Education has always been more than personal achievement to me—it is a tool for empowerment and social change. As a first-generation Latina, I have seen firsthand how immigration policies shape the lives of families like mine. The fear of deportation and legal uncertainty doesn’t just impact individuals—it affects entire communities, limiting access to education, employment, and financial security. Witnessing these struggles has fueled my passion for economics and law, where I hope to advocate for fair policies that protect and uplift immigrant families. Growing up in a low-income household, I saw many hardworking families—including my own—constantly worry about immigration status and economic instability. I’ve known students who feared that a parent wouldn’t be home when they got back from school. I’ve seen families hesitate to apply for jobs, seek medical care, or report unfair treatment out of fear of drawing attention to their status. These experiences made me realize that economic opportunity and immigration justice are deeply connected. Without legal protections, immigrant families are forced into financial insecurity, wage theft, and housing discrimination, unable to access the same opportunities as others. This is why I want to pursue economics and law—to advocate for policies that protect immigrant workers, create legal pathways to residency, and eliminate barriers that prevent undocumented families from achieving economic stability. I want to work at the intersection of business, finance, and immigration law, ensuring that immigrant families are not exploited by unfair wages, predatory lending, or discriminatory policies. Although I haven’t worked directly with immigrant rights organizations, I have supported my own family and community in small but meaningful ways. I’ve helped my parents navigate financial paperwork, researched college and scholarship opportunities on my own, and learned how to advocate for myself in academic and financial settings—something many first-generation students must figure out alone. I know what it’s like to feel lost in systems that weren’t built for people like us, and I want to use my education to change that. Through my studies in economics and law, I envision a future where immigration status does not determine someone’s ability to succeed. With the support of this scholarship, I will continue working toward a world where economic and legal systems uplift rather than exclude, where immigrant families feel safe, and where policies are designed to empower communities instead of holding them back. This scholarship would not only ease my financial burden but also allow me to further my mission of using education for social impact. I am committed to breaking barriers, creating opportunities, and ensuring that immigrant families are protected, valued, and given the chance to thrive.

From Hard Work to Higher Education: My First-Gen Journey As the daughter of hardworking immigrant parents, I have witnessed both the sacrifices and resilience that define the immigrant experience. My parents came to this country with big dreams but little financial security, and their determination to build a better life has shaped my own ambition. They taught me that education is the key to breaking cycles of struggle, and as a first-generation college student, I am determined to make the most of this opportunity—not just for myself, but for my family and community. Being a first-generation student means navigating college applications, financial aid, and academic decisions without direct parental guidance. Unlike many of my peers, I didn’t have parents who could explain FAFSA forms or college admissions. Instead, I had to teach myself, ask questions, and seek out mentors—skills that have made me independent and resourceful. The financial challenges of college have also been a reality for my family. As a low-income student, I have worked hard to secure scholarships, balance responsibilities, and plan for a future where I won’t be burdened by debt. These experiences have fueled my passion for economics and law, where I can work toward financial justice and economic opportunities for marginalized communities. Growing up, I saw how a lack of financial literacy and access to resources kept families like mine in cycles of economic struggle. Many immigrant families work incredibly hard yet still struggle with financial stability due to predatory financial systems and limited legal protections. This is why I plan to major in economics and later pursue corporate law—to advocate for economic justice and fair business practices. I want to ensure that immigrant and first-generation families have access to financial education, ethical banking, and legal protection from exploitative policies. Beyond academics, I have always been committed to giving back to my community. I have volunteered by helping younger students navigate financial aid, scholarships, and college applications, ensuring they have access to the same opportunities I have worked hard to find. I believe that education should not be a privilege reserved for those with connections—it should be accessible to everyone willing to work for it. With this scholarship, I will be able to continue my education without the financial stress that burdens many first-gen students. More importantly, I will be able to use my education to break barriers for others, just as my parents' sacrifices have given me the chance to break barriers for myself. My family's immigrant story is one of hard work, sacrifice, and resilience—and I intend to carry that legacy forward by making a lasting impact on the world.

