As a BIPOC queer woman golfer, my love for the sport has been shaped by my experiences and challenges in navigating a predominantly white, male-dominated environment. Growing up, golf was not a sport that was easily accessible to me or even relevant. It was only when I started working at a private golf course on Whidbey Island that I had the opportunity to try it out for myself. The pay was great and our head pro was willing to give me many tips and tricks. I quickly picked up the sport and fell in love with the game. My coworkers and I would play often before or after work. The technical aspects but mostly the mental and emotional challenges were the most fun part of the game for me. It was entraining to watch others and super my male coworkers when I was just up to par with them or even better. However, my experience working at the golf course also brought to light the many challenges that women, especially women of color, face in the sport. Despite my knowledge and expertise in the field, I often found that my suggestions and opinions were ignored or dismissed by the old white men who made up the majority of the clientele. One instance I remember happening so often was when I suggested certain members who I also saw play each day needed new grips. They would humor me and then ask if there was a man they could consult with instead. My job included installing the grips on members' clubs, but the members who knew that would also request anyone else do it. They never really gave a reason but just asked for that to be written down. Often my boss (our head pro) would instruct me to do it regardless. It was frustrating and disheartening to see that even in a sport that prides itself on integrity and respect, there were still systemic barriers that prevented women from being taken seriously. Despite these challenges, I continued to pursue my passion for golf, and it has become an essential part of my identity. One of the things I love most about golf is that it is a sport that requires both physical and mental skills (More mental). The precision and focus required to execute a shot are incredibly rewarding, and there is always room for improvement. The mental aspect of the sport teaches valuable lessons in patience, perseverance, and resilience. As a queer woman of color, golf has also been a way for me to share my love for the sport while breaking down stereotypes and prejudices. I appreciate the longitude of Golf and how giving space for conversations had the power to bring people together, regardless of race, gender, or sexual orientation, and that is something that I find truly inspiring. My experience as a BIPOC queer woman golfer has been both rewarding and challenging. Despite the systemic barriers that exist in the sport, my love for golf has only grown stronger over the years. While the challenges I have faced as a female golfer includes being ignored or dismissed by male golfers, I've learned to overcome these obstacles by remaining confident in my expertise and continuing to advocate for myself. I'm grateful for the opportunity to apply for the Scholarship for Women Golfers, as it would provide the support and recognition that female golfers like myself need and deserve.

I am thrilled for the opportunity to apply for the Jeannine Schroeder Women in Public Service Memorial Scholarship. Jeannine was an inspiring individual who shared her artistic talents and worked to make the world a more beautiful place through her advocacy for social justice and more. Her legacy serves as a reminder to all of us to strive toward creating positive change in our communities. During my time at University, I had the opportunity to address an important social issue by working with the University of Washington (UW) Food Pantry as a resident educational programmer (REP). The food pantry at the time was only open one day a week due to low donations, staff, and knowledge the event existed. As a past user of a food pantry in my local area, I understood the importance to raise awareness about food insecurity on campus and encouraged residents to donate non-perishable food items to the pantry. To do this myself as the lead, I reached out to the UW food pantry and once they didn't get back to me I choose to make it easier and went when they were open. The staff there was all for a REP and UW food pantry event collab so we set up an all-campus food drive and offered prizes/incentives for buildings that donated the most, and the response was overwhelming. Through our efforts, we were able to collect a significant amount of food for the pantry, increase its attendance and food donations, and help reduce food waste on campus. Know the food pantry is open three days a week and I know many others who utilize this wonderful resource. In addition to the event, I also created a small presentation about food insecurity and the resources available on campus, including our food pantry. This was displayed in all resident halls for the first 3 weeks of each quarter, including the residence halls that did not have TVs next to elevators, where we created bulletin boards and hung them up. Our main goal was to spread awareness about the food pantry and the issue of food insecurity. Through my work as a REP, I became aware of many issues that students faced, and it is our job to educate UW residents with resources and provide helpful/educational events to assist students. I was able to lead an event to address the growing issue of food insecurity on campus, and many students who participated in the event expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn more about the issue and contribute to the food drive. It was a success and helped to raise awareness of the issue of food insecurity on campus. My experience working on this project helped me to realize the impact that small actions can have on a larger social issue. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to apply for this scholarship and for the chance to reflect on the work that I have done to address important social issues during my time at University. As a woman majoring in a public service field with non-profit and volunteer experience, I believe that I hold the same values that Jeannine stood for. Her legacy inspires not only myself but others to continue working towards creating a more just and equitable world, and this scholarship would provide me with the opportunity to do so. Thank you for considering my application.

