Paschal Security Systems Criminal Justice Scholarship

I grew up in the rural side of the Philippines with particularly not the best of influences. Just upstairs from where we were living was a drunkard, and those on the sides would often sell stolen goods and do drugs. Due to our unpleasant surroundings, my parents were determined to move into the United States to build upon a better future—a better life. Six years ago, we were fortunate enough to be able to move from the Philippines to the United States. From there, we lived with a fellow relative, who was, at that time, also eager to let us stay under the same roof as them; however, little did I know that things were not going to be that easy. Because of the poor environment of where we came from, we were often falsely accused of committing such indecent actions like stealing their stuff and even being told that we barely have a chance of succeeding out there in the States alone. For quite some time, my 13-year-old self was fully convinced that I was a nobody, just as they would always remind me. That I have no value in a foreign world. I let others measure my worth, and it resulted in my mental and physical health to deteriorate. Nonetheless, over time, I was able to get back on my feet and pull myself together—remind myself that I am a strong and powerful immigrant woman, who chooses not to give up on the chances in life that can help me get better—get successful. After all, that is what my parents wanted when we immigrated into the United States. I have witnessed how much they have given up to have their one and only kid have a much better chance of succeeding in life as compared to them when they were younger. With that, I am now determined to do everything and anything I can do to pay them back for everything they’ve done. I have worked hard upon building a better future for myself and for my loved ones, eventually, deciding to pursue a career in law. I was enrolled in my high school’s law magnet program, joining our competitive Mock Trial and We The People Team, and even graduating as the Class of 2023’s Salutatorian. I have dedicated my blood, sweat, and tears to continue to hone upon my abilities and skills to become a competent lawyer and then a judge through interning at a law firm and even eventually working for one. Now, I am also majoring in Criminal Justice for my undergraduate with the plans of expanding my knowledge about law and getting into law school. It is within me to plan on making a positive impact on the world through my criminal justice career by helping the falsely accused just because they are being measured by the fact that they did not have the best of resources nor the best of influences in their life. I intend to be someone who people can look up to and be an example that people can succeed in life even if you feel like you are at a disadvantage. Just as I would always tell myself whenever I am met with others' doubts and hesitations, “Surprise them.”