Selflessness is not defined by grand gestures or seeking recognition. To me, living selflessly means quietly choosing to show up for others, giving your time and energy without expecting anything in return, and making sure the people in your community feel supported. True impact is built on relationships, practical action, and the willingness to lend a hand whenever help is needed. For the past seven years, my primary way of giving back has been my monthly work with Produce On Wheels Without Waste (POWWOW), a program hosted by Borderlands Produce Rescue in Arizona. POWWOW rescues millions of pounds of fresh, high-quality fruits and vegetables that would otherwise go to waste in landfills, redistributing them directly to families across our state. When I first started, my focus was strictly on the manual labor—unloading heavy trucks and carrying boxes across the site. But as I kept coming back month after month, seeing the long lines of cars waiting before our gates even opened changed how I viewed my work. I realized that behind every single vehicle was a family relying on this distribution to get fresh, healthy food for the month. My presence there wasn't just about moving physical crates; it was about doing my part to ensure our community had access to basic necessities. As I gained experience, I took on more responsibility in organizing our distribution events alongside host site teams. I helped streamline our setup process by remapping table layouts, creating clearer vehicle lanes, and organizing pre-sorted produce stations before opening. Smoothing out those logistics reduced our event setup time by half an hour, which meant families didn't have to wait as long in the heat. Each month, our volunteer team was able to seamlessly distribute over ten thousand pounds of fresh produce to more than a thousand local families. Working directly with the community and seeing the immediate impact of an organized volunteer effort reinforced my belief that helping others is a personal responsibility. To me, living a fulfilling life is about lifting others along the journey and using your time to solve practical problems that make people's lives easier. As I pursue my degree in electrical engineering at Arizona State University, I carry these lessons with me. I plan to continue honoring Michael Rudometkin’s legacy by staying actively involved in community outreach, using my technical skills to solve real-world problems, and always staying committed to serving those around me.

What I love about technology is how simple ideas can turn into tools that power our everyday lives. As an Electrical Engineering student at Arizona State University, I am fascinated by how basic electrical signals and digital logic come together to run complex software. Working in technology inspires me because there is always something new to learn, a new problem to solve, and no real limit to how much you can grow as an engineer. My favorite project so far—and one that really shaped how I think about engineering—was designing and building a functional 8-bit CPU from scratch. Instead of just learning about processors from a textbook or writing high-level code, I wanted to understand how computers actually work at the most fundamental level. I spent weeks designing the CPU's architecture, including the arithmetic logic unit (ALU) to handle basic math, registers to store quick data, and a control unit to direct traffic throughout the chip. Building that CPU was a real lesson in patience, focus, and practical problem-solving. When you build hardware from the ground up, finding a single mistake isn't as simple as checking an error log. It means stepping through the design bit by bit to see where a signal went wrong or where timing was slightly off. It took endless testing, debugging, and carefully tracing wires across breadboards and digital logic circuits to get every component talking to each other correctly. There were plenty of frustrating moments where nothing seemed to work, but working through those obstacles taught me how to stay calm and methodical under pressure. The moment the CPU finally ran its first basic program—fetching an instruction, decoding it, and outputting the right answer—it all clicked. Seeing something I designed from scratch actually function in the real world was easily one of the coolest and most rewarding feelings of my life. That project proved to me that technology isn't magic; it is just a series of clever, thoughtful solutions built by people who took the time to figure things out. Starting with simple 8-bit logic gave me a clear foundation for understanding the much larger, modern processors used in servers and smart devices today. More than anything, it showed me that no matter how complicated a problem looks at first, you can break it down and build a working solution if you stay curious and persistent. Receiving the Chadwick D. McNab Memorial Scholarship would directly help me focus on my studies at ASU as I work toward a career in hardware engineering. By staying curious and keeping a hands-on approach to learning, I hope to honor Chadwick McNab’s legacy by becoming a reliable engineer who builds great technology and helps support others along the way.

