The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes," a prequel to Suzanne Collins' acclaimed "Hunger Games" series, stands out as my favorite book-to-film adaptation, not only for its captivating storyline but also for its seamless transition from page to screen. This adaptation holds a special place in my heart as it masterfully bridges the gap between reading and viewing experiences, offering a fresh perspective on both mediums. The movie adaptation of "The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes" changed how I perceive film and literature by offering unique insights into the characters, world-building, and thematic elements in the book. As a reader, I initially needed clarification about how the intricate details of the Capitol's origin and President Snow's backstory would translate onto the screen. However, the film exceeded my expectations by capturing the novel's essence while adding visual depth and cinematic flair. One of the elements that left me speechless was the film's ability to mimic the book's tone and atmosphere, transporting viewers into the dystopian world of Panem with stunning visuals and immersive storytelling. The director's unique vision brought Collins' vivid descriptions to life, from the opulent halls of the Capitol to the desolate streets of the Districts. Through meticulous set design, costume choices, and cinematography, the film captured the stark contrast between the Capitol's extravagance and the Districts' poverty, enriching the viewing experience and deepening my appreciation for the story's thematic depth. Moreover, the cast's exceptional performances truly brought the characters to their full realization on screen. From Coriolanus Snow's complex portrayal by actor Donald Sutherland to the nuanced performance of Lucy Gray Baird by rising star Sarah Bolger, each actor breathed life into their respective roles, adding complexity and emotion to the story. Their chemistry and authenticity made empathizing with the characters' struggles and motivations easy, forging a deeper connection between the audience and the narrative. Furthermore, the adaptation's ability to elevate the source material, infusing new life and perspective, was truly remarkable. While remaining faithful to the book's core themes and plot points, the film expanded upon certain elements, providing additional context and depth to the characters and their relationships. Moments that were merely hinted at in the book were given more significant emphasis on screen, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the story's underlying themes of power, privilege, and morality. This adaptation is a testament to the power of storytelling and the transformative potential of film. Through its masterful portrayal of Collins' intricate world and compelling characters, the adaptation honors the source material and enriches it, offering viewers a fresh perspective and a deeper appreciation for the story's thematic complexities. Whether experienced through the pages of a book or on the silver screen, "The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes" continues to captivate audiences with its timeless tale of survival, sacrifice, and the enduring power of hope.

As an avid viewer of "The Office," I resonate deeply with the characters of Kelly Kapoor and Pam Beesly. The multifaceted nature of these two characters, coupled with the show's unique brand of humor and portrayal of workplace dynamics, has significantly shaped my sense of humor and perspective on professional environments. Kelly Kapoor, portrayed brilliantly by Mindy Kaling, embodies vivacity, ambition, and an unapologetic sense of self. Her penchant for drama and her quick wit and infectious energy make her a standout character in every scene she graces. I see myself reflected in Kelly's unabashed embrace of her personality and determination to carve out her path despite her challenges. Like Kelly, I believe in being true to oneself and embracing individuality, even in the face of societal expectations or workplace norms. Moreover, "The Office" has played a pivotal role in shaping my sense of humor and perspective on workplace dynamics. The show's mockumentary format, ensemble cast, and improvised moments create a rich tapestry of comedic gold. As an actor, I have learned valuable lessons about comedic timing, improvisation, and the art of subtlety from watching the talented cast bring their characters to life. "The Office" has taught me that humor can be found in even the most mundane aspects of everyday life and that laughter is often the best antidote to the stresses of the workplace. Furthermore, "The Office" offers a satirical yet insightful commentary on workplace dynamics, highlighting the absurdities and idiosyncrasies of corporate culture. From office politics and power struggles to dysfunctional relationships and awkward encounters, the show's portrayal of workplace dynamics is hilarious and poignant. As an actor, I have gained a deeper understanding of human behavior and interpersonal relationships from watching the characters navigate the complexities of office life. "The Office" holds a special place in my heart as both a source of laughter and a mirror to the realities of the modern workplace. Through characters like Kelly Kapoor and Pam Beesly, I have found connection, inspiration, and a renewed appreciation for the power of humor and authenticity. As an actor, the show has helped me hone my craft and understand the importance of comedic timing, improv, and character development. Ultimately, "The Office" has left an indelible mark on my sense of humor and perspective on workplace dynamics, reminding me to always find joy in the journey and never underestimate the power of a good laugh.

