My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is frequent for too many women in STEM, and I aim to prove it is false. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. For most of my time in high school, I thought I didn't want to go to college, and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself I could just go into a trade, but my perspective changed after my junior conference with my counselor. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I realized college wasn’t just something I could do it was something I needed to do to create the future I wanted. Now, I’m excited to complete a degree in economics and actuarial sciences. Going to college isn’t just about me it’s about my family, as we’ve faced plenty of financial struggles. When my family adopted my baby brother, we relied on WIC to make sure he had what he needed and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It put a large dent in my heart for a long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better-succeeding life, it is not just for me, but for my family. My biggest goal is to help Milwaukee, the city I’ve called home my whole life. Poverty is a constant challenge here, and it hurts to see how divided the city is by wealth and opportunity. But I believe I can make a difference. With economics and actuarial sciences, I want to design solutions that make Milwaukee more equal and fair, so everyone has a chance to succeed. These fields excite me because they go beyond solving problems they improve lives. They provide tools to create lasting change in communities. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, and I’ll graduate in Milwaukee. Most importantly, I’m going to bring change to Milwaukee.

My grandmother is a proud, pot-smoking, Irish Catholic woman with an attitude that could last a lifetime. Similar to me, she speaks her mind without missing a beat. Upon becoming pregnant at eighteen, her life was vastly changed. She has been sporting a pixie cut ever since getting married at nineteen. I looked at the pictures of her on that “special” day. Her dress was an off-white, hanging midway to her calves. From a very small age I looked up to my grandmother, I had never met anyone with such ambition. She rubbed off on me as well, being one of the only girls in the family myself. We grew up with financial struggles and seeing a strong-hearted character was a bit of a rarity to me, so to have her meant more than words could describe. Through the years my grandmother went through many jobs: filing bankruptcies, working as a paralegal, housing the mentally ill, and a few others I can’t name off the top of my head. But my personal favorite is her career selling cheesecakes. They were the best I ever had. The dense treat melted in your mouth, it was accented with loads of whipped cream. They each took around two days to make. It wasn't a difficult task, but a time-consuming one for sure. She sold tons of the sweet goods, winning awards while racking up her hard-earned cash. At age ten I was finally prepared to learn the sacred recipe. In her large Victorian kitchen, I waited patiently for my grandma to come down from her bedroom. They had infinite counter space, towering shelves stacked with ingredients, and my personal favorite was the industrial black stove. At last, my grandma entered the kitchen, it wouldn’t truly be a day with grandma if she wasn’t at least 30 minutes late. My time had come to start baking. She didn’t have any recipe written down for herself, simply remembering off the top of her head as we went. After she was finished listing the measurements she pulled me in close. “Cleone, I want you to listen closely, do you hear me?”, I nodded “My mother would roll over in her grave if she knew you were writing this down, don’t share it.”, I understood my job. We began gathering ingredients and by we, I mean me. I began grabbing all sorts of miscellaneous doodads and venturing through the cabinets. The process was just as hellish as she described it. It seemed like a never-ending cycle of mixing, adding cream cheese, then putting it in the fridge to firm. I had been at it for hours. My grandmother got a kick out of my misery, laughing the more frustrated I became. Eventually, the master stepped in. Instantly, she fixed my runny batter and sorry attempt at whip cream. It was magic in my young eyes. The cakes were in. I watched as she wiped down the counters, wearing her signature color, black, dusted with a thin coat of flour, her battle scars. With the mountains of dishes, my grandmother and I sat talking in her kitchen for hours. “I really appreciate you doing this with me Cleone.” My grandmother said, “I’ve never met a little girl so eager to make a cheesecake.” Ever since that day I've carried a bit of my grandma with me, achieving all I can even in runny situations. She may be an irresponsible idol, but she is certainly one of my favorites. A slice of cheesecake to her, meant the whole world to me.

My younger brother, Daniel, was adopted due to severe issues within our extended family, including drug addictions and involvement in a sex trafficking ring in Milwaukee. Born addicted to various substances, Daniel requires extensive care, including specialized daycare, frequent medical appointments, and various therapies. With autism and ADHD, his needs are complex and demand considerable attention and resources. Daniel has become an incredibly significant part of my life despite these challenges. Before Daniel was adopted, I struggled deeply with my mental health issues, particularly anxiety-related OCD. I felt beyond lost, and I reached a point where I even contemplated ending my own life. I was at the point where I lost so many family members to addiction that I felt like giving up. My years were marked by intense therapy sessions and a cycle of trying to manage my compulsive tendencies. Therapy taught me practical tools to handle my OCD and helped me understand that I’m stronger than my struggles. The emotional toll was immense, and I felt trapped in a whirlwind of depression and anxiety. Daniel’s joining our family has been an amazing experience. His kindness, even at such a young age, and his ability to cope with his difficulties made me a different person and gave me a new perspective on life. Daniel's presence has been a powerful source of inspiration. Taking on the role of Daniel’s older sister, or "Yaya," as he calls me, has changed me as a person. The responsibilities of caring for him have pushed me to become a more compassionate person. Taking care of Daniel has made me more focused and motivated on what I want. I love Daniel with all my heart, but the financial burden of Daniel’s care has placed a large strain on my family and limits our ability to contribute to my college expenses. Due to this, I am working 42 hours a week this summer to support myself through college. I have three jobs with all different schedules, and I often find myself feeling like I am running in circles. Despite the challenges, Daniel remains my greatest source of happiness. His presence drives me to excel in school and work towards a better future, not just for me, but for my family. Daniel is proof that anyone can succeed. I remember him only four pounds in the NICU, his tiny body wrapped in tubes and wires. I was holding him in his little room, looking at his tiny hands, and knowing at that moment that I had found my best friend. He taught me what it means to fight, to hope, and to love unconditionally. I think everyone deserves a Daniel.

