My family’s story begins decades before I was born, with a difficult decision that shaped every opportunity I have today. After graduating from nursing school in the Philippines, my grandmother, my Lola, left for the United States alone. She had to leave behind her two young sons: my dad was still a baby, and my uncle a toddler. For several years she worked tirelessly in an unfamiliar country, saving and building enough stability to eventually petition for her children. During that time, my dad was raised in the Philippines by his grandparents until Lola finally returned to bring him and his brother to the U.S. Her courage and sacrifice created the foundation my family stands on today. Growing up, I learned that sacrifice is one of the deepest expressions of love in Filipino culture. I see it not only in Lola’s journey, but in the way my dad lives his life. He works incredibly hard so that my sister and I can pursue opportunities he didn’t have at our age. From him, I’ve learned humility, resilience, hard work and perseverance. And despite the challenges our family has faced, there is always laughter, optimism, and gratitude. That hopeful, positive spirit is something I’ve come to recognize as distinctly Filipino, an ability to stay strong while still finding joy in everyday moments. These values influence who I am as a student and leader. As the treasurer of my school’s National Honor Society, I’ve learned how to manage responsibility, support service initiatives, and contribute to a team with purpose. I take that role seriously because serving others feels like a small way to honor the sacrifices my Lola and my parents made for me. My experiences in soccer also shaped my character. I began on JV as a freshman and didn’t become a varsity starter until my senior year. My junior year, I received the Coach’s Award for dedication and attitude, and this year I was honored to be named the Overall Team MVP. My soccer journey taught me that growth often happens quietly and slowly, long before anyone notices. Those years of hard work, patience, and belief in myself deepened my understanding of perseverance, something my family has modeled for generations. All of this has strengthened my desire to pursue a career in medicine. I want to follow in my grandmother’s footsteps, not by repeating her path, but by carrying forward her heart for healing and service. Medicine will allow me to combine my interests in science, empathy, problem solving, and community care. I hope to one day serve families like mine, immigrant, hardworking, and striving for better futures. The Alexander de Guia Memorial Scholarship resonates with me because Mr. de Guia’s story reflects the same values my family lives every day: sacrifice, hope, education, and opportunity. This scholarship would ease the financial burden of college, helping me focus more deeply on academics, volunteering, and preparing for a future in healthcare. With your support, my education will help me pursue medicine so I can serve and care for others.