If I were to be sorted into a Hogwarts house, there is no doubt in my mind that I would belong in Hufflepuff. The qualities and values associated with Hufflepuff House resonate deeply with my personality and beliefs, making it the perfect fit for me. Hufflepuff is known for valuing qualities such as loyalty, patience, hard work, and a strong sense of fairness. These are attributes that I hold in high regard and strive to embody in my everyday life. Loyalty, for example, is a defining characteristic of Hufflepuff students, and I consider it one of my strongest virtues. I am fiercely loyal to my friends and family, always standing by their side through thick and thin. This unwavering commitment to those I care about is a trait that I share with Hufflepuffs, who are known for their loyalty to their fellow students and the Hogwarts community. In addition to loyalty, patience is another virtue that defines Hufflepuff students. I have always been a patient person, willing to wait for the results of my hard work to materialize. I understand that achieving great things often takes time and dedication, and this aligns perfectly with the Hufflepuff philosophy. I am content with putting in the effort required for success, even when the results are not immediate. This sense of patience and diligence makes me a strong fit for Hufflepuff. Hard work is another essential quality of Hufflepuff students, and it is a trait that I have consistently demonstrated throughout my life. I believe in the value of putting in the time and effort to achieve one's goals. Whether it's academics, personal projects, or work, I approach tasks with dedication and a strong work ethic. Hufflepuffs are renowned for their willingness to roll up their sleeves and do the necessary work, and I proudly share this characteristic. Fairness is a central aspect of Hufflepuff's values. I am deeply committed to the principle of treating others with fairness and respect. I believe that every person should be given a fair chance and that discrimination has no place in society. This commitment to fairness and inclusivity mirrors the Hufflepuff house's ethos of welcoming all students regardless of their backgrounds or abilities. I firmly believe that everyone deserves equal respect and opportunities, and I strive to promote this belief in my daily interactions. Hufflepuff is also known for its dedication to community and unity. The house values cooperation and teamwork, fostering a sense of belonging among its members. I, too, believe in the strength of community and the importance of working together. I enjoy collaborating with others to achieve common goals, and I find great satisfaction in creating a harmonious and supportive environment for everyone. This sense of unity and community is what makes Hufflepuff house so appealing to me. Hufflepuff is not only the house I would belong to but also the house where I believe I can make a positive contribution, embracing its values and helping to create an inclusive and harmonious Hogwarts community.