As a Queer, first-generation, Latina woman with dyslexia, I understand the importance of celebrating individuality and standing out from societal expectations. It can be overwhelming to feel the pressure to conform, but it's crucial to stay true to oneself and embrace differences. That's why I'm grateful for the opportunity to apply for the Walking in Authority International Ministry Scholarship, which recognizes and supports students! What makes me unique is my commitment to promoting equity and inclusion in all aspects of life, driven by the identities and communities I've been associated with. My involvement in various extracurricular and co-curricular activities has shaped my interests, plans, and aspirations. Pursuing higher education, I'm majoring in Education, Communities, and Organizations and minoring in Public Health. Throughout my academic career, I've participated in workshops and taken half of my courses on diversity, equity, and inclusion. These have informed my approach to creating safe and welcoming spaces for all students, regardless of their background or identity. As an educator, I'm intentional about cultivating a safe and welcoming space for all, which has motivated me to take on leadership roles in the education system. Recently, I've become involved with a local non-profit that works directly with Seattle schools to implement programs and strategies that address the injustices present in the education system called Sports in Schools (SIS). Through working as an outreach intern in this organization, I've gained valuable insights into the systemic issues facing our schools and have seen the transformative impact that targeted interventions can have on students as SIS did. My education will help me accomplish my goals of promoting diversity, inclusion, and social justice in the education system. As a daily educator in all settings, I intend to use my platforms to promote these values. In the short term, I plan to serve on a school board or as a principal to make a great impact locally. In the long term, I aspire to work within the Department of Education for my state to implement policies and programs that promote equity and inclusion in our education system. I'm committed to using my skills and knowledge to support underrepresented communities, like my own, to create a more welcoming and inclusive learning environment, and empower students to achieve their full potential. My involvement in extracurricular and co-curricular activities has taught me the importance of community engagement and volunteering. Working at various community organizations and non-profits, including a local food bank and a program for adults with disabilities. These experiences have allowed me to develop a deeper understanding of the social issues facing my direct community and help me address these issues. As a dyslexic person, I understand the challenges that come with disabilities, but I believe they should not be seen as a disadvantage. Instead, they should be embraced as an opportunity to bring unique perspectives and ways of thinking. I hope to use my experiences to create a more inclusive and accommodating environment for all. In conclusion, my involvement in extracurricular and co-curricular activities, work, and experiential learning opportunities has been instrumental in shaping my academic, career, and professional goals. I'm committed to using my skills, knowledge, and experiences to promote equity and inclusion in the education system and empower underrepresented communities. With the support of this scholarship, I will continue to pursue my passion for promoting equity and inclusion in all aspects of life and making a positive impact in my community and beyond.

