My father has a saying, "Where there's beauty, there's hope." I first heard him utter these powerful words as we stood in front of Rhonda’s home, a known crack house, about to embark on a series of construction and beautification projects. I was filled with anxiety as I looked at the overwhelming amount of work ahead of our crew. Two days later, there were no more holes in the walls or doors hanging off hinges. Flower beds replaced the mounds of piling trash and animal feces. Rhonda still faced major challenges, but for the first time in her life, she verbalized hope for the future. Remembering my father's prophetic words, I stood speechless. That was an impressionable moment in my life, and it wouldn’t be the last. I grew up in a home rooted in hope-filled generosity where ‘love thy neighbor’ wasn’t just a phrase, but a way of life. Our home had a revolving door open to people from every walk of life, and our table always had room for one more. My hometown is growing rapidly, and the negative effects of gentrification are often invisible to those who aren’t connected to the marginalized. One might argue that crack houses and the like have no place in a clean-cut, well-manicured town like mine. Developers and city officials don’t know what to do with people like Rhonda. They can’t solve her drug abuse; they just need her off the property so they can level it and build luxury apartments. In the year following Rhonda’s home improvements, we became a support system for her as she sought employment, medical care, and social services. She and her children joined us for dinner and game nights. She started coming to church with us. It’s a complex story of victories and defeats that ultimately ended in our family fostering Rhonda’s children for nearly two years. Rhonda would never recover from her life of abuse, poverty, addiction, and crime, but her children would become like family to us, completing our family in ways we didn’t know we needed. I believe the most valuable resource known to man is time, and the good news is, we all have it. We may choose to use it however we want. While it is tempting to use this commodity to build a particular lifestyle, I have learned that the exhausting work of investing time into others pays off in immeasurable and unpredictable ways. Rhonda would return to her former life, but her daughter escaped the cycles of drugs and poverty and is now thriving. Rhonda and her family helped form my view of the world at an impressionable age. I learned to look beyond people’s circumstances and see their value. When I consider my future, I imagine a world where people overcome fear and choose to bring others into their lives; where we say yes to hard things that might interrupt our plans. At the end of our lives, it won’t matter how much money is in our bank accounts or how many items we checked off our bucket list. What will matter is how we use this incredible resource of time to make a lasting impact on others. I am grateful for my upbringing that instilled the value of costly service to others. It has propelled me to serve my community through more than 800 hours of service in my hometown, across my state, and in other countries. It is the lens through which I see my career ambitions and the totality of my life.

I am awkwardly timid. It starkly resembles a recent hike when I paused at the edge of a Texas Hill Country cliff, fully aware I was safe, yet strangely unable to take the next step. Timidity has been stubborn to shake, and still surfaces in certain situations, particularly when recognition is involved. I’ve never enjoyed accolades. They feel less like reward and more like a spotlight I don't know how to stand it. Over time, I’ve recognized this as classic insecurity. Perhaps it stems from maturing through the awkward teenage years, tardily growing into my six-foot-two-inch frame, or having an older brother who is an assiduous overachiever. Whatever the source, I am beginning to see how, in the end, insecurities help you grow and flourish. I’m grateful for the core people in my life who’ve encouraged me outside my comfort zone. My parents have unwaveringly perceived my potential (even when I couldn’t) and driven me to embrace new experiences. My music instructor identified my musical talent and encouraged me to perform in recitals. My instinctive reaction: “Perform? Spotlight? Hard pass.” But in the end, I found it difficult to deny someone I deeply respect, so I reluctantly agreed. The result was a deeper sense of enjoyment — and the ability to share that joy with others. My involvement in Civil Air Patrol has played a significant role in helping me overcome timidity. Though intimidating at first, the challenges and rigor pushed me beyond my comfort zone, developing valuable skills and moral character. It strengthened me through exposing my weaknesses. Over a span of five years, saying yes to leading drills, teaching aerospace lessons, emceeing ceremonies before hundreds of people, and even disciplining cadets prepared me for my current position as Squadron Cadet Commander. If I’d remained in the shadows, never taking risks, I wouldn’t have recognized my leadership qualities or missed out on pivotal opportunities for personal growth. Ultimately, my CAP experiences have ignited my passion for aerospace engineering and a military aviation career. During my junior year, my chemistry teacher, Mrs. Ashley — one of the people I respect most —urged me to apply for NASA High School Aerospace Scholars. Reluctantly, I took the leap. I found my footing and successfully led teams to design aircraft and complex systems. It was an environment I thrived in, one that expanded both my leadership skills and career ambitions. What I have learned is that weaknesses are essential for success. I now embrace them rather than letting them hinder my capabilities. I’ve learned that my community is absolutely crucial. They are my greatest asset, as they’ve proven to be honest and trustworthy sources of wisdom. Finally, I’ve learned that I will only grow to the level at which I am willing to take risks. So while timidity is still a natural aspect of my personality, I no longer allow it to impede my potential.

My father has a saying, "Where there's beauty, there's hope." I first heard him utter these powerful words as we stood in front of a crack house, about to embark on a series of construction and beautification projects. I was filled with anxiety as I looked at the overwhelming amount of work ahead of us. Two days later, there were no more holes in the walls or doors hanging off hinges. Flower beds replaced the mounds of piling trash and animal feces. The homeowner still faced challenges, but for the first time in her life, she verbalized hope for the future. Remembering my father's prophetic words, I stood speechless. This is one of many examples of his leadership that has inspired me to live a life committed to service over self. In 1993, my father joined the Air Force ROTC program at the University of Texas at Austin. He graduated with a BBA and was commissioned into the United States Air Force in 1997. He selected B-52 bombers as his major weapon systems. After 9-11, he deployed to fight in the Global War on Terrorism. While in the service, my father became a Christian and completed his MDiv. This was the turning point in his career. He resigned his commission in 2008 and moved back to Austin to start a church. While church planting isn't a traditional for-profit entrepreneurial endeavor, his vision and leadership built a thriving church. In 2008, he gathered a core team of 18 people who began meeting in our living room. One year later, he launched a church with 75 members. Today, we are a family of 250 and a pillar of hope in our community. Church planting success isn't measured in financial terms. Growth in church planting looks like saved marriages, food for the hungry, safe homes for foster children, conquered addictions, funded adoptions, and global humanitarian work. It's work that doesn't have fixed hours or weekends off. I've witnessed my dad labor tirelessly, often thanklessly, as he pours into the lives of others. My father lives his faith unapologetically, which inspires others to do the same. His commitment to God, country, and community has taught me the meaning of sacrifice. He could've chosen to rise in military rank and retire early, but instead took a literal leap of faith and embraced the uncertainty of church planting, where 50% of churches fail in the first five years. As a result of his military career, my father lives with 70% disability. His attitude is remarkable, exhibiting his perspective on life. He does not grasp tightly to anything, but is willing to give whatever he possesses to anyone who has need. He sets a tone of quiet humility in our home; an appreciation for what we have and a desire to steward life well. In a peculiar way, my father’s humble yet strong leadership has become part of my own identity. He has influenced my leadership roles, and I credit his constant encouragement for each accomplishment and award I’ve received. His stories of participation in Operation Enduring Freedom inspired me to pursue a career in aerospace engineering and military aviation. I know my career aspirations will come with challenges, but I have my dad's example and wisdom to guide me through. My father has personified what it means to be a real man, one who leads through service and sacrifice. He has provided me with a stable foundation to learn, develop, make mistakes, and grow. He lives a life of integrity, infusing hope wherever he stands—exactly the kind of man I strive to become.