Mental health is not a luxury; it's a fundamental aspect of our well-being. It's the key to achieving a state of peace of mind and the foundation upon which a fulfilling life is built. I hold the firm belief that nurturing our mental health is a vital and necessary endeavor. In this essay, I will explore the reasons behind the importance of mental health and discuss the various strategies I employ to maintain and enhance my own mental wellness. Mental health is more than just the absence of mental illness; it's about embracing life with resilience, emotional balance, and a positive outlook. When we are mentally healthy, we can better navigate the inevitable challenges and uncertainties that life throws our way. It's the force that empowers us to handle these ups and downs, and it's the light that guides us toward peace and contentment. Furthermore, mental health has a direct correlation with our quality of life. Studies have consistently shown that people with good mental health are more likely to experience happiness, satisfaction, and contentment. It is because mental well-being significantly influences our emotional responses and our ability to build and maintain healthy relationships. When our minds are at ease, we are more equipped to face life's intricacies with grace and optimism, ultimately leading to an improved quality of life. Additionally, a healthy state of mind is closely connected to a sense of fulfillment and purpose in life. Mental health allows us to set goals, pursue them with dedication, overcome obstacles, and celebrate our achievements. It gives us the capacity to find meaning and satisfaction in our daily endeavors. Without a strong mental foundation, it can be challenging to discover these sources of contentment. Hence, nurturing mental health is the first step toward living a purposeful and fulfilling life. One of the most effective and enjoyable methods is dancing. Physical activity, particularly dancing, has proven to be a powerful tool for managing stress and improving mental well-being. The rhythmic and expressive nature of dance enables me to connect with my emotions and channel pent-up feelings in a healthy and constructive way. It not only contributes to my mental wellness but also enhances my physical health. Another seemingly simple yet highly effective strategy is my skincare routine. Caring for my skin is not only about aesthetics; it provides a sense of control and self-care. The act isn't just about looking good; it's about feeling good. This routine boosts my self-esteem and confidence, reminding me to prioritize self-care as an integral part of maintaining mental wellness. It's a daily ritual that emphasizes the importance of taking care of myself, both physically and mentally. Setting boundaries is another crucial aspect of my mental wellness strategy. I firmly believe in saying no when necessary, especially when I anticipate that a particular commitment or situation may overwhelm me. Setting boundaries is a practice that helps me manage stress and prevent the accumulation of unnecessary pressures that can weigh heavily on one's mental health. It empowers me to protect my time, energy, and emotional well-being, ensuring that I can maintain a healthy and balanced state of mind. Mental health shapes our emotional responses, influences our quality of life, and provides the basis for a sense of purpose and fulfillment. By understanding the significance of mental health and implementing strategies like dancing, skincare, and setting boundaries, I am committed to maintaining my own mental wellness. It's my hope that more individuals will recognize the importance of mental health and take proactive steps to nurture their own well-being, thus leading to a more balanced, purposeful, and fulfilling life.

My dream future self is a confident and elegant individual who embraces self-love, excels as an actress, drives impactful non-profits and body care ventures rooted in my Peruvian heritage, while globetrotting and empowering fellow women to realize their aspirations.

Disney, a name that resonates across generations, holds a special place in the hearts of many. Its influence is not confined to a single era or demographic; it transcends time and cultural boundaries, weaving a tapestry of cherished memories and timeless stories. Among the plethora of reasons why Disney captures the imagination of millions, its unparalleled versatility stands out as a beacon of creativity, representation, and inspiration. There is something multifaceted about Disney's offerings that has always drawn me to it. Disney has managed to create a kaleidoscope of narratives that appeal to everyone, from captivating animated shows featuring beloved characters from Marvel series to heartwarming tales of princesses representing diverse backgrounds. My favorite aspect of Disney is its variety of content. Magic and fantasy are only part of it; it's about adapting and evolving, offering stories that reflect reality's complexities. The phrase "versatility" perfectly encapsulates my favorite thing about Disney. This quality allows them to be at the forefront of entertainment while embracing change. Take, for instance, the introduction of characters that speak to our shared human experience. As I watch characters face challenges, learn important life lessons, and grow through their experiences, I find a reflection of my journey. Whether it's Simba's path to self-discovery in "The Lion King" or Elsa's journey of self-acceptance in "Frozen," these stories serve as a source of inspiration and solace during different stages of my life. Disney's versatility doesn't merely lie in its stories but extends to its representation. The inclusion of characters from diverse cultural backgrounds offers a sense of validation and empowerment to individuals who may have felt underrepresented in media. For instance, the introduction of Moana, a Polynesian princess, and the empowering story of "Coco," which beautifully delves into Mexican culture, have significantly broadened the horizons of Disney's narrative landscape. As someone who values representation, these additions are a testament to Disney's commitment to reflecting the rich tapestry of our world. Furthermore, Disney's adaptability to modern times is commendable. The acquisition of Marvel allowed Disney to seamlessly integrate superheroes into its portfolio, attracting a more comprehensive range of audiences. The dynamic characters and intricate narratives of the Marvel Universe provide a refreshing contrast to traditional fairy tales, catering to those who crave action, intrigue, and interconnected storytelling. In conclusion, my favorite aspect of Disney is its versatility. This quality encompasses its ability to produce a diverse range of content that resonates with people of all ages and backgrounds. From classics that have stood the test of time to fresh narratives that represent the ever-changing world we live in, Disney continues to surprise and inspire. Its adaptability ensures that there's always something for everyone, whether you're a child captivated by whimsical tales or an adult seeking connection and reflection. As Disney shapes the cultural landscape of each generation, it remains a steadfast source of joy, comfort, and wonderment, proving that versatility is indeed the key to its enduring magic.