Generational wealth refers to the accumulation of assets that can be passed down to future generations. It's a concept that has become increasingly relevant in recent years, as income inequality continues to grow and more families struggle to build a stable financial foundation. For me, generational wealth means having the financial resources to pursue one's goals and dreams, without being constrained by financial limitations. It means being able to create a legacy for oneself and one's family that lasts for generations. As a first-generation college student, building generational wealth has been a significant challenge for me. I have had to work hard to cover the costs of my education and living expenses while still trying to save for the future. However, I believe that with careful planning and strategic investments, it is possible to create a foundation for financial stability that can be passed down to future generations. One of the most critical ways to build generational wealth is through education. As the saying goes, "education is the great equalizer," and I believe that to be true. Attaining higher education can open up doors to better job opportunities, higher salaries, and more significant earning potential over time. By pursuing a Ph.D. in higher education, administration, or policy, I hope to obtain the knowledge and expertise necessary to create policies and strategies that promote educational access and success for underrepresented communities. Through research and advocacy work, I hope to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who have been historically marginalized and underrepresented. However, pursuing higher education comes with a significant financial burden. Without financial assistance, it can be challenging to cover the costs of tuition, books, and other educational expenses. That's why scholarships like the #GenerationalWealth Scholarship are so important. By providing financial support to students who are committed to building generational wealth, these scholarships help to level the playing field and make higher education more accessible to all. Receiving the #GenerationalWealth Scholarship would have a significant impact on my educational journey. It would provide me with the financial support necessary to pursue my Ph.D. without worrying about the financial burden of educational expenses. This support would also enable me to continue participating in extracurricular activities and community service work that aligns with my values and passions. Ultimately, this scholarship would help me achieve my long-term educational and professional goals, while also contributing to the greater good by promoting equity and advocating for social justice. In conclusion, building generational wealth means creating a stable financial foundation that can be passed down to future generations. Education is one of the most critical ways to achieve this goal, as it opens up doors to better job opportunities and higher earning potential over time. Scholarships like the #GenerationalWealth Scholarship are critical to helping students achieve their educational and financial goals, by providing the necessary financial support to cover the costs of higher education. By pursuing my Ph.D. in higher education, administration, or policy, and receiving this scholarship, I hope to create a legacy of educational access and success for underrepresented communities, and empower future generations to pursue their dreams without being constrained by financial limitations.

I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity provided by the Book Lovers Scholarship. This scholarship celebrates the importance of reading in our lives and encourages students to explore the world through books. The power of reading is immeasurable, and it has the potential to change the way we see the world. If I could recommend just one book for everyone in the world to read, it would be "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho. This is a book that has had a profound impact on my life, and I believe it has the power to inspire and motivate people from all walks of life. At its core, "The Alchemist" is a story about following your dreams and discovering your purpose in life. The main character, Santiago, is a young shepherd who embarks on a journey to find a hidden treasure he saw in a dream. Along the way, he meets a series of characters who help him discover the true meaning of his quest and learn important life lessons. One of the things I love most about "The Alchemist" is its timeless message. No matter where you are in life or what your goals may be, the book encourages you to take risks and pursue your passions. It reminds us that anything is possible if we have the courage to believe in ourselves and our dreams. Another reason why I think "The Alchemist" is a book that everyone should read is its accessible and easy-to-understand writing style. Coelho's writing is simple yet powerful, making it easy for readers of all ages and backgrounds to connect with the story and its characters. Overall, I believe that "The Alchemist" is a book that has the power to inspire and motivate people from all over the world. Its message of following your dreams and discovering your purpose in life is one that everyone can relate to, regardless of their background or circumstances. If I could recommend just one book for everyone to read, it would be this one.