My commitment to Electrical Engineering at Arizona State University is driven by a deep focus on physical silicon architecture and microprocessor design. Microprocessors and interconnect logic form the essential foundation of every modern digital system, dictating how safely, efficiently, and dependably our technological infrastructure functions. As an aspiring computer hardware engineer, I am fascinated by digital logic design, hardware verification, and system architecture because these technical disciplines directly determine the performance and reliability of the computing devices that society depends on every single day. Overcoming personal adversity has been a defining part of my academic journey and a primary driver behind my professional growth. Navigating a rigorous electrical engineering curriculum while simultaneously holding down steady employment as a lifeguard at ASU tested my physical and mental limits in ways traditional classroom lectures never could. Balancing demanding work shifts alongside upper-division engineering labs, heavy coursework, and complex project deadlines required an intense level of discipline, personal sacrifice, and strict time management. Pushing through those relentless schedules taught me how to perform effectively under high stress while maintaining a 3.87 GPA across challenging technical coursework. As a Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF) Scholar, this lived experience reinforced my belief that personal hardship is not a barrier to success, but a necessary training ground for building the grit, technical adaptability, and leadership needed to stand out in competitive engineering fields. That same resilience directly enabled me to overcome steep competition and secure a position as a Hardware Verification Intern at Arm. Landing a role at a world-leading semiconductor company required channeling the discipline I developed through my daily struggles into rigorous technical interview preparation and advanced digital logic mastery. Currently at Arm, I am actively leveraging that opportunity to make a tangible impact in the field of hardware engineering. Working specifically on Arm’s Coherent Mesh Network (CMN)—the critical interconnect architecture that manages high-speed data flow and memory coherency across processing cores—I am applying advanced verification methodologies to catch complex logic bugs before silicon production. Unlike software defects, hardware logic flaws cannot be patched post-production once physical silicon has been manufactured. My work on CMN is giving me practical, real-world experience in ensuring that cloud computing, data centers, and next-generation processing systems remain completely stable, reliable, and trustworthy under heavy real-world workloads. Receiving the Emerging Leaders in STEM Scholarship would directly support my academic journey, allowing me to fully dedicate my energy toward completing my electrical engineering degree and preparing for a long-term engineering career. Through academic excellence, technical discipline, and proven personal resilience, I intend to lead by example, advocate for increased representation, and demonstrate the meaningful impact that underrepresented minority engineers bring to the future of technology.

Every modern convenience, medical advance, and global communication network relies on a technological foundation that most people never see: microprocessors and integrated electronic hardware. As digital devices become an indispensable part of daily survival and infrastructure, the demand for reliable, efficient, and thoroughly verified hardware design is greater than ever before. My goal as an aspiring computer hardware engineer is to make a meaningful, positive impact on society by helping design and verify the critical hardware components that these essential everyday systems depend on. Engineers carry a profound ethical and technical responsibility because logic defects at the hardware level directly impact real-world functionality. Unlike software bugs, which can often be patched remotely after release, a fundamental design flaw embedded in silicon can lead to corrupted data, frozen interfaces on medical diagnostic equipment, or dropped signals across emergency communication networks. Gaining hands-on experience as a Hardware Verification Intern at Arm while pursuing my electrical engineering degree at Arizona State University has given me a practical look into this reality. Through my work, I have learned that hardware verification is where technical rigor directly intersects with public responsibility. Catching subtle logic bugs and edge-case errors early in the development cycle ensures that microprocessors operate smoothly under heavy workloads, preventing system instability and ensuring that technology performs predictably when people need it most. My drive to use engineering for the public good is also deeply rooted in my community involvement and family values. For the past seven years, I have volunteered with Produce On Wheels Without Waste (POWWOW) through Borderlands Produce Rescue, helping distribute fresh food to local families and streamlining distribution logistics to reduce wait times. That experience taught me that solving real-world challenges requires pairing analytical problem-solving with genuine compassion. Furthermore, watching my mother earn her master’s degree in nursing while raising three children showed me that meaningful work is ultimately about improving the lives of others, no matter your chosen profession. As I progress into my engineering career, I plan to apply these values to build microprocessors that make computing more reliable, energy-efficient, and accessible for critical industries like healthcare, logistics, and power distribution. To prepare myself for this future impact, I maintain a 3.87 GPA in electrical engineering while working to help finance my education and living expenses. Balancing rigorous coursework, industry internship experience, and consistent community service has strengthened my work ethic and reinforced my commitment to using my education for a purpose greater than myself. Engineers do not just keep our world running—they shape how smoothly, safely, and reliably it functions for everyone. Receiving the Teaching Technicians Scholarship would directly support my education as I work toward becoming a full-time hardware engineer dedicated to developing dependable technology. My long-term goal is to ensure that as our society grows increasingly computerized, the hardware underneath it remains something people can unconditionally trust to keep using.