My father has a saying, "Where there's beauty, there's hope." I first heard him utter these powerful words as we stood in front of a crack house, about to embark on a series of construction and beautification projects. I was filled with anxiety as I looked at the overwhelming amount of work ahead of our church volunteer crew. Two days later, there were no more holes in the walls or doors hanging off hinges. Flower beds replaced the mounds of piling trash and animal feces. The homeowner still faced major challenges, but for the first time in her life, she verbalized hope for the future. Remembering my father's prophetic words, I stood speechless. That was an impressionable moment in my life, and it wouldn’t be the last. I grew up in a home rooted in hope-filled generosity where ‘love thy neighbor’ wasn’t just a biblical phrase, but a way of life. Whether delivering Valentine’s Day flowers to widows or making Christmas cards for nursing home residents, serving wasn’t an occasional project; it was our family's DNA. Many school days ended at my mom’s nonprofit, packaging food bags before delivering them to families in our town. I would play in front yards with children I didn’t know while my mom visited with the parents. Often, we didn’t even speak the same language, but communicated through the universal languages of smiles, kindness, and soccer. My brothers and I were regularly exposed to people experiencing tremendous struggles. Our home had a revolving door open to people from every walk of life, and our table always had room for one more. At age six, we became a foster family of two children from a drug-ridden home. We often welcomed people experiencing homelessness into our home for showers, laundry, and meals. We heard their stories, punctuated with colorful language and details most parents would prefer to shield their children from. My parents taught us how to love with eyes wide open, to see people’s pain and get involved. We learned that Christianity often demands putting others before yourself and that a comfortable life probably means you aren’t helping anyone. Building on this foundation, I continued serving throughout high school in various contexts and places, completing 794 hours of community service. Every service opportunity, whether spontaneous or organized, has required a level of self-denial and sacrifice that has instilled in me a passion for others' well-being. This is the lens through which I see the next four years, my career ambitions, and the totality of my life. I have been a member of Civil Air Patrol for five years. An auxiliary of the United States Air Force, CAP specializes in emergency services. I am trained in disaster relief and search and rescue, which enables me to support communities and agencies across the nation, including FEMA, DHS, and the U.S. Coast Guard. As Squadron Cadet Commander, I lead the squadron's overall vision and am responsible for the training and mentorship of 62 cadets. My CAP experiences have further motivated me toward a career in service, particularly through aviation and search and rescue. I plan to attend Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, majoring in aerospace engineering. Upon completing my degree, I hope to earn a commission in the United States Coast Guard as a rotary-wing pilot, performing a range of maritime security and search-and-rescue missions. Post Coast Guard, I aspire to work for a leading producer of combat aircraft, rotorcraft, weaponry, and missile defense systems. I am eager for the opportunity to design, test, and manufacture aircraft and systems that ensure the United States military maintains unrivaled air superiority. I feel this is how I am gifted and would consider it a tremendous honor to to do my part in empowering our military to defend and protect. In closing, I am profoundly grateful that my parents instilled in me the Christian value of service over self. I have learned to hold my life and possessions with an open hand. This has influenced my ambition to become an aerospace engineer and a Coast Guard aviator, infusing hope wherever I am. (Regarding social media, I recently deleted my Instagram account because it's too much of a distraction.)

I grew up in a home rooted in service and generosity where ‘love thy neighbor’ wasn’t just a phrase, but a way of life. Whether delivering Valentine’s Day flowers to widows, making Christmas cards for the elderly, or fostering children, serving wasn’t an occasional project; it was our family's DNA. Our home had a revolving door open to people from every walk of life, and our table always had room for one more. This is the lens through which I view my life and career goals. It established my fundamental philosophy toward leadership–to be an effective leader, I must first be a humble servant. Many times, our family welcomed the homeless into our home for showers, laundry, and meals. Gathered around the dinner table, they would share their stories, often punctuated with colorful language and details that most parents would prefer to shield their children from. Rather than responding in judgment, we warmly invited them back. Trust was earned through genuine love that treated them according to their value and not their circumstances. Building on this foundation, I continued serving throughout high school in various contexts, completing 794 hours of community service in my hometown and beyond. I am a math tutor to second graders at my local elementary school and a weekly volunteer in my church through music, audiovisual ministries, and global humanitarian work. I've served my school as the Marine Biology intern and have distributed food and clothing to refugees at the Texas border through Val Verde Humanitarian Coalition. I have helped address food insecurity by assembling countless bags of food through School’s Out, Food’s In. Civil Air Patrol has been a driving force in my life since age twelve. I hold the highest cadet rank as Squadron Commander. I am responsible for the training and mentoring of 62 cadets. An official auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force, CAP specializes in emergency services. I am trained in disaster relief and search and rescue, enabling me to support agencies across the nation, including FEMA, DHS, and the Coast Guard. My leadership abilities have been recognized through the prestigious Billy Mitchell Award, presented to the top 15% of cadets nationwide. Additionally, I received the 2024 Air Force Sergeant Association Noncommissioned Officer Cadet of the Year Award and the Crisis Service Award. Leadership hasn't always come naturally to me. Timidity is a pattern of behavior I've found difficult to overcome. As a NASA High School Aerospace Scholar, I learned that I will only rise to the level I am willing to take risks. Despite my intimidation, I applied and was accepted into the program. The experience further developed my academic and leadership potential as I successfully led teams in the design, construction, and testing of aircraft and systems under the supervision of NASA mentors. I thrived in this environment, and it propelled my career aspirations. I will be attending Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University this fall, majoring in aerospace engineering. Flying, space, and the skies have been my lifelong passion. As a child, I was amazed at the grandeur of an aircraft, its speed, and its power to soar through the air. My father was a B-52 pilot in the United States Air Force. He inspired me through his stories of combat and participation in Operation Enduring Freedom. Upon completing my degree, I hope to earn a commission in the United States Coast Guard as a rotary-wing pilot. Post Coast Guard, I aspire to work for a leading producer of combat aircraft, rotorcraft, weaponry, and missile defense systems. I am eager for the opportunity to design, test, and manufacture aircraft and systems that ensure the United States military maintains unrivaled air superiority. I feel this is how I am gifted, and I would consider it a tremendous honor to contribute to my country’s defense in this unique capacity and do my part to empower our military to defend and protect. Whether as a college student, military officer, engineer, or husband and father, I will view my daily responsibilities and relationships through a lens of service, where my success is measured by my ability to help others reach their fullest potential.

