I knew I was going to have to jump—it was the only way down. As the faint screams of children filled my ears, I leaped. With my hair being drastically pulled by the wind, I closed my eyes, hoping for a successful landing. Bam! My feet hit the ground, and my body followed. I had successfully jumped off a moving swing, the greatest accomplishment of my six year old life. My eyes opened, but the world was dark as my shirt had flown over my head. I could hear the exaggerated applause from my mom as I stood up, hurriedly wrangling my shirt down to hide my secret. Too late! Our eyes met and I saw her worried expression as she noticed my inflated and unhealthily-distended stomach. I had tried to hide it from her - at six years old, I loved the feeling of newfound independence as I was finally allowed to bathe and clothe myself. I didn’t understand why my stomach was suddenly bloated, but I knew it was bad news for my growing autonomy. And I was right - following that day there was an unending march of doctor’s visits and medications leading up to a diagnosis of ulcerative colitis, a long-term inflammatory bowel disease that cripples the large intestine. This diagnosis would start a journey that transformed me into a person that refused to be downtrodden by an illness while also growing a passion for medicine that continues today. From an early age, I was subject to the upsetting realities of chronic illness, but refused to let it define me. As I was exposed to a variety of hospitals and treatments, I began developing a passion for medicine. As I became a teenager, I used my appointments as a learning opportunity by memorizing charts, reciting facts, and forcing my parents to quiz me on all the posters in our room. As a college student, I plan on pursuing Gastroenterology. Additionally, I serve as an advocate for the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation. I provide support to those enduring the same condition I have accepted the challenge of my disease with positivity and curiosity, making the experience a learning opportunity and remaining optimistic throughout the whole process. Ultimately, this disease has helped me discover my passions - moving forward I want to become more involved in the Gastroenterology field of study and eventually become a chair member for the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation. In the future, I hope to study the human intestines and make groundbreaking contributions to more natural medications and treatments for someone enduring the same diagnosis. Diagnosed with an auto-immune disorder, Ulcerative Colitis, before the age of 10 flowed rabid curiosity into my adolescent mind. I couldn’t comprehend why my own body was attacking itself, making me sick. I couldn’t comprehend why the doctors couldn’t make me feel better. I wanted an answer. My goal is to be able to further research in this study and contribute to the strengthening of the immune and gastrointestinal systems. I am confident I will excel at my goals due to the emotional and personal passion behind each topic. I would like to thank you for the opportunity to apply for this scholarship and if rewarded with this scholarship, I would use 100% of it to help pay for the expenses of the University of Michigan. I will be attending the University of Michigan in the fall of 2027 and plan to major in biology on the pre-med track to continue my passion of Gastroenterology.

Growing up, my best friend was my grandfather. I begged my parents to take a trip to Michigan (where he lived) as much as we could. I spent all the time I could with him and this led to his passions and interests becoming mine. He taught me how to love. It doesn’t matter if he was grilling for a family meal, holding the door open for strangers, or playing with his grandchildren, he completed each task out of pure love. He taught me how to be loved. April 3, 2016: a day I will never forget. The day I found out my grandfather had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. This devastating disease hit my grandfather hard. It was just a year before he started forgetting faces, memories, and places. Although he may not have remembered me at every moment, I was there with him every step of the way. I spent nights in the hospital with him and eventually watched in devastation as he had to be moved into a home for memory loss. I found myself spending all my summer, winter, and spring breaks traveling from Las Vegas to Michigan to spend every moment with him. It was October 2019 and we knew that his time was coming to an end. My parents and I made the initial decision to spend the week of Thanksgiving in Michigan to be with him. The next morning, my mom and I went to go visit him earlier than everyone else. I walked into the room where he was supposed to be sleeping and found him to be wide awake. Although he did not know who I was, I held his hand and combed his hair. The nurse came in to change him out of his pajama pants. She sat him up and immediately the breath fled from his lungs. We knew those were his final moments. She laid him back down and my mom and I held my grandpa as he took his last breath. I was broken. My person was gone. I truly did not stop crying and felt like a part of my heart was missing. I never thought I would recover from this tragedy. Going back to Vegas was tough and reality hit me hard. My mental health was at the lowest it had ever been and I even considered suicide. I was sent to multiple therapists but it was hopeless. My best friend was gone. I didn't even see a reason to live. One summer when we went back to visit Michigan, I realized that I had to keep going. I used this setback in my life as motivation. I was motivated to work hard. I was motivated to treat others with love. I was motivated to find the beauty in all things. My grandfather motivated me. I started focusing on my grades. When I felt discouraged, I remembered the monumental moment of my grandfather taking his last breath and kept pushing. My goal was to be accepted as an out-of-state student at the University of Michigan. I took AP classes, had over 100 service hours, and spent countless hours studying. I then was accepted into my dream school and plan on attending UMICH in the fall of 2027. I can’t wait to go back to my grandfather’s hometown and continue to work hard for him. This scholarship would help support my tuition at the University of Michigan, and I am so honored for the opportunity to apply.

