History has always been more than just dates and events to me, it's been a guide, a mirror, and a reminder that resilience and change are possible. Growing up,I faced challenges that made me feel invisible at times, from navigating a chaotic home lie to periods of homelessness. But even when life felt overwhelming, I found comfort in the stories of those who came before me--people who faced adversity, stood against injustice, and shaped he world for the better. As a member of the Latino-American community. I've seen firsthand how history can connect us to our roots and give us the stretch to push forward. My cultural identity has taught me the value of perseverance, but it's also shown me how easily important voices can be overlooked. That's why I want to stay history, and become a college professor--to make sure those stories, especially the ones that often go untold, are heard. I believe that understanding history isn't just about knowing what happened; it's about learning why it happened and how we can do better. For example, studying movements like the Mexican-American civil rights to efforts of the resilience of marginalized group throughout history remind us that progress is possible when people come together to fight for change. By teaching these lessons, I want to inspire students to see themselves as part of that legacy--to realize that their actions today can create a ripple effect for our future generations. My journey has also shown me how interconnected history and geography are. I'm fascinated by how environments shape civilization and how past societies dealt with challenges like climate or resources scarcity. These lessons are incredibly relevant today as we face global challenges like climate change. By studying these patterns, I hope to contribute to conversations about sustainability and help ensure that we don't repeat the mistakes of the past. Through all the struggles I've faced--taking care of my siblings while balancing school, enduring instability at home, an working hard to overcome mental health challenges--I've learned to keep moving forward. These experiences haven't just shaped me; they've fueled my passion to create change. I want to give others the same hope and understanding that history give me. If there's one thing I've learned, it's that history is more than stories--it's a guide for building a better future. By sharing these lessons, I hope to help others see their potential to make a difference, just as history has shown me mine.

Growing up in a household filed with challenges, I learned the importance of resilience and community. My journey as a member of the Latino-American community as been shaped by experiences of instability, limited resources, and a deep sense of responsibility toward my family. These struggles have not only defines my character but have also inspired my passion for history and education. When I was younger, I often had to care for my younger siblings while my mother worried about providing for our family. these moments taught me selflessness and the value of hard work. My connection to my culture, though sometimes overshadowed by life's difficulties, as always been a source of pride. The stories of my ancestors perseverance and the sacrifices my family has made to build a better life in this country have fueled my determination to succeed. As a history major, I aim to become a college professor, focusing on amplifying underrepresented voices in history, including those of the Latino-American community. Too often, the contributions and struggles of our community are overlooked or misrepresented. By pursuing a career in education, I want to create a case where students of all backgrounds can see themselves reflected in the narratives of the past. Sharing the stories of resilience and innovation within the Latino-American community can inspire future generations to take pride in their heritage an strive for excellence. My experiences have also taught me the power of empathy and connection. Having faced periods of homelessness and mental health struggles, I understand how difficult it can be to find hope amid challenges. these experiences drive my to create a supportive and inclusive classroom environment were students feel seen and heard. I want to encourage my students t embrace their identifies and recognize the strength they carry from their own experiences. One of the most profound lessons I've learned is that education is not just a tool for personal growth but a vehicle for change. Through teaching, I hope to challenges stereotypes, celebrate diversity, and inspire students to use their voices to shape a more equitable future. My journey as a member of the Latino-American community has instilled in me a responsibility to uplift others and ensure that our stories are never forgotten. By sharing my experiences and fostering a love for learning, I hope to empower future generations to embrace their identities and pursue their dreams unapologetically. Through Edison, I can help build a world where every voice, especially those from underrepresented communities, is valued and celebrated.

There was a time when I dreaded waking up. Each day I felt like an endless cycle of pain, and I saw no way out. I wasn't looking forward o anything, and I often questioned my purpose. As a young person living in an unstable environment, mental health struggles weighed heavily on me. I was just dealing with homelessness and economic challenges; I was dealing with the silence that surrounded my struggles-mental health wasn't something talked about in my family. I didn't know how to ask for help or even acknowledge my depression. I thought my future was already written, and it was a hopeless one. Everything began to shift at the start of my junior year when I met someone who helped me see myself differently. This person didn't just encourage me to push through the day but helped me realize that i deserved more, that I was capable of more. He taught me t appreciate who i was and helped me understand that mental health wasn't something to be ashamed of, it was something t manage to understand, andn to seek support fr when needed. This realization did not come overnight, but it was the first step toward a healthier mindset. With his encouragement, I started focusing on school, ad for the first time, I felt like I had control over my life. I began setting goals and achieving them, whether it was turning in assignments on time or maintaining a high GPA. Procrastination still lingered, but i learned to push through it. Even as I face the challenges of homelessness and family instability, I found ways to build stability in my schoolwork and personal life. I developed a routine and stuck to it. understanding that consistency in small steps would lead me to the future I want to create. Though I am still learning to manage my mental health and face struggles, I now recognize that the path forward isn't always linear, and I can get through tough times. I know that overcoming these challenges isn't just about pushing through; it's about being kind to myself, seeking help when needed, and having the resilience to keep going even when it feels impossible. I now understand that I am not defined by my struggles, but by my ability to rise above them. The tools i've gained will help me achieve the life I've always wanted, and I am determined to continue growing, not just for myself, but for others too. My personal journey has also given me a deeper understanding of how important it is to support others who might be struggling in silence. Moving forward, I want to share my story and let others know that they are not alone. Mental health challenges are real, and they don't define us. I hope to encourage others to speak up, seek help, and find the strength within themselves to push forward, no matter how difficult it may seem. Through my passions, like taxidermy, writing poetry, and making dolls, I can also encourage other to embrace their unique interests. I've learned that self expression, whether through that self expression, whether through art or personal stories, is an essential part of healing. I want to create an essential part of healing. I want to create an environment where people feel empowered to be themselves, share their struggles, and explore creative struggles, and explore creative outlets to help them heal. By leading with understanding and empathy, I hope to contribute to a more open and supportive environment for others.