My name is Aideen Guerrero, and I am 17 years old from the Rio Grande Valley, located in South Texas. I've been in Varsity Track for all 4 years of High School and summer. I have made it to the state games twice during the summer taking home 1 state title all while doing dual enrollment courses my junior and now my senior year. I've volunteered at the boys and girls club 3 summers and through it have gained 450+ college hours. Just last year I joined the Mayors Youth Advisory Council for my city Edinburg, Texas and plan to continue in said council for my second year starting January of 2025. This scholarship will help me as I do not qualify for much financial aid, This scholarship will help not just me but my family as well pay for tuition at my dream school. This scholarship will help me feel as though all my accomplishments have been worth it, and that all the things i've done throughout my life were worth something. My career goals include obtaining masters degree in Nutrition and Dietetics and to pass my RDN to become a registered dietician. My long term career goal though is to one day own a restaurant that serves healthy and delicious food to show everyone who comes that you can enjoy food in a healthy manner that isn't salad smoothies and plain chicken. I believe I've contributed to my community by volunteering at the boys and girls club as that is how I discovered my love for nutrition. One year I decided to join a cooking class and through it ended up learning so much about food about not just how to cook it but where it came from and its origins. At the end of the class we got to serve our friends and family with a dish of our choice and to this day I still make an amazing risotto with asparagus and lemon glazed chicken. When asked about a time where I failed, I think of my Junior year in high school where i suffered a season ending injury all because I didn't stretch beforehand. Through it I learned about companionship as I had amazing friends and family who supported me throughout my recovery, I learned about loss and loneliness as I lost the opportunity to run my junior year and loneliness because even though I had an amazing support system, no one knew what was truly going through my head at the time. But most importantly, I learned that when one door closes, another opens. Even though my season was over, my recovery began and through them I met some of the most amazing people who helped me on my journey to redemption and acceptance. Through them i was able to become a state champ in the summer games and plan to regain that title in my upcoming senior season. If I were to name some of my greatest strengths it would be resilience and optimism. Throughout this essay I've given an example of my resilience through my journey on recovery and learned about my optimism as I stated "when one door closes, another opens". With your help, I hope to continue to grow on these strengths as I go to college and start my business much years later

When asked what motivates me to confront gender disparity in Texas I am left dumbfounded because I've been met with equal opportunities and kindness from the most powerful women I've ever known. Though I do not have personal experience on this matter, these women are the reason I will never let it happen to anyone else or myself for however long I go forward in my career. I plan to attend the University of Texas in San Antonio after I graduate from UTRGV-ECISD Collegiate High School as the class of 2025 and, the first graduating class of my school's history, with my first 2 years of college complete I plan to continue and get my masters in Nutritional Sciences. The impact I hope to make with this degree is to change the way women think about how they should look and the only solution to it is to be on a hardcore diet or fill their bodies with cards and equal it with excessive exercising because a Google search told them to. I hope to have a lasting impact on women's health not only as a certified Nutritionist but also as a business owner of a restaurant chain that will serve meals, the right way, that are both nutritious to the body and fulfilling to the soul that will not only serve "women", they will serve doctors, teachers, mothers, social workers, police officers, veterans and so many more. Coming to this decision wasn't easy, I've volunteered at the boys and Girls Club ever since I was 13 and thought being a caregiver or a teacher would be my choice, but kids can be a lot to handle, so then I joined my Mayors Youth Advisory Council my junior year and thought, oh I can be in politics maybe a lawyer or work for my city, but then I realized a desk job wasn't for me when 1 of my tasks for the Boys and Girls Club was to sit and watch people come in and out of the building, and sit....and sit....and watch....and watch for a week. Then the thought came to me OH what if I become a coach and study kinesiology, I've been doing track ever since I could walk and have been on Varsity for all 4 years so how about it, then I realized teenagers are little kids in bigger bodies so that was a no. But one thing about these 3 had 1 thing in common and that was I was always hungry. Yes, I constantly needed a snack on hand or nearby even before I started my tasks or I wouldn't function properly even now I always have something to snack on. So the decision came, I would study nutrition so that not only they could live long lives properly and happily but also live their lives knowing that being healthy and eating does not have to be a decision on which one is more important and that you can have both, and yes it can be delicious. To wrap it up, I plan to become like the women I was raised with like My mother who became her own boss even after she was fired when she got pregnant with me, like my grandmother who was a single mother who sent all 3 of her kids to college, like Crystal who reminded me every day when I was younger that no one can tell you who you are or what you're supposed to be and the women who came before them because I am here today because of everyone who came before me.