In fifth grade, my mom introduced me to the gym where I found myself spending hours on end. I would go with my mom where she would teach me different exercises and how to use machines. Once I got my drivers license, I drove straight from school to the gym everyday until it was formed into a habit. I even had a fitness journal where I would write down the various exercises I performed and my goals for each workout. Although I was physically in shape, I was not eating the right foods to fuel my body. Instead, I found myself tired before and after each workout and would result in drinking caffeine. It wasn’t until my junior year of high school that I realized food is fuel. I would try to eat meals with a good source of protein, carbs, and sugar so I had energy while keeping a “clean” diet. In my fitness journal, I started to write down the meals and the nutrition I consumed throughout the day. With my new diet, my performance was improving in my workouts and I found myself more energized and in a better mood. Eventually, I learned about little benefits called supplements. Supplements were powders or vitamins that would improve different parts of your body. With this new finding, I got all the supplements I needed and experimented with which ones supported my body. I now take magnesium, turmeric, apple cider vinegar, greens, and glutamine. These supplements have allowed my body to naturally grow and flourish into its healthiest form. For college, I am attending the prestigious University of Michigan. My intended college of study is the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts. With over 100 top-tier degree programs, I am in awe of everything this College has to offer. From the prestigious study abroad programs to the esteemed internship opportunities, LSA college is capable of providing a steady path for a very successful career. With a broad span of passions, I aspire to plunge into the world of biology through the distinguished programs offered by University of Michigan. Diagnosed with two auto-immune disorders, Molluscum Contagiosum and Ulcerative Colitis, before the age of 10 flowed rabid curiosity in my adolescent mind. I couldn’t comprehend why my own body was attacking itself, making me sick. I couldn’t comprehend why the doctors couldn’t make me feel better. I wanted an answer. My goal is to be able to further research in this study and contribute to the strengthening of the immune and gastrointestinal systems. I am confident I will excel at my goals due to the emotional and personal passion behind each topic. The research programs available at the University of Michigan have the potential to do groundbreaking research in these aspects. With the diagnosis of Ulcerative Colitis, maintaining a healthy mental and physical state may pose a challenge but I am also going to work hard to become a nutritionist. I plan to continue this side career and provide digestive insight to those enduring the same condition as I am. Additionally, I plan to maintain a healthy workout regimen to strengthen my mind and body. I have noticed that the more I work out the better I feel mentally and physically. As I enter the next chapter of my life, I want to maintain this healthy lifestyle I have created by continuing to take the supplements that work for my body, eating healthy, and going to the gym at least five times a week. A healthy lifestyle boosts your mood, motivation, and sets your life up for success.

I knew I was going to have to jump—it was the only way down. As the faint screams of children filled my ears, I leaped. With my hair being drastically pulled by the wind, I closed my eyes, hoping for a successful landing. Bam! My feet hit the ground, and my body followed. I had successfully jumped off a moving swing, the greatest accomplishment of my six year old life. My eyes opened, but the world was dark as my shirt had flown over my head. I could hear the exaggerated applause from my mom as I stood up, hurriedly wrangling my shirt down to hide my secret. Too late! Our eyes met and I saw her worried expression as she noticed my inflated and unhealthily-distended stomach. I had tried to hide it from her - at six years old, I loved the feeling of newfound independence as I was finally allowed to bathe and clothe myself. I didn’t understand why my stomach was suddenly bloated, but I knew it was bad news for my growing autonomy. And I was right - following that day there was an unending march of doctor’s visits and medications leading up to a diagnosis of ulcerative colitis, a long-term inflammatory bowel disease that cripples the large intestine. This diagnosis would start a journey that transformed me into a person that refused to be downtrodden by an illness while also growing a passion for medicine that continues today. From an early age, I was subject to the upsetting realities of chronic illness, but refused to let it define me. As I was exposed to a variety of hospitals and treatments, I began developing a passion for medicine. This started early on when I was learning about a surgery I would have to face, a proctocolectomy in which part of my large intestine would be removed. The doctors explained the serious procedure expecting tears or protesting, and instead were confronted with a child demanding to be provided with the removed specimen in a personal display jar. My request was denied, but it was a glimpse into my future as a medical nerd. As I became a teenager, I used my appointments as a learning opportunity by memorizing charts, reciting facts, and forcing my parents to quiz me on all the posters in our room. As a college student, I plan on pursuing Gastroenterology. Additionally, I serve as an advocate for the Crohns and Colitis Foundation. I provide support to those enduring the same condition I have accepted the challenge of my disease with positivity and curiosity, making the experience a learning opportunity and remaining optimistic throughout the whole process. Ultimately, this disease has helped me discover my passions - moving forward I want to become more involved in the Gastroenterology field of study and eventually become a chair member for the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation. In the future, I hope to study the human intestines and make groundbreaking contributions to more natural medications and treatments for someone enduring the same diagnosis. Diagnosed with an auto-immune disorders, Ulcerative Colitis, before the age of 10 flowed rabid curiosity in my adolescent mind. I couldn’t comprehend why my own body was attacking itself, making me sick. I couldn’t comprehend why the doctors couldn’t make me feel better. I wanted an answer. My goal is to be able to further research in this study and contribute to the strengthening of the immune and gastrointestinal systems. I am confident I will excel at my goals due to the emotional and personal passion behind each topic.