Breaking Barriers Through Education and Advocacy As a first-generation Latina, I have seen firsthand how systemic barriers affect families like mine. My parents worked tirelessly to provide for me, yet financial insecurity was always a reality we had to navigate. I grew up understanding that opportunity isn’t equally distributed—that for many people of color, especially those from low-income backgrounds, the path to success is full of obstacles. This has shaped my passion for economics and law, fields I believe are powerful tools for social change. My goal is to pursue economics as an undergraduate and later enter corporate law to advocate for fair financial policies and economic opportunities for marginalized communities. Academic Interests: Economics as a Tool for Justice My interest in economics stems from a simple but profound realization: financial systems dictate who has access to opportunity. I’ve seen hardworking families struggle, not because they lack ambition, but because they lack access to financial literacy, fair wages, and economic stability. Studying economics will allow me to analyze the structural inequalities that keep marginalized communities in cycles of poverty and explore solutions that can create real, lasting change. Beyond my major, I am deeply interested in policy and law. The intersection of economics and justice is where I hope to make the most impact. Many corporations and financial institutions operate in ways that disproportionately harm low-income and minority communities. As a corporate lawyer, I want to hold businesses accountable, advocate for ethical economic policies, and ensure that marginalized groups are not exploited by financial institutions. Justice and Social Change: Fighting for Equal Opportunity Growing up as a first-generation Latina in a low-income household, I have always been aware of inequality—not just in financial resources, but in access to education, mentorship, and opportunity. Many people in my community struggle with navigating financial aid, college applications, and career planning simply because they don’t have someone to guide them. That’s why I have dedicated time to helping younger students understand financial aid, scholarships, and college resources, ensuring they have access to the same opportunities I have worked hard to find. I believe that social change starts with empowering individuals, and one of my biggest goals is to give back to my community. Whether through mentorship, legal advocacy, or policy reform, I want to make sure that the next generation of first-generation students has the resources and knowledge they need to succeed. A Commitment to Change Ms. Ida Mae’s legacy of education and activism inspires me because, like her, I believe in the power of knowledge and community advocacy. With this scholarship, I will be able to continue my education without the weight of financial stress, allowing me to focus on my long-term goals of creating financial and legal systems that serve all people, not just the privileged few. I am determined to break barriers, uplift others, and ensure that justice and economic opportunity go hand in hand. Education is more than just a degree—it is a tool for justice, and I intend to use mine to make a difference.

Honoring My Roots, Building My Future As a first-generation Latina, I have always understood that education is more than just a personal achievement—it’s a way to uplift my family and community. My parents sacrificed so much to give me opportunities they never had, and I refuse to let those sacrifices go to waste. Pursuing a degree in economics is my way of creating lasting change, not only for myself but for those who come after me. Growing up in a low-income household, I saw firsthand how financial insecurity impacts opportunities. I watched my parents work tirelessly to provide for our family, often sacrificing their own dreams in the process. Their hard work instilled in me the value of perseverance, but it also made me realize that financial literacy and economic empowerment are critical to breaking cycles of poverty. I often saw people in my community struggle with financial decisions simply because they lacked access to the right resources and knowledge. This is why I want to study economics and later become a corporate lawyer—to advocate for equitable financial policies and economic opportunities for underrepresented communities. I want to ensure that families like mine don’t have to choose between survival and opportunity. Beyond academics, giving back has always been a core value in my life. I have volunteered in my community in different ways—whether it’s helping my family navigate financial aid forms, supporting younger students with their schoolwork, or assisting at local events. I know firsthand how intimidating it can be to step into a space where you don’t see people who look like you. That’s why I hope to mentor and guide other first-generation students, making their path to higher education easier than mine has been. Even small actions, like answering questions about scholarships or helping someone prepare for a big exam, can make a difference. I also recognize that being a first-generation college student means stepping into an unfamiliar world, one where I will have to navigate challenges without direct guidance from my parents. But instead of letting that discourage me, it motivates me. I want to set an example for my younger siblings and for other students in my community who may not believe that college is an option for them. I want them to see that success isn’t reserved for the privileged—it’s something we can achieve through hard work, determination, and access to the right support systems. My Hispanic identity is something I’ve grown to embrace with pride. Being part of a culture that values family, resilience, and hard work has shaped me into the ambitious, driven person I am today. However, I also understand the systemic barriers that make it harder for students like me to access higher education. This scholarship would not just ease the financial burden of college—it would help me focus on my education without the fear of debt weighing on my shoulders. I am determined to succeed, not just for myself, but for my family and my community. Education is my way of breaking cycles, creating opportunities, and proving that where we come from does not define where we can go. With this scholarship, I can continue on my journey to becoming a changemaker—someone who leads an impactful life and ensures that others have the opportunities they deserve.

