I chose the Army ROTC program because it provided me the opportunity to commission in the United States Army while simultaneously continuing my education toward a bachelor's degree. Knowing the expectations of the Army, I was eager to be surrounded by an environment where I was constantly pushed to be the best version of myself led by the values of Duty, Honor, & Country. Additionally, Army ROTC offers a distinctive leadership experience that provides a military lifestyle promoting discipline, courage, and comradery. The standards manifested by the Army Values present an expectation of performing every task, whether athletic or academic with complete dedication ingrained within each cadet. Serving as a military officer gives me a chance to give back to the country that offered my family refuge and safety in the land of opportunity. Upon the realization that my parents sacrificed everything back in the Philippines to come to America, I took on an internal debt that I'm paying back in the form of my service to the United States Armed Forces. My wish to become an Army Officer stems from my desire to be part of an entity serving a greater purpose in our world. Beyond ROTC involvement, I have made an effort to participate in numerous volunteer activities that would further prepare me for service to my country. Starting, I am passionate about ministry work and taking the initiative to contribute to the communities that I share my faith with. Through this, I have been voluntarily serving as a ministry leader with a variety of organizations from the Cal State Long Beach InterVarsity Christian Fellowship as a small group leader to Hillsong Church Los Angeles as a youth ministry leader. This prepares me for my service because it entails the similar initiative, drive, and passion required to serve and set up a successful future for the oncoming generation. Time is precious, but more importantly, learning how to use the time for general productivity and the welfare of others is equally as precious. The Army Values from duty to selfless service are manifested within my participation in activities outside of ROTC. On top of this, my personal growth coincides with the growth and wisdom that I share through sermons, worship, and discussions that I have with these ministries and the students I serve. As I continue to train and work with more organizations, I will continue to gain experience that will assist myself and others quite practically in the real world and the United States Army the day that I get the privilege to lead soldiers.