As an individual, I have faced various challenges as a non-U.S. citizen throughout my educational journey. Two significant obstacles that I have encountered are racism and a lack of financial resources to cover tuition fees. Additionally, finding suitable accommodation has also been a hurdle for me. However, I have found ways to overcome these challenges and pursue my aspirations. Experiencing racism while studying abroad has been disheartening and discouraging. To overcome this challenge, I have relied on my resilience and determination. I sought support from campus resources and connected with organizations that promote diversity and inclusion. Building networks and engaging with fellow students who have faced similar experiences have been instrumental in creating a support system. By raising awareness about these issues and fostering dialogue, I have contributed to fostering a more inclusive environment. The financial burden of tuition fees has been another significant challenge for me. To overcome this obstacle, I have actively researched scholarships, grants, and financial aid opportunities specifically available to non-U.S. citizens or international students. I have reached out to the university's financial aid office and explored part-time employment options to supplement my income. Creating a comprehensive budget and planning my finances meticulously have helped me manage the expenses associated with my education. Finding suitable accommodation has also been a struggle. I have utilized the resources provided by the university's housing services, such as on-campus housing options or international student residences. Additionally, I have connected with local student organizations and explored online platforms to search for affordable off-campus housing alternatives. By being proactive and starting the search early, I have been able to secure suitable accommodation that meets my needs. Ultimately, my career aspirations are unique to me and are shaped by my passions, interests, and long-term goals. I believe that by overcoming these challenges and staying focused, proactive, and resilient, I can make the most of my educational experience and pave the way for a successful and fulfilling career path. Continuing on my journey, I remain determined to overcome any challenges that come my way. The experiences of facing racism, financial constraints, and housing difficulties have taught me valuable lessons in resilience, adaptability, and resourcefulness. Despite the obstacles, I am driven by my aspirations and the desire to achieve personal and professional growth. I understand that post-secondary education offers me the opportunity to expand my knowledge, develop critical skills, and gain a competitive edge in the job market. It equips me with the tools necessary to pursue my passions and make a meaningful impact in my chosen field.

Yes, I believe society must change its way of responding to the problems of the disadvantaged. The current system is often inadequate and can exacerbate the challenges faced by marginalized communities. Here are some reasons why I believe this change is necessary: Firstly, the current system often perpetuates systemic inequalities. Many individuals who are disadvantaged face barriers such as poverty, lack of access to education, and discrimination. These barriers make it challenging for them to access opportunities that could help them improve their lives. Instead of addressing these structural issues, the current system often blames individuals for their circumstances. For example, people living in poverty are often stigmatized as lazy and unmotivated, when in reality, their lack of access to resources and opportunities is the root cause of their situation. This perpetuates a cycle of disadvantage, making it difficult for individuals to break free from their circumstances. Society needs to acknowledge these structural barriers and address them to ensure that everyone has an equal chance to succeed. Secondly, the current system often fails to address the root causes of social problems. Many social issues, such as poverty, homelessness, and addiction, have complex causes that require multifaceted solutions. However, the current system often focuses on treating the symptoms of these issues rather than addressing their underlying causes. For example, providing food and shelter to homeless individuals is essential, but it does not address the underlying causes of homelessness, such as a lack of affordable housing and access to mental health care. By addressing the root causes of social problems, society can create sustainable solutions that improve the lives of disadvantaged communities. One of these factors is the impact that social issues have on the broader community. When a group of individuals faces challenges such as poverty or discrimination, it can have a ripple effect on the entire community. For example, high levels of poverty in a community can lead to increased crime rates and a decrease in economic opportunities, which can affect everyone in the community. Therefore, addressing these social issues is not only a matter of justice and equality, but it is also essential for the overall health and well-being of the community as a whole. Another factor that highlights the need for change is the potential for innovative solutions. By recognizing and addressing the unique needs of disadvantaged communities, society can develop creative and innovative solutions that benefit everyone. For example, initiatives like community gardens and urban farming projects have been successful in addressing food insecurity in low-income communities. These solutions not only provide access to healthy food but also promote community engagement and social connection. These issues are deeply rooted in society, and they can be challenging to overcome. Addressing these issues requires a long-term commitment to social justice, including policies and programs that promote equity and diversity. There is lack of political will to enact change. Political leaders must be willing to make difficult decisions and allocate resources to address social issues. Unfortunately, in many cases, political leaders prioritize other issues or prioritize the interests of powerful stakeholders over the needs of disadvantaged communities. Moreover, changing society's response to social issues requires significant financial investment. Many of the solutions to social problems require significant resources, and it can be challenging to find the funding necessary to implement these solutions. Additionally, there can be resistance from those who believe that investing in disadvantaged communities is a waste of resources. Despite these challenges, society must continue to push for change. Many strategies can be employed to address these challenges, including public awareness campaigns, community organizing, and advocacy efforts.