I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to apply for this scholarship. As a low-income undergraduate student, I have a burning desire to become a teacher and support students in their journey toward self-discovery. Throughout my educational journey, I've had the privilege of meeting countless teachers who've left an indelible mark on my life. But there's one teacher who stands out, who went above and beyond to help me when I needed it the most. His name is Mr. Clark, and his words have stayed with me ever since, shaping the person I am today. When I was in eighth grade, I felt like an outcast in my school. I didn't want to conform to the expectations of the "cool kids" who seemed to value ripped clothes, skipping school, and vulgar language. I walked the halls with my head down and felt like I didn't fit in anywhere. That's when Mr. Clark came into my life. He saw me for who I was, not who I was trying to be. He inspired me and encouraged me to be myself, embrace my individuality, and find more than just myself. On the last day of middle school, I gave Mr. Clark a "Thank You" card, but little did I know he would be the one giving me a gift that day. He wished me luck and then said: "Jess, you're an outcast, I hope you find more than just yourself." At that time, I didn't fully understand his words, but as I faced new challenges in high school, they came to mean so much more. When my family moved from our loud and vibrant Hispanic community in Southern California to a small and predominantly white island off the coast of Washington, I was scared. I again faced the challenge of not fitting in, but this time it was because of my brown skin. It was then that I revisited Mr. Clark's words, and with his encouragement, I took a leap of faith and joined clubs. I volunteered three hours a week for ASB and Key Club and loved it. Volunteering gave me the opportunity to step out of my shell and explore my community. It also encouraged me to branch out and participate in other activities. I tried sports and made the following varsity teams: soccer, basketball, cross country, and golf. Even though we didn't win every game and my golf game wasn't always on par, being part of a team and dealing with the losses, the school night games, and managing a 3.6 GPA helped define my character. In my junior year, I pushed myself out of my comfort zone and ran for an ASB position. I was appointed Vice President and also joined Student to Student where I supported new kids to become acquainted with high school. This role also allowed me to speak at our middle school to incoming freshmen. This is when I recognized the power of my words and how I impacted students. I also started working at a yogurt shop and a private golf club. I began college courses at a community college so I could graduate with an AA along with my high school diploma. The student body even nominated me as Homecoming Queen. As I entered my Senior year, I was proud to be ASB President. My experience with Mr. Clark and the challenges I've faced have taught me valuable lessons that I want to impart to others. I've learned to celebrate my differences and embrace my individuality. I've also learned the value of resilience, a quality that I'll need for the next step in my education and my future. Mr. Clark's encouragement and guidance helped me to find my path in life and embrace my passion for education. I want to help other students discover their passions and find their own paths.

I'm honored to apply for the Cat Zingano scholarship, which provides a platform for me to share my story. I have experienced unimaginable hardship, but I've also found strength and inspiration from those closest to me. My grandfather was my hero. He was the first of his 11 siblings to move to the United States from Jalisco, Mexico, in search of a better life. He sacrificed everything he had to provide for his family and make a better life for them. Despite facing numerous challenges, he never gave up. He was the embodiment of resilience and determination. But last year, everything changed. My grandfather was diagnosed with COVID-19, and before we knew it, he was gone. I wasn't even able to attend his belated funeral in Mexico due to COVID safety and my studies at the University of Washington in Seattle. I felt like I couldn't say goodbye properly. But despite my inability to attend his funeral, I still feel his presence in my life. He taught me to be resilient in the face of adversity and to never give up on my dreams. He had always been my rock, the one person who I knew would always be there for me. His death shattered my world, leaving me lost and alone. In the months following, I struggled to come to terms with my loss. I questioned the purpose of life. My grandfather had been the one who had always lifted me up, who had always believed in me, even when I didn't believe in myself. But after many calls with family members who knew our relationship, I understood my grandfather's passing had given me a new perspective on life. I'd always taken things for granted, assuming that I had all the time in the world to achieve my goals/dreams. But his passing reminded me that life is fragile, and we never know when our time will be up. I started to focus on what mattered in life: my family, my friends, and my dreams. I knew that my grandfather would've wanted me to keep fighting, and never give up on my dreams, even in the face of adversity. He had always believed in me, and I knew that I couldn't let him down. My grandfather instilled in me a deep love for our Mexican heritage. He would take us to Jalisco every chance he got, showing us the beauty of our culture and teaching us the importance of family and community. His passing made me realize just how much our culture meant to me and how it had shaped my identity. I wanted to honor his legacy by embracing my heritage and passing it on to future generations. That's why I am now studying to become a teacher. I want to share the beauty of our culture with the next generation, to teach them about the sacrifices that our ancestors made to get us where we are today. I want to inspire my students to be proud of who they are and where they come from, just as my grandfather did for me. But pursuing my dream hasn't been easy. The loss of my grandfather left a gaping hole in my heart, and there are days when I feel like giving up. But then I remember his unwavering determination, his unshakable belief in me, and I know that I have to keep going. The Cat Zingano scholarship would provide me with the support I need to continue pursuing my dream. It would give me the financial means to pay for my education and the emotional support to keep fighting, even when things get tough. It would also give me the platform to share my story and inspire others who may be going through similar struggles. My grandfather's passing was a devastating blow to my world, it also gave me a forced new outlook. It reminded me of who I am and to always cherish the people we love. It inspired me to focus on what really matters in life and to pursue my dreams with unwavering determination. I will always carry my grandfather's spirit with me, and I will continue to fight for my dreams, just as he did for his family.