Being a first-generation Latina of Mexican descent has profoundly shaped my identity, instilled in me a strong work ethic, and fueled my desire to pursue higher education. My Mexican heritage has taught me the value of resilience, community, and determination—qualities that guide me as I navigate my academic and personal journey. Growing up in a low-income household, I witnessed my parents work tirelessly to provide for our family. Their sacrifices have inspired me to seize every educational opportunity available to me. My culture’s emphasis on family and perseverance has become the foundation of my ambition. It’s not just about achieving success for myself; it’s about paving the way for others in my community and honoring the sacrifices of those who came before me. My goal is to earn a degree in economics and mathematics, with aspirations to become a corporate lawyer. Through my education, I hope to address systemic inequalities and advocate for ethical practices in the corporate world. I believe that by combining my passion for STEM with my commitment to social justice, I can create meaningful change and uplift marginalized communities, including my own. Financially, my family faces significant challenges. Coming from a low-income background, I’ve learned to balance academic rigor with a part-time job to contribute to my family’s needs. My grandparents also live with us, and supporting a multigenerational household has deepened my understanding of sacrifice and responsibility. While these experiences have strengthened my resilience and time-management skills, the rising cost of higher education remains a barrier. Scholarship support is essential for me to continue my education without adding undue financial strain on my family. It would allow me to focus on my studies and fully embrace opportunities for personal and professional growth. My Mexican heritage has taught me that challenges are not roadblocks but stepping stones. With the support of this scholarship, I will continue to work hard, pursue my dreams, and make a positive impact. My journey is about more than personal success—it’s about representing my heritage and inspiring others to believe that their dreams, too, are within reach.

As a first-generation Latina from Washington, I’ve always been driven by a deep curiosity about how the world works and a desire to use that knowledge to make a difference. Growing up in a low-income household, I learned early on the value of perseverance and resourcefulness, traits that have shaped both my academic journey and personal interests. Currently a senior in high school and a Running Start student, I am pursuing my passion for mathematics and economics, with the ultimate goal of contributing to innovative and equitable solutions in STEM industries. Outside of academics, I have a wide array of hobbies that reflect my personality and interests. I love reading, especially contemporary romance novels, which provide a comforting escape and often inspire my creative side. Coloring is another favorite pastime; it’s a meditative activity that allows me to unwind and channel my artistic instincts without the pressure of creating something from scratch. Additionally, I enjoy exploring music, and Taylor Swift’s storytelling in her songs has been a major source of inspiration and empowerment for me. Her ability to turn personal experiences into universally relatable art resonates deeply with me and reminds me of the importance of authenticity. One of my greatest passions is fostering connections and uplifting others, which is why I aspire to use my STEM education to create meaningful impact. My academic focus on mathematics and economics stems from a fascination with problem-solving and a desire to understand the systems that shape our lives. I plan to use this foundation to advocate for diversity and inclusion in STEM, particularly for women and underrepresented communities. I believe that by encouraging diverse perspectives, we can unlock innovative solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges. My experiences have taught me to approach challenges with determination and creativity. For example, balancing my rigorous coursework with a part-time job has honed my time-management skills and strengthened my resilience. Overcoming obstacles, like recovering from severe burns in 2020, has also instilled in me a sense of gratitude and a drive to make the most of every opportunity. This scholarship would allow me to further pursue my STEM aspirations and continue breaking barriers as a woman in these fields. By reducing financial stress, I could dedicate more time to my studies and focus on building the skills necessary to excel academically and professionally. In the future, I hope to mentor and inspire other young women to pursue STEM careers, proving that with hard work and determination, anything is possible. Together, we can create a world where diverse voices lead to groundbreaking innovations and lasting change.

