Spring 2026 Newland & Newland Single Parent Scholarship Winner

Monica Rangel

Monica Rangel's journey as a single parent has inspired her to build a future rooted in opportunity, service, and perseverance. She plans on working in immigration and employment law after graduating from the University of Cincinnati.

Read Their Essay Here:

Being a single parent has profoundly shaped my education and career aspirations. I had my son at 19 and did not finish high school but earned my GED at 22. For years, I worked various restaurant jobs and believed college was not an option due to limited resources and parental responsibilities.

I remember a moment last January, sitting in my dining room and feeling overwhelmed by stress about our future. Something clicked, and I decided to pursue education for both me and my son. Interested in law, I applied to paralegal programs, sought fee waivers, and was eventually accepted. This marked a turning point, igniting my commitment to better opportunities.

The journey has required sacrifices. I have tightened my budget and had to set aside some personal comforts, understanding that these sacrifices are investments in our shared future. Balancing the roles of student, employee, and single mother is challenging, but I stay motivated through a strong support system and the encouragement of my son, who continuously tells me how proud he is of me. His belief fuels my persistence.

I am proud to be the first person in my family on track to graduate from college. This milestone carries significance beyond personal achievement. I hope it paves the way for others in my family to pursue higher education.

Through this journey, one of the most important lessons I want to pass on to my son is that he can achieve his dreams too, no matter the obstacles. Education is not just a path to a career; it is a powerful tool for breaking cycles and creating new opportunities. I have chosen to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Law and Paralegal Studies, focusing on immigration and employment law, with the goal of building a career we both can be proud of. I want to demonstrate the importance of giving back to our community and culture.