Hello, I’m Alyssa! In July of 2024, I graduated from California Virtual Academies as a High School Junior. I attended Mt. San Antonio’s summer program, and successfully graduated a year earlier than my peers. I decided to temporarily put aside my pursuit of higher education, to focus on growing my skills and supporting my family on our farm. Growing up rurally, I’ve cared for livestock and animals, grown crops and managed greenhouses and fishponds, as well as beekeeping, my entire childhood. I often nursed injured or ill animals back to health using herbal remedies I was taught as a kid. I also participated in showing cattle and swine through 4-H, but unfortunately had to stop due to Covid-19. Even so, my experiences, skills, and love for nature and animals have very much shaped my goal to have a career in Agriculture, Marine Biology, or biological sciences. Although a college education will most likely be a large financial burden for me and my family, I am determined to succeed. I would be extremely grateful for even the smallest amount of support I could obtain in pursuing my goal. Thank you for taking the time to read!