A baby's first words spoken are significant and often remembered for their lifespan. These words remain momentous and can signify the community and culture surrounding the baby. In the United States it is most common for babies to mumble “daddy, mommy, hi, or bye” as their first words. However, growing up in a primarily Hispanic household allowed for my language to diversify at an extremely young age. “Perro”: my first word spoken, remains significant and illustrates the influential Hispanic community I grew up in. My mom and her family came to America in 1980 with an entertainment visa because my grandpa was a soccer player. Once the soccer season ended, they were sent back to Chile due to their immigrancy. In 1986 my mom, her parents, and her 3 sisters obtained their Permanent Resident Cards and officially became U.S citizens. Although employment, housing, and language was a ruthless challenge for them, they were able to overcome all obstacles and start a new life in America. Being raised in a hispanic household allowed for both the American and Chilean language, culture, and their traditions to resonate in my mind at a young age. For example, my family celebrates Chilean Independence day on September 16th by gathering as a whole family and feasting on my mom’s famous Empanadas and Pastel de Choclo. On New Year's Eve, my family and I follow the famous Chilean tradition of eating twelve grapes during the countdown to midnight. During the holiday season, we open presents on “La Noche Buena”- the Spanish term used often meaning Christmas Eve. As a child I didn’t truly understand how lucky I was, but as I’ve grown and matured I have learned that being hispanic has been an astronomical blessing. I have been accepted into the University of Michigan and will be attending there in the fall of 2027. I plan to major in Biology on the pre-med track and pursue Gastroenterology in the future. Although I have big goals, I believe that financial aid through scholarships will benefit me in all of my goals. Being a first-generation American continues to motivate me to spare no effort in all I do. In addition, I aspire to be a first-generation student at a prestigious university. I believe my knowledge of the Hispanic community, traditions, and language will allow me to strive in college. I will continue to work hard and represent my Hispanic community in the best way possible.

I knew I was going to have to jump—it was the only way down. As the faint screams of children filled my ears, I leaped. With my hair being drastically pulled by the wind, I closed my eyes, hoping for a successful landing. Bam! My feet hit the ground, and my body followed. I had successfully jumped off a moving swing, the greatest accomplishment of my six year old life. My eyes opened, but the world was dark as my shirt had flown over my head. I could hear the exaggerated applause from my mom as I stood up, hurriedly wrangling my shirt down to hide my secret. Too late! Our eyes met and I saw her worried expression as she noticed my inflated and unhealthily-distended stomach. I had tried to hide it from her - at six years old, I loved the feeling of newfound independence as I was finally allowed to bathe and clothe myself. I didn’t understand why my stomach was suddenly bloated, but I knew it was bad news for my growing autonomy. And I was right - following that day there was an unending march of doctor’s visits and medications leading up to a diagnosis of ulcerative colitis, a long-term inflammatory bowel disease that cripples the large intestine. This diagnosis would start a journey that transformed me into a person that refused to be downtrodden by an illness while also growing a passion for medicine that continues today. From an early age, I was subject to the upsetting realities of chronic illness, but refused to let it define me. Instead of running around and playing in the summer sun with kids my age, I was often indoors and craving any medication that would relieve the excruciating pain in my stomach. I was frequently in the hospital, but I refused to miss out on fun. As I was exposed to a variety of hospitals and treatments, I began developing a passion for medicine. This started early on when I was learning about a surgery I would have to face, a proctocolectomy in which part of my large intestine would be removed. The doctors explained the serious procedure expecting tears or protesting, and instead were confronted with a child demanding to be provided with the removed specimen in a personal display jar. My request was denied, but it was a glimpse into my future as a medical nerd. As I became a teenager, I used my appointments as a learning opportunity by memorizing charts, reciting facts, and forcing my parents to quiz me on all the posters in our room. As a college student, I plan on pursuing Gastroenterology. Additionally, I serve as an advocate for the Crohns and Colitis Foundation. I provide support to those enduring the same condition I have accepted the challenge of my disease with positivity and curiosity, making the experience a learning opportunity and remaining optimistic throughout the whole process. Ultimately, this disease has helped me discover my passions - moving forward I want to become more involved in the Gastroenterology field of study and eventually become a chair member for the Crohns and Colitis Foundation. In the future, I hope to study the human intestines and make groundbreaking contributions to more natural medications and treatments for someone enduring the same diagnosis.

It is normalized in today’s society for children to have a cartoon character, superhero, or person that they idolized. My brother favored Sportacus, and my cousin cherished Dora, but I never cared for any specific figure. Instead I admired my grandfather. Growing up, I wanted to be just like my grandpa. He was my superhero. I begged my parents to take a trip to Michigan (where he lived) as much as we could. I spent all the time I could with him and this led to his passions and interests becoming mine. He taught me how to golf, fish, play cards, and even how to make bubble bombs. Most importantly he taught me how to love. It doesn’t matter if he was grilling for a family meal, holding the door open for strangers, or playing with his grandchildren, he completed each task out of pure love. He taught me how to be loved. He taught me how to turn the other cheek and how to live a life of faith. With my grandpa, I felt safe. I was at home. I knew that he would be there to let me cry on his shoulder after a heartbreak. The lessons my grandpa taught me have prepared me for life beyond high school. He rooted in me the principles I need to live a happy, successful life. April 3, 2016: a day I will never forget. The day I found out my grandfather had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s is a devastating disease and it hit my grandfather hard. It was just a year before he started forgetting faces, memories, and places. Although he may not have remembered me at every moment, I was there with him every step of the way. I spent nights in the hospital with him and eventually watched in devastation as he had to be moved into a home for memory loss. I found myself spending all my summer, winter, and spring breaks traveling from Las Vegas to Michigan to spend every moment with him. It was October of 2019 and we knew that his time was coming to an end. His organs were failing and his heartbeat was more irregular. My parents and I made the initial decision to spend the week of Thanksgiving in Michigan to be with him as he was nearing the end. We flew in late Sunday night but my mother and I woke up very early in the morning to go to the care home where he was staying. We usually would have waited for the rest of my family to wake up so we could go together, but I could not sleep and felt a pit in the bottom of my stomach. I walked into the room where he was supposed to be sleeping and found him to be wide awake. Although he did not know who I was, I held his hand and combed his hair. The nurse came in to change him out of his pajama pants. She sat him up and immediately the breath fled from his lungs. We knew those were his final moments. She laid him back down and my mom and I held my grandpa as he took his last breath. I was broken. My person was gone. I truly did not stop crying and felt like a part of my heart was missing. Out of all fourteen grandchildren and four children, I gave a eulogy speech at his funeral. I never thought I would recover from this tragedy. Going back to Vegas was tough and reality hit me hard. I realized that I had to keep going. I used this setback in my life as motivation. I was motivated to work hard. I was motivated to treat others with love. I was motivated to find the beauty in all things. My grandfather motivated me. I started to attend church regularly and focus on my grades. I found a goal and worked for it. When I felt discouraged, I remembered the monumental moment of my grandfather taking his last breath and kept pushing. My goal was to be accepted as an out-of-state student at the University of Michigan. I took AP classes, had over 100 service hours, and spent countless hours studying. I then was accepted into my dream school and plan on attending UMICH in the fall of 2027. I can’t wait to go back to my grandfather’s hometown and continue to work hard for him. This scholarship would help support my tuition at the University of Michigan, and I am so honored for the opportunity to apply. Lastly, I would like to thank Cat Zingano for her kindness and compassion in creating this scholarship and contributing to it.