My love for EDM started a lot earlier than ever stepping foot into a festival/rave crowd. It all started with my big brother, who is a house-head introduced me to this style of music when I was just 12. I remember sitting in his room playing hits from Calippo, Don Diablo, and Daft Punk as if it were yesterday. I was so intrigued by this style of music, which I had never heard on the radio before, it was invigorating. I quickly picked up how the music builds, how it flows, and how it makes me feel to this day. From that point on, I made a SoundCloud account and have become a part of who I am today. Through middle and high school, I explored all the different genres of EDM using chill house to study, listening to dubstep in the gym, to listening to techno while I game, EDM was my escape and my energy. There was always a genre to fit my mood or whatever task I was doing. I did not just listen to the music, I felt like I was connecting with the music, helping me focus and giving me motivation. Even though I had not been to a rave/festival yet, I felt like I was already part of the EDM community. This past December, I went to my first full-on festival: Decadence Arizona with a couple of my friends. It was a surreal event to happen for me, from walking into the venue, it all hit me at once, seeing how far I have come with EDM being there for every part of my life. I was no longer listening from a distance. I was finally immersed in the music I have grown to love so much, surrounded by thousands who share that same love. This feeling made me remember the times I had spent with my brother listening to music and how I turned his passion into mine. Decadence was where I witnessed firsthand what PLUR really meant. It was not just a slogan that was being embraced, but it was the power of the community to come together being built on mutual care, respect, and joy. It was an unspoken code that everyone was following, where people were looking out for one another, spreading all the good energy. EDM is not just music to me anymore, it is memories, connections, and identity. The nights at Decandece were more than just a fun New Year's concert for me. It was a full-circle journey for me that reminded me of how deeply music can shape who you are. It made me realize that I want to keep building spaces through my perspective degree and in life, combining the works and joys in life. I want others to experience that same feeling I felt during that festival and to embrace every experience along the way.

With firsthand experience in growing up in an underrepresented community, I saw that the lack of access to things like technology, resources, mentors, and opportunities could determine someone's future. This has helped shape my academic path and my commitment to making a difference, starting in my community. Before committing to college, I found purpose in helping others, where I started volunteering at local food banks, helped organize community cleanup events, and committed as a volunteer for Produce on Wheels without waste. While all these actions may seem small, they have helped me realize how powerful community service can be and how grateful the community is. People can come together with a shared purpose, and even basic resources like food and clothing help restore dignity and hope. This has been an ongoing experience for me that I will continue throughout my time in college and hopefully time after that. These experiences have grounded my values while influencing how I see my bright future as an electrical engineer. I believe technology is not just about innovation, it is also about access. With my degree, I want to help the underrepresented by finding solutions that improve lives, especially in the under-resourced communities. With projects like low-cost solar power systems, affordable computing tech, or even infrastructure that helps people live a safer and more sustainable life. My goal is to interconnect technology and community so that I am able to give back to my community. Here is a plan I have shaped to reach my goal and leave a long-term impact: 1. Continue my volunteering efforts - I want to keep participating in events to help the immediate needs of my community. Which includes things like food drives, resource distributions, and POWWOW. 2. Use my engineering degree to address real needs- With my degree in hand, I have many projects I want to create that will bring more resources to limited areas. 3. Take an Initiative- I want to build a community-based organization where I can hopefully inspire the youth to learn more about community engagement and even more about basic electronics with hands-on projects. The goal is to show them that even with limited resources, there should be nothing stopping them from creating their own resources to be shared and used by all. 4. Inspire Others with Representation- Being a Latino in STEM, I represent a small group of people. I want to be the person that others can turn to and offer guidance and help, not only through speeches but by showing up, working hard, and staying connected. The Mark Green Memorial Scholarship deeply resonates with me because Mr. Green has many of the same values that I want to hold: perseverance, service, and belief in the power of education. I aim to overcome adversity not just for myself, but for those who come after me. This scholarship would be an honor to get, which would not just support my education but would also fuel my commitment to build something greater for everyone else.