Flying, space, and the skies have been my lifelong passion. As a child, I was amazed at the grandeur of an aircraft, its speed, and its power to soar through the air. The basic principles of flight utterly captivated me. My father was a B-52 pilot in the United States Air Force. His stories of combat and participation in Operation Enduring Freedom motivated me toward military aviation and a career in aerospace engineering. As I grew older, I eagerly took every STEM class I could. My ardor and appreciation for science, particularly aerospace, grew. In my junior year, I was selected to participate in the NASA High School Aerospace Scholars program. The rigor challenged me, and I discovered a deep interest in designing, building, and testing my own systems through coding, computer-aided design, and engineering. It was an authentic experience in which I developed skills under the guidance of NASA mentors and instructors. This, combined with my high school engineering courses, has solidified my dream of becoming an aerospace engineer. I have been passionately involved in Civil Air Patrol since age twelve. CAP, an auxiliary of the United States Air Force, specializes in emergency services. My training in disaster relief and search and rescue allows me to assist agencies such as FEMA, DHS, and the Coast Guard. I currently hold the highest cadet position as Squadron Cadet Commander. Being responsible for the training and mentorship of the squadron’s sixty-two cadets has propelled me even further toward becoming an officer and aviator in the United States Coast Guard. Civil Air Patrol has taught me invaluable virtues and provided leadership opportunities that have prepared me for my educational and career goals. My community involvement can be measured by my accumulated 794 service hours in my hometown, state, country, and overseas. I currently volunteer as a math tutor to second graders at my local elementary school. I served as an intern for my school’s Marine Biology class, assisting the teacher and students with weekly labs and assignments. I have distributed food and clothing to refugees at the Texas border through Val Verde Humanitarian Coalition. I have had the privilege of assembling countless bags of food for families through School’s Out, Food’s In of Dripping Springs. I’ve been involved with community building and mentoring at One Hope of Baltimore. I am very active in my church through children’s, youth, music, and audiovisual ministries. Every service opportunity has instilled in me a passion for others' well-being. This is the lens through which I see my life and future career ambitions. Upon completing my degree in aerospace engineering at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, I hope to earn a commission in the United States Coast Guard as a rotary-wing pilot. As an aerospace engineer, I will have a strong understanding of aircraft systems and aerodynamics, which will be highly valuable across a range of maritime security and search-and-rescue missions. Furthermore, as an officer, I will gain leadership experience that will benefit me in future endeavors as an engineer and a private citizen. Post Coast Guard, I aspire to work for a leading producer of combat aircraft, rotorcraft, weaponry, and missile defense systems. I am eager for the opportunity to design, test, and manufacture aircraft and systems that ensure the United States military maintains unrivaled air superiority. I feel this is how I am gifted and would consider it a tremendous honor to contribute to my country’s defense in this unique capacity. The knowledge and experiences gained through higher education will enable me to do my part in empowering our military to defend and protect.

Flying, space, and the skies have been my lifelong passion. As a child, I was amazed at the grandeur of an aircraft, its speed, and its power to soar through the air. The basic principles of flight utterly captivated me. My father was a B-52 pilot in the United States Air Force. His stories of combat and participation in Operation Enduring Freedom motivated me toward military aviation and a career in aerospace engineering. As I grew older, I eagerly took every STEM class I could. My ardor and appreciation for science, particularly aerospace, grew. In my junior year, I was selected to participate in the NASA High School Aerospace Scholars program. The rigor challenged me, and I discovered a deep interest in designing, building, and testing my own systems through coding, computer-aided design, and engineering. It was an authentic experience in which I developed skills through career-relevant projects under the guidance of NASA mentors and instructors. This, combined with my high school engineering courses and participation in Civil Air Patrol, has solidified my dream of becoming an aerospace engineer and military aviator. I have been passionately involved in Civil Air Patrol since age twelve. CAP, an auxiliary of the United States Air Force, specializes in emergency services. My training in disaster relief and search and rescue allows me to assist agencies such as FEMA, DHS, and the Coast Guard. I currently hold the highest cadet position as Squadron Cadet Commander. Being responsible for the training and mentorship of the squadron’s sixty-two cadets has propelled me even further toward becoming an officer and aviator in the United States Coast Guard. Civil Air Patrol has taught me invaluable virtues and provided leadership opportunities that have prepared me for my educational and career goals. Upon completing my degree, I hope to earn a commission in the United States Coast Guard as a rotary-wing pilot. As an aerospace engineer, I will have a strong understanding of aircraft systems and aerodynamics, which will be highly valuable across a range of maritime security and search-and-rescue missions. Furthermore, as an officer, I will gain leadership experience that will benefit me in future endeavors as an engineer and a private citizen. Post Coast Guard, I aspire to work for a leading producer of combat aircraft, rotorcraft, weaponry, and missile defense systems. I am eager for the opportunity to design, test, and manufacture aircraft and systems that ensure the United States military maintains unrivaled air superiority. I feel this is how I am gifted and would consider it a tremendous honor to contribute to my country’s defense in this unique capacity. The knowledge and experiences gained through higher education will enable me to do my part in empowering our military to defend and protect.