As I stand on the brink of adulthood, I’ve begun to chart a path that blends my love for the outdoors with my commitment to promoting healthier lifestyles through nutrition. When I was younger, I spent hours playing outside, loving the warmth of the sun on my skin and the times I spent with my brother and my dog, peaches. The things I felt while I was outdoors never left me, and it evolved into a deep interest in exploring tropical countries, where nature’s richness is unmatched and something I believe I should see. As I grew older, my passion for nutrition also began to take shape. I became increasingly aware of the importance of diet in shaping our health and well-being. This realization has fueled my desire to travel to tropical regions—not just to experience their beauty, but to study their food cultures and understand how their natural resources contribute to healthier lifestyles. My journey will begin with my studies at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), where I plan to major in Food sciences and eventually get my master's in said subject as well as receive my bachelor's in business which I plan to minor in. The knowledge I hope to gain soon at UTSA will be the foundation for my future travels. I aim to explore tropical countries such as Thailand, Costa Rica, Brazil, and so many more, immersing myself in their dietary practices and understanding how these contribute to their overall health. Each trip will add to my understanding of nutrition, providing me with the insights I need to make a difference back home in Texas. As I continue my education and travel, I will apply what I learn to my ultimate goal: opening a restaurant that focuses on healthy, nutritious food. I envision a place where the lessons I’ve gathered from tropical countries come to life, offering dishes that are both delicious and beneficial for health. My restaurant will be a step toward addressing the obesity crisis in America, making nutritious eating accessible and enjoyable for everyone. This scholarship is one of the many things important to my journey. It will support my studies at UTSA and help start my journey that will fund the travel experiences that are key to my growth as a future nutritionist. With your support, I will be able to take the knowledge I gain from around the world and apply it in a way that makes a meaningful impact on public health.

I've had more talks with myself about how I feel in the mirror than I have with anyone else because I feel no one will understand me or how I feel. I remember the times I opened up to people who I trusted only for them to not know what to do when they heard what I said. Others would feel embarrassed about saying everything that's been on their mind, but I just feel relief that someone knows what's in my head even if they don't know what to do with it. I've barely ever talked about mental health and how it has impacted me because I've always believed that you don't need to bare your soul and your secrets for someone to tell me what I could've told myself. I believe I hold a lot of anger and pain inside of me that I don't have a way to let out other than to be so happy towards others because they do not deserve whatever anger I hold inside of myself especially if they didn't cause it. My belief in mental health has been warped by the same pamphlet with the same helpline number and conversation from every school assembly or summer camp presentation and all it has taught me is to scream whatever I'm feeling from the comfort of my room. On the topic of relationships, they are better than ever. My parents are continuously proud of all my accomplishments that they are running out of storage on their phone. I truly believe I have found the greatest friends there could ever be who support my actions and future goals with offers of help if I ever may need it. I believe I've been able to keep these relationships at bay by just remembering what life was like when my relationship with my parents was almost non-existent to the point of having no memories with them. By remembering that having no friends but rather acquaintances when I was younger always was kinda of sad and if I was gonna be sad at least I could go to school and be happy for a moment with my friends. My career goals have changed just as much as I blink and at one point in my life, I considered if having a normal people job even what I want. Why am I applying for a scholarship if I don't even know what I wanna do? Where do I even wanna go to school? Do I wanna go to school? Each time I had a thought like this I remembered the life I want to live when I grow up, the people I wanna meet along my journey that I hope to have a positive impact on so even if they feel what I feel they can have at least one happy moment of their day because some don't even get one in a year. That was when I made my latest decision in deciding to study Nutrition because no matter your background, your story, or even if you are just stubborn and a picky eater, everyone deserves the joy a good meal and a full stomach can bring, even if just for a moment you are allowed to feel happy. In conclusion, even if I feel that my life is sad at times and I may be angry, I am not in pain. I have a great family and friends who are deserving of my smile and joy because they make me remember that there is a life worth living and I get to decide if I should wallow in my sadness or turn all my happy moments into a happy life.