As a Latina, queer, first-gen woman, and dyslexic person, I understand the importance of embracing individuality and standing out from the herd. The pressure to conform to societal expectations can be overwhelming, but it's crucial to stay true to oneself and celebrate differences. I am grateful for the opportunity to apply for this scholarship, as it recognizes and supports students who are mavericks in their own right. What makes me unique is my commitment to promoting equity and inclusion in all aspects of life due to the identities and communities I've been associated with. In pursuit of my higher education, I am majoring in Education, Communities, and Organizations and minoring in Public Health. My education has given me the tools to make a positive impact in the world, and I plan to use my knowledge and skills to give back to my communities. I believe in the power of education to create change. I intend to use my platform as an educator to promote diversity, inclusion, and social justice. Currently, I am an educator who is intentional about cultivating a safe and welcoming space for all students, regardless of their background or identity. My experiences have motivated me to take on leadership roles in the education system. I have recently become involved with a local non-profit that works directly with Seattle schools to implement programs and strategies to address the injustices present in the education system. Through my work with this organization, I have gained valuable insights into the systemic issues facing our schools and have seen firsthand the transformative impact that targeted interventions can have on students. Looking towards the future, I am excited about the prospect of using my education and passion for social justice to effect meaningful change on a larger scale. Serving on a school board, as a principal I can make great impacts locally. But long term I would like to work within the Department of Education for my state because it would provide me with a platform to implement policies and programs that promote equity and inclusion in our education system. I am committed to using my skills and knowledge to support underrepresented communities, like my own, to create a more welcoming and inclusive learning environment, and empower students to achieve their full potential. Furthermore, I am committed to promoting accessibility and inclusivity for people with disabilities. As a dyslexic person, I understand the challenges that come with disabilities, but I believe they should not be seen as a disadvantage. Instead, I view them as an opportunity to embrace unique perspectives and ways of thinking. I hope to use my experiences to create a more inclusive and accommodating environment for people with disabilities. In conclusion, being unique is a beautiful quality that should be celebrated, and I am proud to be a maverick who stands out from the herd. With the support of this scholarship, I will continue to pursue my passion for promoting equity and inclusion in all aspects of life. I am excited about the future and look forward to making a positive impact in my community and beyond. By taking on leadership roles in the education system, I hope to create lasting change and help create a more equitable and inclusive society.

As a student studying Education, Communities, and Organizations (ECO) with a minor in Public Health, I am deeply committed to making a positive impact on the world by educating others. Especially about Substance Use Disorder (SUD). My interest in this area of public health policy began when I witnessed the devastating effects of addiction on individuals, families, and communities, including loved ones close to me. This personal experience has fueled my commitment to making a difference in this field. As a current educator and public health policy advocate, I plan to use my knowledge and skills to create meaningful change in this area. I believe that education is a powerful tool in the fight against SUD, and I see myself working with more non-profits in Seattle as an educator to raise awareness, promote prevention strategies, and advocate for effective treatment and recovery options. To achieve these goals, I plan to work closely with community organizations, and non-profits. I have experience as an intern for non-profits and learned to develop evidence-based approaches. In this case, I aspire to create evidence-based approaches to address the root causes of SUD and help individuals and families recover. I also believe that education can play a critical role in this process by raising awareness, reducing stigma, and promoting access to care and support. One of my primary goals in working in policy or as an advocate is to develop and implement educational programs that target high-risk populations, such as adolescents, college students, and individuals with a history of trauma. By providing information about the risks associated with substance abuse and promoting effective prevention strategies, I hope to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. In addition to working directly with individuals, I plan to develop partnerships to provide training and resources for educators, healthcare providers, and community leaders. In the hope to build a network of support that can provide individuals struggling with SUD with the resources, they need to recover and thrive. As someone who has witnessed the impact of SUD on loved ones, I am deeply committed to breaking the stigma surrounding addiction and promoting a more compassionate understanding of those who suffer from SUD. I believe that this can be achieved through education and awareness-raising efforts that highlight the complex nature of SUD and the need for effective treatment and recovery options. Ultimately, my goal is to help create a world where individuals struggling with SUD are not stigmatized or ignored but instead are met with compassion, support, and effective treatment options. By utilizing my education and passion for public health policy to remain actively involved with local organizations, I am confident that I can make a significant and positive impact on the world, working towards creating a brighter future for all.