I grew up in a home rooted in service and generosity where ‘love thy neighbor’ wasn’t just a phrase, but a way of life. Whether delivering Valentine’s Day flowers to widows or making Christmas cards for nursing home residents, serving wasn’t an occasional project; it was our DNA. Many school days ended at my mom’s nonprofit, packaging food before delivering it to families in our town. I would play in front yards with children I didn’t know while my mom visited with the parents. Often, we didn’t even speak the same language, but communicated through the universal languages of smiles, kindness, and soccer. My brothers and I were regularly exposed to people experiencing tremendous struggles. At age six, we became a foster family of two children from a drug-ridden home. We often welcomed people experiencing homelessness into our home for showers, laundry, and meals. We heard their stories, punctuated with colorful language and details most parents would prefer to shield their children from. My parents taught us how to love with eyes wide open, to see people’s pain and get involved. We learned that service often demands putting others before yourself and that a comfortable life probably means you aren’t helping anyone. Building on this foundation, I continued serving throughout high school in various contexts and places, completing 794 hours of community service. My work includes math tutoring, local food distribution to those facing food insecurity, serving as a church musician and children’s ministry volunteer, distributing food and clothing to refugees at the Texas border, and community-building at One Hope of Baltimore. Last summer, I spent a week in La Ceiba, Honduras, volunteering at Niños de la Luz Home for Boys, an organization that provides a safe home for orphaned children whose parents passed away due to gang violence or struggles with substance addiction. The boys and I collaborated on construction projects, making necessary repairs to their facilities. We shared meals and played soccer. I assisted the teachers in the schoolhouse, connecting with the younger children through recreational activities. An important part of our initiative was training the boys to recognize their abilities and value, empowering them to return to their community as strong leaders who are capable of breaking the cycles of poverty and addiction. I have been passionately involved in Civil Air Patrol since age twelve. CAP, an auxiliary of the United States Air Force, specializes in emergency services. My training in disaster relief and search and rescue allows me to assist agencies such as FEMA, DHS, and the United States Coast Guard. I currently hold the highest cadet position, Squadron Commander, and am responsible for the training and mentorship of the squadron’s 62 cadets, ensuring they reach their potential as young leaders and emergency responders. Every service opportunity, whether spontaneous or organized, has required a level of self-denial and sacrifice that has instilled in me a passion for others' well-being. This is the lens through which I see my life and future career ambitions.

My father has a saying, "Where there's beauty, there's hope." I first heard him utter these powerful words as we stood in front of Rhonda’s home, a known crack house, about to embark on a series of construction and beautification projects. I was filled with anxiety as I looked at the overwhelming amount of work ahead of our crew. Two days later, there were no more holes in the walls or doors hanging off hinges. Flower beds replaced the mounds of piling trash and animal feces. Rhonda still faced major challenges, but for the first time in her life, she verbalized hope for the future. Remembering my father's prophetic words, I stood speechless. That was an impressionable moment in my life, and it wouldn’t be the last. I grew up in a home rooted in hope-filled generosity where ‘love thy neighbor’ wasn’t just a phrase, but a way of life. Many school days ended at my mom’s nonprofit, School’s Out Food’s In, packaging food before delivering to families in our town. This is how we met Rhonda. I would play in the front yard with her son while my mom made small talk and described the contents of the bags. Over time, Rhonda’s apprehension gave way to trust. Front-porch visits led to invitations inside. The house was dark, dirty, and full of fleas, but we were grateful for her hospitality. One day, we found ourselves on the receiving end of food as Rhonda treated us to homemade enchiladas–a family recipe. Rhonda rarely left her home, but one Friday night, she agreed to join us for pizza and board games. Then, on a random Sunday, she asked what time our church service started. She joined us that day– the most famous crack cooker in Hays County, sitting with our family at church. The food bags contained so much more than healthy food; they were full of hope. Delivery was essential because many people facing food insecurity work during the hours when food pantries distribute food. But more importantly, delivery made it possible to build relationships and community, something that everyone needs, but many in poverty do not have. Over the next year, we became a support system for Rhonda as she sought employment, medical care, and social services. My mom was her mentor and friend, and they grew to care deeply for each other. It’s a complex story of victories and defeats that ultimately ended in our family fostering her children for nearly two years. Rhonda would never recover from her life of abuse, poverty, addiction, and crime, but her children would become like family to us, completing our family in ways we didn’t know we needed. And it all started with a brown paper bag full of hope.

I grew up in a home rooted in service and generosity where ‘love thy neighbor’ wasn’t just a phrase, but a way of life. Whether delivering Valentine’s Day flowers to widows or making Christmas cards for nursing home residents, serving wasn’t an occasional project; it was our DNA. Many school days ended at my mom’s nonprofit, packaging food before delivering it to families in our town. I would play in front yards with children I didn’t know while my mom visited with the parents. Often, we didn’t even speak the same language, but communicated through the universal languages of smiles, kindness, and soccer. My brothers and I were regularly exposed to people experiencing tremendous struggles. At age six, we became a foster family of two children from a drug-ridden home. We often welcomed people experiencing homelessness into our home for showers, laundry, and meals. We heard their stories, punctuated with colorful language and details most parents would prefer to shield their children from. My parents taught us how to love with eyes wide open, to see people’s pain and get involved. We learned that service often demands putting others before yourself and that a comfortable life probably means you aren’t helping anyone. Building on this foundation, I continued serving throughout high school in various contexts and places, completing 794 hours of community service. My work includes math tutoring, local food distribution, serving as a church musician and children’s/youth volunteer, distributing food and clothing to refugees, construction projects and mentoring in Honduras, and community-building at One Hope of Baltimore. I have been passionately involved in Civil Air Patrol since age twelve. CAP, an auxiliary of the United States Air Force, specializes in emergency services. My training in disaster relief and search and rescue allows me to assist agencies such as FEMA, DHS, and the Coast Guard. I currently hold the highest cadet position as Squadron Commander and am responsible for the training and mentorship of the squadron’s sixty-two cadets. Every service opportunity, whether spontaneous or organized, has required a level of self-denial and sacrifice that has instilled in me a passion for others' well-being. This is the lens through which I see my life and future career ambitions. My educational goal is to study aerospace engineering at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. Their highly specialized program offers me an unrivaled state-of-the-art, hands-on approach to learning my field. I am extremely honored to be accepted into this prestigious institution. Upon completing my degree, I hope to earn a commission in the United States Coast Guard as a rotary-wing pilot. As an aerospace engineer, I will have a strong understanding of aircraft systems and aerodynamics, which will be highly valuable across a range of maritime security and search-and-rescue missions. Furthermore, as an officer, I will gain leadership experience that will benefit me in future endeavors as an engineer and a private citizen. Post Coast Guard, I aspire to work for a leading producer of combat aircraft, rotorcraft, weaponry, and defense systems. I am eager for the opportunity to design and test aircraft and systems that ensure the United States military maintains unrivaled air superiority. I believe this is where my strengths lie, and I would be honored to serve my country in this capacity by helping empower our military to defend and protect.