I plan to have a positive impact on the world by continuing to volunteer with kids at my local boys and girls club. It has allowed me to dedicate my time and energy to support children during their early stages of life. By getting involved in volunteer work with kids, I believe I can truly make a difference in their lives, fostering their development and happiness. One of the most rewarding aspects of volunteering at the boys and girls club is the direct impact on the children themselves. Whether I'm assisting at a local after-school program or helping out at a summer camp, I am directly contributing to the well-being and growth. For example, spending time with them not only provides supervision but allows me to inspire them to become a volunteer one day. Volunteering also allows me to focus on a cause I'm passionate about. Whether it's organizing educational activities, helping with homework, or simply being a positive role model, I can make a meaningful difference in their lives. It's about creating a safe environment where kids can thrive and not only feel supported, but be themselves. Additionally, volunteering has helped me grow personally. It's provided opportunities to develop patience, empathy, and communication skills. For instance, engaging with children from diverse ethnicities and medical challenges has taught me how to connect with and understand different perspectives with how they see the world. Furthermore, the impact of volunteering with child care extends beyond the immediate benefits such as school rewards and volunteer hours. By investing in the well-being and development of children, I am contributing to this futures generation success and happiness. It's about laying the foundation for positive growth and creating a brighter future for our society as a whole. Lastly, volunteering with the boys and girls club allows me to advocate for children's well-being. Whether it's promoting education, supporting mental health initiatives, or advocating for inclusive environments, volunteering allows me to make a difference in children's lives and advocate for positive change. In conclusion, volunteering with the boys and girls club is a great way for me to make a positive impact on the world. It allows me to support children's development, nurture their happiness, grow personally, strengthen our community and invest in future generations. By getting involved now, I'm not only making a difference in individual lives but also contributing to a more compassionate and inclusive society for all children.

Zendaya's portrayal of "MJ" Jones in the Spider-Man movie franchise stands as a testament to her admirable acting prowess and the depth she brings to her roles. To start, Zendaya's MJ is a refreshing and contemporary take on the classic character. Breaking away from the traditional damsel in distress trope, Zendaya infuses her character with intelligence, wit, and a unique charm that I've come to love. This portrayal resonates with me, offering a more empowered and relatable depiction of a female character on how not everyone needs a superhero to save them. Moreover, Zendaya brings authenticity to her role, capturing the essence of a young, vibrant, and complex individual. Her nuanced performance adds layers to the character, allowing the audience to connect with MJ on a deeper level. Zendaya enhances the overall storytelling experience and enriches the Spider-Man universe. Zendaya's on-screen chemistry with her co-star Tom Holland, who plays Peter Parker who is also Spider-Man, contributes significantly to the success of her performance. The undeniable connection between the two characters adds depth to the storyline, making the audience invested in their relationship and creating a more immersive cinematic experience. Beyond her acting skills, Zendaya's involvement in the Spider-Man franchise also showcases her commitment to diversity and representation in the film industry. The casting of Zendaya as MJ challenges traditional casting norms and promotes inclusivity, giving underrepresented groups a chance to see themselves reflected on the big screen. In conclusion, Zendaya's portrayal of MJ in the Spider-Man movies is admirable for its modern and empowering take on the character, her authentic performance, on-screen chemistry, and her contribution to promoting diversity in the film industry. Zendaya's acting in the Spider-Man franchise not only entertains but also inspires audiences, marking her as a significant and commendable figure in the world of cinema.

Being on BookTok has become a literary haven where readers like you and I discover and passionately share their favorite books that could have a profound impact on them that they would like to share with others. Three books that stand out are "It Ends With Us" by Colleen Hoover, "Girl in Pieces" by Kathleen Glasgow, and "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" by Taylor Jenkins Reid. Colleen Hoover's "It Ends With Us" is an exploration of love, strength, and resilience. The novel delves into the complexities of abusive relationships, challenging societal expectations. Through, Lily Bloom, Hoover navigates the difficult terrain of making tough decisions for personal growth. The story has resonated powerfully with me and has allowed me to think on themes like self-love and the courage to break free from toxic relationships and learn that to move forward, you need to cut what's holding you back. Kathleen Glasgow's "Girl in Pieces" offers a raw and well-needed insight into mental health struggles. The main character, Charlie Davis, grapples with self-harm and a traumatizing past. Glasgow's narrative not only sheds light on the internal battles of one's mind and body as well as those faced by individuals but also emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding. This novel has become a staple in BookTok recommendations as it shows the effects unhealthy mental health can have on one's mind and Glasgow portrays it perfectly, fostering conversations around mental health awareness, reducing stigmas that we have set on the mental health community, and promoting compassion within the community. "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" by Taylor Jenkins Reid takes readers on a glamorous journey through Hollywood's golden age. The novel explores the life of Evelyn Hugo, a captivating and unreal film star. Reid skillfully weaves a tale that transcends time, touching on themes of love, identity within ourselves, and the sacrifices made for success. The diverse characters and complex relationships in Evelyn's story have ignited discussions on representation with the glamor-filled Hollywood community and the exploration of nuanced, multifaceted characters within the literature. These three books have left an indelible mark on the BookTok community. They have fostered a sense of connection and shared experiences among readers, encouraging conversations on topics such as mental health, relationships, and societal expectations. The impact of these novels extends beyond the pages, because discussing powerful stories, just like these keep the conversation going on real-world situations that we as the readers should know about and educate ourselves on.