A baby's first words spoken are significant and often remembered for their lifespan. These words remain momentous and can signify the community and culture surrounding the baby. In the United States it is most common for babies to mumble “daddy, mommy, hi, or bye” as their first words. However, growing up in a primarily Hispanic household allowed for my language to diversify at an extremely young age. “Perro”: my first word spoken, remains significant and illustrates the influential Hispanic community I grew up in. My mom and her family came to America in 1980 with an entertainment visa because my grandpa was a soccer player. Once the soccer season ended, they were sent back to Chile due to their immigrancy. In 1986 my mom, her parents, and her 3 sisters obtained their Permanent Resident Cards and officially became U.S citizens. Although employment, housing, and language was a ruthless challenge for them, they were able to overcome all obstacles and start a new life in America. Being raised in a hispanic household allowed for both the American and Chilean language, culture, and their traditions to resonate in my mind at a young age. For example, my family celebrates Chilean Independence day on September 16th by gathering as a whole family and feasting on my mom’s famous Empanadas and Pastel de Choclo. On New Year's Eve, my family and I follow the famous Chilean tradition of eating twelve grapes during the countdown to midnight. During the holiday season, we open presents on “La Noche Buena”- the Spanish term used often meaning Christmas Eve. As a child I didn’t truly understand how lucky I was, but as I’ve grown and matured I have learned that being hispanic has been an astronomical blessing. My career goal is to become a pediatric gastroenterologist or a gastroenterology dietician at the hospital at U of M. My goal is to perform further research and service that contributes to the strengthening of the digestive and gastrointestinal systems. The College of LSA at the University of Michigan will allow me to complete critical courses and become more knowledgeable in the basics that are needed to create a strong foundation for my dream career. I am extremely grateful for the diversity present in my life. Being a first generation American continues to motivate me to spare no effort in all I do. In addition, I aspire to be a first-generation student at a prestigious university. I believe my knowledge of the Hispanic community, traditions, and language will allow me to strive in college.

I knew I was going to have to jump—it was the only way down. As the faint screams of children filled my ears, I leaped. With my hair being drastically pulled by the wind, I closed my eyes, hoping for a successful landing. Bam! My feet hit the ground, and my body followed. I had successfully jumped off a moving swing, the greatest accomplishment of my six year old life. My eyes opened, but the world was dark as my shirt had flown over my head. I could hear the exaggerated applause from my mom as I stood up, hurriedly wrangling my shirt down to hide my secret. Too late! Our eyes met and I saw her worried expression as she noticed my inflated and unhealthily-distended stomach. I had tried to hide it from her - at six years old, I loved the feeling of newfound independence as I was finally allowed to bathe and clothe myself. I didn’t understand why my stomach was suddenly bloated, but I knew it was bad news for my growing autonomy. And I was right - following that day there was an unending march of doctor’s visits and medications leading up to a diagnosis of ulcerative colitis, a long-term inflammatory bowel disease that cripples the large intestine. This diagnosis would start a journey that transformed me into a person that refused to be downtrodden by an illness while also growing a passion for medicine that continues today. From an early age, I was subject to the upsetting realities of chronic illness, but refused to let it define me. Instead of running around and playing in the summer sun with kids my age, I was often indoors and craving any medication that would relieve the excruciating pain in my stomach. I was frequently in the hospital, but I refused to miss out on fun. As I was exposed to a variety of hospitals and treatments, I began developing a passion for medicine. This started early on when I was learning about a surgery I would have to face, a proctocolectomy in which part of my large intestine would be removed. The doctors explained the serious procedure expecting tears or protesting, and instead were confronted with a child demanding to be provided with the removed specimen in a personal display jar. My request was denied, but it was a glimpse into my future as a medical nerd. As I became a teenager, I used my appointments as a learning opportunity by memorizing charts, reciting facts, and forcing my parents to quiz me on all the posters in our room. As a college student, I plan on pursuing Gastroenterology. Additionally, I serve as an advocate for the Crohns and Colitis Foundation. I provide support to those enduring the same condition I have accepted the challenge of my disease with positivity and curiosity, making the experience a learning opportunity and remaining optimistic throughout the whole process. Ultimately, this disease has helped me discover my passions - moving forward I want to become more involved in the Gastroenterology field of study and eventually become a chair member for the Crohns and Colitis Foundation. In the future, I hope to study the human intestines and make groundbreaking contributions to more natural medications and treatments for someone enduring the same diagnosis.