My father has a saying, "Where there's beauty, there's hope." I first heard him utter these powerful words as we stood in front of a crack house, about to embark on a series of construction and beautification projects. I was filled with anxiety as I looked at the overwhelming amount of work ahead of our crew. Two days later, there were no more holes in the walls or doors hanging off hinges. Flower beds replaced the mounds of piling trash and animal feces. The occupant of the home still had major challenges to overcome, but for the first time in her life, she verbalized hope for the future. Remembering my father's previous prophetic words, I stood speechless and humbled. My father has impacted my life more than anyone. From an early age, I was taught the true meaning of sacrifice, most notably when my family unexpectedly fostered two children whose home had been affected by substance abuse. At the age of six, I learned the value of sharing my home, family, and possessions with those in crisis, offering them love, safety, and stability. I came to understand that service often demands putting others before yourself and that a comfortable life probably meant you weren’t helping anyone. When our family went through hard times, my father modeled perseverance. With God as our cornerstone, we depended on one another to get through challenges such as the Covid pandemic, family illness, and deep loss. Problems were not swept under the rug. My dad handled them head-on with resilience and honesty. He created a safe environment where you could speak your mind as long as you were respectful, especially toward my mother. Gratitude was spoken and expressed in daily life. My dad led family prayer, during which we voiced our thanks to God for our lives, our freedom, and our relationships. I was encouraged to keep a gratitude journal, noting each day’s blessings and undeserved mercies that are easily taken for granted. There is a quiet humility in our home; an appreciation for what we have and a desire to steward our lives well. As a result of his military career, my father lives with 70% disability. His attitude is remarkable, exhibiting the fullness of his perspective on life. He does not grasp tightly to anything in this world, but is willing to give whatever he possesses to anyone who has need. He maintains his life mission of serving others without grumbling or complaining about his circumstances. In a peculiar way, my father’s humble yet strong leadership has become part of my own identity. He has influenced my leadership roles, and I credit his constant encouragement for each accomplishment and award I’ve received. His stories of participation in Operation Enduring Freedom inspired me to pursue a career in military aviation and aerospace engineering. The way he loves and cares for my mother has shaped my perspective on marriage. His strength and consistency in leading our family have profoundly influenced the caliber of father I aspire to become. Most importantly, his devotion to God propels my faith. He has modeled for me what it means to be a real man, one who leads through service and sacrifice. He has provided me with a stable foundation to learn, develop, make mistakes, and grow. He lives a life of integrity, leadership, and selfless dedication—exactly the kind of man I strive to become.

Growing up, there was a tremendous emphasis on responsibility, respect, discipline, and patriotism long before I understood where it came from. It would manifest in simple ways every day–punctuality, keeping your word, respecting elders, letting others go ahead in the check-out line, holding doors open for women and children, and thanking veterans for their service. When our family went through hard times, perseverance was required—and never carried alone. With God as our cornerstone, we depended on one another to get through challenges such as the Covid pandemic, family illness, and deep loss. Problems were not swept under the rug; they were handled head-on with resilience and honesty. My father created a safe environment where you could speak your mind as long as you were respectful, especially toward my mother. From an early age, I was taught the true meaning of sacrifice, most notably when my family unexpectedly fostered two children whose home had been affected by substance abuse. At the age of six, I learned the value of sharing my home, family, and possessions with those in crisis, offering them love, safety, and stability. I came to understand that service often demands putting others before yourself and that a comfortable life probably meant you weren’t helping anyone. Gratitude was spoken and expressed in daily life. In family prayer, we voiced our thanks to God for our lives, the freedom we possess in this great nation, and for those who fought to obtain it. My parents encouraged me to keep a gratitude journal, noting each day’s blessings and undeserved mercies that are easily taken for granted. There is a quiet humility in our home; an appreciation for what we have and a desire to steward our lives well. As a result of his military career, my father lives with 70% disability. His attitude is remarkable, exhibiting the fullness of his perspective on life. He does not grasp tightly to anything in this world, but is willing to give whatever he possesses to anyone who has need. He maintains his life mission of serving others without grumbling or complaining about his circumstances. In a peculiar way, my father’s military accomplishments have become a part of my own identity. He has influenced my leadership roles in Civil Air Patrol. I credit his constant encouragement for each rank and award I’ve received. His stories of participation in Operation Enduring Freedom inspired me to pursue a career in military aviation and aerospace engineering. The way he loves and cares for my mother has shaped my perspective on marriage. His strength and consistency in leading our family have profoundly influenced the caliber of father I aspire to become. Most importantly, his devotion to God propels my faith. My father has impacted my life more than anyone. He has modeled for me what it means to be a real man. He has provided me with a stable foundation to learn, develop, make mistakes, and grow. His service in the United States Air Force reflects a life of integrity, leadership, and selfless dedication—exactly the kind of man I strive to become.

I am earning my high school diploma in a non-traditional way. As a homeschooler, my school days don’t resemble those of most of my peers, but I sincerely believe homeschooling has allowed my academic prowess to reach its full potential. Learning has never been a scheduled task that begins and ends when a bell rings. It is an ongoing, enriching part of daily life. It encompasses academics, community service, family life, and faith–all of which build intellect and character. Many school days ended at my mom’s nonprofit, packaging and delivering food to families in our town. I spent afternoons playing in front yards with children I didn’t know while my mom visited with the parents. Often, we didn’t even speak the same language, but communicated through the universal languages of smiles, kindness, and soccer. When I was six, my family fostered two children whose home had been impacted by drug abuse. While I didn’t learn to share toys and glue sticks in a traditional classroom, my home became my classroom. I learned to share my family, my belongings, and my time with people facing crisis. This was an education all its own. We welcomed people experiencing homelessness into our home for showers, laundry, and meals. My brothers and I were regularly exposed to people experiencing tremendous struggles. We heard their stories, often punctuated with colorful language and details most parents would prefer to shield their children from. We learned to love with eyes wide open, to see people’s pain and get involved. Our exposure to diversity taught us to focus on what unites humanity– being made in the image of God and worthy of sacrifice. This foundation and the flexibility of homeschooling paved the way for me to accumulate 795 hours of community service across my hometown, my state, the U.S., and Honduras. Homeschooling has allowed me the freedom to pursue my interests in depth while tailoring my education around STEM. Flying, space, and the skies have been my lifelong passion. I am amazed at the grandeur of an aircraft, its speed, and its power to soar through the air. The basic principles of flight utterly captivate me. This, combined with my father’s stories of his career as a B-52 pilot, inspired me to pursue a career in military aviation and aerospace engineering. My educational goal is to study aerospace engineering at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. Their highly specialized program offers me an unrivaled state-of-the-art, hands-on approach to learning. Upon completing my degree, I hope to earn a commission in the United States Coast Guard as a rotary-wing pilot. I will apply my knowledge of aircraft systems and aerodynamics, which will be highly valuable across a range of maritime security and search-and-rescue missions. Furthermore, as an officer, I will gain leadership experience that will benefit me in future endeavors as an engineer and a private citizen. Post Coast Guard, I aspire to work for a leading producer of combat aircraft, rotorcraft, weaponry, and defense systems. I will design and test aircraft and systems that ensure the United States military maintains unrivaled air superiority. I consider this a unique opportunity to contribute my talents in service to my country. One challenge that’s been difficult to overcome is timidity. I’ve never enjoyed the spotlight. I don’t require accolades for my achievements; in fact, they make me uncomfortable. Perhaps this stems from maturing through the awkward teenage years or tardily growing into my 6’2” frame. Whatever the reason, I recognize it as a hindrance and one I’m committed to overcoming. I’m grateful for the encouragement of my core community. My parents' unwavering belief in my potential drives me toward new experiences. My pastor and music teacher advised me to perform and serve in music ministry. Saying yes to these experiences surfaced profound joy that I only discovered when I stepped outside my comfort zone. In my junior year of high school, my chemistry teacher urged me to apply for the NASA High School Aerospace Scholars Program. This highlighted more of my potential as I led teams to design aircraft and systems, further propelling my career aspirations. As I continue to challenge myself beyond my limits, I am learning that weaknesses are essential for success, my community is my greatest asset, and that I will only grow to the level at which I am willing to take risks. In hindsight, I see the totality of my upbringing and homeschool education fostering my passion for learning through years of challenging academia, joyful service, and perseverance in the face of weakness. I am eager to build on this foundation to contribute to the world in meaningful ways.