My journey into the world of technology began with a spark of curiosity for how unique every computer can be, as I was inspired by my brother building his own computer. He inspired me to do the same, as he told me it was a great way to learn and build something great. I wanted to build something of my own. Something that reflected my needs, my interests, and my growing curiosity about how the digital world actually works. I was drawn in by the idea that behind every custom build was a different combination of parts and potential. At the time, I wanted a computer that could handle both schoolwork and gaming. As I researched everything there is to know about building computers, I started to understand how every piece of hardware fits together: the CPU being the brain, the motherboard as the backbone, the GPU giving visuals, and how power and data link everything together. Picking the parts was like hardest as there is a large array to choose from, it was hard to pick parts that both performed well and had great aesthetics. I spent hours learning about voltages, socket compatibility, RAM speeds, airflow, and BIOS settings. It quickly became a backbone for my passion in wanting to work with tech in the future. When I finally assembled the PC and saw it boot up successfully, something clicked. I wasn’t just using technology anymore, I was building it. From this point on, I knew this was only the beginning for me. This experience was the spark that led me to major in electrical engineering so that I could dive even deeper to understand things like signals, the physics of electronics, and how systems are built from the ground up. Since then, I’ve worked on projects like simulating a solar panel power meter — a tool that measures voltage, current, and power output using microcontrollers and sensors. That project, like my first build, required careful planning, creative problem-solving, and a relentless curiosity. It also reminded me that engineering isn’t just about making things work; it’s about making things better. Technology has inspired me because it is so abundant, and there is so much to learn from it. It rewards exploration, experimentation, and bold thinking. From the tiniest circuit to the largest network, there’s always something new to discover. I want to be part of that future, not just creating for myself, but designing for real impact, whether it’s through energy systems, computing hardware, or accessible tools for underserved communities. Coming from a background where money was tight, I didn’t always have access to the newest devices or resources, but I had the drive to figure things out anyway. Scholarships like the Chadwick D. McNab Scholarship make it possible for students like me to continue chasing that passion without financial roadblocks. Mr. McNab’s dedication to both technological excellence and mentorship is something I deeply admire. Like him, I hope to use my skills to not only innovate, but to uplift — by helping others build, learn, and grow through tech. What began as a fascination with one computer has become a lifelong journey fueled by curiosity and passion for me.

\From an early age, I have been fascinated by technology and how it shapes the world. Growing up, I was the one fixing devices at home, eager to understand how they worked. This curiosity led me to build my own computer as a kid, deepening my understanding of hardware and sparking my passion for engineering. This experience set the foundation for my pursuit of a degree in Computer Engineering, where I am particularly interested in embedded systems and hardware design. I want to develop innovative technologies that enhance daily life and create sustainable solutions, especially in renewable energy. One of my most impactful projects is designing an automated solar panel power meter. In my Electrical and Electronics Engineering (EEE) lab, I collaborated with peers to develop a portable tool that displays solar panel voltage, current, and power readings on an LCD screen. This project reinforced my passion for engineering and challenged me technically. I built and simulated the device in Tinkercad, troubleshooting issues to ensure functionality. However, when constructing the physical prototype, I faced difficulties with the LCD component, which initially worked in simulation but failed in practice. Through persistence and problem-solving, my team and I improved our design, teaching me adaptability and perseverance. Beyond academics, I cultivate personal growth through powerlifting. Training five to six days a week to improve my squat, bench press, and deadlift has instilled in me a strong work ethic and resilience. Strength sports have shown me that progress comes from consistent effort, a mindset I apply to my studies and engineering projects. Powerlifting has also taught me to push through challenges, whether in the gym or the classroom, and maintain focus on long-term goals. Despite my dedication to STEM, my journey has not been without challenges. As a minority student in engineering, I have sometimes felt underrepresented. However, instead of letting this discourage me, I have used it as motivation to excel and inspire others who may feel the same way. I am committed to breaking barriers and demonstrating that diversity strengthens innovation. I hope to mentor aspiring engineers, encouraging them to pursue their passions. Looking ahead, I aim to make a lasting impact in renewable energy and sustainable technology. With climate change being one of the most pressing issues, I want to develop efficient energy solutions that make clean power more accessible. By leveraging my background in computer engineering, I hope to design intelligent energy systems that optimize efficiency and usability for consumers and industries. My goal is to contribute to advancements in solar energy technology, ensuring that sustainable solutions become the norm. This scholarship would provide the financial support necessary to continue my education and further develop my skills. It would allow me to focus on my studies, pursue research opportunities, and take on more ambitious projects that align with my vision for the future. More than just financial aid, receiving this scholarship would validate my aspirations and reinforce my commitment to meaningful change. To me, engineering is more than just a field of study—it is a way to create, innovate, and solve problems that impact society. Through my education and experiences, I hope to contribute to a future where technology enhances lives while preserving our planet. I am determined to be part of the next generation of engineers who drive positive change, and with this scholarship, I will be one step closer to achieving that goal.