Coming from a humble background achieving any simple thing has been so hard. I have always had to work extra hard since all I had was the bare minimum. I have gone through so much as an individual and also as a family since my mum was a single mum struggling to provide for four children in a third-world country. She has had to go through so much turmoil since never at any time placed her needs before her children and I realized that as much as she looked physically well she was never okay mentally. She has for a long time had to think a lot and she has been stressed for a long time. When I ask her if she is happy she would always say that she would only be happy when her children are successful. This projects to me and my life choices even deciding to go into the field of psychology and possibly psychiatry for medical school. My mum has always had to feel that mental health is a luxury and many people still have that mentality since when you have to provide for your dependents you most certainly want to prioritize them over yourself. I am hoping to change this narrative in the future by just providing opportunities for accessible mental healthcare and just destroying the stereotype that being vulnerable is a weakness. I want to create a world that embraces the fact that it is okay not to be okay. Especially back in my home country Kenya. I would also love to do this for my mum because she has sacrificed so much just to provide for me and support me. Sometimes I get so pressured and stressed but I am motivated by my mantra “You rise by lifting others”.It is my passion to help those in need of mental health services, particularly in communities where access is limited. As the African proverb says, "If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together." I believe that by working together, we can make a difference in the lives of those who need it most. I also have loved trying new adventures since I realized that I may have been living in a bubble for a long time. That is why I made my greatest decision to leave my home country in search of my dreams both in the mental health field and also in my music career. Finally, getting this scholarship will be a really good help and will save me from the stress and turmoil I am going through at the moment. My family’s business was demolished by the government since they claimed that the building was too close to the road. The business was an elementary school and the only source of income for my family. Right now I have a tuition balance of 9000 and a hold has been placed on my account. Because of this sudden occurrence, my parents will not be able to pay for my school fees and if it gets too hard I may be forced to drop out. This situation is so stressful for my family since my other siblings are in school too and they have to pay tuition. Any help would be a dream come true since I will be able to continue with my studies and achieve my dreams and goals for the future.

Coming from a humble background achieving any simple thing has been so hard. I have always had to work extra hard since all I had was the bare minimum. I have gone through so much as an individual and also as a family since my mum was a single mum struggling to provide for four children in a third-world country. She has had to go through so much turmoil since never at any time placed her needs before her children and I realized that as much as she looked physically well she was never okay mentally. She has for a long time had to think a lot and she has been stressed for a long time. When I ask her if she is happy she would always say that she would only be happy when her children are successful. This projects to me and my life choices even deciding to go into the field of psychology and possibly psychiatry for medical school. My mum has always had to feel that mental health is a luxury and many people still have that mentality since when you have to provide for your dependents you most certainly want to prioritize them over yourself. I am hoping to change this narrative in the future by just providing opportunities for accessible mental healthcare and just destroying the stereotype that being vulnerable is a weakness. I want to create a world that embraces the fact that it is okay not to be okay. Especially back in my home country Kenya. I would also love to do this for my mum because she has sacrificed so much just to provide for me and support me. Sometimes I get so pressured and stressed but I am motivated by my mantra “You rise by lifting others”.It is my passion to help those in need of mental health services, particularly in communities where access is limited. As the African proverb says, "If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together." I believe that by working together, we can make a difference in the lives of those who need it most. My experience with mental health has influenced my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations in many ways. Firstly, it has taught me the importance of taking care of oneself mentally and emotionally. I have learned that mental health is not a luxury, but a necessity and that it is crucial to prioritize it just as much as physical health. This belief has shaped the way I interact with others, as I am now more empathetic and understanding toward those struggling with mental health issues. Additionally, my experience has made me realize the importance of building healthy relationships with people. It is easy to get lost in one's struggles, but having a support system that understands and encourages me has been a crucial part of my mental health journey. I have learned that it is okay to ask for help when needed, and that seeking support from loved ones is not a sign of weakness but strength. My experience with mental health has also influenced my career aspirations. I have always been interested in psychology and mental health, but my personal experiences have solidified my desire to pursue a career in this field. I believe that mental health is a critical aspect of overall well-being and that everyone should have access to quality mental health care. As a result, I aspire to become a psychiatrist and help individuals struggling with mental health issues, particularly in underserved communities. Lastly, my experience has taught me the value of resilience and perseverance. I have learned that life can be tough, but it is essential to keep pushing forward and not give up. My upbringing and my experience with mental health have taught me that hard work, determination, and a positive mindset can overcome any obstacle. In conclusion, my experience with mental health has had a significant impact on my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. It has taught me the importance of taking care of oneself mentally, building healthy relationships, and providing accessible mental health care. I believe that everyone should have access to quality mental health care, and I hope to contribute to this goal in the future. I am grateful for my experiences, and I believe that they have helped shape me into the person I am today.