I have been homeschooled all my life. Learning has never been a scheduled task that begins and ends when a bell rings. It is an ongoing, enriching part of daily life. It encompasses faith, academics, community service, and family life. Many school days ended at my mom’s nonprofit, packaging and delivering food to underprivileged families in our town. I spent afternoons playing in front yards with children I didn’t know while my mom visited with the parents. Often, we didn’t even speak the same language, but communicated through the universal languages of smiles, kindness, and soccer. When I was six, my family fostered two children whose home had been impacted by drug abuse. While I didn’t learn to share toys and glue sticks in a traditional classroom, my home became my classroom. I learned to share my family, my belongings, and my time with people facing crisis. We welcomed people experiencing homelessness into our home for showers, laundry, and meals. My brothers and I were regularly exposed to people experiencing tremendous struggles. We heard their stories, often punctuated with colorful language and details most parents would prefer to shield their children from. My parents taught us how to love with eyes wide open, to see people’s pain and get involved. Our exposure to diversity taught us to focus on what unites humanity– being made in the image of God and worthy of sacrifice. My high school years were more structured and academically demanding, yet homeschooling still afforded me the flexibility to complete 795 hours of community service across my hometown, my state, the U.S., and even Honduras. My involvement in Civil Air Patrol has also helped lay the foundation for making a positive impact on the world. CAP is an auxiliary of the United States Air Force, specializing in emergency services. I am trained in disaster relief and search and rescue, which enables me to support communities and agencies across the nation, including FEMA, DHS, and the U.S. Coast Guard. I currently serve as Squadron Commander, the highest cadet position, where I have the privilege of mentoring 62 cadets. Flying, space, and the skies have been my lifelong passion. I am amazed at the grandeur of an aircraft, its speed, and its power to soar through the air. The basic principles of flight utterly captivate me. My father was a B-52 pilot in the United States Air Force. His stories of participation in Operation Enduring Freedom inspired me to pursue a career in military aviation and aerospace engineering. My educational goal is to study aerospace engineering at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. Their highly specialized program offers me an unrivaled state-of-the-art, hands-on approach to learning. Upon completing my degree, I hope to earn a commission in the United States Coast Guard as a rotary-wing pilot. I will apply my knowledge of aircraft systems and aerodynamics, which will be highly valuable across a range of maritime security and search-and-rescue missions. Furthermore, as an officer, I will gain leadership experience that will benefit me in future endeavors as an engineer and a private citizen. Post Coast Guard, I aspire to work for a leading producer of combat aircraft, rotorcraft, weaponry, and defense systems. I will design and test aircraft and systems that ensure the United States military maintains unrivaled air superiority. I consider this a unique opportunity to contribute my talents in service to my country. In hindsight, I see my love for learning being shaped over the years through challenging academia and a lifestyle of joyful service. I am eager to build on this foundation.

Flying, space, and the skies have been my lifelong passion. As a child, I was amazed at the grandeur of an aircraft, its speed, and its power to soar through the air. The basic principles of flight utterly captivated me. My father was a B-52 pilot in the United States Air Force. His stories of combat and his participation in Operation Enduring Freedom inspired me toward a career in military aviation and aerospace engineering. My educational goal is to study aerospace engineering at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. Their highly specialized program offers me an unrivaled state-of-the-art, hands-on approach. Upon completing my degree, I hope to earn a commission in the United States Coast Guard as a rotary-wing pilot. I will apply my knowledge of aircraft systems and aerodynamics, which will be highly valuable across a range of maritime security and search-and-rescue missions. Furthermore, as an officer, I will gain leadership experience that will benefit me in future endeavors as an engineer and a private citizen. Post Coast Guard, I aspire to work for a leading producer of combat aircraft, rotorcraft, weaponry, and missile defense systems. I will design and test aircraft and systems that ensure the United States military maintains unrivaled air superiority. I have been homeschooled all my life. It has allowed me the freedom to pursue my passions in depth while tailoring my education around STEM. This experience has ignited my curiosity and shaped my career direction. Learning in my home has never been a scheduled task that begins and ends when a bell rings. It is an ongoing, enriching part of daily life. It encompasses faith, academics, community service, and family life. Many school days ended at my mom’s nonprofit, packaging and delivering food to underprivileged families in our town. I spent afternoons playing in front yards with children I didn’t know while my mom visited with the parents. Often, we didn’t even speak the same language, but communicated through the universal languages of smiles, kindness, and soccer. When I was six, my family fostered two children whose home had been impacted by drug abuse. While I didn’t learn to share toys and glue sticks in a traditional classroom, my home became my classroom. I learned to share my family, my belongings, and my time with people facing crisis. We welcomed people experiencing homelessness into our home for showers, laundry, and meals. My brothers and I were regularly exposed to people experiencing tremendous struggles. We heard their stories, often punctuated with colorful language and details most parents would prefer to shield their children from. My parents taught us how to love with eyes wide open, to see people’s pain and get involved. Our exposure to diversity taught us to focus on what unites humanity– being made in the image of God and worthy of sacrifice. My high school years were more structured and academically demanding, yet homeschooling still afforded me the flexibility to complete 795 hours of community service across my hometown, my state, the U.S., and even Honduras. I have been a member of Civil Air Patrol for five years. An auxiliary of the United States Air Force, CAP specializes in emergency services. I am trained in disaster relief and search and rescue, which enables me to support communities and agencies across the nation, including FEMA, DHS, and the U.S. Coast Guard. I currently serve as Squadron Commander, the highest cadet position. In hindsight, I see my love for learning being shaped over the years through challenging academia and a lifestyle of service. I am eager to build on this foundation.