My volunteer service at The Boys and Girls of Edinburg has taught me many things about myself, my main one is learning to be patient with others and that teamwork is most important when you volunteer with others. I've learned to be patient with others in the sense that having to work with kids aged 5-12 with an overactive imagination and nonstop questions about myself and things around them has helped me develop a deeper understanding of the importance of empathy especially when their minds are still developing. Interacting with children with boundless curiosity has taught me to appreciate the world through their eyes, fostering a more patient and compassionate approach. Embracing their overactive imaginations and endless questions has enriched my communication skills and has also allowed me to cultivate an environment where curiosity is celebrated. Through this experience, I've realized the profound impact patience can have in fostering positive connections and nurturing the curious minds of young learners as I help them grow and grow with them. Through my time volunteering I have also learned the importance of teamwork. My 3 years there with The Boys and Girls Club have brought multiple people into my life all with different personalities and unique goals for themselves. Working collaboratively with diverse individuals at The Boys and Girls Club has been a unique and transformative experience, fostering not only a sense of camaraderie but also an appreciation for the strength that comes from embracing differences. Engaging with people of various backgrounds and aspirations has taught me the value of effective communication and compromise in achieving common goals. Whether we were organizing events, mentoring youth members of the club, or coordinating fundraising events so that we may have incentives for ourselves, the synergy within our team was essential for success. This exposure to teamwork has not only enhanced my interpersonal skills but has also instilled in me a deep respect for the perspectives and contributions of others. As we collectively worked towards creating positive impacts in the community, I realized that the power of collaboration extends far beyond individual achievements and that a united effort can bring about meaningful change. In conclusion, my volunteer service at The Boys and Girls Club of Edinburg has been a transformative journey that has not only enriched my understanding of patience but also emphasized the importance of teamwork. Interacting with the imaginative minds of young children has taught me the value of empathy and the positive impact that patience can have in nurturing their curiosity. Simultaneously, working with a diverse team has underscored the significance of collaboration, effective communication, and embracing differences in achieving common goals. These experiences have shaped my personal growth and instilled in me a profound appreciation for the collective strength that arises when individuals come together with a common goal. My time at The Boys and Girls Club has left an indelible mark on my character, fostering patience, compassion, and a deep understanding of the power of teamwork to have a positive impact.

My passion for track and field runs deep, fueled by the invaluable life lessons it has imparted. Through countless hours of training and competition, the sport has become a profound teacher, instilling in me virtues that extend far beyond the track. I have participated in Track and field for the past nine years of my life and I hope to continue that my senior year, even at the collegiate level someday. It has taught me to be patient with myself in the sense that nothing happens overnight, and if I want to achieve a certain time or get the spot I want such as anchor on the 4x4, I have to earn it. It has taught me to stay determined and remember that I'm not just running to run, I'm running because I enjoy it and that I'm not just running for myself to get a medal but for my team to fight just as hard to earn our team a trophy. It has taught me to be determined in myself and know that to perform well I must feel within myself that I've done everything I can to succeed in my event and I don't have that feeling the second my foot gets behind the line, then I haven't done enough and that I must continue my desire to drive. Track and field has instilled a sense of determination and drive in me. The track has made me set personal goals on and off the track, for example, the way I apply myself in track and practice as much as I can I do the same in applying for these scholarships, it has made me face challenges head-on because once the gun goes off I can't freeze, I just have to run till I finish. It applies to when I have a test that has a time limit no matter whether it be 10 minutes or 1 hour, I have to finish it with whatever knowledge I've been able to instill in myself. In conclusion, my journey in track and field has been more than a pursuit of athletic excellence; it has been a transformative experience that has shaped my character and influenced my approach to life. The patience to endure, determination to overcome obstacles, drive to continually improve, and the understanding of teamwork have become guiding principles. As I continue on this path, I carry with me not just medals and records but a profound appreciation for the enduring life lessons that only a passion for sports like track and field can provide. Through the highs and lows, it is clear that this sport is not just an activity; it's a profound teacher and an integral part of the person I am becoming.