My name is Angela, and I am from Kenya. My journey as an immigrant and foreign student in the United States has been a challenging yet rewarding experience. I have faced many obstacles, but these challenges have also taught me valuable lessons about myself, my home country, and the U.S. Life as an immigrant and foreign student has been difficult at times. Adapting to a new culture and environment can be overwhelming, especially when facing financial struggles and dealing with racism. I have experienced discrimination and prejudice from some of my roommates and classmates, which has been disheartening. However, I have also met many kind and supportive people who have helped me along the way. Through this journey, I have learned a lot about myself and my resilience. I have discovered that I am stronger than I thought and capable of overcoming challenges that I never imagined I could. I have also gained a deeper appreciation for my home country and my family. Being away from home has made me realize how much I love and miss my culture, family, and friends. Moreover, I have learned a lot about the U.S. and its culture. I have met people from diverse backgrounds and learned about their experiences and perspectives. I have also gained a greater understanding of the country's history and social issues, such as racism, inequality, and the importance of advocacy and activism. This journey has impacted my life and career choices in many ways. It has taught me the importance of education and hard work, as I have struggled to pay for my tuition and living expenses. It has also reinforced my passion for social justice and equity, as I have experienced firsthand the effects of discrimination and inequality. I hope to use my education and experiences to advocate for change and create a more inclusive and equitable society. One of the biggest challenges I have faced as an immigrant and foreign student is finances. I have had to work multiple jobs to support myself and pay for my education. There have been times when I couldn't afford basic necessities like food and rent, which has been incredibly stressful and difficult to manage. I have had to learn how to budget my money wisely and make sacrifices to ensure that I can cover my expenses. At one point, I even considered giving up on my dream of getting an education in the U.S. because I couldn't afford it. However, my family was depending on me, and I knew that education was my ticket to a better future. I was determined to find a way to make it work. In conclusion, my journey as an immigrant and foreign student has been a challenging yet transformative experience. It has taught me valuable lessons about myself, my home country, and the U.S. I have faced many obstacles, but these challenges have also helped me grow and develop as a person. I am grateful for this journey and look forward to using my experiences to make a positive impact on the world.