Beginning college I know more than ever that math is more than just a subject in school. It’s the language of change and prediction, providing the mathematical framework to assess risks, model financial scenarios, and analyze economic trends. It is not just statistics, it is calculus, geometry, arithmetics, it is all math that makes the world run. In actuarial science, statistics allows us to quantify uncertainty, build models for insurance and pensions, and evaluate the financial stability of systems over time. In economics, it helps optimize resources, understand market dynamics, and create solutions for complex challenges. I have loved math since I was in primary school and learning long division in Spanish. Math is the common denominator, it is a universal language and a connection between millions. I was often among the few girls in advanced math classes, motivating me to work harder and excel. Being two years ahead in math taught me the value of persistence and confidence, showing me that math isn’t just about numbers—it’s about problem-solving, logic, and creativity. I began tutoring young girls in 8th grade to ensure everyone had a head start in math. I still remember an eight-year-old girl telling me she thought women weren’t good at math, my jaw dropped and I was horrified. That moment solidified my resolve to be a role model and advocate for change, proving that anyone can excel in math with encouragement and the right mindset. Math is not just about school, it is about me.

My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is frequent for too many women in STEM, and I aim to prove it is false. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. For most of my time in high school, I thought I didn't want to go to college, and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself I could just go into a trade, but my perspective changed after my junior conference with my counselor. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I realized college wasn’t just something I could do it was something I needed to do to create the future I wanted. Now, I’m excited to complete a degree in economics and actuarial sciences. Going to college isn’t just about me it’s about my family, as we’ve faced plenty of financial struggles. When my family adopted my baby brother, we relied on WIC to make sure he had what he needed and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It put a large dent in my heart for a long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better-succeeding life. My biggest goal is to help Milwaukee, the city I’ve called home my whole life. Poverty is a constant challenge here, and it hurts to see how divided the city is by wealth and opportunity. But I believe I can make a difference. With economics and actuarial sciences, I want to design solutions that make Milwaukee more equal and fair, so everyone has a chance to succeed. These fields excite me because they go beyond solving problems they improve lives. They provide tools to create lasting change in communities. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, and I’ll graduate in Milwaukee. Most importantly, I’m going to bring change to Milwaukee.

My past is the main motivator for my future. Growing up, I was told I wasn’t smart enough, strong enough, or headstrong enough to pursue a career in STEM. As the first woman in my family to complete a STEM career, I am ecstatic to start my new path. My goal is to become the Chief Actuary at the Milwaukee branch of Northwestern Mutual, specializing in life insurance or annuities. Achieving this will require careful planning, hard work, and support, but I am ready to take on the challenge. The first step in my journey is earning my degree in economics and actuarial sciences at the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee. This dual major will provide me with the mathematical, statistical, and economic knowledge to soar in my new career. While pursuing my degree, I also plan to prepare for actuarial exams and build a strong foundation through coursework and campus resources. I have begun by joining the actuarial science club, and starting my networking. Financially, college is a burden, but I aim to overcome this through scholarships, grants, and part-time work opportunities. I am already scheduled to work forty-two hours a week schedule this summer due to exasperating my savings from school expenses. During my second year of college, I will work toward my goal by securing an internship at Northwestern Mutual. This experience will hopefully allow me to apply my skills to real-world problems, gain hands-on knowledge in life insurance, and build professional connections. I want to gain networking connections in hopes of joining the company later. Next after graduation, I plan to start as an Actuary at Northwestern Mutual while continuing to pass my actuarial exams while finishing my Associates of the Society of Actuaries. This is crucial to becoming an Actuary, each exam is around two hundred dollars each. After becoming an Associate, I then must complete the needed projects and exams to become a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries. Becoming a Fellow is the highest rank for actuaries. My final goal is to work my way up to Chief Actuary, currently positioned by Jason Klawonn, which is to nurture and assist other Actuaries in the company. I am beyond excited to start my occupation and bring a new perspective to the world of actuarial science. Only approximately 20 percent of Actuaries are women and it's high time we change that statistic. Achieving these goals will not be easy, but I am ready to take on the challenges ahead. With the right education, resources, and perseverance, I believe I can create a brighter future for myself, my family, and my community.

My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is frequent for too many women in STEM, and I aim to prove it is false. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. For most of my time in high school, I thought I didn't want to go to college, and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself I could just go into a trade, but my perspective changed after my junior conference with my counselor. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I realized college wasn’t just something I could do it was something I needed to do to create the future I wanted. Now, I’m excited to complete a degree in economics and actuarial sciences. Going to college isn’t just about me it’s about my family, as we’ve faced plenty of financial struggles. When my family adopted my baby brother, we relied on WIC to make sure he had what he needed and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It put a large dent in my heart for a long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better-succeeding life. My biggest goal is to help Milwaukee, the city I’ve called home my whole life. Poverty is a constant challenge here, and it hurts to see how divided the city is by wealth and opportunity. But I believe I can make a difference. With economics and actuarial sciences, I want to design solutions that make Milwaukee more equal and fair, so everyone has a chance to succeed. These fields excite me because they go beyond solving problems they improve lives. They provide tools to create lasting change in communities. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, and I’ll graduate in Milwaukee. Most importantly, I’m going to bring change to Milwaukee.

My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is frequent for too many women in STEM, and I aim to prove it is false. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. For most of my time in high school, I thought I didn't want to go to college, and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself I could just go into a trade, but my perspective changed after my junior conference with my counselor. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I realized college wasn’t just something I could do it was something I needed to do to create the future I wanted. Now, I’m excited to complete a degree in economics and actuarial sciences. Going to college isn’t just about me it’s about my family, as we’ve faced plenty of financial struggles. When my family adopted my baby brother, we relied on WIC to make sure he had what he needed and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It put a large dent in my heart for a long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better-succeeding life. My biggest goal is to help Milwaukee, the city I’ve called home my whole life. Poverty is a constant challenge here, and it hurts to see how divided the city is by wealth and opportunity. But I believe I can make a difference. With economics and actuarial sciences, I want to design solutions that make Milwaukee more equal and fair, so everyone has a chance to succeed. These fields excite me because they go beyond solving problems they improve lives. They provide tools to create lasting change in communities. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, and I’ll graduate in Milwaukee. Most importantly, I’m going to bring change to Milwaukee.

