started getting closer, they made sure to make each lesson one that could be remembered in the long run. They taught me to be independent, even when I didn't notice. I learned self-discipline and self-sustainability; as much as a new college student can.

One key point my parents have taught me and my three siblings is to understand how money does not grow on trees. If you want spending capabilities, you have to work for it. I am not saying I don't get spoiled with a nice dinner or a shopping trip when I come home, but when I am at school I am to take responsibility for my purchases. This responsibility came with job searching for the summer and quick opportunities to help build a paycheck during the school year.

The last 2 years at K-State, my mom and dad have always been there when I need support. However, this support is one through a phone call and follows more along the lines of a listening ear and some key advice to get me through. If I am ever struggling or I show them I am working hard, they'll treat me to covering an expense when they visit town or I visit home.

I am very fortunate to not have to pay my tuition, but that comes because of the hard work my parents put in throughout their lives to ready themselves for the education their four kids would desire.

What I am trying to get across, is my parents have supported me emotionally and when they saw fit, financially. I feel confident in getting through a chaotic schedule and juggling many responsibilities. One of those responsibilities being to cover personal expenses from now on because gee… I am only two years away from graduating. You have to start sometime and for me, that time is now.

I am grateful for how much love and support I get from my parents and know they would help me if I truly need it. I hope to one day make them proud and teach my future kids the same lessons and lifestyle.