As an undergraduate student, my passion for law and fashion intersects with a deep commitment to advocating for the rights of individuals within minority communities. I firmly believe that protecting intellectual property within the fashion industry is not just about preserving creative expression; it's also about ensuring equal opportunities for everyone. Historically, minorities have faced significant obstacles when it comes to having connections and the ability to thrive in the fashion industry. Limited access to resources, unequal opportunities, and systemic barriers have hindered their ability to break into an industry that often prioritizes privilege and established connections. By focusing on intellectual property rights within fashion, I aim to dismantle these barriers and empower designers and creators from diverse backgrounds. Intellectual property rights, including trademarks, copyrights, and patents, serve as essential tools for safeguarding the innovations and creativity of designers, especially those from minority communities. These legal protections ensure that their work is recognized, respected, and compensated fairly, thus fostering an environment where all individuals have the opportunity to thrive regardless of their background. Furthermore, I recognize the vital role of intellectual property rights in preserving cultural heritage and traditional knowledge within minority communities. Many fashion designs and techniques stem from rich and diverse cultural backgrounds, yet they are often exploited or appropriated without proper recognition or compensation. By advocating for these rights, I strive to empower individuals and communities to maintain control over their cultural heritage and benefit from the commercialization of their creativity. In addition to protecting intellectual property rights, my commitment to fashion law extends to promoting ethical and sustainable practices within the industry. These practices are not only essential for protecting the environment and workers' rights but also directly intersect with the basic rights of individuals within minority communities. Too often, minority communities bear the brunt of environmental degradation and labor exploitation in global supply chains. By advocating for sustainability and ethics in fashion, I aim to protect the rights of workers and artisans, many of whom belong to minority groups, and mitigate the industry's adverse impact on marginalized communities worldwide. This includes supporting initiatives that promote fair wages, safe working conditions, and environmentally responsible practices throughout the fashion supply chain. In essence, my work in intellectual property within fashion is intricately connected to advocating for the fundamental rights of individuals within minority communities. Through my advocacy for stronger legal protections, cultural recognition, and ethical practices, I aspire to foster a more inclusive and equitable fashion industry—one that uplifts and empowers individuals from all backgrounds, irrespective of their identity. By bridging the gap between law, fashion, and social justice, I am committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those who have been historically marginalized within the fashion industry. Through collaboration, education, and advocacy, I believe we can create a more equitable and inclusive future for all individuals, where creativity, innovation, and cultural diversity are celebrated and protected.

Adversity often comes in the form of personal struggles, and for me, navigating the complexities of an abusive father-daughter relationship was a defining challenge. Growing up in a household fraught with tension and fear, I faced adversity at every turn, grappling with the emotional and psychological toll of my father's abusive behavior. Yet, it was during a pivotal moment in my life—when I made the courageous decision to run away from home—that I embarked on a journey of resilience, healing, and ultimately, reconciliation. Running away from the toxic environment of my family home was a bold declaration of independence—a refusal to be shackled by the chains of abuse any longer. Yet, even as I ventured into the unknown, I carried with me the weight of unresolved trauma and the longing for a sense of familial connection. In the absence of my father's presence, I grappled with feelings of anger, resentment, and sorrow, mourning the loss of the father-daughter relationship I had always yearned for. However, as time passed and wounds began to heal, I found myself on a path towards reconciliation—a journey marked by forgiveness, understanding, and ultimately, the unification of our fractured bond. Through open and honest communication, my father and I confronted the pain of our shared past, acknowledging the harm that had been inflicted and the scars that remained. Yet, in doing so, we also discovered a newfound sense of empathy and compassion, laying the groundwork for a more authentic and loving relationship. Overcoming adversity was not easy, and the road to reconciliation was fraught with challenges and setbacks. Yet, through it all, I leaned into the power of resilience, drawing upon my inner strength to navigate the complexities of forgiveness and healing. Along the way, I discovered the transformative power of empathy—the ability to see beyond the surface and recognize the inherent humanity in even those who have caused us pain. Today, as I reflect on my journey of resilience, healing, and reconciliation, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude—for the opportunity to mend broken bonds, for the strength to forgive, and for the gift of a renewed father-daughter relationship. If there is one piece of advice I would offer to anyone facing similar circumstances, it is this: never underestimate the power of resilience and the capacity for reconciliation. In the face of adversity, it is resilience that will carry you through the darkest of times, and it is through reconciliation that we find the path towards healing, wholeness, and the restoration of fractured relationships.

