Scratch Offs to Law School by Bryant

Scratch Offs to Law School by Bryant - August 2025 Scholarship Essay

Pennies coated in clumps of acrylic from scratch-off lottery tickets to late-night online slot games. Growing up with a parent who struggled with a gambling addiction forced me into a position of many responsibilities. Pushing me to quickly recognize the importance of financial literacy and stability. These experiences have shaped and fueled my passion for the financial field. I am pursuing a degree in business with a minor in applied analytics at the University of Southern California, intending to become an attorney after I finish my master's degree. Law school is a dream of mine after I finish my master's.

I grew up in a household where money was a source of tension, confusion, and instability. My mother struggled with a gambling addiction. I witnessed the consequences of unchecked spending, hidden debt, and financial illiteracy from a young age. But while others may have been discouraged by these experiences, I was motivated. I wanted to understand how money works, how to manage it responsibly, and how to prevent others from falling into the same traps.

One of the ways I hope to make an impact is by creating a financial literacy organization targeted at high school students from underserved backgrounds. This nonprofit would offer mentorship programs and scholarships for families with language or cultural barriers. I know how it feels to be the translator for my parents' documents and paperwork. I want to ease that burden for future generations and ensure they have the tools they need to succeed. Many everyday people are intimidated by financial language and hidden fees, which often leaves them vulnerable. As someone who has watched my family be taken advantage of in financial matters, I want to simplify the language of finance. Whether I am working with clients or developing educational material, my focus will be on making financial systems more accessible and understandable.

Representation is another area where I hope to create change. As a first-generation Vietnamese student, I rarely see people who look like me in high-level finance roles. This lack of representation can discourage young Asian Americans, especially those from immigrant families, from pursuing careers in finance. I want to become a visible example that success in this industry is possible for people from all backgrounds. I will use my platform to mentor other first-generation students, open doors for others, and advocate for diversity in hiring and leadership.

Ultimately, I see finance not just as a profession, but as a public service. I want to be someone who brings that version of finance to communities, classrooms, and families. The challenges I have overcome have not only prepared me for this work, but they have also made it my purpose. I am entering the finance world to build trust and make the tools of financial success available to those who need them most.