Education is an essential aspect of personal growth and development. It is a tool that enables individuals to acquire knowledge, develop skills, and expand their perspectives. Education is crucial in the pursuit of personal and professional success, and it has brought immense value to me throughout my life. I believe that education is important for several reasons. First, it provides individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in their chosen fields. Education enables individuals to acquire the expertise necessary to excel in their careers, pursue their passions, and make meaningful contributions to society. It also helps individuals to develop critical thinking skills, which are essential for problem-solving and decision-making in all aspects of life. Second, education is important for personal growth and development. It exposes individuals to new ideas, perspectives, and cultures, broadening their understanding of the world and fostering empathy and understanding. Education also provides individuals with opportunities to develop their creativity, imagination, and intellectual curiosity, which can lead to a lifetime of learning and growth. Finally, education is crucial for social and economic mobility. It provides individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to secure better-paying jobs, improve their financial stability, and access new opportunities. Education is also a powerful tool for breaking the cycle of poverty and creating a more just and equitable society. For me, education has brought immense value to my life. It has enabled me to pursue my passions, develop my skills, and make meaningful contributions to society. It has also provided me with opportunities for personal growth and development, helping me to become a more well-rounded and empathetic individual. One of the most significant ways that education has brought value to my life is by enabling me to pursue my career goals. As you see through my profile, my ultimate dream is to be an actress that owns multiple non-profits throughout the city of Chicago. That is the main reason why I have decided to go back for my education. I have acquired the knowledge and skills needed to excel in my chosen field, and I have been able to pursue opportunities that would not have been possible without a solid educational foundation. Education has also played a critical role in my personal growth and development. Through my studies, I have been exposed to new ideas, perspectives, and cultures, broadening my understanding of the world and fostering empathy and understanding. I have also had the opportunity to develop my creativity, imagination, and intellectual curiosity, which have been invaluable in all aspects of my life.

Perseverance is an essential trait that drives individuals to keep pushing forward, despite challenges and setbacks. It is the ability to endure hardships, overcome obstacles and achieve success in the face of adversity. For me, perseverance means continuing to move forward and striving for my goals, even when the road ahead seems uncertain and challenging. In my life, the most significant challenge I have faced so far was when my family and I experienced a house fire. The experience was devastating and life-altering, and it left us feeling uncertain about what the future held. It was just another Thursday night, and I was getting ready to write a five-page midterm paper for school. I put on my headphones, and cranked up the volume to start working on my midterm again. I was rocking out to Karol G when I heard someone calling out for my name and my father's name. I took off my headphones and remembered that my mom was in the basement. I called out to her and was told to go get my father. I ran up the stairs and saw my father running down, asking me what happened. I replied that Mom was calling him; something happened downstairs, and I heard my mom start screaming "Fire!" After that, everything was a blur. I remember dropping my laptop and going straight upstairs to get my sister and our pets. I was able to get my three dogs and my sister out, but my cat was missing. So after making sure that my family and dogs were out, I went back in looking for her, crying out to her. I was running up and down the stairs until I couldn't handle the black smoke anymore. I just remember standing outside, seeing smoke coming out of all the windows, and stressing about my cat, Luna. Thankfully, a firefighter came up to me and found her alive and breathing. I rushed her to the hospital. That's all I can remember. In the aftermath of the fire, it was challenging to keep pushing forward. We were suddenly without a home, and our possessions were gone. However, we were determined to persevere and rebuild our lives. We knew that it would take time, effort, and a lot of hard work, but we were committed to making it through the ordeal. The first step was finding a place to stay. We were fortunate to have family and friends who offered to house us while we sorted things out. Then we were able to find a hotel. We then had to navigate the complex process of dealing with insurance companies, contractors, and other professionals to rebuild our home. It is still a long journey, with many setbacks and challenges along the way. I never realize how heartbreaking it is for people to kick you down while you were already on the ground. One of the most important things I learned was the power of a positive mindset. Even when things seemed bleak, we always tried to focus on the positive aspects of the situation. We reminded ourselves that we were fortunate to have each other and that we would get through the challenge together. We also tried to stay optimistic about the future, believing that we would eventually overcome the obstacles in our path. I learned that perseverance is about growth and self-improvement. The experience of the house fire is forcing us to develop new skills, learn new things, and become more resilient. We emerged from the experience stronger, more determined, and better equipped to face future challenges.

