Math: The Universal Language Being the eldest of first generation immigration parents was never easy.

My father spoke very little English and my mother was too shy to speak to others in a foreign tongue. I quickly became the voice of my parents and spoke for them wherever we went. As a child, I would go to the library during recess because I did not want to take unfinished assignments home. Due to the language barrier, my parents were never able to help me with homework. Every night I struggled to complete reading assignments, test myself on the weeks new spelling words, memorize definitions, all the while helping my little sister with her homework. One day, although hesitant, I asked my parents for help on a math problem. And to my surprise, they were able to help me! Math was the only language, aside from Korean, that my parents and I were able to share together. From that day, my love for math grew. I took Gifted level math courses throughout high school and completed AP level coursework. I received the Star Student Award for the highest Calculus I average while attending Georgia Perimeter College and have been on the Deans List numerous times. I have received the Hope Scholarship throughout my whole college career. I continued my studies in math and I am now a senior at Georgia State University pursuing a Bachelors degree in Actuary. I believe I am deserving of a scholarship because of my hard work and dedication. Because of math, I connected with my parents and pursued a degree in Actuary. I hope to one day become a great actuary and care for my parents as they have cared and provided for me.