As an aspiring student, I have always been fascinated by the wonders of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM). These fields have the potential to create solutions that can transform the world we live in, and I hope to be a part of that transformation. My passion for STEAM began at an early age, where I was always curious about how things worked. I was intrigued by the way technology could make our lives easier and more efficient, and I was fascinated by the intricate details of mathematics and science. As I grew older, I realized the impact that these fields could have on society and the world at large. Through my education, I hope to acquire the skills and knowledge needed to make a positive impact on the world. I believe that STEAM is the key to unlocking solutions to some of the most pressing challenges facing our world today. From climate change to healthcare, technology and science can provide the answers we need to make the world a better place. One area of STEAM that particularly interests me is artificial intelligence (AI). AI has the potential to revolutionize the way we live and work, and I believe that it will play a crucial role in solving many of the challenges we face today. With AI, we can create more efficient and effective systems, develop personalized healthcare solutions, and even explore the mysteries of the universe. Apart from AI, I am also interested in the intersection of engineering and sustainability. As our world faces increasing environmental challenges, I believe that engineering can help us create sustainable solutions that benefit both people and the planet. By developing new technologies that are energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective, we can create a more sustainable future for all. In conclusion, my passion for STEAM drives my desire to make a positive impact on the world. Through my education, I hope to acquire the skills and knowledge needed to contribute to the advancement of technology, science, engineering, arts, and mathematics. I believe that with the right education and opportunities, I can make a meaningful difference in the world and contribute to a brighter future for all. I also find the arts to be a critical component of STEAM. The arts provide a creative outlet and can help communicate complex ideas in a way that is accessible to everyone. I believe that by combining the arts with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, we can create innovative solutions that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. For example, design thinking can be used to develop user-friendly products and interfaces, making technology more accessible to a wider audience. Moreover, I believe that education is the key to unlocking the potential of STEAM. As a student, I am committed to learning as much as I can about these fields and their impact on society. However, I also believe that it is essential to share this knowledge with others. I am interested in teaching and mentoring younger students, particularly girls and underrepresented minorities, to inspire them to pursue careers in STEAM. By doing so, I hope to contribute to a more diverse and inclusive STEAM community that represents the diversity of our world. In conclusion, my goal is to use my education in STEAM to make a positive impact on the world. I am passionate about the potential of technology, science, engineering, arts, and mathematics to create innovative solutions that address some of the most pressing challenges facing our world. I believe that with the right education, opportunities, and mindset, I can contribute to a brighter future for all.

Growing up in a single-parent, low-income household has presented me with a number of challenges throughout my life. However, instead of letting these challenges defeat me, they have given me the strength and determination to persevere and overcome obstacles. One of the biggest challenges that I have faced is financial insecurity. Growing up, there were times when we struggled to make ends meet, and I often felt embarrassed and ashamed of our situation. However, this experience has taught me the value of hard work and has instilled in me a sense of determination and resilience. In addition, coming from a single-parent household has taught me the importance of community and support. My mother worked tirelessly to provide for us, but she also relied on the support of friends and family to help us through difficult times. This experience has shown me the power of community and has instilled in me a desire to give back and help others in need. As I look to the future, I plan to use my life experience to make a positive impact in my community and the world. I believe that my experiences have given me a unique perspective and have instilled in me a strong sense of empathy and compassion for others. One way that I plan to make a positive impact is through education. I believe that education is a powerful tool for social and economic mobility, and I want to help others achieve their academic and career goals. I plan to volunteer with organizations that provide resources and support to low-income students and families, and I hope to one day start my own nonprofit organization focused on promoting educational equity. Another way that I plan to make a positive impact is through advocacy and activism. I believe that everyone deserves equal rights and opportunities, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status. I plan to use my voice and platform to raise awareness about issues related to poverty, inequality, and social justice. I want to work towards creating a more just and equitable society, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and succeed. In conclusion, growing up in a single-parent, low-income household has presented me with many challenges. However, these experiences have taught me the value of hard work, resilience, and community. I plan to use my life experience to make a positive impact in my community and the world, through education, advocacy, and activism. I am committed to working towards a more just and equitable society, where everyone has the opportunity to succeed and thrive.

Becoming by Michelle Obama is a book that has transformed my life in many ways. It is a memoir that chronicles the life of the former First Lady of the United States and her journey from childhood to the White House. Reading this book was a transformative experience for me, as it allowed me to see the power of determination, resilience, and hope. One of the things that drew me to this book was Michelle Obama's story. As a woman of color who grew up in a working-class family, I found her journey to be both inspiring and relatable. Her story reminded me that success is not always about where you start, but rather the hard work, dedication, and perseverance that you put in along the way. What made this book such a transformative experience for me was the way that Michelle Obama shared her story. Her honesty and vulnerability were refreshing, and I found myself connecting with her on a personal level. She opened up about her struggles with imposter syndrome, balancing her family and career, and the challenges of being a public figure. Her willingness to share her experiences reminded me that we all face challenges and that it's okay to be vulnerable and ask for help. Another way that this book transformed my life was the way that it challenged me to think about my own beliefs and values. Michelle Obama's passion for education, equality, and social justice inspired me to think about the ways that I can make a positive impact in my own community. Her commitment to service reminded me that we all have a responsibility to use our talents and abilities to make the world a better place. Finally, Becoming transformed my life by showing me the power of hope. Michelle Obama's journey is a testament to the fact that anything is possible if you believe in yourself and work hard towards your goals. Her story reminded me that even in the face of adversity, we can find hope and that hope can be a powerful motivator for change. In conclusion, Becoming by Michelle Obama is a book that has transformed my life in many ways. It has shown me the power of determination, resilience, and hope, and has challenged me to think about my own beliefs and values. Michelle Obama's story has inspired me to work hard towards my goals and to use my talents and abilities to make a positive impact in the world. I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for inspiration, hope, and a reminder that anything is possible if you believe in yourself.