In the vibrant tapestry of college life, my roles as a Residential Assistant (RA) and Political Campaign assistant for fellow students have been pivotal in shaping my commitment to helping others thrive. These experiences, each unique in their demands yet united in their focus on community and advocacy, have been instrumental in fostering my skills and igniting a passion for empowering individuals to reach their full potential. As a Residential Assistant, I found myself at the nexus of student life, entrusted with the responsibility of cultivating a supportive and inclusive environment within the residence hall. This role demanded not only organizational prowess but also a deep well of empathy and understanding. Whether it was mediating roommate conflicts, providing academic support, or simply offering a listening ear, I quickly learned that effective leadership begins with genuine care for the well-being of others. Through interactions with residents from diverse backgrounds, I gained invaluable insights into the myriad challenges and triumphs that shape the college experience. Every conversation, whether casual or profound, became an opportunity for mutual growth and learning. From celebrating achievements to navigating moments of uncertainty, I discovered the profound impact that empathy and support can have in fostering resilience and personal development. Simultaneously, my foray into the realm of political activism as a Campaign Assistant provided a different yet equally enriching perspective on community engagement and advocacy. Immersed in the hustle and bustle of campaign life, I embraced the opportunity to mobilize my peers around issues of importance, sparking conversations and galvanizing action within the college community. Campaign work, with its emphasis on strategic planning and effective communication, honed my ability to navigate complex dynamics and articulate ideas with clarity and conviction. Whether canvassing neighborhoods, organizing rallies, or engaging in spirited debates, I found myself continually inspired by the power of collective action to effect meaningful change. Amidst the whirlwind of responsibilities, both as an RA and Campaign Assistant, I found moments of profound personal growth and reflection. These experiences encouraged me to confront my own biases, assumptions, and limitations, fostering a spirit of humility and openness to new perspectives. Through self-awareness and introspection, I began to recognize the unique strengths and gifts that I could contribute to the communities I served. Continual learning and adaptation became guiding principles as I navigated the complexities of these roles. Whether incorporating feedback from residents and colleagues or adjusting campaign strategies based on evolving dynamics, I embraced change as an opportunity for growth and refinement. At the heart of it all lies a deep-seated passion for service and empowerment—a recognition that by lifting others up, we also elevate ourselves. Whether fostering a sense of belonging within a residence hall or advocating for social change on the political stage, I am driven by a shared vision of a world where every individual is empowered to thrive and contribute meaningfully to their communities. In conclusion, my journey as a Residential Assistant and Political Campaign Assistant has been a testament to the transformative power of service and advocacy. Through these experiences, I have not only honed my skills as a leader and communicator but also discovered a profound sense of purpose in supporting others on their journey toward personal and collective fulfillment. As I continue to tread this path of service and empowerment, I am reminded that the most meaningful victories are those we achieve together, united by a shared commitment to building a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

Have you ever participated in a family meeting? What are your opinions on them? My family would talk about our opinions on current events, the future, life lessons, and what everyone was involved with at that moment and I despised them. I believed they were pointless, a waste of time because to me, they were so long and irrelevant. In hindsight, I now realized how important those meetings were throughout each stage of my life. Those family meetings helped me develop into who I am. I was always lost and confused because I never listened to my family. I took the support and love they provided for granted. I grew up believing love was overbearing control from my parents and they used that to imprison me. Developing throughout my high school years I realized my parents are humans who have responsibilities just as I do too. Not taking that into consideration led me to develop some bad habits because I developed a selfish mindset. I ran away from home, lied, and did things I regret. I lost everything at one point, rather I thought I lost everything because the only support at the end was my family. I had dug myself into a grave so many times because I chose myself rather than my family and others, those selfish actions led me nowhere but destruction. I could not remove myself there because I neglected not to do so, staying comfortable to where I was the ideal approach. Those family meetings prepared me to do my best, showed my faults, was true to who I was, and was, provided love because in the end family is there to care for one another. I was able to break some bad habits and the others are being worked on, but I’m not doing it alone. I was always lost and confused because I never listened to my family. I took the support and love they provided for granted. I grew up believing love was overbearing control from my parents and they used that to imprison me. Developing throughout my high school years I realized my parents are humans who have responsibilities just as I do too. Not taking that into consideration led me to develop some bad habits because I developed a selfish mindset. I ran away from home, lied, and did things I regret. I lost everything at one point, rather I thought I lost everything because the only support at the end was my family. I had dug myself into a grave so many times because I chose myself rather than my family and others, those selfish actions led me nowhere but destruction. I could not remove myself there because I neglected not to do so, staying comfortable to where I was the ideal approach. Those family meetings prepared me to do my best, showed my faults, was true to who I was, and provided love because in the end family is there to care for one another. I was able to break some bad habits and the others are being worked on, but I’m not doing it alone.