As a student, managing finances is particularly important, given the limited financial resources that students often have at their disposal. For me, managing my finances as a student is important because it helps me to be responsible and accountable with my money, avoid debt, build generational wealth for my family, and help my parents. Growing up, I never had the opportunity to learn about financial literacy, which has made it challenging for me to manage my finances. Coming from a poor background, my mindset was always that once I received money, I had to spend it immediately. I was afraid that I would run out of money and have nothing left. I even bought three of the same things so that I would not run out of them, which was not only unnecessary but also wasteful. As a result, I had to learn how to manage my finances on my own. Managing my finances has been crucial to me since I had a house fire. Unfortunately, I had to use my credit card to pay for the expenses related to the house fire, which has resulted in credit card debt. Managing my finances well means that I have to be mindful of my spending and avoid unnecessary expenses. I use budgeting apps such as Mint to track my expenses and monitor my spending habits. These apps have helped me to stay on track and ensure that I am not overspending. Another way that I manage my finances is by using coupons. Couponing is a great way to save money and stretch my budget. I always check for deals and discounts before making any purchases, which has helped me to reduce my spending. Moreover, I have also adopted a "no spend" month, where I do not buy anything extra, but instead, use what I already have at home. These strategies have helped me to save money and reduce my expenses, which has been beneficial in managing my finances effectively. Managing finances as a student is essential because it can also help me to avoid debt. Debt can be a significant burden, and it can be challenging to pay it off, especially for students who may not have a reliable source of income. By managing my finances effectively, I can avoid falling into debt, which can affect my credit score and limit my financial opportunities in the future. However, managing my finances as a student is not just about personal responsibility, it is about creating a legacy for my family and future generations. I want to be financially responsible because I believe it is my responsibility to help my parents, who have sacrificed so much to provide for our family. I want to repay them for their hard work by becoming financially stable and building generational wealth for our family's future. By managing my finances well, I hope to not only achieve financial security for myself but also make a positive impact on the lives of those I love. Finally, managing my finances as a student is essential because it helps me to build a solid financial foundation for my future. By developing good financial habits and strategies, I can build a healthy financial future. For example, I have started saving money to ensure that I have emergency funds available in case of unexpected expenses. By being mindful of my spending and saving money, I can build a strong financial foundation that can help me achieve my long-term financial goals.