My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is frequent for too many women in STEM, and I aim to prove it is false. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. For most of my time in high school, I thought I didn't want to go to college, and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself I could just go into a trade, but my perspective changed after my junior conference with my counselor. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I realized college wasn’t just something I could do it was something I needed to do to create the future I wanted. Now, I’m excited to complete a degree in economics and actuarial sciences. Going to college isn’t just about me it’s about my family, as we’ve faced plenty of financial struggles. When my family adopted my baby brother, we relied on WIC to make sure he had what he needed and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It put a large dent in my heart for a long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better-succeeding life. My biggest goal is to help Milwaukee, the city I’ve called home my whole life. Poverty is a constant challenge here, and it hurts to see how divided the city is by wealth and opportunity. But I believe I can make a difference. With economics and actuarial sciences, I want to design solutions that make Milwaukee more equal and fair, so everyone has a chance to succeed. These fields excite me because they go beyond solving problems they improve lives. They provide tools to create lasting change in communities. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, and I’ll graduate in Milwaukee. Most importantly, I’m going to bring change to Milwaukee.

My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is frequent for too many women in STEM, and I aim to prove it is false. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. For most of my time in high school, I thought I didn't want to go to college, and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself I could just go into a trade, but my perspective changed after my junior conference with my counselor. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I realized college wasn’t just something I could do it was something I needed to do to create the future I wanted. Now, I’m excited to complete a degree in economics and actuarial sciences. Going to college isn’t just about me it’s about my family, as we’ve faced plenty of financial struggles. When my family adopted my baby brother, we relied on WIC to make sure he had what he needed and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It put a large dent in my heart for a long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better-succeeding life. My biggest goal is to help Milwaukee, the city I’ve called home my whole life. Poverty is a constant challenge here, and it hurts to see how divided the city is by wealth and opportunity. But I believe I can make a difference. With economics and actuarial sciences, I want to design solutions that make Milwaukee more equal and fair, so everyone has a chance to succeed. These fields excite me because they go beyond solving problems they improve lives. They provide tools to create lasting change in communities. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, and I’ll graduate in Milwaukee. Most importantly, I’m going to bring change to Milwaukee.

My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is frequent for too many women in STEM, and I aim to prove it is false. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. For most of my time in high school, I thought I didn't want to go to college, and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself I could just go into a trade, but my perspective changed after my junior conference with my counselor. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I realized college wasn’t just something I could do it was something I needed to do to create the future I wanted. Now, I’m excited to complete a degree in economics and actuarial sciences. Going to college isn’t just about me it’s about my family, as we’ve faced plenty of financial struggles. When my family adopted my baby brother, we relied on WIC to make sure he had what he needed and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It put a large dent in my heart for a long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better-succeeding life. My biggest goal is to help Milwaukee, the city I’ve called home my whole life. Poverty is a constant challenge here, and it hurts to see how divided the city is by wealth and opportunity. But I believe I can make a difference. With economics and actuarial sciences, I want to design solutions that make Milwaukee more equal and fair, so everyone has a chance to succeed. These fields excite me because they go beyond solving problems they improve lives. They provide tools to create lasting change in communities. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, and I’ll graduate in Milwaukee. Most importantly, I’m going to bring change to Milwaukee.

Tzu Chang asked Confucius about humanity. Confucius said: “To be able to practice five virtues everywhere in the world constitutes humanity.” Tzu Chang begged to know what these were. Confucius said: “Courtesy, magnanimity, good faith, diligence, and kindness. He who is courteous is not humiliated, he who is magnanimous wins the multitude, he who is of good faith is trusted by the people, he who is diligent attains his objective, and he who is kind can get service from the people” As I was perusing Confucius's four books, the paragraph that spoke to me most was from The Analects, a book written with Kongzi's teachings. It spoke of the five key virtues: courtesy, magnanimity, good faith, diligence, and kindness. I found the words and immediately thought of my mother, whose life reflects these five virtues in profound ways. From a young age, my mother reminded me to be “smarter, kinder, and more motivated” then she and my father were. She taught me virtue long before I even knew about Confucius. She firmly believed that if I could grow beyond what my parents had already achieved, I would be happy and fulfilled. When I was a girl, my mom would read children's stories about Buddhist messages, about lessons of selflessness, courage, and empathy. Her care held me accountable, to be a better version of myself. Those words were not solely encouragement, but a challenge to grow. When I read the quote by Confucius, it brought back memories of those, each being a nudge toward self-improvement. Confucius teaches about humanity, and the importance of these beliefs, mirroring what my mother has always taught me. A story I vividly remember from the tales my mother read me illustrates Confucius’s teachings “He who is kind can get service from the people.” In this tale, a sweet little dog who befriended an elephant finds joy and comfort. When they were separated, the elephant became deeply depressed without his dog friend. The elephant's owner noticed his change and asked the caretaker, who reluctantly admitted he sold the dog. The owner rushed to get the friends back together and paid a hefty sum to do so. The story taught me that kindness is not only rewarding for the giver but deeply valued by those who receive it. This lesson reinforced my belief in the power of kindness, inspiring me to create inclusive spaces for my friends, just as my mother did for me. Building on the base kindness, and courtesy, my mother told me, was a way to show respect to the people I met, whether they are lifelong friends or people I will never see again. It taught me the way to build relationships, even when times are difficult, and has trained me to give people the dignity they deserve. Growing up I felt like an outcast socially, especially in elementary school. The other girls in my grade gradually helped me come out of my shell, inviting me to join their games and conversations. Being shown courtesy by the small acts of others I was able to feel included. Through my mom’s guidance and my own experiences, I saw how essential it is to reduce conflict and build connections, through respect. While courtesy helped me build relationships, magnanimity showed me the importance of authenticity in the face of adversity. In middle school, I struggled with feelings of loneliness and being misunderstood, due to how often I changed schools. My mother encouraged me, saying the best way to heal those feelings is by staying true to yourself, even when others are not kind. Confucius taught that magnanimity would win the respect of other people. I saw this when I was in school, when you are truthful to people and show empathy for them, they do the same. For example, during my first years of intermediate school, there was a boy who would tease me for being overweight. At first, I was gloomy due to his comments, but as the months progressed, I realized he was the person who needed empathy. Through this event, I came to the point that magnanimity often opens doors to understanding and mutual respect. Seeing the best in people spreads hope and kindness, something all of us need more of. Next, good faith and diligence have been cornerstones through my education and my career path. Both honesty and hard work are things I’ve been brought up on. The saying “if you tried your best, you have already won,” has been instilled in me. My mom reminded me to not slip up and her words motivated me to continue through my educational hardships. I prioritize giving everything as much as I possibly can, they both aid success and help gain the trust of others. Lastly, kindness, arguably the more vital virtue, isn’t always simple- it requires patience, empathy, and humility. Whether it's the small action of giving someone your seat on the bus or 100,000 dollars, kindness involves sacrifice. Yet, at the same time, kindness brings me closer to the person I wish to be. Confucius’ words remind us that when you are kind you can get farther in life. Kind people bring peace and happiness to other individuals. In the end, Confucius’s teachings serve as a reminder that true growth and fulfillment come not only from personal growth but also from how we treat others. Confucianism is a practical guide for self-improvement, something which is relevant to everyone striving to grow. When participating in Confucianism there aren’t strict rules and many rituals, it teaches development, similar to what my mom instructed me. Through my grades, my friends, and my future career, I follow what my mom taught me. As I learn Confucius’s virtues, I realize how my mother's wisdom has been my foundation. I will be forever grateful to her for showing me the love and nurturing she has.

