Giving back has always been more than an activity for me—it’s a responsibility and a reflection of the values I was raised with. Throughout my life, I’ve seen how much strength communities can find when people show up for one another, and I’ve tried to be someone who contributes to that strength in meaningful and consistent ways. Today, I give back by volunteering with organizations such as the Oregon Food Bank and APANO (Asian Pacific American Network of Oregon), where I’ve been able to support families, uplift cultural identity, and participate in initiatives that improve lives one small action at a time. At the Oregon Food Bank, I assist with sorting donations, preparing food packages, and supporting distribution events. While these tasks may seem simple, they have shown me just how many families depend on community resources to meet their basic needs. I’ve learned that giving back isn’t always about doing something grand—it’s about showing kindness, preserving dignity, and helping create stability for people who might be facing difficult moments. Every shift reminds me how connected we all are and how far compassion can go when it’s paired with action. My work with APANO has been equally meaningful. As a Korean American, I know how important cultural representation, advocacy, and community support are. Through APANO, I’ve helped at cultural events, voter outreach activities, and community programs designed to uplift Asian American voices. These experiences helped me understand the challenges many families face—language barriers, discrimination, and lack of access to resources—but they also showed me the power of solidarity and shared identity. Giving back in this space makes me feel rooted and reminds me that communities grow stronger when they are seen and heard. Looking toward the future, my goal is to continue serving others through my career. As a Business Administration major with a focus in Marketing, I plan to work in mission-driven marketing—whether in nonprofit communications or for a company that values equity and social impact. I want to create campaigns that uplift marginalized communities, make resources easier to access, and use storytelling to build empathy across differences. Marketing has the ability to influence how people think, feel, and connect, and I want to use that influence responsibly and compassionately. Eventually, I hope to lead or develop programs that help underserved communities access opportunities, education, and representation. Whether through outreach, advocacy, or creative communication, I want my career to strengthen the same kinds of communities that shaped me. Giving back is not just something I do now—it’s the foundation of the future I am building. I plan to continue serving others with empathy, purpose, and dedication, and to use my voice and my work to make the world more inclusive, connected, and equitable.

My future plans are centered on becoming a leader who uses marketing to create meaningful, community-driven impact. As a Korean American student pursuing a degree in Business Administration with a focus in Marketing at Cal State San Marcos, I hope to build a career where creativity and purpose work hand in hand. I want my work to amplify underrepresented voices, support inclusive narratives, and help organizations connect authentically with the people they serve. My passion for this path began forming long before college. Through volunteering with the Oregon Food Bank and APANO, I saw how communication—not just action—can determine how effectively communities receive support. Whether it was organizing donations or helping at community events, I noticed how outreach, accessibility, and messaging shaped whether families felt welcomed and informed. Those experiences taught me that marketing isn’t just a business tool; it’s one of the strongest ways to build trust, belonging, and unity. That realization is what drives the vision I have for my future. Academically, I’m committed to developing strong foundations in marketing strategy, consumer behavior, and ethical leadership. Professionally, my goal is to work in mission-driven marketing, either in nonprofit communications or for a company that prioritizes equity and social responsibility. Eventually, I hope to lead or develop initiatives that use storytelling as a force for representation and positive change. Whether it’s creating campaigns that uplift marginalized communities or helping organizations communicate with empathy and transparency, I want my work to reflect both who I am and what I care about. The Bright Lights Scholarship would be a meaningful part of this journey. As a full-time student balancing academic responsibilities with involvement and financial challenges, I know how easily financial stress can limit the opportunities students are able to pursue. This scholarship would allow me to focus more deeply on my classes, explore internships that align with my values, and take advantage of professional development opportunities without worrying about whether they fit into my budget. It would also provide the flexibility to choose roles based on purpose, not just necessity—something that is incredibly important for students entering fields like nonprofit or community-focused work. By supporting my education, this scholarship would help me continue working toward a future where marketing can be used not just to influence, but to inspire and uplift. I am committed to being a leader who approaches my work with integrity, creativity, and heart, and this scholarship would help light the path toward the impact I hope to make.