The book that has had a profound impact on my life is "The 4 Agreements" by Don Miguel Ruiz. This book came into my life at a time when I was struggling to find meaning and purpose, and it completely transformed my perspective on how to live my life. It was during a point when I had given up on my self and this life. The book is centered around four key principles that are designed to help individuals create more happiness, freedom, and peace in their lives. These principles are: be impeccable with your word, don't take anything personally, don't make assumptions, and always do your best. One of the key reasons why this book resonated with me so deeply is because it challenged me to think differently about the way that I interacted with the world around me. For example, the first agreement, "be impeccable with your word," taught me the importance of being truthful and honest in all of my interactions with others. It made me realize that the words that I use have a real impact on the people around me and that by being mindful of the way that I speak, I could create more positive outcomes in my relationships. Similarly, the second agreement, "don't take anything personally," taught me how to detach myself from the negative opinions and judgments of others. It showed me that I am not defined by the opinions of others and that by choosing not to take things personally, I could live a more peaceful and fulfilling life. The third agreement, "don't make assumptions," was particularly impactful for me because I realized how often I was jumping to conclusions and making assumptions about the people and situations around me. By learning to ask questions and seek clarity, I was able to avoid unnecessary conflict and miscommunication and create more meaningful and fulfilling relationships with friends that I have lost along the way. Finally, the fourth agreement, "always do your best," taught me the importance of giving my all to everything that I do. It showed me that by putting forth my best effort, I could create a sense of purpose and fulfillment in my life, regardless of the outcome. Overall, "The 4 Agreements" has had a profound impact on my life because it has helped me to create a more positive and fulfilling outlook on life. By embracing these principles, I have been able to let go of negative thoughts and behaviors and instead focus on creating more meaningful and fulfilling relationships with others. I have also been able to develop a greater sense of purpose and direction in my life, and I feel more confident and capable than ever before. It really taught me to focus on what I can control and to be more gracious with myself.

Growing up in a low-income household in the Southside of Chicago has shaped my worldview and instilled a sense of perseverance that has helped me overcome challenges. My mother and father worked tirelessly to provide for my siblings and me, but we still struggled to make ends meet. We relied on government assistance programs like WIC and food stamps to put food on the table, and I remember having to use the free phone service from our healthcare provider to make calls. While these experiences were difficult, they taught me valuable lessons about resilience and determination. One of the ways that growing up in a low-income household has influenced my perspective is by making me more aware of the challenges that people face when they are living in poverty. I know what it's like to worry about where my next meal will come from, or how I will pay for basic necessities like clothing and school supplies. These experiences have made me more compassionate and empathetic toward others who are going through similar struggles. Another way that my life experience has shaped me is by teaching me how to persevere through difficult times. When you are living in poverty, there are often many obstacles that you have to overcome just to survive. Whether it's dealing with a sudden illness or trying to find a job when there are few opportunities available, I have learned that the key to success is to keep pushing forward no matter what. I remember times when my mom and I would have to create projects with items that we had in the house to pass the class. We would also try to go to the closest library to see if we can get some materials to be able to make it more personal, compared to my classmates who were able to go to Walmart or Target. Looking towards the future, I am determined to use my life experience to make a positive impact in my community and the world. I believe that everyone should have access to the basic necessities of life, including food, housing, and healthcare. To this end, I plan to create several non-profits so that I can help others who are facing the same challenges that I have faced. One of my non-profits will serve as an After School Matter but with tutoring and opportunities to have their hobbies flourish. I know firsthand how difficult it can be to succeed in school when you don't have access to the resources and support that you need. That's why I want to create organizations that provide tutoring, mentoring, and other forms of academic support to students who are struggling to keep up. I want to create a safe heaven for children and low- income families where they don't have to guess when it is going to be their next meal or scavenge through the library to get some material for their projects. One day, I will be able to help those who were like me, and to be honest I am grateful that I was able to preserve through the challenges this life has given me.