My name is Andres Jesus Montaño, and I am an undergraduate student at Arizona State University, pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering. Beyond academics, I have dedicated myself to powerlifting, a sport that has significantly shaped my discipline, work ethic, and ability to push beyond my perceived limits. The commitment required for powerlifting parallels my approach to education—both demand consistency, resilience, and a relentless drive to improve. Family has always been the foundation of my life. I come from a supportive and close-knit family that has guided me through every challenge, always encouraging me to pursue my goals with determination. Our bond is strong, and I visit home often because their support means everything to me. They have instilled in me the values of hard work, perseverance, and the importance of giving back to others. While I currently support myself through work and school, knowing my family is there for me emotionally and morally has helped me stay motivated even during difficult times. My educational journey has been defined by my ambition to succeed despite challenges. I have consistently challenged myself academically, earning a place on the Dean’s List and Principal’s List throughout my high school and college years. I developed a strong passion for problem-solving and innovation while participating in CRUSH Robotics, where I collaborated with a team to design and build competition-ready robots. This experience strengthened my teamwork and leadership skills while reinforcing my passion for engineering. Beyond academics and athletics, I have been deeply involved in community service, which has shaped my understanding of leadership and responsibility. I have volunteered at Borderlands Produce Rescue, helping distribute fresh produce to families in need, as well as at a local soup kitchen, where I assisted in providing meals to those experiencing homelessness. Additionally, I participated in the Tucson Meet Yourself annual event, helping organize and support cultural engagement activities. Through these experiences, I have witnessed firsthand the struggles many people face and the impact that collective efforts can have on improving lives. These moments have been humbling, reminding me of the importance of serving others and reinforcing my commitment to making a difference in my community. Powerlifting has also played a crucial role in my personal growth. The sport has taught me how to set goals, stay disciplined, and remain mentally strong under pressure. Just as I push myself to lift heavier and improve my performance, I apply the same mindset to my education and personal development. The lessons I have learned in powerlifting—patience, resilience, and consistency—are the same qualities that will help me succeed as an engineer. Looking ahead, my future plans include completing my degree in Electrical Engineering and pursuing a career where I can contribute to technological advancements that improve everyday life. I hope to work on projects that integrate engineering with public safety, transportation efficiency, or infrastructure improvements. Additionally, I plan to continue competing in powerlifting, as it has become more than just a sport for me—it is a lifestyle that challenges me both physically and mentally. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to continue excelling in both my academic and athletic pursuits while honoring the legacy of Stephan Laurence Wolley. His values of family, faith, and competition deeply resonate with me, and I would be honored to carry his memory forward through my commitment to my education, sport, and community. By pursuing my goals with determination and giving back to those in need, I hope to embody the same spirit of ambition, drive, and impact that this scholarship seeks to support.

My name is Andres Jesus Montaño, and I am an undergraduate student at Arizona State University pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering. My passion for engineering comes from my love for problem-solving and innovation, particularly in using technology to create safer, more efficient communities. While my field of study is not directly in civil engineering or city planning, I believe electrical engineering plays a crucial role in improving road safety through advancements in smart infrastructure, traffic management systems, and vehicle-to-pedestrian communication technology. Although I am not a competitive cyclist, I have always valued outdoor activities and understand the importance of safe and accessible roadways for pedestrians and cyclists alike. Having grown up in Tucson, a city known for its cycling community, I have seen both the benefits and dangers of road-sharing. I have witnessed close calls between vehicles and cyclists and have heard stories of tragic accidents that could have been prevented with better infrastructure and awareness. These experiences have shaped my perspective on the importance of road safety and motivated me to advocate for improvements that protect all road users. Through my education in electrical engineering, I hope to contribute to advancements in smart traffic systems that enhance cyclist and pedestrian safety. Technology has the potential to revolutionize road safety, whether through improved traffic light sensors that detect cyclists, smart road lighting that increases visibility, or better integration of bike lanes into real-time traffic monitoring systems. As vehicles continue to evolve with autonomous features, I also see a need for stronger communication between cars and cyclists through connected technology, reducing collisions caused by human error. My community involvement has reinforced my desire to create meaningful change. Through volunteering at Borderlands Produce Rescue and a local soup kitchen, I have seen how underserved communities are often the most affected by a lack of safe infrastructure. Many rely on cycling and walking as their primary means of transportation, yet they face the greatest risks on the road. Ensuring that roadways are designed with these individuals in mind is not just about convenience—it is about equity and safety. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to continue pursuing my degree while staying involved in efforts to improve road safety through engineering and technology. I want to honor Rob Dollar’s legacy by contributing to a future where cyclists and pedestrians are no longer at risk due to preventable accidents. By combining my technical skills with my commitment to community well-being, I hope to be part of the solution that makes our roads safer for everyone.