Why I Love Math My love for math didn’t start with a classroom or a textbook—it started with a feeling. I remember being a kid and realizing, maybe for the first time, that numbers made sense to me in a way the rest of the world didn’t always seem to. When everything else felt unpredictable, math gave me something steady to hold onto. There was a comfort in knowing that if I approached a problem the right way, I could uncover a truth that wouldn’t change. That sense of stability and control is one of the earliest reasons I fell in love with math. But my connection to math also comes from who I am. I’ve always been someone who thinks a little too much, who likes to understand why things happen instead of just accepting them. Math became the place where that curiosity wasn’t a burden—it was a strength. It gave me permission to slow down, to analyze, to question, and to search for patterns that weren’t obvious at first glance. In a world that can be chaotic, math became my quiet space, a place where everything had meaning if I took the time to look for it. Some of my favorite moments with math came from times I was stuck. As strange as it sounds, I love the struggle. I love staring at a problem that seems impossible, trying every idea I can think of, getting frustrated, walking away, coming back, and finally feeling that click—the moment the answer suddenly fits together like a lock turning open. That moment feels like proof that I can overcome something hard. Math has taught me resilience more than anything else. It taught me that confusion isn’t failure; it’s just the beginning of understanding. Math isn’t just something I’m good at; it’s something that shapes how I think, how I solve problems, and how I understand the world. It’s personal to me because it has been with me during moments of doubt, excitement, frustration, and discovery. It’s the one subject that consistently reminds me of who I am and who I want to become. And that is why I love math.

My “Pie in the Sky” Dream by Aubrey Powers My “pie in the sky” dream is to build a purpose-driven marketing agency that elevates the stories of women, immigrant communities, and young people who feel invisible in spaces where decisions are made. I imagine creating a place where strategy meets empathy, where campaigns are built not just to sell, but to empower. It’s a dream that feels ambitious—sometimes almost too big—but it’s also the one that makes my heartbeat pick up in the best way. It’s the version of my future that feels worth every challenge ahead. This dream didn’t arrive all at once. It grew out of tiny sparks in my life—moments that didn’t seem important at the time but quietly shaped how I understand the world. As a Korean American growing up in Portland, OR, I often found myself balancing two cultures, two expectations, and two versions of myself. It taught me early on how powerful representation is, and how isolating it can feel when your story isn’t reflected anywhere. Later, in high school, volleyball became a second home. Playing at a high level showed me what it means to compete with grit, communicate with clarity, and stay calm under pressure. I learned how to lead without always being the loudest voice, how to trust others, and how to show up even when things get hard—skills that shape how I approach every ambition I hold now. Volunteering with nonprofits deepened that perspective. I met leaders—mostly women—who were doing extraordinary work with very few resources. They weren’t just running programs; they were feeding families, mentoring young girls, creating safe spaces, and changing lives. But I noticed something: their impact was huge, yet their reach was small. They deserved visibility, support, and strategic storytelling that matched the power of their missions. That was the moment my dream sharpened into something real. I didn’t just want to study marketing—I wanted to use it to amplify people who deserve to be seen. To reach this dream, I know the path ahead will require discipline, courage, and continuous growth. At Cal State San Marcos, I am grounding myself in the foundations of business and marketing—learning how strategy, communication, and consumer behavior intersect. But education is only one part. I need hands-on experience with organizations I care about, learning how to translate passion into measurable impact. I want mentors who look like me, who have built their own spaces when none existed, and who can help me navigate the moments when self-doubt tries to steal my momentum. The biggest step will be learning to trust the process—the setbacks, the small wins, and the long hours it takes to build something that matters. I want my future agency to be a place where women and dreamers feel understood, supported, and empowered to turn ideas into movements. A place where authenticity isn’t a buzzword, but the starting point. My dream is big—but it’s mine. And every class I take, every skill I build, and every opportunity like this scholarship brings it a little closer, making the sky feel less distant and the dream feel more like a destination I’m already stepping toward.