I have grown up in a household where being in shape was a requirement. My dad was a bodybuilder with three champion titles and my mom is a personal trainer for women. My brother was a competitive gymnast who traveled around the world competing in meets. He then quit playing varsity football as a freshman in high school. So yes I had a lot of pressure. Luckily, athletics came easy. I, myself, was in gymnastics until the sixth grade and won the around state championship four times. After a ruthless injury, I played club soccer for 4 years and then started playing for my high school. During this time, my mom introduced me to the gym where I found myself spending hours on end. I would go with my mom where she would teach me different exercises and how to use machines. Once I got my driver's license, I drove straight from school to the gym every day until it was formed into a habit. I even had a fitness journal where I would write down the various exercises I performed and my goals for each workout. Although I was physically in shape, I was not eating the right foods to fuel my body. Instead, I found myself tired before and after each workout which would result in drinking caffeine. It wasn’t until my junior year of high school that I realized food is fuel. I then started to watch what I ate but also gave myself cheat days. I would try to eat meals with a good source of protein, carbs, and sugar so I had energy while keeping a “clean” diet. In my fitness journal, I started to write down my meals and the nutrition I consumed throughout the day. With my new diet, my performance was improving in my workouts and I found myself more energized and in a better mood. Eventually, I learned about little benefits called supplements. Supplements were powders or vitamins that would improve different parts of your body. With this new finding, I got all the supplements I needed and experimented with which ones supported my body. I now take magnesium, turmeric, apple cider vinegar, greens, and glutamine. These supplements have allowed my body to naturally grow and flourish into its healthiest form. As I enter the next chapter of my life, I want to maintain this healthy lifestyle I have created by continuing to take the supplements that work for my body, eating healthy, and going to the gym at least five times a week. A healthy lifestyle boosts your mood, and motivation, and sets your life up for success.

I knew I was going to have to jump—it was the only way down. As the faint screams of children filled my ears, I leaped. With my hair drastically pulled by the wind, I closed my eyes, hoping for a successful landing. Bam! My feet hit the ground, and my body followed. I had successfully jumped off a moving swing, the greatest accomplishment of my six-year-old life. My eyes opened, but the world was dark as my shirt had flown over my head. I could hear the exaggerated applause from my mom as I stood up, hurriedly wrangling my shirt down to hide my secret. Too late! Our eyes met and I saw her worried expression as she noticed my inflated and unhealthily-distended stomach. I had tried to hide it from her - at six years old, I loved the feeling of newfound independence as I was finally allowed to bathe and clothe myself. I didn’t understand why my stomach was suddenly bloated, but I knew it was bad news for my growing autonomy. And I was right - following that day there was an unending march of doctor’s visits and medications leading up to a diagnosis of ulcerative colitis, a long-term inflammatory bowel disease that cripples the large intestine. This diagnosis would start a journey that transformed me into a person that refused to be downtrodden by an illness while also growing a passion for medicine that continues today. From an early age, I was subject to the upsetting realities of chronic illness but refused to let it define me. Instead of running around and playing in the summer sun with kids my age, I was often indoors and craving any medication that would relieve the excruciating pain in my stomach. I was frequently in the hospital, but I refused to miss out on the fun. As I was exposed to a variety of hospitals and treatments, I began developing a passion for medicine. This started early on when I was learning about a surgery I would have to face, a proctocolectomy in which part of my large intestine would be removed. The doctors explained the serious procedure expecting tears or protesting, and instead were confronted with a child demanding to be provided with the removed specimen in a personal display jar. My request was denied, but it was a glimpse into my future as a medical nerd. As I became a teenager, I used my appointments as a learning opportunity by memorizing charts, reciting facts, and forcing my parents to quiz me on all the posters in our room. As a college student, I plan on pursuing Gastroenterology. Additionally, I serve as an advocate for the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation. I provide support to those enduring the same condition I have accepted the challenge of my disease with positivity and curiosity, making the experience a learning opportunity and remaining optimistic throughout the whole process. Ultimately, this disease has helped me discover my passions - moving forward I want to become more involved in the Gastroenterology field of study and eventually become a chair member for the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation. In the future, I hope to study the human intestines and make groundbreaking contributions to more natural medications and treatments for someone enduring the same diagnosis.