My past is the foundation of my drive for the future. As a young woman, I have faced constant doubts from others, being told that I am not smart enough, not strong enough, or not determined enough to pursue a career in STEM. Unfortunately, this experience is all too common for many women in the field. However, I am determined to prove those doubts wrong. I will be the first woman in my family, on either side, to pursue a career in STEM, and I am immensely proud of this milestone. If I could choose anything to dedicate my life to, it would be continuing my journey of learning and growing. For much of high school, I didn’t see college as part of my future. I couldn’t afford it, and I didn’t understand its value at the time. I had convinced myself that pursuing a trade was the better option. However, everything changed during my junior conference with my counselor. She reminded me how much I love to learn—not just for the sake of grades but for the joy of gaining knowledge. I realized that learning has always been my passion, and I couldn’t imagine giving that up. Now, I am pursuing a double major in economics and actuarial sciences, driven by this newfound clarity and purpose. College is not just an opportunity to expand my knowledge—it is also my chance to build a better future for myself and my family. Growing up, we relied on programs like WIC (Women, Infants, and Children’s Nutrition Plan) to care for my baby brother when he came into our lives. Financial struggles have always been a part of my story, and I want to be the person who changes that narrative for my family. My life has been marked by tragedies tied to addiction, a devastatingly common issue in Milwaukee. I have lost loved ones both physically and emotionally, and these experiences left a deep wound in my heart for many years. Still, I have used this pain as a source of strength and a reminder to keep moving forward. College is my next step toward creating a life of stability and success—not only for myself but for the people I care about most. Beyond personal growth, my passion is to enhance the economic well-being of my city, Milwaukee. Poverty and inequality are daily struggles for many in my community, and it is heart-wrenching to see how economic divides tear the city apart. My goal is to change Milwaukee for the better through a career in economics and actuarial sciences. These fields offer tools to create more equitable systems that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of progress reach everyone. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and actuarial sciences stems from their potential to empower societies and make meaningful change. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, and I will graduate in Milwaukee to bring positive change to the city I call home. Through years of internships and involvement in STEM-related clubs, I have developed a deep commitment to this career path. I know the road ahead will be challenging, but I am ready to face it with determination and purpose. My past has shaped who I am, but my future is mine to create. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change to Milwaukee.

My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is frequent for too many women in STEM, and I aim to prove that it is not true. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. If I could choose anything to do in my life I would continue on my learning path. For most of my time in high school, I thought I didn't want to go to college, I didn't see the point in it and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself that I could just go into a trade, but my perspective changed after my junior conference with my counselor. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all of my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I currently want to major in economics and actuarial sciences. Not only am I going to college to learn, but also to create a better future for myself and my family. My family had relied on things like WIC (women, infants, and children's nutrition plan) to feed my baby brother when we got him and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It put a large dent in my heart for a very long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better-succeeding life. I plan to go into economics and actuarial sciences and couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and am devoted to a career in it. My passion is to enhance the economic well-being of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from poverty. I believe that I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. These tools can help create more equitable economic systems that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are accessible to anyone and everyone. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and actuarial sciences in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change to Milwaukee.

My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is frequent for too many women in STEM, and I aim to prove that it is not true. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. If I could choose anything to do, I would continue on my learning path. For most of my time in high school, I thought I didn't want to go to college, I didn't see the point in it and couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself I could just go into a trade, but my perspective changed after my junior conference with my counselor. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all of my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I currently want to major in economics and actuarial sciences. Not only am I going to college to learn, but also to create a better future for myself and my family. My family had relied on things like WIC (women, infants, and children's nutrition plan) to feed my baby brother when we got him and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It put a large dent in my heart for a long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step because it will help me provide a better-succeeding life. I plan to go into economics and actuarial sciences and couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and am devoted to a career in it. This summer, I am scheduled to work 42 hours a week from Monday to Sunday. Not to mention the 16 hours I work now even with my school schedule. Sometimes I feel as if I am drowning in the financial burden of college and may never be able to catch up. I spend time working when I could be studying and planning my career. I miss out on fun activities with my friends and family because I simply do not have the time. I have already taken out a loan for school and do not know if I can take another. My passion is to enhance the economic well-being of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from poverty. I believe that I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. These tools can help create more equitable economic systems that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are accessible to anyone and everyone. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and actuarial sciences in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change to Milwaukee.

