Hi, my name is Briseyda Maldonado. I am a 17 year old senior at Melrose High School in New Mexico. Although I attend a very small school, I live in Clovis and drive 45 minutes each day to pursue my education. That daily drive is not always easy, but it represents my commitment, discipline, and willingness to do whatever it takes to reach my goals. I believe that even the smallest choices like showing up every day shape the kind of person I am becoming.
You should consider me for this scholarship because I am someone who leads with determination, faith, and heart. I may not be the most naturally talented or the smartest in every room, but I have always been willing to work harder than most. I believe that effort, consistency, and a positive mindset can take you further than talent alone. I do not give up easily, and I always push myself to improve, no matter how challenging the situation may be.
My family plays a huge role in shaping who I am. I have three siblings who mean everything to me, two younger sisters, ages 8 and 7, and an older brother who is 20. Being an older sister has taught me responsibility, patience, and the importance of setting a good example. My parents have made many sacrifices to give us a better life, and I carry that motivation with me every day.
My dad works in Carlsbad as an HVAC technician during the week and only comes home on weekends. Watching him work long hours away from his family has shown me what true dedication and sacrifice look like. He provides for us with everything he has, and his work ethic inspires me to never take opportunities for granted. He has set the standard for the kind of man I hope to have in my future and the kind of work ethic I want to carry into my own life.
My mom works as a state food and health inspector, ensuring that restaurants and water sources are safe for surrounding communities. She is a strong, faithful woman who leads with integrity and compassion. She has taught me the importance of caring for others, standing firm in my beliefs, and always doing what is right even when no one is watching. Both of my parents have shown me that success is not just about personal achievement, but about serving others and making a positive impact.
Throughout high school, I have been involved in basketball, track, and volleyball. Sports have been a huge part of my life, not because I was the best, but because they taught me lessons I will carry forever. I learned how to be disciplined, how to work as part of a team, and how to push through challenges even when I felt like giving up. Earning varsity letters in all of these sports was not easy, but it was a reflection of my persistence and dedication.
The awards I received such as Best Teammate, Strongest Leader, Most Coachable, Most Loving, Most Growth, and Hardest Worker mean more to me than any scoreboard result. They show that I am someone others can rely on, someone who lifts people up, and someone who is always willing to learn and grow. Being recognized for my character is something I value deeply because it reflects who I am beyond achievements.
Outside of sports, I stay actively involved in my community and personal growth. I participate in youth group at my church, where my faith continues to grow stronger. My relationship with God is an important part of my life, and it guides my decisions, my values, and how I treat others. I am also involved in BPA, club soccer, and shadowing opportunities that allow me to explore my future career path. These experiences have helped me step outside of my comfort zone and prepare for the future.
I have always had a strong curiosity for learning. While I work hard in school, my passion for learning goes beyond the classroom. I enjoy researching topics that genuinely interest me, such as the human brain, child development, the ocean, crime scenes, and especially sea turtles. Sea turtles have always fascinated me because of how unique and complex they are, and learning about them has shown me how incredible life and creation truly are. This curiosity is what drives me to continue learning and growing every day.
My long-term goal is to pursue a career in OB/GYN sonography. I have always felt called to help mothers and babies, and I want to be part of some of the most meaningful and emotional moments in people’s lives. I want to provide comfort, care, and support during times that can be both exciting and uncertain. This career is not just a job to me it is a way to serve others and make a lasting impact.
What truly sets me apart is my mindset and my heart. I am coachable, hardworking, and always striving to be better than I was yesterday. I lead with kindness, and I care deeply about the people around me. I understand that success is not something that happens overnight it is built through consistency, sacrifice, and faith. I am willing to put in that work.
Receiving this scholarship would mean more to me than just financial support. It would be an opportunity an opportunity to continue my education, to pursue my dreams, and to honor the sacrifices my family has made for me. It would allow me to focus on becoming the best version of myself and to one day give back to others in the same way.
I am not perfect, but I am driven. I am not the best at everything, but I give my best in everything I do. And I believe that is exactly why I should be considered for this scholarship.