For my family, giving back to the community is one of the most significant precepts in life. For instance, every Christmas morning was relinquished as we would provide presents and hot chocolate for the less fortunate and every Thanksgiving was shunned to provide food at multiple shelters. As a child, I did not fully understand the importance of these often laborious service projects and thought of them as an inconvenient chore. Fortunately, one mission project trip flipped a switch in my mind. I grew up. In 2017, my family and I, along with a group from Lake Mead Christian Ministries, got a prodigious opportunity to spend a week in Prescott, Arizona and partner with UCYC and World Missionary Assistance Plan. From hosting block parties in the rougher parts of the city to teaching orphan adolescent girls how to shave, that mission trip was truly life-changing. My heart was so full. Around a year later, my parents and the same group from LMCM partnered with YWAM locally here in Las Vegas. We stayed at the YWAM homeless shelter and ran numerous service projects throughout the famous city we are locals. Being able to apply the lessons I took away from these experiences altered the way I looked at life. As I entered high school and life got busy, I was no longer able to serve with my family as often. Instead, I took the time I did have to do volunteer work that was close to my heart: medicine. Thus, I became an advocate for the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation since I did have an auto-immune disease myself. Remaining in close contact with children enduring the same situation allowed for relatability and comfort. Additionally, I took part in a grand service project in my junior year of High School: The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. The aforementioned society is the world’s largest voluntary organization that pursues a better quality of life for blood cancer patients worldwide and contributes to the possible cure or treatments of blood cancer. Around 50 students from around the Las Vegas community took part in forming a team to raise money for blood cancer. In the end, we raised over half a million dollars and won the title- students of the year for our hard work and dedication. If auspicious enough to be engaged in a college atmosphere, I would administer my philanthropy and knowledge to do my small part in a big community.

I have grown up in a household where being in shape was a requirement. My dad was a bodybuilder with three champion titles and my mom is a personal trainer for women. My brother was a competitive gymnast who traveled around the world competing in meets. He then quit to play varsity football as a freshman in high school. So yes I had a lot of pressure. Luckily, athletics came easy. I, myself, was in gymnastics until the sixth grade and won all around state champion four times. After a ruthless injury, I played club soccer for 4 years and then started playing for my high school. During this time, my mom introduced me to the gym where I found myself spending hours on end. I would go with my mom where she would teach me different exercises and how to use machines. Once I got my drivers license, I drove straight from school to the gym everyday until it was formed into a habit. I even had a fitness journal where I would write down the various exercises I performed and my goals for each workout. Although I was physically in shape, I was not eating the right foods to fuel my body. Instead, I found myself tired before and after each workout which would result in drinking caffeine. It wasn’t until my junior year of high school that I realized food is fuel. I then started to watch what I ate but also gave myself cheat days. I would try to eat meals with a good source of protein, carbs, and sugar so I had energy while keeping a “clean” diet. In my fitness journal, I started to write down the meals and nutrition I consumed throughout the day. With my new diet, my performance was improving in my workouts and I found myself more energized and in a better mood. Eventually, I learned about little benefits called supplements. Supplements were powders or vitamins that would improve different parts of your body. With this new finding, I got all the supplements I needed and experimented with which ones supported my body. I now take magnesium, turmeric, apple cider vinegar, greens, and glutamine. These supplements have allowed my body to naturally grow and flourish into its healthiest form. As I enter the next chapter of my life, I want to maintain this healthy lifestyle I have created by continuing to take the supplements that work for my body, eating healthy, and going to the gym at least five times a week. A healthy lifestyle boosts your mood and motivation, and sets your life up for success.

I have grown up in a household where being in shape was a requirement. My dad was a bodybuilder with three champion titles and my mom is a personal trainer for women. My brother was a competitive gymnast who traveled around the world competing in meets. He then quit to play varsity football as a freshman in high school. So yes I had a lot of pressure. Luckily, athletics came easy. I, myself, was in gymnastics until the sixth grade and won all around state champion four times. After a ruthless injury, I played club soccer for 4 years and then started playing for my high school. During this time, my mom introduced me to the gym where I found myself spending hours on end. I would go with my mom where she would teach me different exercises and how to use machines. Once I got my drivers license, I drove straight from school to the gym everyday until it was formed into a habit. I even had a fitness journal where I would write down the various exercises I performed and my goals for each workout. Although I was physically in shape, I was not eating the right foods to fuel my body. Instead, I found myself tired before and after each workout and would result in drinking caffeine. It wasn’t until my junior year of high school that I realized food is fuel. I then started to watch what I ate but also gave myself cheat days. I would try to eat meals with a good source of protein, carbs, and sugar so I had energy while keeping a “clean” diet. In my fitness journal I started to write down my meals and nutrition I consumed throughout the day. With my new diet, my performance was improving in my workouts and I found myself more energized and in a better mood. Eventually, I learned about little benefits called supplements. Supplements were powders or vitamins that would improve different parts of your body. With this new finding, I got all the supplements I needed and experimented with which ones supported my body. I now take magnesium, turmeric, apple cider vinegar, greens, and glutamine. These supplements have allowed my body to naturally grow and flourish into its healthiest form. As I enter the next chapter of my life, I want to maintain this healthy lifestyle I have created by continuing to take the supplements that work for my body, eating healthy, and going to the gym at least five times a week. A healthy lifestyle boosts your mood, motivation, and sets your life up for success.