My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is frequent for too many women in STEM, and I aim to prove that it is not true. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. If I could choose anything to do in my life I would continue on my learning path. For most of my time in high school, I thought I didn't want to go to college, I didn't see the point in it and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself that I could just go into a trade, but my perspective changed after my junior conference with my counselor. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all of my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I currently want to major in economics and actuarial sciences. Not only am I going to college to learn, but also to create a better future for myself and my family. My family had relied on things like WIC (women, infants, and children's nutrition plan) to feed my baby brother when we got him and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It put a large dent in my heart for a very long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better-succeeding life. I plan to go into economics and actuarial sciences and couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and am devoted to a career in it. My passion is to enhance the economic well-being of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from poverty. I believe that I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. These tools can help create more equitable economic systems that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are accessible to anyone and everyone. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and actuarial sciences in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change to Milwaukee.

My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is frequent for too many women in STEM, and I aim to prove that it is not true. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. If I could choose anything to do in my life I would continue on my learning path. For most of my time in high school, I thought I didn't want to go to college, I didn't see the point in it and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself that I could just go into a trade, but my perspective changed after my junior conference with my counselor. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all of my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I currently want to major in economics and actuarial sciences. Not only am I going to college to learn, but also to create a better future for myself and my family. My family had relied on things like WIC (women, infants, and children's nutrition plan) to feed my baby brother when we got him and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It put a large dent in my heart for a very long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better-succeeding life. I plan to go into economics and actuarial sciences and couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and am devoted to a career in it. My passion is to enhance the economic well-being of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from poverty. I believe that I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. These tools can help create more equitable economic systems that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are accessible to anyone and everyone. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and actuarial sciences in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change to Milwaukee.

My younger brother, Daniel, has profoundly influenced my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations through his extraordinary presence in my life. Adopted into our family due to severe challenges within our extended family—including drug addiction and involvement in a sex trafficking ring in Milwaukee—Daniel arrived with a story that immediately tested our resilience. Born addicted to multiple substances, he requires extensive care, including specialized therapies, doctor visits, and a supportive daycare environment. With both autism and ADHD, Daniel needs extra love and attention, and being part of his world has reshaped mine. Before Daniel joined our family, I was a young girl grappling with severe mental health struggles. I felt lost, and overwhelmed by anxiety-related OCD, and even considered ending my own life. My world seemed small, and I doubted my ability to overcome the weight of my emotions. Then Daniel came into my life, and everything changed. Despite all the hardships he has faced, Daniel’s kindness, strength, and resilience shine brightly. His ability to endure and thrive despite life’s challenges inspired me to embark on a path of love, selflessness, and determination. Daniel calls me "Yaya," a name that fills my heart with joy and purpose. Our bond is unlike any other relationship in my life, and I know that he watches and learns from my actions. Being his older sister carries immense responsibility, but it also fills me with unparalleled pride. Knowing he relies on me has been a transformative force, helping me evolve from a sad, insecure girl into a confident young woman ready to face life’s challenges. Our family’s financial situation changed significantly after adopting Daniel. Much of our income now goes toward his care, making it difficult to save for other expenses, including my college education. While my parents could have helped me financially before Daniel’s adoption, I now bear much of that responsibility myself. This summer, for example, I’m scheduled to work 42 hours a week to contribute to my education. Although this might seem overwhelming, it’s a challenge I embrace wholeheartedly because of the motivation Daniel provides me. Daniel’s presence in my life has also shaped my beliefs about resilience and the power of love. Watching him grow and thrive has taught me that even in the face of adversity, compassion and dedication can create meaningful change. His journey has inspired me to pursue a career where I can make a difference, using my education to uplift not only my family but also my community. My experiences with him have made me deeply aware of the challenges many families face, particularly in Milwaukee, and I am determined to use my economics degree to address systemic issues like poverty and inequality. My relationship with Daniel has instilled in me a drive to succeed, not just for myself but for him and our family. I am determined to break the cycle of struggle that has plagued our extended family and create a new beginning filled with hope and opportunity. Daniel’s courage and unconditional love have become the foundation of my strength, and I am committed to building a future where he can thrive without limitations. Ultimately, my experience with mental health and Daniel’s influence has given me a clear sense of purpose. I’ve learned that challenges can transform us into stronger, more compassionate individuals. My journey from despair to determination is deeply intertwined with Daniel’s story, and it drives me to work harder every day. I owe my progress and aspirations to him, and I am dedicated to being the change our family and community so desperately need. Daniel may call me his “Yaya,” but he is the true hero in my life—the one who has taught me what it means to love, persevere, and aspire for a better future.

My younger brother, Daniel, was adopted due to severe issues within our extended family, including drug addictions and involvement in a sex trafficking ring in Milwaukee. Born addicted to various substances, Daniel requires extensive care, including specialized daycare, frequent medical appointments, and various therapies. With autism and ADHD, his needs are complex and demand considerable attention and resources. Despite these challenges, Daniel has become an incredibly significant part of my life. Before Daniel was adopted, I struggled deeply with my mental health issues, particularly anxiety-related OCD. My condition was debilitating, and I reached a point where I even contemplated ending my own life. These years were marked by intense therapy sessions and a constant battle to manage my compulsive tendencies. The emotional toll was immense, and I felt trapped in a cycle of despair. Daniel’s arrival into our family has been an amazing experience. His kindness, even at such a young age, and his ability to cope with his difficulties have provided me with a new perspective on life. Daniel's presence has been a powerful source of inspiration. His ability to face challenges with a positive outlook has given me the strength to tackle my struggles and rebuild my life with purpose. Taking on the role of Daniel’s older sister, or "Yaya" as he affectionately calls me, has been a deeply rewarding and transformative experience. The responsibilities of caring for him have pushed me to become a more capable and compassionate person. I have found a new sense of direction and motivation through my relationship with him. Daniel’s dependence on me has helped me overcome my issues and become more confident and focused on my goals. The financial burden of Daniel’s care has placed a significant strain on my family, limiting our ability to contribute to my college expenses. As a result, I am working 42 hours a week this summer to support myself and cover my educational costs. Despite these challenges, Daniel remains my greatest source of motivation. His presence drives me to excel in school and work towards a better future. Daniel’s impact on my life cannot be overstated. His ability to navigate adversity with grace has inspired me to confront my challenges and pursue ambitious goals. My journey to a successful future and a good education is motivated not just by personal aspirations but by a deep desire to improve our family’s situation. Daniel’s love and strength continue to fuel my determination, and I am committed to making the most of every opportunity for both of us. His influence has been instrumental in shaping who I am today and who I aspire to become.