As a first-generation college student, I have had to overcome many financial obstacles to pursue higher education. Managing tuition, housing, food, and pet care costs has been a significant challenge for me, and I currently work three jobs to make ends meet. An unexpected payment has left me without emergency savings, adding more financial pressure to my already challenging situation. Despite these difficulties, my Hispanic family background has taught me the importance of perseverance and hard work. Growing up, my family instilled in me the values of responsibility, determination, and resilience. I have watched my parents come up from nothing to get me to where I'm know in University. The values they taught and showed me have been critical in shaping my perspective on life and enabled me to keep pushing forward in the face of adversity. I have learned that setbacks are not the end of the road but are merely opportunities to grow and learn. Such as when my family and I lived with my cousins throughout middle school and we shared rooms. But now we have our own home and I have my own room. Keeping this attitude has helped me overcome the challenges I have in college and prepared me to take on the challenges that lie ahead. My family background has influenced the way I see the world, but having my own identity of being a Queer, first-gen Latina woman with dyslexia, I am acutely aware of the systemic inequalities that exist. As well as the barriers that my underrepresented communities face. I've experienced firsthand the challenges that come with navigating education as a member of multiple marginalized communities. With this, I still want to pursue more education because I'm committed to promoting equity and inclusion in all aspects of life. I believe that education is a critical tool in creating a more just and equitable society. To address this, my long-term goals involve pursuing a Ph.D. in higher education, administration, or policy. With a Ph.D., I will be able to conduct research, teach courses, and develop strategies to promote educational access and success for underrepresented communities. In addition to my academic pursuits, I plan to continue working with local schools and community organizations to advocate for underrepresented students/families to promote policies that support their success. Through my work with nonprofits like Sports in Schools and Outdoors for All, I have seen firsthand the impact that a single program can have on the lives of students and families. Ultimately, my goal is to empower/uplift underrepresented communities through education, and advocacy. In conclusion, my Hispanic family background has taught me the importance of perseverance and hard work, values that have enabled me to overcome the challenges of being a first-generation college student, Queer, and dyslexia. Along with my experiences and values, I have developed a strong committed to promoting equity and inclusion in all aspects of life. Through my academic pursuits and community involvement, I hope to empower/uplift underrepresented communities, promote educational access/success, and create a more just and equitable society. I believe that my unique perspective and personal experiences will enable me to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those who have been historically marginalized and underrepresented like my own communities. My experiences have taught me that no matter what obstacles I may face, I have the strength and determination to overcome them and make a positive impact in the world.