I knew I was going to have to jump—it was the only way down. As the faint screams of children filled my ears, I leaped. With my hair being drastically pulled by the wind, I closed my eyes, hoping for a successful landing. Bam! My feet hit the ground, and my body followed. I had successfully jumped off a moving swing, the greatest accomplishment of my six year old life. My eyes opened, but the world was dark as my shirt had flown over my head. I could hear the exaggerated applause from my mom as I stood up, hurriedly wrangling my shirt down to hide my secret. Too late! Our eyes met and I saw her worried expression as she noticed my inflated and unhealthily-distended stomach. I had tried to hide it from her - at six years old, I loved the feeling of newfound independence as I was finally allowed to bathe and clothe myself. I didn’t understand why my stomach was suddenly bloated, but I knew it was bad news for my growing autonomy. And I was right - following that day there was an unending march of doctor’s visits and medications leading up to a diagnosis of ulcerative colitis, a long-term inflammatory bowel disease that cripples the large intestine. This diagnosis would start a journey that transformed me into a person that refused to be downtrodden by an illness while also growing a passion for medicine that continues today. From an early age, I was subject to the upsetting realities of chronic illness, but refused to let it define me. Instead of running around and playing in the summer sun with kids my age, I was often indoors and craving any medication that would relieve the excruciating pain in my stomach. I was frequently in the hospital, but I refused to miss out on fun. As I was exposed to a variety of hospitals and treatments, I began developing a passion for medicine. This started early on when I was learning about a surgery I would have to face, a proctocolectomy in which part of my large intestine would be removed. The doctors explained the serious procedure expecting tears or protesting, and instead were confronted with a child demanding to be provided with the removed specimen in a personal display jar. My request was denied, but it was a glimpse into my future as a medical nerd. As I became a teenager, I used my appointments as a learning opportunity by memorizing charts, reciting facts, and forcing my parents to quiz me on all the posters in our room. As a college student, I plan on pursuing Gastroenterology. Additionally, I serve as an advocate for the Crohns and Colitis Foundation. I provide support to those enduring the same condition I have accepted the challenge of my disease with positivity and curiosity, making the experience a learning opportunity and remaining optimistic throughout the whole process. Ultimately, this disease has helped me discover my passions - moving forward I want to become more involved in the Gastroenterology field of study and eventually become a chair member for the Crohns and Colitis Foundation. In the future, I hope to study the human intestines and make groundbreaking contributions to more natural medications and treatments for someone enduring the same diagnosis.

I knew I was going to have to jump—it was the only way down. As the faint screams of children filled my ears, I leaped. With my hair being drastically pulled by the wind, I closed my eyes, hoping for a successful landing. Bam! My feet hit the ground, and my body followed. I had successfully jumped off a moving swing, the greatest accomplishment of my six year old life. My eyes opened, but the world was dark as my shirt had flown over my head. I could hear the exaggerated applause from my mom as I stood up, hurriedly wrangling my shirt down to hide my secret. Too late! Our eyes met and I saw her worried expression as she noticed my inflated and unhealthily-distended stomach. I had tried to hide it from her - at six years old, I loved the feeling of newfound independence as I was finally allowed to bathe and clothe myself. I didn’t understand why my stomach was suddenly bloated, but I knew it was bad news for my growing autonomy. And I was right - following that day there was an unending march of doctor’s visits and medications leading up to a diagnosis of ulcerative colitis, a long-term inflammatory bowel disease that cripples the large intestine. This diagnosis would start a journey that transformed me into a person that refused to be downtrodden by an illness while also growing a passion for medicine that continues today. From an early age, I was subject to the upsetting realities of chronic illness, but refused to let it define me. Instead of running around and playing in the summer sun with kids my age, I was often indoors and craving any medication that would relieve the excruciating pain in my stomach. I was frequently in the hospital, but I refused to miss out on fun. As I was exposed to a variety of hospitals and treatments, I began developing a passion for medicine. This started early on when I was learning about a surgery I would have to face, a proctocolectomy in which part of my large intestine would be removed. The doctors explained the serious procedure expecting tears or protesting, and instead were confronted with a child demanding to be provided with the removed specimen in a personal display jar. My request was denied, but it was a glimpse into my future as a medical nerd. As I became a teenager, I used my appointments as a learning opportunity by memorizing charts, reciting facts, and forcing my parents to quiz me on all the posters in our room. As a college student, I plan on pursuing Gastroenterology. Additionally, I serve as an advocate for the Crohns and Colitis Foundation. I provide support to those enduring the same condition I have accepted the challenge of my disease with positivity and curiosity, making the experience a learning opportunity and remaining optimistic throughout the whole process. Ultimately, this disease has helped me discover my passions - moving forward I want to become more involved in the Gastroenterology field of study and eventually become a chair member for the Crohns and Colitis Foundation. In the future, I hope to study the human intestines and make groundbreaking contributions to more natural medications and treatments for someone enduring the same diagnosis.

I knew I was going to have to jump—it was the only way down. As the faint screams of children filled my ears, I leaped. With my hair being drastically pulled by the wind, I closed my eyes, hoping for a successful landing. Bam! My feet hit the ground, and my body followed. I had successfully jumped off a moving swing, the greatest accomplishment of my six year old life. My eyes opened, but the world was dark as my shirt had flown over my head. I could hear the exaggerated applause from my mom as I stood up, hurriedly wrangling my shirt down to hide my secret. Too late! Our eyes met and I saw her worried expression as she noticed my inflated and unhealthily-distended stomach. I had tried to hide it from her - at six years old, I loved the feeling of newfound independence as I was finally allowed to bathe and clothe myself. I didn’t understand why my stomach was suddenly bloated, but I knew it was bad news for my growing autonomy. And I was right - following that day there was an unending march of doctor’s visits and medications leading up to a diagnosis of ulcerative colitis, a long-term inflammatory bowel disease that cripples the large intestine. This diagnosis would start a journey that transformed me into a person that refused to be downtrodden by an illness while also growing a passion for medicine that continues today. From an early age, I was subject to the upsetting realities of chronic illness, but refused to let it define me. Instead of running around and playing in the summer sun with kids my age, I was often indoors and craving any medication that would relieve the excruciating pain in my stomach. I was frequently in the hospital, but I refused to miss out on fun. As I was exposed to a variety of hospitals and treatments, I began developing a passion for medicine. This started early on when I was learning about a surgery I would have to face, a proctocolectomy in which part of my large intestine would be removed. The doctors explained the serious procedure expecting tears or protesting, and instead were confronted with a child demanding to be provided with the removed specimen in a personal display jar. My request was denied, but it was a glimpse into my future as a medical nerd. As I became a teenager, I used my appointments as a learning opportunity by memorizing charts, reciting facts, and forcing my parents to quiz me on all the posters in our room. As a college student, I plan on pursuing Gastroenterology. Additionally, I serve as an advocate for the Crohns and Colitis Foundation. I provide support to those enduring the same condition I have accepted the challenge of my disease with positivity and curiosity, making the experience a learning opportunity and remaining optimistic throughout the whole process. Ultimately, this disease has helped me discover my passions - moving forward I want to become more involved in the Gastroenterology field of study and eventually become a chair member for the Crohns and Colitis Foundation. In the future, I hope to study the human intestines and make groundbreaking contributions to more natural medications and treatments for someone enduring the same diagnosis.

