Throughout high school, I consistently sought out opportunities to challenge myself and contribute beyond what was expected of a typical student. One of the ways I went above and beyond was by enrolling in dual credit courses through Trinity Valley Community College while managing a full high school schedule. Balancing college-level coursework alongside my high school responsibilities required advanced time management and discipline. This experience not only prepared me for the rigors of higher education but also showed my commitment to pushing myself academically. Beyond academics, I immersed myself in leadership and service roles. I joined the cheer team as a freshman, starting out as the mascot. Eventually, I transitioned to the role of team manager, a position I embraced after realizing how much I enjoyed supporting the team behind the scenes. Even when our team faced difficult changes, such as the loss of our coach, I stayed dedicated and stepped up to help maintain team morale and structure. That experience taught me the importance of resilience, adaptability, and supporting others during tough times. I also took on active roles in National Honor Society, Phi Theta Kappa, student council, and the Lions Club. These organizations gave me the chance to lead, organize events, and serve my community through volunteer work like canned food drives and charity walks. While many students participate in extracurriculars, I made it a priority to not just show up but to make a real impact. Whether that meant going the extra mile in planning events or taking initiative to help those in need, I always strived to do more than was required. What sets me apart is my drive to not only succeed but to uplift others, stay involved, and grow as a leader. These experiences reflect my determination to exceed expectations and build a meaningful foundation for my future in hospitality and service. Going above and beyond in high school wasn’t always easy, but it was always worth it. I learned how to manage my time, stay organized, and balance multiple responsibilities at once. Whether it was studying for college-level exams, organizing a student council event, or volunteering during the weekend, I gave my all because I knew it was helping me become the person I want to be. I didn’t take shortcuts, I embraced every opportunity to grow. These years have taught me that true leadership isn’t always about being in the spotlight. Sometimes, it's about staying late to clean up after an event, checking in on a classmate who’s having a tough day, or simply following through on commitments when no one’s watching. That mindset is what I plan to take with me into college and beyond. At Texas A&M University, I’m excited to continue going above and beyond. I plan to seek out leadership roles, participate in service initiatives, and pursue internships that align with my passion for hospitality. My goal is to be someone who not only creates welcoming experiences for others but who also inspires those around me to aim higher.

One of the most significant challenges I’ve faced in my life was watching my aunt battle colon cancer. She was diagnosed in December 2019, and her fight lasted five years, filled with moments of hope and heartbreak. Her passing in December 2024 was a devastating loss for me and my family. During those years, I witnessed her strength and resilience as she endured countless treatments and setbacks. Supporting her and my family through this difficult time was emotionally challenging, but it also profoundly shaped who I am today. This experience taught me the importance of empathy, perseverance, and the value of community. It opened my eyes to the power of small acts of kindness—whether it was a comforting word, a meal prepared for the family, or a shared moment of laughter—that can bring light even in the darkest times. These lessons have become core to who I am and have influenced how I approach challenges in my own life. Watching my aunt’s journey also changed my perspective on education. It reinforced how vital knowledge, skills, and innovation are in making a difference in people’s lives. While I’m not pursuing a career in healthcare, I realized that every field has the potential to create meaningful connections and positively impact others. My passion for hospitality stems from this belief. Hospitality is about more than serving others; it’s about creating spaces where people feel valued, cared for, and understood—whether they’re celebrating a milestone or seeking comfort during a challenging time. Attending college is my way of turning these life lessons into action. I see education as a tool to equip myself with the skills to make a difference, both professionally and personally. Through studying hospitality, I aim to learn how to design meaningful experiences, foster inclusive environments, and lead with empathy. College will also give me the opportunity to expand my worldview, meet people from diverse backgrounds, and grow into a leader who can contribute positively to my community. My ultimate goal is to use my education to bring people together and create spaces where they feel a sense of belonging. Whether I’m managing a hotel, planning events, or starting my own business, I want to create experiences that leave a lasting impact on individuals and communities. My aunt’s resilience and the lessons I’ve learned from her journey will always guide me as I strive to build a career that reflects kindness, connection, and care for others. Through this challenge, I’ve grown into someone who values compassion, hard work, and the ability to adapt in the face of adversity. My education will be a stepping stone to transform those values into meaningful action and a way to give back to the world in a way that honors the lessons my aunt taught me.

Cancer has profoundly shaped my life and my understanding of what truly matters. In December 2019, my aunt was diagnosed with colon cancer. Over the next five years, I watched her endure countless treatments and setbacks with unwavering courage and strength. Despite her battle, she remained a source of light and love for our family. Her passing in December 2024 was devastating, but her journey left a lasting impression on me, teaching me invaluable lessons about resilience, compassion, and the importance of cherishing every moment. Through her illness, I witnessed both the challenges cancer brings and the strength it demands. I saw how the smallest acts of care and kindness whether from family, friends, or healthcare professionals can make an enormous difference in someone’s life. This experience deepened my appreciation for the power of connection and support. It also inspired me to think about how I can contribute to creating positive experiences for others, no matter the challenges they face. My aunt’s journey has influenced my career aspirations and personal outlook. I’ve chosen to pursue a career in hospitality, driven by my desire to create environments where people feel welcome, cared for, and valued. Hospitality is about more than providing excellent service; it’s about building connections and fostering experiences that leave lasting impressions. To me, this aligns perfectly with the lessons I’ve learned from my aunt’s battle. Whether it’s creating a warm atmosphere in a hotel, planning events that bring people together, or ensuring that guests feel at home, I want to dedicate my career to helping others feel comforted and supported. Attending college represents an opportunity for me to turn these experiences and values into a meaningful career. Through studying hospitality, I aim to gain the skills and knowledge to thrive in a dynamic industry where I can bring joy and comfort to others. College will also be a time for personal growth, allowing me to develop my creativity, leadership skills, and ability to adapt to new challenges. I’m excited to learn about the intricacies of hospitality management, including customer service, event planning, and business operations, and to apply these skills in ways that make a difference in people’s lives. Beyond professional goals, I see college as a chance to honor my aunt’s memory. Her resilience and kindness will always inspire me, and I want to carry those qualities into everything I do. Whether it’s through small acts of kindness or creating memorable experiences for others, I hope to reflect the strength and compassion she showed throughout her journey. In choosing hospitality, I’m not just pursuing a career,I’m embracing a path that allows me to make meaningful connections, create positive experiences, and build a future that honors the lessons I’ve learned from one of the most challenging and impactful experiences of my life.