During my time at the University of Washington, I have actively participated in a wide range of extracurricular activities and community service organizations, intramural soccer, basketball, boxing, video games clubs, political clubs, and one of my favorite extracurricular is hanging out with my ESA dog. Otherwise, my other favorite extracurricular activity is playing intramural soccer with a group of friends. Apart from keeping me physically active, this sport also allows me to build relationships with people outside my major. As a referee for intramural soccer games at UW, I have also been able to give back to the community while honing my leadership and communication skills. In addition, I volunteer with two non-profit organizations in Seattle, namely Sports in Schools and Outdoors for All, both of which are committed to making sports and outdoor recreation more inclusive and accessible. These organizations align with my values, and I am proud to be part of their efforts to create more opportunities for all individuals. After graduating from college, my aim is to contribute positively to my education, Latina, and dyslexic community by pursuing a master's or Ph.D. program in education, or educational policy. I belong to underrepresented groups, and a higher degree would be a significant achievement for myself and my communities. Ultimately, I want to work in a local school district, or as a principal, and be a coach for a local school, to be in a position to create/change policies to promote social justice and inclusivity. I also plan to get non-profits involved with schools to provide sports and program funding and organize events that foster community. Throughout my college years, I plan to seize every opportunity to learn and grow. I am actively involved in clubs and programs, and I intend to continue building my network and relationships while studying hard and engaging in meaningful experiences. I have taken adage of classes that put me into the community and I receive credit. Most recently I took a 5 credit class that required me to teach people with special needs how to snow board each Saturday of the winter quarter. I was exhausted from doing this often but it was so rewarding having the same participant each week and creating a relationship. The best part was when we were able to go up a lift and snow board alongside one another. Receiving this scholarship would significantly impact my collegiate experience. It would help me cover expenses such as books and program fees, including a lab fee for a special education research class I am taking in the fall of 2023. Moreover, it would enable me to continue participating in extracurricular activities and community service organizations that align with my values and passions. In conclusion, my extracurricular activities, community service involvement, and future plans all stem from my desire to make a positive impact on my community. I am committed to creating a more inclusive society and advocating for underrepresented communities. The scholarship would provide me with the necessary support to achieve my goals and positively impact the world around me.

I am looking to make positive changes within the educational field. A positive change I am currently working towards is more support in the educational system for marginalized communities, particularly families with language barriers. I am a Hispanic woman who struggled in my early academic career partially because of language barriers. I watched my parents struggle with understanding areas of daily school activities such as field trips, parent teacher conferences, reading programs, and before/after school tutoring. From experience, I witnessed my parents become uninterested in my educational career because they struggled to be a part of it. If they had resources or tools to support them, they could have been more involved. Having the opportunity to be in the ECO major, I will learn the tools to support struggling communities. With what I have learned thus far, my goal is to continue my work as a volunteer translator, student assistant, and student volunteer at ECEAP to better assist families with language barriers. I have three areas specifically where I hope to make positive change: every student deserves a quality education, families with language barriers should receive the tools needed to feel part of their child’s educational journey, and inclusive curriculums for all children.

I am passionate about pursuing my education because I will be able to participate in community-based internships to help enhance my educational learning. These internships give me a realistic day to day view of the field of education. Currently I’m working with a local non-profit organization, Sports in Schools, which supports students and faculty in low-income schools. Through this internship I’ve had direct contact with a diverse staff, from Athletic Directors, School Board members, and teachers. Experiencing a variety of aspects in the education field has confirmed that I enjoy the opportunity to have an impact on students. I found my passion for education. My most recent work involved collaborating with Athletic Directors to coordinate uniform donations and were able to purchase uniforms for the boys’ soccer team at Mount Rainier HS. I personally packaged the uniforms and loved seeing how happy and proud the team felt (and looked) in their new gear. The most fulfilling part of my job was getting to spread that happiness throughout our social media pages. Working in community-based internships enhances everyones learning by teaching students how to strive in a professional setting, whether it’s how to set the tone in an email, how to address people, asking questions, or simply how to interact with other professionals. These internships that are offered by the University of Washington also allow students to witness important aspects of the field they enjoy and get hands-on experience while building connections with colleagues.

I am looking to make positive changes within the educational field. A positive change I am currently working towards is more support in the educational system for marginalized communities, particularly families with language barriers. I am a Hispanic woman who struggled in my early academic career partially because of language barriers. I watched my parents struggle with understanding areas of daily school activities such as field trips, parent teacher conferences, reading programs, and before/after school tutoring. From experience, I witnessed my parents become uninterested in my educational career because they struggled to be a part of it. If they had resources or tools to support them, they could have been more involved. Having the opportunity to be in the ECO major, I will learn the tools to support struggling communities. With what I have learned thus far, my goal is to continue my work as a volunteer translator, student assistant, and student volunteer at ECEAP to better assist families with language barriers. I have three areas specifically where I hope to make positive change: Every student deserves a quality education, families with language barriers should receive the tools needed to feel part of their child’s educational journey, and inclusive curriculums for all children.