1. What makes me a “You Got It Girl” is my resilience and ability to keep going even when things feel uncertain. As a first-generation college student, I’ve had to navigate many challenges on my own, whether that’s understanding financial aid, balancing academics, or pursuing opportunities without a clear guide. Instead of letting that overwhelm me, I’ve learned to trust myself and stay determined. This scholarship would help relieve financial stress and allow me to focus more on my education and athletic growth. It would give me the support I need to continue building a future not just for myself, but for my family as well. 2. I compete in soccer and have been since I was 12. Soccer has shaped who I am by teaching me discipline, teamwork, and mental toughness. It has pushed me to grow both physically and mentally, especially in high-pressure situations. Throughout high school I was mainly only able to compete in high school soccer or pick-up leagues since my parents couldn’t afford club soccer. Although that came without proper training and coaching, I put in a lot of work that led me to have continued my athletic journey in a NAIA DI University, which is something I am very proud of. 3. One of the biggest setbacks I faced was tearing my ACL my freshman year of college, right before nationals. After working hard all season to earn a starting spot as a freshman, it was devastating to have that opportunity taken away so suddenly. While the injury was physically challenging, the mental aspect was even harder. I had to watch my team compete without me during one of the most important moments of the season. Despite this, I refused to let the setback define me. I committed myself fully to the recovery process, staying disciplined and focused every day to come back stronger. The experience tested my patience, resilience, and mindset, but it also helped me grow in ways I never expected. When I returned the following season, all the hard work paid off. I started every game and was named team captain as a sophomore. That moment meant more to me than any achievement before because it represented everything I had overcome. 4. I admire my parents. Their sacrifices and work ethic inspire me every day. They have always pushed through challenges to provide for our family, even when things were not easy. They motivate me to keep working hard and to never take opportunities for granted. Everything I do is to make them proud and create a better future. 5. This scholarship would directly support both my academic and athletic journey. As a student-athlete, balancing school, training, and work, this would alleviate financial stress to help me focus on academics and athletics. It would support essentials like school costs, training gear, health insurance, and travel, allowing me to stay focused on my goals. 6. Being a first-generation student-athlete means everything I achieve carries a deeper purpose. I am not only working toward my own success but also setting an example for others in my community and living my parent's dreams. I take pride in representing resilience, hard work, and determination. No matter what challenges I face, I continue to push forward and grow from every experience. 7. I currently play at the collegiate level on an athletic scholarship. Being a student-athlete means balancing academics and athletics while staying committed to both. It has taught me discipline, time management, and accountability. Every day, I am working toward becoming better both on and off the field, and I am proud to represent what it means to be a dedicated student athlete.

My personal experiences as a first-generation college student have strongly shaped my sense of purpose. Growing up, I watched my family work tirelessly to create opportunities they never had. Their sacrifices motivated me to pursue higher education, not only for my own growth but to honor everything they have done for me. Entering college without a clear guide pushed me to become independent, resilient, and proactive. In 2024, when FAFSA introduced a new system, I faced challenges due to my parents not having Social Security numbers. With little guidance available, I spent countless nights navigating the process because I needed the financial support to attend college. After three months, I was finally able to submit my application and then help others facing the same obstacles. This experience showed me how my resilience could directly impact my future and those around me. Growing up, my discipline would only help me catch up to others. Pursuing higher education, however, became my opportunity to finally be a step ahead create new possibilities. These challenges clarified my purpose. I am driven to pursue a career in business and accounting to build financial stability for my family and support my community. I want to be a role model for other first-generation students, proving that obstacles can be overcome.