Selected Paragraph (from Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 4.3): “You have power over your mind—not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.” Thesis: In this passage, Marcus Aurelius asserts that true human strength derives not from controlling external circumstances but from mastering our internal responses—a principle that emphasizes the radical freedom and resilience available through disciplined self-governance. Marcus Aurelius’s statement is deceptively concise, yet its philosophical implications are profound. At first glance, it may appear to be a simple encouragement to “stay positive” or “focus on yourself,” but a closer examination reveals a fundamental Stoic principle: human agency exists only within the mind. Aurelius draws a critical distinction between what lies within our control and what does not, insisting that peace and strength are accessible only when we focus our efforts on the former. In his view, suffering and frustration stem largely from attempting to exert influence over circumstances that are inherently beyond human command, whether that be the actions of others, societal events, or natural occurrences. By internalizing this distinction, a person can achieve a form of stability and resilience that is independent of fortune or misfortune. The first key element of Aurelius’s meaning lies in his treatment of the mind as a domain over which individuals have absolute authority. The phrase “power over your mind” suggests not a passive or superficial influence, but a deliberate and disciplined governance of thoughts, judgments, and emotional responses. Unlike external circumstances, which fluctuate according to factors beyond one’s control, the mind can be trained, focused, and refined. Aurelius is urging the reader to recognize that emotions are not involuntary reactions imposed by external events; rather, they are choices shaped by perception and judgment. For example, two people might face the same misfortune—one responds with despair, the other with equanimity. The difference lies entirely in their management of the mind. By cultivating mastery over internal responses, a person gains a kind of freedom and autonomy that external circumstances cannot undermine. The second element of Aurelius’s insight is the assertion that outside events are beyond our command. This is not an endorsement of passivity or resignation but a call to clarity and discernment. The world is unpredictable, often chaotic, and indifferent to individual desires. Recognizing this truth prevents individuals from expending energy on futile efforts to control what is uncontrollable. Instead, attention is directed inward, toward the mind, where genuine power resides. Strength, in this context, is not measured by wealth, influence, or physical capability, but by the ability to remain composed and rational in the face of external turbulence. In essence, Aurelius reframes the concept of power itself: it is less about dominating circumstances and more about commanding the self. Furthermore, Aurelius’s conclusion—that realizing the mind’s sovereignty results in strength—illustrates a Stoic ideal of resilience. This strength is ethical, intellectual, and emotional, a product of deliberate mental cultivation rather than happenstance. The passage suggests that individuals who internalize this principle will not be enslaved by anger, fear, or disappointment. Even under the harshest conditions, they can exercise choice in their reactions, maintain clarity of judgment, and act with integrity. This perspective transforms adversity from a source of suffering into an opportunity to exercise discipline, patience, and self-awareness. It implies that strength and freedom are inseparable: one gains true power only by mastering one’s own perceptions and responses. Finally, the broader significance of Aurelius’s message lies in its timeless applicability. In contemporary life, where uncertainty, stress, and constant external stimuli dominate, the passage serves as a reminder that peace and resilience are not products of circumstance but of inner cultivation. From workplace challenges to personal setbacks, the ability to focus on what one can control—the mind—remains the most effective route to stability and personal growth. Aurelius encourages a radical reorientation: rather than attempting to shape the world, we should shape ourselves. In doing so, we achieve a form of invulnerability, a strength that endures regardless of fortune, social upheaval, or natural events. In conclusion, Marcus Aurelius’s simple statement contains a profound ethical and psychological lesson: strength comes not from attempting to govern the uncontrollable, but from mastering the self. By asserting the sovereignty of the mind over external events, he redefines human power, linking it to discipline, perception, and internal freedom. The passage is a call to self-mastery, a reminder that our responses—not our circumstances—determine the quality of our lives. Understanding and practicing this principle allows one to cultivate a resilience and tranquility that external conditions cannot disturb, embodying the Stoic ideal of true human strength.