Mathematics has always fascinated me. From an early age, I was drawn to the challenge of solving complex problems and the satisfaction that came from finding the right solution. As I grew older, I realized that mathematics was much more than just a subject to study in school - it was a tool for understanding the world around us. One of the things that draws me to math is its universality. Math is a language that transcends borders, cultures, and time periods. The principles of mathematics apply to everything from the movement of celestial bodies to the behavior of subatomic particles. It is a powerful tool that allows us to make sense of the world and make predictions about the future. The principles of mathematics have also shaped my understanding of the world. Through studying mathematics, I have come to appreciate the importance of logic and reason in making sense of complex systems. The principles of mathematics have taught me to think critically, to break down problems into smaller components, and to develop systematic approaches to solving problems. Additionally, the study of mathematics has taught me the importance of persistence and resilience. In mathematics, there is often not just one solution to a problem. It requires a willingness to experiment, to try different approaches, and to learn from mistakes. It is a process that requires patience and dedication. For example, in high school, I struggled with calculus. It was a subject that I found incredibly challenging, and I often felt discouraged when I didn't immediately grasp a concept. However, with the help of a patient teacher and a lot of practice, I was able to develop a better understanding of calculus. This experience taught me the value of persistence and hard work, and I have carried this lesson with me throughout my academic career. In conclusion, mathematics has played a significant role in shaping my understanding of the world. It has taught me the importance of logic and reason, critical thinking, and persistence. I am drawn to the challenge of solving complex problems and the satisfaction that comes from finding the right solution. I believe that studying mathematics will not only provide me with a valuable tool for understanding the world but also enable me to contribute to making it a better place. Math is the balance between everything we have on campus and with our involvement we can change the world.

Mental health is an issue that has impacted me greatly, and I believe it is something that needs to be addressed more openly and honestly in our society. Growing up, I struggled with anxiety and depression, and it took a toll on my mental health and well-being. It was not until I sought professional help that I began to understand the importance of taking care of my mental health and the impact it had on my daily life. I have also been impacted by suicide, as a close friend of mine took his own life several years ago. This experience was incredibly traumatic and left me feeling lost, confused, and overwhelmed. It made me realize the importance of mental health and suicide prevention, and I have since become an advocate for mental health awareness and suicide prevention efforts. Additionally, as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I have faced discrimination and harassment based on my sexual orientation. I have seen the impact that this kind of discrimination can have on mental health and well-being. It is important to create safe spaces for individuals who are part of marginalized communities, to ensure that everyone feels valued and supported. For example, I have volunteered at a local LGBTQIA+ youth center, where I have seen firsthand the impact that safe spaces can have on mental health. The center provides a supportive environment for youth who may not have access to such spaces elsewhere. It provides them with resources, community support, and a sense of belonging that is often lacking for LGBTQIA+ youth. I have also been involved in mental health advocacy efforts, such as participating in awareness campaigns, volunteering at mental health clinics, and advocating for increased access to mental health resources. These experiences have taught me the importance of destigmatizing mental health and creating more accessible and affordable resources for individuals who may be struggling with mental health issues. In conclusion, mental health, suicide, and LGBTQIA+ experiences have all had a profound impact on my life. They have taught me the importance of seeking help, advocating for mental health resources, and creating safe spaces for individuals who may be struggling. I hope to continue to be an advocate for mental health awareness and suicide prevention efforts, and to contribute to creating a more supportive and inclusive society for all. We have to understand that everyone is unique despite their differences and whatever they have to say matters