My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is frequent for too many women in STEM, and I aim to prove that it is not true. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. If I could choose anything to do in my life I would continue on my learning path. For most of my time in high school, I thought I didn't want to go to college, I didn't see the point in it and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself that I could just go into a trade, but my perspective changed after my junior conference with my counselor. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all of my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I currently want to major in economics and actuarial sciences. Not only am I going to college to learn, but also to create a better future for myself and my family. My family had relied on things like WIC (women, infants, and children's nutrition plan) to feed my baby brother when we got him and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It put a large dent in my heart for a very long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better-succeeding life. I plan to go into economics and actuarial sciences and couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and am devoted to a career in it. My passion is to enhance the economic well-being of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from the effects of poverty. I believe that I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. These tools can help create more equitable economic systems that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are accessible to anyone and everyone. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and actuarial sciences in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change to Milwaukee.

My younger brother, Daniel, was adopted due to severe issues within our extended family, including drug addictions and involvement in a sex trafficking ring in Milwaukee. Born addicted to various substances, Daniel requires extensive care, including specialized daycare, frequent medical appointments, and various therapies. With autism and ADHD, his needs are complex and demand considerable attention and resources. Despite these challenges, Daniel has become an incredibly significant part of my life. Before Daniel was adopted, I struggled deeply with my mental health issues, particularly anxiety-related OCD. My condition was debilitating, and I reached a point where I even contemplated ending my own life. These years were marked by intense therapy sessions and a constant battle to manage my compulsive tendencies. The emotional toll was immense, and I felt trapped in a cycle of despair. Daniel’s arrival into our family has been an amazing experience. His kindness, even at such a young age, and his ability to cope with his difficulties have provided me with a new perspective on life. Daniel's presence has been a powerful source of inspiration. His ability to face challenges with a positive outlook has given me the strength to tackle my struggles and rebuild my life with purpose. Taking on the role of Daniel’s older sister, or "Yaya" as he affectionately calls me, has been a deeply rewarding and transformative experience. The responsibilities of caring for him have pushed me to become a more capable and compassionate person. I have found a new sense of direction and motivation through my relationship with him. Daniel’s dependence on me has helped me overcome my issues and become more confident and focused on my goals. The financial burden of Daniel’s care has placed a significant strain on my family, limiting our ability to contribute to my college expenses. As a result, I am working 42 hours a week this summer to support myself and cover my educational costs. Despite these challenges, Daniel remains my greatest source of motivation. His presence drives me to excel in school and work towards a better future. Daniel’s impact on my life cannot be overstated. His ability to navigate adversity with grace has inspired me to confront my challenges and pursue ambitious goals. My journey to a successful future and a good education is motivated not just by personal aspirations but by a deep desire to improve our family’s situation. Daniel’s love and strength continue to fuel my determination, and I am committed to making the most of every opportunity for both of us. His influence has been instrumental in shaping who I am today and who I aspire to become.

My younger brother, Daniel, was adopted due to multiple of my family members having serious drug addictions and being involved in a sex trafficking ring in Milwaukee. He was born addicted to many differing drugs and requires a lot of my family's time and money (like good daycare, specialized doctor visits, therapies, and other various things). He has both autism and ADHD, and a lot of my time at home is with him. Daniel is such an amazing boy, he just needs some extra love and care. Daniel is the most important person in my life, and there is truly no one in this world that I am closer to. I love him with all my heart, but a good portion of my family's earnings is spent on him, putting us in a strange financial situation. Before Daniel was born I was a young girl with severe mental health issues and even contemplated ending my own life. Daniel's kindness and ability to survive throughout all of the challenges that life has thrown him has forever changed me, he has set me on a path of love. Being his older sister, or his "Yaya," as he calls me, has melted my heart. I know that he follows my actions and relies on me being there for him. I changed drastically from a sad little girl to a smart confident woman who is ready to overtake my next year in college. I can genuinely say that I couldn't have done it without baby Daniel. Before us adopting him my parents could've helped me out with college a little, but now we can't afford it. This summer I am already scheduled to work 42 hours a week from Monday to Sunday. I have been motivated my whole life by Daniel, it drives me in school and life. I am determined to be the new beginning that my relatives and I so desperately need. It's so important to me that I do well in life and get a good education. I need to be the change in my family not just for me, but for Daniel. y past is the main motivator of my future. I’m a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. For most of my time in high school, I thought I didn't want to go to college, I didn't see the point in it and I couldn't afford it anyway. After I had my junior conference with my counselor my perspective changed, she pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all of my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I currently want to major in economics and actuarial sciences. Not only am I going to college to learn, but also to create a better future for myself and my family. My family had relied on things like WIC (women, infants, and children's nutrition plan) to feed my baby brother when we adopted him and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better-succeeding life.

My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is a frequent occurrence for too many women in STEM and I aim to prove that it is not true. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. If I could choose anything to do in my life I would be continuing on my path of learning. For most of my time in high school, I thought I didn't want to go to college, I didn't see the point in it and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself that I could just go into a trade, but after I had my junior conference with my counselor my perspective changed. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all of my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I currently want to major in economics and actuarial sciences. Not only am I going to college to learn, but also to create a better future for myself and my family. My family had relied on things like WIC (women, infants, and children's nutrition plan) to feed my baby brother when we got him and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It put a large dent in my heart for a very long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better-succeeding life. I plan to go into economics and actuarial sciences and couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and am devoted to a career in it. My enthusiasm for STEM is matched by my ambition to make an impact on the world. My passion is to enhance the economic well-being of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from the effects of poverty. I believe that I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. These tools can help create more equitable economic systems that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are accessible to anyone and everyone. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and actuarial sciences in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change to Milwaukee.