Usually these essays are the hardest for me, because I have grown so much that sometimes I feel like a new Cat. Now me growing may not always been for the better side of growth, but during those times I felt like it was. However, I always had this flaw with myself that felt like it always stunt my growth. I was hoping I can change this flaw one day. I wanted to change it because I felt that this particular flaw is what was holding me back from being my best self that I could ever be. The flaw that was ultimately stunting my growth was I kept promises to everyone else except myself. I noticed that my lack of confidence and trust was because I could not keep the promises I made for myself. Everytime I tried to keep a promise, it would would go good for two or three days, but then I am back to the same pattern... Until this one event... This past year my family and I experience a house fire. As horrible as it was to lose my childhood home and be homeless, it brought so many blessings for my family. It also really changed something in me and lit a fire under me. No pun intended. I started writing out all the promises that I could not keep and forgave my past self for not completing them. Whatever that reason may be. Then I start with small promise such as writing down one thing I like about myself. From there it grew to going to therapy, waking up early, creating a bucket list, and the list goes on and on. A small simple thing such as keeping a promise to myself has gave me confidence, help me to love myself and even gave me a spark. The biggest thing it did was help me trust myself again, to help me connect with my intuition, and reminded that I am not against myself, but for and with. With this big change, I am still learning new things about myself and unlearning old way that I used to survive. I am still emotional, but I learned to feel it rather than to intellectualize it. I am still happy and optimistic, but it reminded me that when it is not going my way it is because it was not meant for me and that a better way is coming. Overall, I never really thought that an event such as losing my home would cause such a big growth and change the one thing that I have been wanting to. But it did, and I am forever grateful for it.

I can admit that I have not been the very best at giving back to my community as a priority, however, I do my best to try in small ways. I was born and raised in southside Chicago all my life and I have noticed that giving back through the community is very important. As I grew older, I always wanted to give back to my community, but also elevate it at the same time. But I could not figure out how I can do that. Throughout my life, my mom has installed in me to help where I can, with what I have. When I was going through my communion and confirmation, I was able to help my neighborhood by volunteering to help with the food drive or the winter clothes drive. During my high school years, I was a part of the Chicago Scholar program, a program that is dedicated to helping high students get into college. Throughout my years there I would be a part of the volunteer groups that they offer. Now, I am a part of their Alumni program where we create programs for the members to help them navigate after graduation. This is my ultimate goal in my life, well one of them. I have always, ALWAYS wanted to open two non-profits, but I did not figure out what kind until my last year of high school. After spending my senior year spring break volunteering at a non-profit law firm and learning that many Black and Brown people during the '80s were the ones who were affected. It gave me the inspiration of creating one of my own in Chicago. The first non-profit would be an after-school program for DACA children and incarcerated children. It would be a place where the children will have different kinds of help such as school, scholarships, college, and athletics. My second non-profit would be to help those who were wrongfully convicted. I am currently in grad school pursuing a Master of Criminal Justice and a Master of Business Administration. I decided to get continue my higher education to help me create my non-profits. As I continue to finish school and grow in my profession, I want to be more involved with my community and school. That is one of my new year's resolutions for 2023. Writing this essay made me realize how I can give back to my community, even though I don't have the resources that I originally wanted, I can continue with the food drive and winter clothes drive from when I was younger.

Is It Worth It? By: Catherine Novella Is it worth it? Was any of this worth it? Was the crying, the pain, the feeling of knowing that you lost that person, but it was not your fault worth it? Was I forgiving you the right thing to do? Or should I have just taken the chance to leave you when I was already becoming distant from you? Questions. That is all that I have right now since that day. Was I naive when I forgave you? Am I naive for saying those three words after the choice that I made? I probably am. I know I am. Though, I was afraid of losing you, which meant that I was not keeping my word. I was afraid of the consequences that I would have gotten if I showed you my true self. Was I naive for letting myself go in front of you? Was I naive for not looking down before I jumped onto the wagon? Though when I jumped I didn’t expect to fall so hard onto the cold hard ground called “reality,” I can still change my course. I can still cut you off from my life; I can still hold a grudge. But the question is Is it worth it? And to tell you the truth, I do not know if it is worth it, but let’s see what happens from here and out, and let’s see “reality” is truly cold. I will still be the naive little girl who will have these questions running through her head, but at least the naive little girl will have hope in something.