Sustainability should be a priority in business administration because the long-term success of any organization depends on the health of the environment, the stability of communities, and the responsible use of resources. Businesses do not operate in isolation—they are deeply interconnected with ecosystems, supply chains, and societal expectations. As climate change accelerates, consumer awareness increases, and environmental regulations become stricter, businesses that prioritize sustainability are better positioned to innovate, reduce risk, and remain competitive. In today’s world, sustainability is no longer an optional moral choice; it is a strategic necessity. From a business standpoint, integrating sustainable practices reduces operational costs, strengthens brand reputation, and supports long-term profitability. Companies that invest in renewable energy, reduce waste, and improve supply chain efficiency often experience significant savings over time. Additionally, consumers—especially younger generations—actively support brands that demonstrate environmental responsibility. A sustainable business not only protects the planet but also meets market demand and builds trust with stakeholders. Ignoring sustainability puts organizations at a disadvantage, both financially and ethically. Furthermore, sustainability encourages innovation. When businesses seek eco-friendly solutions, they often develop new technologies, materials, and processes that enhance overall performance. These innovations can open new markets, create partnerships, and set industry standards. Business administrators who understand sustainability are better equipped to guide their organizations toward future-oriented strategies that benefit both the company and society. In the future, I see myself playing an active role in helping reduce environmental impact within my profession, especially as someone pursuing a career in marketing and business administration. I hope to apply sustainability principles to the work I do, whether that’s contributing to a company’s environmental initiatives or helping shape the messaging and campaigns that influence consumer behavior. As a marketing professional, I will have the opportunity to promote products and services in ways that encourage eco-conscious decisions. Marketing plays a powerful role in shaping public attitudes, and I want to use that influence responsibly. This means highlighting sustainable practices, encouraging transparency about environmental impacts, and supporting brands that prioritize ethical production. I hope to help shift consumers toward greener choices by creating campaigns that educate, inspire, and motivate action. Beyond marketing, I also want to work internally within organizations to advocate for sustainable business practices. This could include reducing paper usage through digital systems, promoting recycling and waste reduction programs, supporting partnerships with environmentally responsible suppliers, or championing initiatives that lower energy consumption. Even small actions within a company can create a ripple effect when supported by thoughtful leadership. Ultimately, I want to be part of the generation of business leaders who understand that sustainability and success go hand in hand. By combining my business education with my personal commitment to environmental responsibility, I hope to contribute to a future where companies not only thrive financially but also care for the world we share. Sustainability should be at the heart of business administration because it ensures that our progress today does not compromise the well-being of future generations—and I am committed to helping drive that change.

Obtaining a business degree will change my life in profound ways, guiding not only my academic journey but shaping my identity as a young Korean American woman determined to build a meaningful and impactful career. As a Business Administration student at Cal State San Marcos with a growing passion for Marketing, I see this degree as far more than a credential. It represents an opportunity to merge my personal values, cultural identity, and lived experiences into a clear professional path. Through the skills, connections, and perspective I will gain, this degree will give me the tools to transform my ambitions into real, lasting achievements. Much of my determination comes from my upbringing and the lessons I learned as a student-athlete and volunteer. Playing high-level volleyball throughout high school taught me resilience, discipline, teamwork, and the importance of leadership. On the court, I learned how to analyze situations quickly, adjust strategies under pressure, and communicate effectively with teammates—skills that translate directly into the business world. These experiences instilled in me a strong work ethic and a commitment to pushing through challenges even when circumstances are difficult. I know that pursuing a business degree will further sharpen these qualities, giving me a structured environment to apply the discipline and competitive mindset I developed as an athlete. Equally important has been the work I have done volunteering with nonprofits. Through these experiences, I gained a deeper understanding of how organizations uplift communities, allocate resources, and build trust. Community service opened my eyes to the importance of compassionate leadership and inspired me to think about how I can use business—especially marketing—as a tool for positive impact. Whether it was helping plan events, supporting community outreach, or working with youth, I saw firsthand how strong communication and thoughtful planning can change lives. Earning a business degree will enable me to combine my interest in marketing with my desire to support organizations that create meaningful social change. Academically, this degree will expand my understanding of how businesses operate, how consumers make decisions, and how brands communicate their values. The marketing courses I take at CSUSM will allow me to explore strategy, creativity, and data-driven analysis in ways that excite me. Learning from professors, working on group projects, and engaging with local organizations through internships will help me develop both the technical and interpersonal skills needed in today’s business environment. Each class I take brings me a step closer to becoming the kind of strategic, innovative professional I aspire to be. On a personal level, obtaining this business degree will change my life by giving me confidence and independence. As a Korean American woman navigating higher education, I want to make my family proud and create opportunities for myself that broaden what I once thought was possible. Completing this degree will prove to me that I can overcome challenges, commit to long-term goals, and build a future defined by purpose and ambition. Ultimately, earning a business degree will give me the foundation to build a career in marketing that blends creativity, strategy, and service. It will empower me to use my voice, my identity, and my experiences to make an impact—whether in corporate settings, nonprofit organizations, or future entrepreneurial ventures. This degree is not just a step toward a career; it is the beginning of a life shaped by leadership, community, and the drive to make a difference.