“Lovely,” featuring Khalid, is a haunting exploration of despair and the feeling of being trapped, which aligns closely with mental health themes. The song’s ethereal production and poignant lyrics evoke the sensation of spiraling into darkness. It addresses the struggles of mental health, encapsulated in the line, “Isn't it lovely, all alone?” This powerful refrain resonates with those who experience loneliness and hopelessness, offering a sense of connection. The raw vulnerability in Eilish’s voice invites listeners to reflect on their mental health journeys, making it a powerful anthem for anyone grappling with despair and the search for light amid darkness. In “Everything I Wanted,” Eilish confronts the complexities of fame, self-worth, and the fears that often accompany them. The song delves into her feelings of anxiety and insecurity, particularly in the context of her public life. The lyrics speak to the need for reassurance and the importance of a support system, making it relatable for anyone who has struggled with self-doubt. This song serves as a reminder that it's okay to seek validation from loved ones, especially during challenging times. Eilish’s candidness about her mental health struggles encourages listeners to acknowledge their feelings and seek support, reinforcing the idea that vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness. “Ocean Eyes” speaks to the sensation of feeling engulfed, like you're staring into something vast and deep—similar to how anxiety or sadness can feel all-consuming. The calmness of her voice juxtaposed with the intensity of the emotions she sings about is powerful. For anyone grappling with mental health issues, this song is like a soft reminder that it's okay to feel deeply, but also that you're not alone in navigating those depths.

My younger brother, Daniel, was adopted due to multiple of my family members having serious drug addictions and being involved in a sex trafficking ring in Milwaukee. He was born addicted to many differing drugs and requires a lot of my family's time and money (like good daycare, specialized doctor visits, therapies, and other various things). He has both autism and ADHD, and a lot of my time at home is with him. Daniel is such an amazing boy, he just needs some extra love and care. Daniel is the most important person in my life, and there is truly no one in this world that I am closer to. I love him with all my heart, but a good portion of my family's earnings is spent on him, putting us in a strange financial situation. Before Daniel was born I was a young girl with severe mental health issues and even contemplated ending my own life. Daniel's kindness and ability to survive throughout all of the challenges that life has thrown him has forever changed me, he has set me on a path of love. Being his older sister, or his "Yaya," as he calls me, has melted my heart. I know that he follows my actions and relies on me being there for him. I changed drastically from a sad little girl to a smart confident woman who is ready to overtake my next year in college. I can genuinely say that I couldn't have done it without baby Daniel. Before us adopting him my parents could've helped me out with college a little, but now we can't afford it. This summer I am already scheduled to work 42 hours a week from Monday to Sunday. I have been motivated my whole life by Daniel, it drives me in school and life. I am determined to be the new beginning that my relatives and I so desperately need. It's so important to me that I do well in life and get a good education. I need to be the change in my family not just for me, but for Daniel.I plan to go into economics and actuarial sciences and couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and am devoted to a career in it. My enthusiasm for STEM is matched by my ambition to make an impact on the world. Economics and actuarial sciences offer a powerful lens through which to understand and address the intricate changes in our world. My passion is to enhance the economic well-being of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from the effects of poverty. I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and actuarial sciences in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change to Milwaukee.

My younger brother, Daniel, was adopted due to severe issues within our extended family, including drug addictions and involvement in a sex trafficking ring in Milwaukee. Born addicted to various substances, Daniel requires extensive care, including specialized daycare, frequent medical appointments, and various therapies. With autism and ADHD, his needs are complex and demand considerable attention and resources. Despite these challenges, Daniel has become an incredibly significant part of my life. Before Daniel was adopted, I struggled deeply with my mental health issues, particularly anxiety-related OCD. My condition was debilitating, and I reached a point where I even contemplated ending my own life. These years were marked by intense therapy sessions and a constant battle to manage my compulsive tendencies. The emotional toll was immense, and I felt trapped in a cycle of despair. Daniel’s arrival into our family has been a transformative experience. His kindness, even at such a young age, and his ability to cope with his difficulties have provided me with a new perspective on life. Daniel's presence has been a powerful source of inspiration. His ability to face challenges with a positive outlook has given me the strength to tackle my struggles and rebuild my life with purpose. Taking on the role of Daniel’s older sister, or "Yaya" as he affectionately calls me, has been a deeply rewarding and transformative experience. The responsibilities of caring for him have pushed me to become a more capable and compassionate person. I have found a new sense of direction and motivation through my relationship with him. Daniel’s dependence on me has helped me overcome my issues and become more confident and focused on my goals. The financial burden of Daniel’s care has placed a significant strain on my family, limiting our ability to contribute to my college expenses. As a result, I am working 42 hours a week this summer to support myself and cover my educational costs. Despite these challenges, Daniel remains my greatest source of motivation. His presence drives me to excel in school and work towards a better future. Daniel’s impact on my life cannot be overstated. His ability to navigate adversity with grace has inspired me to confront my challenges and pursue ambitious goals. My journey to a successful future and a good education is motivated not just by personal aspirations but by a deep desire to improve our family’s situation. Daniel’s love and strength continue to fuel my determination, and I am committed to making the most of every opportunity for both of us. His influence has been instrumental in shaping who I am today and who I aspire to become. I plan to go into economics and actuarial sciences and couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and am devoted to a career in it. My enthusiasm for STEM is matched by my ambition to make an impact on the world. Economics and actuarial sciences offer a powerful lens through which to understand and address the intricate changes in our world. My passion is to enhance the economic well-being of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from the effects of poverty. I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and actuarial sciences in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change to Milwaukee.

My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is a frequent occurrence for too many women in STEM and I aim to prove that it is not true. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. If I could choose anything to do in my life I would be continuing on my path of learning. For most of my time in high school, I thought I didn't want to go to college, I didn't see the point in it and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself that I could just go into a trade, but after I had my junior conference with my counselor my perspective changed. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all of my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I currently want to major in economics Not only am I going to college to learn, but also to create a better future for myself and my family. My family had relied on things like WIC (women, infants, and children's nutrition plan) to feed my baby brother when we got him and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It put a large dent in my heart for a very long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better-succeeding life. I plan to go into economics and actuarial sciences and couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and am devoted to a career in it. My enthusiasm for STEM is matched by my ambition to make an impact on the world. My passion is to enhance the economic well-being of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from the effects of poverty. I believe that I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. These tools can help create more equitable economic systems that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are accessible to anyone and everyone. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and actuarial sciences in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change to Milwaukee.