My name is Andres Jesus Montaño, and I am an undergraduate student at Arizona State University, pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering. I have always been fascinated by how technology can solve real-world problems, which led me to participate in CRUSH Robotics in high school, where I collaborated with a team to design and build robots for competitions. Through this experience, I developed problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership skills, and my passion for engineering grew stronger. This passion has driven me to pursue a career in electrical engineering, where I can contribute to creating innovative solutions for my community and the world. Outside of academics, I am deeply committed to serving others. Volunteering has been a significant part of my life and has shaped my understanding of community and service. I have volunteered at Borderlands Produce Rescue, where I assisted in distributing fresh produce to families in need. By helping combat food insecurity, I saw firsthand how community-driven efforts can have a direct and meaningful impact on the lives of those struggling to make ends meet. Through this role, I also learned about the importance of collaboration and efficient use of resources, skills I aim to carry into my professional life. Additionally, I have been involved in serving meals at a local soup kitchen, providing food to individuals experiencing homelessness. These experiences taught me empathy and the importance of addressing immediate needs while working toward long-term solutions for poverty and housing insecurity. I also volunteered at the Tucson "Meet Yourself" annual event, where I assisted in organizing and supporting cultural engagement activities, promoting understanding and celebration of diversity in our community. These volunteer experiences have been meaningful because they have allowed me to contribute directly to addressing issues such as hunger, poverty, and homelessness. They have also broadened my perspective, helping me understand the challenges faced by underserved communities. Through these efforts, I have developed a deeper sense of responsibility and a stronger commitment to using my skills and education to create positive change. Pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering at ASU is an important step toward achieving my goal of becoming an engineer who can develop solutions for pressing challenges. However, the financial challenges of funding my education are a constant concern. This scholarship would significantly ease that burden, allowing me to focus on my studies, continue to make an impact through volunteer work, and ultimately use my education to benefit others. I am driven, ambitious, and committed to making a difference, and I would be honored to be considered for this scholarship.

Joining the military is a profound commitment that I believe embodies my core values while extending beyond personal ambition. For me, serving in the military embodies the ultimate act of putting other's needs before my own. Military service represents the uttermost sacrifice and dedication. It is giving yourself up and willingly facing extreme hardships and dangers to safeguard the liberties, values, and lives we cherish. This should not be something given to you but something earned and defended. As many people poach the very thing others are laying their lives down for. I see this as unfair and cruel that these various people believe they deserve the liberty of living in a world of freedom. This act of service is not only about defending from external threats but also upholding the very principles used to get where we are today which include democracy, justice, and human rights. By being part of something greater than oneself, and contributing to the legacy of what our ancestors built, we then will have earned the right to freedom and peace. There will be times to protect our country which is a responsibility that comes with immense honor and gravity. Being there to bring light upon our nation's sovereignty by acting as a sentinel, ensuring that the sacrifices of others were not in vain. I feel that many people have lost the very values that define us as a nation and why so many come to the US for refuge. I want to deepen my connection in this field to ensure that we as a country do not make the mistake of losing our nation's dignity through our own foolishness. My motivation to join the military is rooted in my personal beliefs, a profound sense of duty, and a desire to give back to those who are willing to sacrifice so much knowing that many will not even bat an eye toward them. I also want to give back for the opportunities and freedoms that I have been blessed with through this country. I have been inspired by many stories, movies, and conversations of valor and dedication by our service members. Their courage and resilience in the face of adversity serve as a beacon, guiding me along the same path they have chosen. Moreover, the military offers unique ways for growth and personal development. From rigorous training, discipline, and camaraderie fostered within the forces create everlasting bonds that are unparalleled anywhere else bonds are made. Not only does it offer personal growth but it cultivates leadership, teamwork, and perseverance, which are all qualities that can be used in every aspect of life. I am not set and stone yet on this decision and I want to finish my college degree first and see where I end up then. But I will never overlook the fact of what the military has to offer and it is a viable option that I am looking at when the time comes. I will never forget those who have given everything for this country and the many blessings this country has offered me. Those who serve I could not thank enough for this opportunity of a lifetime. Thank you!