Throughout my life, I have been motivated by the belief that meaningful change is created through connection, communication, and purpose-driven work. As a Korean American student pursuing a degree in Business Administration with a focus in Marketing, I am drawn to the power of storytelling and strategy—two elements that shape how people understand the world and how organizations reach the communities they serve. My background, academic interests, and volunteer experiences have all influenced my desire to build a career that not only challenges me professionally but also allows me to make a positive impact on the world. Growing up, I learned the importance of representation and inclusion. Whether on the volleyball court, in the classroom, or within community settings, I saw firsthand how people thrive when they feel seen and valued. This understanding is a major reason I chose marketing as my field of study. Marketing is not just about selling products—it is about shaping narratives, elevating voices, and creating messages that resonate with people from all walks of life. I want to use these tools to contribute to projects and organizations that aim to inform, empower, and uplift. One of the ways I plan to make a positive impact is by working with mission-driven companies and nonprofits that focus on community development, education, and social equity. My volunteer work with several nonprofits has shown me how vital effective communication is to expanding outreach, engaging supporters, and building trust. I hope to bring my cultural perspective, creativity, and strategic thinking to organizations that are working to solve real challenges—whether that means increasing access to resources, promoting diversity, or supporting underserved communities. In the long term, I want to be someone who helps create opportunities for others. By entering a field where diverse leadership is still growing, I hope to demonstrate that new voices and new perspectives are not only welcome but necessary. As I gain experience, I intend to mentor younger students, especially those from underrepresented groups, to help them see the possibilities available to them in business and marketing. Representation is powerful, and I want to be part of ensuring that the next generation can see themselves reflected in spaces where decisions are made. Ultimately, my goal is to build a career that balances professional success with social impact. I want my work in Marketing to contribute to a more inclusive, thoughtful, and connected world—one where stories are told with care, communities are supported with intention, and every individual feels that they have a place in shaping the future.

From an early age, I have been drawn to the ways creativity and strategy intersect to shape people’s experiences, perceptions, and choices. This interest—and my desire to work in a field where communication and impact go hand in hand—is what led me to pursue a degree in Business Administration with a focus in marketing at Cal State San Marcos. Marketing combines analytical thinking with storytelling, and for someone who has grown up navigating multiple cultural perspectives as a Korean American, that blend feels natural. I’ve always been aware of how representation influences the way communities see themselves and how others see them, and I hope to bring that awareness into the professional spaces I will eventually join. As a student in this program, I represent a small but growing percentage of Asian American students pursuing business pathways. While Asian Americans as a broader group are present in higher education, the specific breakdown within marketing programs and leadership roles shows that representation becomes thinner the higher you go. Being part of this minority within my field motivates me to work hard, not just for myself, but for others who may one day look for someone who understands their experiences. Although I cannot speak for every Korean American or every student of color, I carry my identity proudly and see it as a strength that shapes how I approach challenges, leadership, and collaboration. My goal is to use my education to create meaningful impact within my community. Marketing has tremendous power—it can influence narratives, open doors, and amplify voices. I hope to work with organizations whose missions align with equity, education, and community empowerment. Through volunteer work with nonprofits, I have already seen how strategic messaging can increase engagement, support important causes, and bring people together. I want to continue applying my skills in ways that uplift underrepresented groups, especially those who rarely see themselves reflected in mainstream media or corporate leadership. As I grow in my field, I also want to inspire the next generation by showing that there is space for them in business, marketing, and beyond. Young people deserve to see leaders who reflect their identities and experiences—leaders who prove that diversity is not just possible, but valuable. Whether through mentorship, community involvement, or simply by excelling and staying visible in my field, I hope to contribute to expanding what representation looks like. My journey is just beginning, but I am committed to using it to widen the path for those who will come after me.