As a survivor of violence, Sengthida Lattanavong wants to be able to help others heal and move past their traumas. It’s one of the reasons she is so passionate about pursuing her master’s degree at Dallas Baptist University. Here’s what else motivates this 1,000 Dreams Fund Scholarship winner who always strives to maintain a positive mindset.

What is your professional dream?

My professional dream is to become an efficient social worker who can effectively help victims of violence.

How will you use the 1,000 Dreams Scholarship?

I will use the scholarship to cover tuition costs for my master’s degree as well as books for my courses.

How is this scholarship helping you get closer to your dream?

This scholarship will help me stay in school so that I can learn all the skills I need to become a better social worker for the community. My dream is to complete my master’s degree and this scholarship is helping me do that. This scholarship will allow me to buy the course materials I need to learn and fulfill my dream of becoming a great social worker.

​What advice do you have for other young women who are wanting to pursue their dreams?

My advice is that life is too short, so the best time to start living your dreams is now. Do not let negative feedback or negative thoughts stop you from pursuing your dreams. Anything is possible if you set your mind to it. Hard work really does pays off.

​Have you had any setbacks? How did you move past them?

I’ve had many setbacks; however, I move past them by surrounding myself with positive people. I always have hope and I keep a positive mindset. For example, I always remember that there is a solution to everything. If one door closes, another will open for me. I move past setbacks by believing that anything that does not work out for me means that there are better plans for me out there. I try to never to get discouraged by setbacks.

What’s next for you? What is your next goal?

My next goal is to complete my master’s degree and hopefully work for a non-profit organization where I can advocate for victims of violence.