I knew I was going to have to jump—it was the only way down. As the faint screams of children filled my ears, I leaped. With my hair being drastically pulled by the wind, I closed my eyes, hoping for a successful landing. Bam! My feet hit the ground, and my body followed. I had successfully jumped off a moving swing, the greatest accomplishment of my six year old life. My eyes opened, but the world was dark as my shirt had flown over my head. I could hear the exaggerated applause from my mom as I stood up, hurriedly wrangling my shirt down to hide my secret. Too late! Our eyes met and I saw her worried expression as she noticed my inflated and unhealthily-distended stomach. I had tried to hide it from her - at six years old, I loved the feeling of newfound independence as I was finally allowed to bathe and clothe myself. I didn’t understand why my stomach was suddenly bloated, but I knew it was bad news for my growing autonomy. And I was right - following that day there was an unending march of doctor’s visits and medications leading up to a diagnosis of ulcerative colitis, a long-term inflammatory bowel disease that cripples the large intestine. This diagnosis would start a journey that transformed me into a person that refused to be downtrodden by an illness while also growing a passion for medicine that continues today. From an early age, I was subject to the upsetting realities of chronic illness but refused to let it define me. Instead of running around and playing in the summer sun with kids my age, I was often indoors and craving any medication that would relieve the excruciating pain in my stomach. I was frequently in the hospital, but I refused to miss out on the fun. As I was exposed to a variety of hospitals and treatments, I began developing a passion for medicine. This started early on when I was learning about a surgery I would have to face, a proctocolectomy in which part of my large intestine would be removed. The doctors explained the serious procedure expecting tears or protesting, and instead were confronted with a child demanding to be provided with the removed specimen in a personal display jar. My request was denied, but it was a glimpse into my future as a medical nerd. As I became a teenager, I used my appointments as a learning opportunity by memorizing charts, reciting facts, and forcing my parents to quiz me on all the posters in our room. As a college student, I plan on pursuing Gastroenterology. Additionally, I serve as an advocate for the Crohns and Colitis Foundation. I provide support to those enduring the same condition. Ultimately, this disease has helped me discover my passions - moving forward I want to become more involved in the Gastroenterology field of study. As a Hispanic, I was able to obtain great healthcare and medical attention. Unfortunately, not all minorities are as blessed as I was. In today's society even, Hispanics are disregarded or are not given the healthcare that most people are accessible. To give back to the Hispanic community, I would ensure that Hispanics are treated with equality and have access to the best of the best.

Growing up in a primarily Hispanic household allowed my cultural development to diversify at an extremely young age. My mom and her family came to America in 1980 with an entertainment visa because my grandpa was a soccer player. Once the soccer season ended, they were sent back to Chile. However, in 1986, my mom, her parents, and her three sisters obtained their Permanent Resident Cards and officially became US citizens. Although employment, housing, and language posed a severe challenge to them, they were able to overcome all obstacles and start a new life in America. Both the American and Chilean language, culture, and traditions have resonated in my mind from my earliest days. For example, my family celebrates Chilean Independence Day on September 16th by gathering as a whole family and feasting on my mom’s famous empanadas (filled pastries) and pastel de choclo (a beef and corn casserole). On New Year's Eve, my family and I follow the famous Chilean tradition of eating 12 grapes during the countdown to midnight. As a child, I didn’t truly understand how lucky I was, but, as I’ve grown and matured, I have learned that coming from a Hispanic background has been an enormous blessing. After a few weeks of being in the United States, my mother's sister got hand, foot, and mouth diseases. When she was not getting any better, my grandfather took his sick daughter to the closest pediatric office. They denied him service entirely as he had no insurance yet because their family just had obtained their green cards. My aunt, who was ten years old at the time, was sick and healthcare was not available to her. This sort of care needs to change. Treatment or medication should be available to those in immediate need. Although being a first-generation living in the United States may be hard, I continue to spare no effort in all I do. Through this experience, I see all people the same. We are all the same and deserve the same treatment. I believe discrimination has become an issue in today's society and I do not want this discrimination to spread to the healthcare system. I can do my part to make sure that all medical services focus solely on the medical condition and not on the color, race, or religion of the people. To keep our country's people healthy and in peak condition, the country's healthcare must be in peak condition as well.