Flying, space, and the skies have been my lifelong passion. As a child, I was amazed at the grandeur of an aircraft, its speed, and its power to soar through the air. The basic principles of flight utterly captivated me. My father was a B-52 pilot in the United States Air Force. His stories of combat and his participation in Operation Enduring Freedom inspired me toward a career in military aviation and aerospace engineering. My educational goal is to study aerospace engineering at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. Their highly specialized program offers me an unrivaled state-of-the-art, hands-on approach. Upon completing my degree, I hope to earn a commission in the United States Coast Guard as a rotary-wing pilot. I will apply my knowledge of aircraft systems and aerodynamics, which will be highly valuable across a range of maritime security and search-and-rescue missions. Furthermore, as an officer, I will gain leadership experience that will benefit me in future endeavors as an engineer and a private citizen. Post Coast Guard, I aspire to work for a leading producer of combat aircraft, rotorcraft, weaponry, and missile defense systems. I will design and test aircraft and systems that ensure the United States military maintains unrivaled air superiority. Through homeschooling, I’ve been able to pursue my passions in depth while tailoring my education around STEM. This experience has ignited my curiosity and shaped my career direction. Without the structure of a traditional classroom, I’ve had to develop strong time management skills, hold myself accountable, and take full responsibility for my success. I set my own goals and put in the work to achieve them, which has reinforced my work ethic in every area of my life. Learning in my home has never been a scheduled task that begins and ends when a bell rings. It is an ongoing, enriching part of daily life. It encompasses faith, academics, community service, and family life–all of which build intellect and character. Many school days ended at my mom’s nonprofit, packaging and delivering food to underprivileged families in our town. I spent afternoons playing in front yards with children I didn’t know while my mom visited with the parents. Often, we didn’t even speak the same language, but communicated through the universal languages of smiles, kindness, and soccer. When I was six, my family fostered two children whose home had been impacted by drug abuse. While I didn’t learn to share toys and glue sticks in a traditional classroom, my home became my classroom. I learned to share my family, my belongings, and my time with people facing crisis. We welcomed people experiencing homelessness into our home for showers, laundry, and meals. My brothers and I were regularly exposed to people experiencing tremendous struggles. We heard their stories, often punctuated with colorful language and details most parents would prefer to shield their children from. My parents taught us how to love with eyes wide open, to see people’s pain and get involved. Our exposure to different races, cultures, and lifestyles taught us to focus on what unites humanity– being made in the image of God and worthy of sacrificial love and respect. In hindsight, I see my love for learning being shaped over the years as my parents exposed me not only to a broad range of academic disciplines but also to cultural diversity and the joy of serving others. It has shaped who I am and prepared me for the future that awaits.

I was raised with strong values of service and generosity. I would sum up the DNA of our home as “love thy neighbor.” Whether delivering Valentine’s Day flowers to widows or making Christmas cards for nursing home residents, serving wasn’t an event or a project; it was normal life. Many school days ended at my mom’s nonprofit, packaging and delivering food to families in our town. I spent afternoons playing in front yards with children I didn’t know while my mom visited with the parents. Often, we didn’t even speak the same language, but communicated through the universal languages of smiles, kindness, and soccer. My brothers and I were regularly exposed to people experiencing tremendous struggles. At age seven, we became a foster family of two children from a drug-ridden home. I witnessed firsthand the devastating hardships they suffered. We regularly welcomed the homeless into our home for showers, laundry, and meals. We heard their stories, often punctuated with colorful language and details most parents would prefer to shield their children from. My parents taught us how to love with eyes wide open, to see people’s pain and get involved. Over the past four years, I have served in various capacities. I volunteer as a math tutor to second graders at my local elementary school. I served as an intern in my school’s Marine Biology program. I have distributed food and clothing to refugees at Val Verde Humanitarian Coalition and assembled countless bags of food for School’s Out, Food’s In. I’ve been involved with community building and mentoring at One Hope of Baltimore. I am very active in my church through children’s, youth, music, audiovisual, and foreign missions. I recently had the privilege of serving at Ninos de la Luz Boys Home, La Ceiba, Honduras I have been a member of Civil Air Patrol for five years. An auxiliary of the United States Air Force, CAP specializes in emergency services. I am trained in disaster relief and search and rescue, which enables me to support communities and agencies across the nation, including FEMA, DHS, and the U.S. Coast Guard. In addition to mentoring my cadets, Civil Air Patrol has afforded me service opportunities in community education, color guard, recruitment, training, and cadet Encampments. Every service opportunity, whether spontaneous or organized, has required a level of self-denial and sacrifice that has instilled in me a passion for the well-being of others. I believe every human being is valuable and worthy of respect. This is the lens through which I see my life and future career ambitions. I plan to attend Embry Riddle Aeronautical University and major in aerospace engineering. Upon completion, I hope to earn a commission in the United States Coast Guard as a rotary-wing pilot. I will have a strong understanding of aircraft systems and aerodynamics, which will be highly valuable across a range of maritime security and search-and-rescue missions. Furthermore, as an officer, I will gain leadership experience that will benefit me in future endeavors as an engineer and a private citizen. Post Coast Guard, I aspire to work for a leading producer of combat aircraft, rotorcraft, weaponry, and missile defense systems. I am eager for the opportunity to design, test, and manufacture aircraft and systems that ensure the United States military maintains unrivaled air superiority. The knowledge and experiences gained through higher education will enable me to do my part in empowering our military to defend and protect.