I have decided to pursue a program in criminology, specifically becoming a crime analyst. Im excited to become a crime analyst because of how shows like CSI and Criminal Minds portrayed it.As someone who loves to do projects with their hands, being able to go to crime scenes always intrigued me, seeing what happened, figuring out how it started and gathering evidence to figure out how to solve it, just like the detectives in Criminal Minds. I understand that TV and real life are completely different but the essence of solving puzzles and contributing to justice remains. I am willing to embrace the opportunity to make a positive impact on communities through this line of work and I I get to do so in the near future.

As someone who has done community service for the past 3 years, I don't intend to stop it just because I got my degree. Through my 3 years of community service with the boys and girls club, I've been able to get opportunities ,such as these, that I never thought I would recieve. I have received hours so that I can put them on future work or college resumes, I have made friends that I never would have had today if i've never decided to volunteer, and I've been able to use my experience to my advantage as being able to tell my tale has allowed me to join my city's youth advisory council. I would volunteer my services back to the people who would have pushed me or inspired me along my journey, such as if my city were to ever need volunteer for another festival or need helpers in restoration of a building then I will be that person. If it were the boys and girls club then I would volunteer my services during the school year for any festivals they would set up for the future club kids. As I continue my journey, the impact of my dedication to community service will forever shine brightly. My commitment to giving back, forging connections, and contributing to meaningful initiatives ignites my spirit of service. As I look towards the future, I will continue to volunteer and support those who inspired me. And I hope that my passion for making a difference will shape others along the way.

If I got the chance to form a squad with only 3 members for the show, it would be Eleven, Max and the one and only Jim Hopper. I would choose Eleven obviously for her supernatural abilities that if our next villian would be supernatural or not she could easily take them down. I choose Max next because of how strong and resilient she is, from adjusting to a new town with new people, seeing her stepbrother ,Billy, turn into a minion for the Mind Flayer, then turning back into his original self and then sadly, seeing him die for the sake of saving Max and her friends. To then being a constant victim of Vecna but being able to live to tell the tale with the help of her friend's. Lastly, I choose Jim Hopper, a good friend to have in battle because of his courageous and resourceful character. His background as a police chief, makes him resourceful with strategic thinking and combat skills. Hopper is fiercely protective of those he cares about, especially the kids, and if he were on my team i'd know hed protect me and succeed in doing so. Which makes him a reliable ally in challenging situations. His experience and determination contribute to his effectiveness in facing threats and ensuring the safety of his friends.

My desire to be apart of law enforcement or criminology was brought upon by the shows CSI and Criminal Minds. They are currently playing a significant role in continuing my interest in criminology by showing me the complicated yet intriguing aspects of forensic science and criminal profiling. These shows have shown me considuring pursuing a career in criminology as a career can make me use my mind as well as be on feild of the crime scene, which is something I look for as I continue to look at other career options. Watching CSI has made me consider pursuing a career in forensic science, as it shows me the exciting cross of science and criminal justice. Though I may not be the best at science, I would learn it a million times if it meant I could be apart of a forensics lab one day and be next to people like Gil Grisson that could one day put away criminals like "the minature killer" away. The same could be said for the show "Criminal Minds", It motivated me to explore a career in criminal profiling as I always found it interesting how one or two keys features or aspects in a crime could make you use your mind and create a character that no one had ever thought to consider all in your head. Being apart of this field would allow me to delve into the minds of criminals and allow me to get into their headspace aswell as help aid law enforcement in creating strategies to catch these criminals as if I were the criminals themselves and if I needed to be caught, where would I go next. In conclusion, the influence of shows like CSI and Criminal Minds has sparked a genuine passion within me for the field of criminology. The captivating portrayal of forensic science and criminal profiling has inspired my desire to contribute actively to law enforcement. Whether working in a forensics lab like those depicted in CSI or engaging in criminal profiling inspired by Criminal Minds, the prospect of using my mind to solve complex cases and contribute to the pursuit of justice is truly exciting. While I may face challenges in learning the intricacies of science, the drive to be part of a team that puts criminals behind bars, like some of my favorite characters in these shows, fuels my commitment to pursuing a meaningful career in criminology.