Growing up as a first-generation Latina in a low-income household, I’ve faced challenges that have shaped my resilience and determination to succeed. A pivotal challenge I faced was enrolling in the Running Start program during my junior year of high school. While the opportunity to earn college credits while still in high school was exciting, I was unprepared for the steep learning curve that came with navigating a college environment at the age of 16. Initially, the shift from high school to college-level coursework required significant adaptation. Balancing a part-time job with demanding classes tested my organizational skills, while navigating a new academic environment challenged my confidence. My grades began to slip later in the program, particularly during my senior year, and I began to question whether I had made the right decision. However, this was not the first major obstacle I had faced. In 2020, just months before I was to begin high school and as we were transitioning back to in-person learning after the pandemic, I experienced a life-altering event when I suffered second- and third-degree burns on over 70% of my body. Recovery was grueling, filled with pain, emotional struggles, and countless hours of rehabilitation. This experience tested my strength and taught me resilience in overwhelming challenges. I learned how to adapt, rebuild, and persevere, even when the odds felt insurmountable. Rather than giving up, I decided to “turn it up to 11.” During my recovery, I cultivated resilience, a mindset of gratitude, and a determination to succeed. This mentality became the cornerstone of how I approached challenges in my academic pursuits, especially when adapting to the rigorous expectations of Running Start. When faced with the struggles of the Running Start program, I sought out resources like tutoring services, connected with my professors during office hours, and leaned on my support system of family and friends. I also developed new strategies for time management, such as creating detailed schedules and breaking tasks into smaller, manageable pieces. Slowly but surely, my efforts began to pay off. By the end of my first year, I had significantly improved my grades and gained confidence in my ability to succeed in a college environment. These experiences taught me to approach challenges with creativity and perseverance, both essential qualities for tackling systemic issues. As I pursue a degree in economics and mathematics, my ultimate goal is to use these tools to promote equity in corporate systems, leveraging STEM principles to solve real-world problems. Participating in a mentorship program with Inspire11 would amplify my ability to “turn it up to 11.” Access to world-class innovators, technologists, and data scientists would offer tailored guidance to enhance my understanding of mathematics and economics while opening doors to cutting-edge applications of these disciplines. A tailored mentorship program would not only help me refine my technical skills but also connect me with role models who share my passion for using STEM to drive meaningful change. This support would empower me to excel academically, strengthen my confidence in pursuing ambitious goals, and equip me with the tools to create a lasting impact in my field. The challenges I have faced have shaped me into someone who approaches obstacles with determination and creativity. With the mentorship and resources offered by Inspire11, I am confident that I can continue to grow, innovate, and turn my aspirations into reality, all while inspiring others to do the same. Together, we can “turn it up to 11” and create a future that is equitable, innovative, and filled with possibilities.

As a high school student and a first-generation Latina from Washington, I have always seen education as the gateway to achieving my dreams. My academic and professional goals are fueled by a deep desire to create positive change within my community and beyond. Currently enrolled in the Running Start program, I am earning college credits while finishing high school, positioning myself for a seamless transition to higher education. My goal is to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Economics at Western Washington University and, from there, attend law school to become a corporate lawyer. I chose Economics because I am fascinated by how financial systems influence both individual lives and global trends. Understanding these systems is key to addressing issues like income inequality and environmental sustainability, particularly as they affect underrepresented communities. By studying Economics, I will gain the knowledge to analyze and advocate for policies that promote fairness and equity. Professionally, I aspire to become a corporate lawyer specializing in ethical business practices. Growing up in a low-income household, I witnessed how systemic barriers limit opportunities for marginalized groups. This experience instilled in me a passion for using the law to level the playing field. As a corporate lawyer, I hope to influence companies to adopt practices that prioritize community impact and environmental responsibility alongside profit. This scholarship represents an opportunity to invest in my future. The financial support would allow me to focus on my studies without the added stress of tuition costs, enabling me to fully dedicate myself to my academic journey and career aspirations. By earning this scholarship, I will move closer to achieving my goals and honor the sacrifices my family has made to support my education. In the future, I hope to mentor other first-generation students, encouraging them to pursue higher education and dream big. Success is not just about personal achievement but about uplifting others and creating pathways for the next generation. With this scholarship, I am confident I can turn my aspirations into reality and make a meaningful impact on the world.