Growing up as a Hispanic student, it has always been a goal to set out for further education. I have faced unique adversities where I feel I have no one to relate to. While looking at what some of my peers receive in support and the resources tailored for first-generation students, I found myself in a challenging spot as I am not a first-generation student. My mother was able to attend college and get her master's degree, which paradoxically disqualified me from many financial aid opportunities designed for first-generation only college students. I would never wish that my mother did not get her degree as I aspire to be like her one day, by being able to endure the hardships I face today and rise on top like my mother has done. This lack of targeted support often makes me feel overlooked and isolated, despite the fact that I face many of the similar challenges of first-generation students. Despite my mother's degree. our family's financial situation did not shift as much and remained modest as she is still in debt trying to pay off school and fend for the rest of the family. We continue to face financial constraints. This reality means that I do not fit the criteria of first-gen support, where I still need significant financial assistance to help cover the ever-rising cost of higher education. The disparity between my needs and the available financial aid has created a challenging and stressful environment as I prepare for my second year. To try and overcome this adversity, I started working in high school my junior year, saving every last penny to put towards school. I should have started working sooner but even then it still would have not been enough to cover the cost. I have also been as resourceful and proactive as I can be by applying for numerous scholarships that were not restricted by first-gen status, often competing in broader and more competitive pools. Last year, my schedule was so demanding that I had 3 or 4 classes each day, along with hours of homework every night, leaving me with no time to rest. This year, I will maintain the same rigorous schedule while also working part-time to make ends meet. This financial challenge shaped me in several ways. It has taught me resilience and the importance of perseverance. I have learned an understanding of financial planning and resource management to navigate this complex ongoing problem. This experience has also given light to the inequalities within the support system available to students. It has given me a passion for advocating for more inclusive financial aid policies that will consider the more diverse and unique realities of all students, not those who fit specific categories. My advice for someone facing the same thing as me is to stay persistent and thorough in seeking out the right opportunities. Do not be discouraged by what lies ahead or by the lack of immediate support. Working part-time will help to alleviate this financial adversity, so seek out jobs that offer flexibility and a constant line of work. Utilize every available resource, from counselors to scholarship databases.

Building my personal computer was a project that helped kick-start a significant milestone in my journey toward a career in technology. From a young age, I was fascinated by technology as I aspired to be like my big brother who was able to take on bigger projects I looked up to him and this curiosity naturally extended to computers for me as I watched him build his own. The idea of putting together my PC at first sounded like a daunting task but I gradually did more research and watched many YouTube videos it seemed like the perfect fit to merge my interest in tech and hands-on work. The project started with a vast amount of learning through research and YouTube videos which helped me learn the ins and outs of every part of a computer and the complex functions of computers. This phase of the project taught me the importance of thorough research and planning, as choosing the right components was crucial for the performance and compatibility of the system. After gathering all the necessary parts by saving birthday money and receiving some parts from Christmas and my birthdays, I began the building process. This was the most exciting stage as well as the most nerve-racking as I did not want to mess up anything given how expensive parts can be. I carefully went through each step of the process, ensuring each component was correctly installed and securely connected. My least favorite part was managing all the wires as I did not expect there to be so many all while having them shoved into the cramped space in the back of the computer which demanded lots of attention and detail. This hands-on experience was incredibly rewarding especially when I clicked the start button for the first time and saw the computer light up. I was able to look back and see my progress in real-time. It reinforced the importance of precision and attention to every detail in a project like this. Building my own computer not only helped solidify my passion for technology but also was a stepping stone to delve deeper into the field of electrical engineering. The process of transforming singular pieces into a cohesive unit mirrored the larger picture of technology as a whole. The skills I gained from taking on this project such as critical thinking, hands-on technical skills, and problem-solving have been valuable in my academic career and professional pursuits as I use them in some of the courses I take in college such as circuits and logic design, as well as a robotics club.

Hispanics are a significantly underrepresented group in many higher-level education careers. Additionally, Hispanics, as people of color, face similar pressing issues as the Black community. I have been drawn to engineering as a career path because it allows me to apply my critical problem-solving skills while using creativity to develop innovative ways to help improve people's lives. Electrical engineering offers the perfect opportunity for building theoretical knowledge and hands-on work, which aligns with my passion for working with computers and my strengths of innovation and problem-solving. So far, I have been able to participate in several hands-on engineering opportunities. The notable experience was my time on my high school robotics team which helped drive my passion for engineering while giving me a base to develop my engineering skills in planning, 3D modeling, designing, and testing. This experience involved mechanical engineering, electronics, and programming, which taught me just how much engineering is team-oriented where different disciplines come together to create a functionally complete system. Every year I did robotics there was always a new challenge or project we worked on which taught me how to integrate older ideas and turn them into something new through skills of integration, troubleshooting, and working effectively with others to reach the common goal. During my last year on the team, we were to design a robot that could shoot hoops and climb monkey bars. This project proved to be the most challenging for me, as I took on a leadership role and was responsible for ensuring our robot was built on time for the competition. Through this experience, I learned how to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines. My hands-on experiences have helped play a major factor in reinforcing my decision to pursue an engineering degree and career. They have provided me with the common knowledge and skills that I will be able to apply in college and later in the future. As well as giving me an insight into the industry and what is to be expected when working on projects, working with others, and how to accommodate for uncertainty or mistakes. The best takeaway from these experiences was the sense of accomplishment that motivates me to keep pushing forward with an electrical engineering degree and to find more hands-on experiences to participate in. My experiences so far have not been part of my co-op engineering program but have led me up to the point where I am now. They have helped shape my plans and goals that I want to me in college as well and put me on the right path of finding a career that fits my skills and passions.