It truly amazes me how important taking care of one's mental health is and how rapidly it has become the norm in the last decade or so. Mental health was not a topic that my family had taken the time to sit down and explain what it was to my siblings and me. If you told 16-year-old Cat that she had anxiety, she would first say "no I don't have that. My friend has that. I don't act like how she does." She did not understand that it was not a one-size-fits-all. If I could go back in and tell her that "It is okay to start the mental health journey. Trust me, you would want to." But someone has not created yet a time machine, so this is how mental health has influenced me. Being raised as a Roman Catholic in a Latino Family where my parents immigrated from Peru, you can already imagine the type of beliefs and relationships that were in the household. There was no clear, concise, safe communication between my parents and my siblings. They expected me to overcome or stay quiet about my emotions and feelings, especially the bad ones, because to my parents, it was considered "weak" or "childish." Although I was a child during that time, not understand that living in a chaotic household was not helping my mental health. It caused a strain between my parents and me. I felt like I was not supported mentally or emotionally, and they substituted it with physical; such as gifting or signing me up for a new athletic tournament. I know they were trying their best, but I realize now that since my family and I did not understand how to take care of our mental health or how to look for help, it caused some damage between us. That was the reason why I went to therapy. I was tired of not being able to communicate with my parents healthily, not feeling enough, and not feeling successful or worthy of what I had achieved so far. I remember the first time I found a therapist that I connected with, both culturally and spiritually, it was like seeing the light for the very first time. It helped me form a better relationship with myself, my inner child, and my teenager, which helped me become more confident within my boundaries on how important my mental health was to me. It also helped me understand my beliefs. I realized I was much more spiritual than religious. I learned I did not have to follow a certain lifestyle to feel like something connected me to a higher power. It also helped me to find the courage to follow a passion of mine, which is to work in the entertainment industry while getting a master's in 2 completely ends of the spectrum (Criminal Justice and Business.) My journey with mental health has really help me flourish and release the skills that I hard to learn to survive. I am always forever grateful of the journey and hope that this is inspiration for many others to start and be proud of taking the first step.

All through out my life, I have always been asked one question right after I introduce myself; “Well, Is your life a telenovela?” At times, I answer yes it is. My full name is Catherine Frances Novella. Catherine is my mother’s middle name and Frances is a derivative of Francisco who is my father. My parents already knew what they would name me and did not hesitate for a second when the nurses asked them. So I’m told. Throughout my childhood, I did not like my name. It felt like my name was way too common and that it did not represent me at all. It was not until I was in my sophomore year of high school that we had to do a creative writing essay on our names. We had to write a whole poem about our name and how it represents us in our everyday life. It was right there that I realized that my name did represent a part of me. That is when I found out that Catherine means “pure,” Frances means “free one,” and of course, Novella means a “short story.” There were several times when I truly felt like my name was powerful and influential, not only to me but to my family. The one that has been stuck in my mind for years was my quinceanera. I remember when they announced my name as I walked through the corridor doors and saw everyone in their masquerade mask. That was one of the first moments where I felt most powerful during my teenage years. I felt like my name fit me in the best way possible. Another moment was when I graduated from high school and college, I felt proud of my name and whom I was representing for getting so far. The most recent example that makes me giddy every time was when I saw my name in the credits of Chicago P.D. as my first Co-star role. I have heard stories that what you are named can shape whom you are without even the person noticing it and I truly believe that now. One of my favorite things to do whenever I am anxious or scared; I would go to a mirror and recite "I am Catherine Novella." When I say my name like it means something (and it does) that is when I feel most powerful in my everyday life.

My favorite back-to-school tip is to plan a “special event” one or two days out of the week. I started doing this during my junior year of college and it helped me stay motivated and look forward to something I enjoyed. This also helped me feel more balanced when it came to seeing my friends while having to go to work and school. A lot of the stuff I planned was either free or very budget-friendly. My friends and I planned so much stuff. Since we have AMC in New Orleans, we would go to a $5 movie Tuesdays or plan a picnic at the park. Another example is we would simply walk around the downtown/French Quarter area and take pictures. Now if you are the type of person that needs to stay at home, no worries. I would plan a spa night at home or do a theme movie night for myself. Don’t forget to do stuff you enjoy, especially during school. Instagram: @catnovella