I was raised with strong values of service and generosity. I would sum up the DNA of our home as “love thy neighbor.” Whether delivering Valentine’s Day flowers to widows or making Christmas cards for nursing home residents, serving wasn’t an event or a project; it was normal life. Many school days ended at my mom’s nonprofit, packaging and delivering food to families in our town. I spent afternoons playing in front yards with children I didn’t know while my mom visited with the parents. Often, we didn’t even speak the same language, but communicated through the universal languages of smiles, kindness, and soccer. My brothers and I were regularly exposed to people experiencing tremendous struggles. At age seven, we became a foster family of two children from a drug-ridden home. I witnessed firsthand the devastating hardships they suffered. We regularly welcomed the homeless into our home for showers, laundry, and meals. We heard their stories, often punctuated with colorful language and details most parents would prefer to shield their children from. My parents taught us how to love with eyes wide open, to see people’s pain and get involved. Over the past four years, I have served in various capacities. I volunteer as a math tutor to second graders at my local elementary school. I served as an intern in my school’s Marine Biology program. I have distributed food and clothing to refugees at Val Verde Humanitarian Coalition and assembled countless bags of food for School’s Out, Food’s In. I’ve been involved with community building and mentoring at One Hope of Baltimore. I am very active in my church through children’s, youth, music, audiovisual, and foreign missions. I recently had the privilege of serving at Ninos de la Luz Boys Home, La Ceiba, Honduras I have been a member of Civil Air Patrol for five years. An auxiliary of the United States Air Force, CAP specializes in emergency services. I am trained in disaster relief and search and rescue, which enables me to support communities and agencies across the nation, including FEMA, DHS, and the U.S. Coast Guard. In addition to mentoring my cadets, Civil Air Patrol has afforded me service opportunities in community education, color guard, recruitment, training, and cadet Encampments. Every service opportunity, whether spontaneous or organized, has required a level of self-denial and sacrifice that has instilled in me a passion for the well-being of others. I believe every human being is valuable and worthy of respect. This is the lens through which I see my life and future career ambitions. I plan to attend Embry Riddle Aeronautical University and major in aerospace engineering. Upon completion, I hope to earn a commission in the United States Coast Guard as a rotary-wing pilot. I will have a strong understanding of aircraft systems and aerodynamics, which will be highly valuable across a range of maritime security and search-and-rescue missions. Furthermore, as an officer, I will gain leadership experience that will benefit me in future endeavors as an engineer and a private citizen. Post Coast Guard, I aspire to work for a leading producer of combat aircraft, rotorcraft, weaponry, and missile defense systems. I am eager for the opportunity to design, test, and manufacture aircraft and systems that ensure the United States military maintains unrivaled air superiority. The knowledge and experiences gained through higher education will enable me to do my part in empowering our military to defend and protect.

Flying, space, and the skies have been my lifelong passion. As a child, I was amazed at the grandeur of an aircraft, its speed, and its power to soar through the air. The basic principles of flight utterly captivated me. My father was a B-52 pilot in the United States Air Force. His stories of combat and participation in Operation Enduring Freedom motivated me toward military aviation and a career in aerospace engineering. As I grew older, I eagerly took every STEM class I could. My ardor and appreciation for science, particularly aerospace, grew. In my junior year, I was selected to participate in the NASA High School Aerospace Scholars program. The rigor challenged me, and I discovered a deep interest in designing, building, and testing my own systems through coding, computer-aided design, and engineering. It was an authentic experience in which I developed skills through career-relevant projects under the guidance of NASA mentors and instructors. This, combined with my high school engineering courses and participation in Civil Air Patrol, has solidified my dream of becoming an aerospace engineer. I have been passionately involved in Civil Air Patrol since age twelve. CAP, an auxiliary of the United States Air Force, specializes in emergency services. My training in disaster relief and search and rescue allows me to assist agencies such as FEMA, DHS, and the Coast Guard. I currently hold the highest cadet position as Squadron Cadet Commander. Being responsible for the training and mentorship of the squadron’s sixty-two cadets has propelled me even further toward becoming an officer and aviator in the United States Coast Guard. Civil Air Patrol has taught me invaluable virtues and provided leadership opportunities that have prepared me for my educational and career goals. Upon completing my degree, I hope to earn a commission in the United States Coast Guard as a rotary-wing pilot. As an aerospace engineer, I will have a strong understanding of aircraft systems and aerodynamics, which will be highly valuable across a range of maritime security and search-and-rescue missions. Furthermore, as an officer, I will gain leadership experience that will benefit me in future endeavors as an engineer and a private citizen. Post Coast Guard, I aspire to work for a leading producer of combat aircraft, rotorcraft, weaponry, and missile defense systems. I am eager for the opportunity to design, test, and manufacture aircraft and systems that ensure the United States military maintains unrivaled air superiority. I feel this is how I am gifted and would consider it a tremendous honor to contribute to my country’s defense in this unique capacity. It is not only an ambition for America, but for the world as we help ensure the security of other nations. The knowledge and experiences gained through higher education will enable me to do my part in empowering our military to defend and protect.

I was raised with strong values of service and generosity. I would sum up the DNA of our home as “love thy neighbor.” Whether delivering Valentine’s Day flowers to widows or making Christmas cards for nursing home residents, serving was just normal life. It wasn’t an event or a project; it was incorporating our faith in God into everyday life. Many school days ended at my mom’s nonprofit, packaging and delivering food to families in our town. I spent afternoons playing in front yards with children I didn’t know while my mom visited with the parents. Often, we didn’t even speak the same language, but communicated through the universal languages of smiles, kindness, and soccer. At age seven, we became a foster family of two children from a drug-ridden home. I witnessed firsthand the devastating hardships they suffered and also the lifelong effects of the sacrificial love of strangers. We welcomed the homeless into our home for showers, laundry, and meals. My brothers and I were regularly exposed to people experiencing tremendous struggles. We heard their stories, often punctuated with colorful language and details most parents would prefer to shield their children from. My parents taught us how to love with eyes wide open, to see people’s pain and get involved. Over the past four years, I have served in various capacities. I volunteer as a math tutor to second graders at my local elementary school. I served as an intern for my school’s Marine Biology. I have distributed food and clothing to refugees at Val Verde Humanitarian Coalition and assembled countless bags of food for School’s Out, Food’s In. I’ve been involved with community building and mentoring at One Hope of Baltimore. I am very active in my church through children’s, youth, music, and audiovisual ministries. I have been a member of Civil Air Patrol for five years. An auxiliary of the United States Air Force, CAP specializes in emergency services. I am trained in disaster relief and search and rescue, which enables me to support communities and agencies across the nation, including FEMA, DHS, and the U.S. Coast Guard. In addition to mentoring my cadets, Civil Air Patrol has afforded me service opportunities in community education, color guard, recruitment, training, and cadet Encampments. One of the most impactful experiences was my service at Ninos de la luz Home for Boys in La Ceiba, Honduras. This organization homes orphaned children whose parents died in gang-related incidents or succumbed to their substance addictions. For one week, I collaborated with the boys on construction projects, making necessary repairs to their facilities. We shared meals and played soccer. I assisted the teachers at the schoolhouse, engaging the younger children through recreational activities. An important part of our service initiative was training the boys to recognize their abilities and value, empowering them to return to their community as strong leaders who are capable of breaking the cycles of poverty and addiction. From this experience, I learned how to truly help by working with, not for, them. I learned it is possible to have joy amidst hardship. I was humbled by their hospitality and constant concern for my needs. In the end, it wasn’t me ministering to them, but they were teaching me the true meaning of friendship. Every service opportunity, whether spontaneous or organized, has required a level of self-denial and sacrifice that has instilled in me a passion for the well-being of others. I believe every human being is valuable and worthy of respect. This is the lens through which I see my life and future career ambitions.