To me, success is the ability to transform my personal and academic growth into meaningful contributions that positively impact my community and future generations. It’s not defined by accolades or material wealth but by the fulfillment that comes from overcoming obstacles and achieving goals rooted in purpose. As a first-generation Latina and a Running Start student, success also means breaking barriers for myself and those who will come after me—proving that perseverance and ambition can pave the way to opportunities that may have once seemed out of reach. Success is not just a destination, but a journey marked by resilience, growth, and a commitment to making a difference. I learned this early in life, growing up in a low-income household where opportunities often felt scarce, but determination and family support provided the fuel to keep moving forward. One defining moment came when I realized that economic systems—just like the world around us—are interconnected and have a profound influence on people’s lives. This insight inspired me to pursue a career where I could challenge systemic inequities and advocate for fairness and equity through my work. My vision of success is deeply tied to my goal of becoming a corporate lawyer, specializing in ethical business practices and advocating for underrepresented communities. I aim to use my knowledge of economics and law to influence business practices that prioritize sustainability and community empowerment. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand how systemic inequalities create barriers to opportunity. These experiences have instilled in me not just a desire to succeed personally but a responsibility to use my education and skills to uplift others and create meaningful change. Achieving this vision requires more than academic success—it demands resilience, curiosity, and a commitment to continuous growth. I’ve taken significant steps toward this goal by excelling academically through the Running Start program, which has allowed me to earn college credits while completing high school. Balancing rigorous coursework with my part-time job as a cashier has taught me time management, problem-solving, and the value of hard work. These experiences have strengthened my empathy and understanding of diverse perspectives, qualities that will be crucial in advocating for social and economic justice. This scholarship represents an invaluable opportunity to continue my education at Western Washington University, where I plan to major in Economics. By studying the intricacies of economic systems, I aim to build a foundation for understanding how policies and corporate decisions impact society at large. This knowledge will be instrumental in law school, where I will learn to navigate the complexities of the legal system to advocate for ethical business practices. With this support, I can focus on my studies without the financial stress that often accompanies higher education, allowing me to fully dedicate myself to my academic and professional goals. Success, as I envision it, is not a solitary journey. It’s about creating ripples of positive change that extend beyond myself. By achieving my goals, I hope to inspire others from underrepresented backgrounds to pursue their dreams, no matter the challenges they face. I want to show that with determination and support, it is possible to overcome systemic barriers and make a meaningful impact on the world. In the future, I plan to mentor young people from similar backgrounds, providing guidance and encouragement to help them navigate their own paths to success. Whether it’s through workshops, internships, or one-on-one mentorship, I want to give back to the community that has shaped me and ensure that others have the tools and confidence to achieve their goals. This vision is at the heart of what success means to me: uplifting others while striving for personal growth and excellence. This scholarship is more than financial support; it’s a validation of the hard work, ambition, and passion that drive me every day. It represents an investment in my future and the future of the communities I hope to serve. With this opportunity, I can continue to pursue my education and career with the confidence that I am on the right path toward creating a more equitable and just world. Ultimately, success is about perseverance, purpose, and impact. It’s about turning challenges into opportunities and using the lessons learned to create a brighter future for myself and others. With the help of this scholarship, I am determined to achieve my vision of success and leave a lasting legacy of empowerment and positive change.

I am a fan of Sabrina Carpenter because her artistry has been a constant source of inspiration and comfort throughout my life. Growing up, I admired her portrayal of Maya Hart in Girl Meets World and her role in Adventures in Babysitting. Through these characters, Sabrina embodied courage, humor, and resilience—qualities I aspired to have as I navigated my own coming-of-age journey. Watching her excel in acting while simultaneously launching a music career inspired me to believe that I, too, can embrace multifaceted passions and pursue them with confidence. Sabrina’s music, especially her album emails I can’t send, has impacted me on a deeply personal level. The title track, in particular, resonates with me because I have been in a similar position of grappling with emotions that feel too raw to articulate. Her ability to turn vulnerability into art has shown me the importance of embracing my own struggles and transforming them into growth opportunities. Like Sabrina, I’ve faced moments where trust was broken and expectations weren’t met, but her music reminds me that I’m not alone in those experiences and that healing is possible. As a first-generation Latina from a low-income household, I see in Sabrina a role model who has balanced authenticity with ambition. Her success demonstrates that it’s possible to overcome barriers and create a path uniquely your own. Sabrina’s career has inspired me to pursue my own dreams with the same determination and creativity she embodies. Whether it’s through her heartfelt lyrics, empowering performances, or the way she continues to challenge herself artistically, Sabrina has shown me that perseverance and self-expression are keys to success. Her journey motivates me to remain true to myself as I work toward achieving my goals, not just for my own fulfillment, but to uplift others in my community as well.