Since I was a child I was a picky eater, malnourished, and constantly tired. I never knew why until middle school when I was diagnosed with Celiac Disease and Hypothyroidism. This came as a shock to my family as we were utterly unprepared for a diagnosis this serious. There was a substantial lack of gluten free food in our area, and I could no longer eat my favorite foods, the only foods I ever really ate. This forced me to get creative, and for the first time in my life, branch out. Socially, I was overlooked, ignored, and belittled for my condition, until I found friends with the same struggle as me. Those who know what it’s like to miss school for days because of a reaction. That’s why I’ve taken the initiative to advocate and work with the restaurants in my area, to improve their food safety practices, their cleanliness and their awareness of food allergies. Because of the work I’ve done, I’ve been able to consistently get allergy free food for my friends and I. This is the reason why I have been able to soar academically. Before my diagnosis, I was always tired, constantly sick, and incredibly weak. Now, I’m able to actively participate and find the areas that really interest me. Right now, my passion is in math, it is always reliable and it’s so inspiring to learn about how they combine so beautifully to create a work of art that has functional purposes like radio waves. Currently I am in AP calculus BC and I would be absolutely blessed to pursue a career in STEM. Initially, I saw my Celiac Disease diagnosis as a major setback in my life but over the years I have been able to transform my personal weakness into a way to help others and that is all I could ask for in my life. Today, I am working on a movement to make the concession stands at my school accessible for people with all dietary restrictions. A success I have had recently is an event I helped organize called Cookies With Santa at my school to fundraiser for my Key Club chapter where I am a member. I provided an allergy free station with no cross contaminated ingredients. The excitement of the children to be able to have safe food was amazing and I am so blessed to give that experience to children that I never had growing up. With your generous donation, I would be able to further fund my degree and be able to make even bigger change. Thank you so much for taking the time to read my submission and I hope you are always blessed.