I am pursuing my passion in electrical engineering with a focus on computer hardware engineering. As for school, I plan to do a 4+1 program which allows me to take graduate-level classes during my undergraduate time in school so that I only need one extra year to get a master's degree. During the summer, I plan to take part in internships to decide what I like best and find the exact thing I want to pursue after college. I also intend to join the military after college, using my degree to its fullest extent in the military as an electrical engineer in the Air Force where I could use my skills working on computer systems. When it comes to meeting each one of these goals, I will tackle them one at a time, putting my full attention and effort into them. Through careful planning and meeting smaller goals along the way, I will be able to achieve each and every one of my objectives. I want to make the most of my time in college and do not plan to stay more than needed, so I will keep moving forward as I have in my first year of college with most nights spent in the library completing homework or studying, leaving the weekends for free time. By being able to focus on one thing at a time, I am able to achieve the grades I want in each class without having to compromise my social life or personal downtime by leaving the weekends open. As for summer internships, I want to find an internship for my sophomore summer, junior year summer, and possibly another after my senior year if I have not found something I can fully commit to by then. I intend to pick up ones that can also support me with paying for school while also having a job during the summer. I want to use this time to really focus on the things I like to get a feel for a career after college while also gaining useful insight and experience in the engineering field of work. In addition to my academic and career aspirations, I am deeply committed to community service, which aligns with my desire to contribute positively to society. Volunteering with organizations such as Produce On Wheels Without Waste (POWWOW) and working at a local soup kitchen have reinforced my understanding of the importance of giving back. These experiences have not only allowed me to make a tangible impact on my community but also instilled in me a sense of responsibility to use my skills and education for the greater good. By balancing my academic pursuits, career planning, and community involvement, I am confident in my ability to achieve my goals. Each step I take is meticulously planned to ensure that I am making the most of my opportunities and preparing myself for a successful future in electrical engineering, whether in the private sector or serving in the Air Force. This holistic approach to my education and career will allow me to excel in my field while making meaningful contributions to society.

Through determination, respect, innovation, versatility, equality, and nurture, I have strived to rise above challenges and work towards some of my dreams. Through personal experiences with these values, I have furthered my understanding of working hard and creating great relationships with others. Determination has been a driving force in my life, pushing me forward throughout high school and some of my hobbies like soccer and working out. I’m the gym determination is one of the keys to success. I have failed many times in the gym struggling to find my way through some workouts but with consistency and determination, I can keep pushing forward no matter how hard each exercise may be. Respect is an essential core value that I consistently uphold with others. During my senior year of English, we had lots of group projects where respect played a major role, from actively listening to others' thoughts and ideas to taking everyone's diverse perspectives into account and encouraging each other to find mutual ground. Having an atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable and respected helped drive up are teamwork to complete the projects. By having respect for others I can be collaborative and gain from others. Innovation has been instrumental in overcoming many obstacles that I faced when I was a part of my school's robotics team. My team was set with the challenge of designing and building a robot that could work in a team of robots to complete a set of events in the FIRST competition. We faced many setbacks from the robot not matching the design or in some cases not having the necessary funds to keep building. With little time during the build season, we took different approaches to keep moving forward. With little money to get the right parts, we had to improvise and go with cheaper and a little more scarier methods. Nothing stopped us from competing and with innovation we were able to compete in Denver Colorado with our robot. This experience taught me the power of thinking outside the box and challenging conventional methods to achieve breakthroughs. Versatility has led me to open up and try lots of new things in my personal life and academics from volunteering for a food bank, staying in shape by going to the gym and participating in my school's sports, and joining my school's Congressional Award program. By being able to take part in so many different extracurricular activities it has allowed me to adapt to different roles and take on responsibilities effectively. Whether it was leading my soccer team, learning new social skills by volunteering with others or adapting to various environments. My versatility has helped me to thrive in diverse settings and to build bridges across my boundaries. Equality is very important to me. I engage in activities that contribute to a more inclusive society. I aim for a goal where everyone can feel welcomed and included. I am currently a lifeguard and at my pool, it is accessible for people with disabilities I helped fight to make it more accessible by getting a ramp installed into the pool as well as a motorized chair that helps people get in and out of the pool. I strive to create a more just and equitable environment for everyone. Nurturing, for individuals and the environment, is something I take pride in. I have volunteered to create new ponds and gardens around my city to help the wildlife strive. Through these opportunities Through these endeavors, I seek to make a positive impact on the lives of others and contribute to the preservation of our planet.