My younger brother, Daniel, was adopted due to severe issues within our extended family, including drug addictions and involvement in a sex trafficking ring in Milwaukee. Born addicted to various substances, Daniel requires extensive care, including specialized daycare, frequent medical appointments, and various therapies. With autism and ADHD, his needs are complex and demand considerable attention and resources. Despite these challenges, Daniel has become an incredibly significant part of my life. Before Daniel was adopted, I struggled deeply with my mental health issues, particularly anxiety-related OCD. My condition was debilitating, and I reached a point where I even contemplated ending my own life. These years were marked by intense therapy sessions and a constant battle to manage my compulsive tendencies. The emotional toll was immense, and I felt trapped in a cycle of despair. Daniel’s arrival into our family has been a transformative experience. His kindness, even at such a young age, and his ability to cope with his difficulties have provided me with a new perspective on life. Daniel's presence has been a powerful source of inspiration. His ability to face challenges with a positive outlook has given me the strength to tackle my struggles and rebuild my life with purpose. Taking on the role of Daniel’s older sister, or "Yaya" as he affectionately calls me, has been a deeply rewarding and transformative experience. The responsibilities of caring for him have pushed me to become a more capable and compassionate person. I have found a new sense of direction and motivation through my relationship with him. Daniel’s dependence on me has helped me overcome my issues and become more confident and focused on my goals. The financial burden of Daniel’s care has placed a significant strain on my family, limiting our ability to contribute to my college expenses. As a result, I am working 42 hours a week this summer to support myself and cover my educational costs. Despite these challenges, Daniel remains my greatest source of motivation. His presence drives me to excel in school and work towards a better future. Daniel’s impact on my life cannot be overstated. His ability to navigate adversity with grace has inspired me to confront my challenges and pursue ambitious goals. My journey to a successful future and a good education is motivated not just by personal aspirations but by a deep desire to improve our family’s situation. Daniel’s love and strength continue to fuel my determination, and I am committed to making the most of every opportunity for both of us. His influence has been instrumental in shaping who I am today and who I aspire to become.

As I embark on my college journey with a deep-seated passion for mathematics, I view calculus not merely as an academic subject but as a fundamental tool in STEM fields. As I begin my major in actuarial science and economics, I’m aware of how my strong background in math is crucial to my future career. Calculus, in particular, plays a vital role in understanding and solving real-world problems. It goes beyond just passing exams; it equips us with the analytical skills needed to tackle complex issues and make a tangible difference in the world. Calculus is instrumental in various applications, from tracking the spread of diseases to designing innovative infrastructure. It helps us comprehend how things change over time and allows us to model and predict these changes effectively. For instance, in actuarial science, calculus is used to assess risks and make informed financial decisions based on changing variables. Similarly, in economics, it helps in understanding market trends and optimizing resource allocation. By mastering calculus, we gain the ability to break down intricate problems and develop practical solutions that have real-world impacts. Moreover, calculus serves as a bridge across different STEM disciplines, linking mathematics with science and engineering. This interconnectedness fosters collaboration and sparks creativity. My journey with calculus has already led to valuable internships and job opportunities, highlighting its importance not only in academic settings but also in professional environments. It’s clear that a strong grasp of calculus is essential for both personal and career growth, particularly in fields that rely heavily on quantitative analysis and problem-solving. As a woman entering a traditionally male-dominated field, I see calculus as a source of empowerment rather than a mere academic challenge. During high school, I advanced two years ahead of my grade level in math and often found myself as one of the few girls in advanced classes. This experience has strengthened my resolve to excel in STEM areas where women are underrepresented. Mastering calculus has bolstered my confidence and provided me with the tools to challenge stereotypes and excel in these fields. I am determined to use my skills to inspire other women and contribute to a more inclusive and diverse STEM community. In addition to my academic pursuits, I have dedicated time to tutoring young girls in math. I aim to demonstrate the vast opportunities available in STEM fields and encourage them to explore these paths. One memorable experience was when an eight-year-old girl expressed doubt about women’s abilities in math, which underscored the need for more female role models. I am committed to being part of this change and showing young girls that they too can succeed in STEM. Beyond its academic significance, calculus has far-reaching impacts on society. It is crucial for addressing global challenges such as finding renewable energy sources and improving healthcare. By learning calculus, I am preparing myself to contribute meaningfully to these issues and make a positive difference in the world. In summary, calculus is more than just a challenging subject—it is a key to unlocking opportunities in STEM and addressing pressing global issues. As I start my college career, I am excited to embrace the challenges ahead and leverage my calculus skills to shape a brighter future. I look forward to a world where women are at the forefront of scientific innovation and discovery, and I am eager to play my part in making that vision a reality. As a woman in calculus, I’ve transformed from feeling like a derivative of a constant—simple and unchanging—into becoming the integral of endless possibilities—always growing and evolving!

My younger brother, Daniel, was adopted due to severe issues within our extended family, including drug addictions and involvement in a sex trafficking ring in Milwaukee. Born addicted to various substances, Daniel requires extensive care, including specialized daycare, frequent medical appointments, and various therapies. With autism and ADHD, his needs are complex and demand considerable attention and resources. Despite these challenges, Daniel has become an incredibly significant part of my life. Before Daniel was adopted, I struggled deeply with my own mental health issues, particularly anxiety-related OCD. My condition was debilitating, and I reached a point where I even contemplated ending my own life. These years were marked by intense therapy sessions and a constant battle to manage my compulsive tendencies. The emotional toll was immense, and I felt trapped in a cycle of despair. Daniel’s arrival into our family has been a transformative experience. His kindness, even at such a young age, and his ability to cope with his own difficulties have provided me with a new perspective on life. Daniel's presence has been a powerful source of inspiration. His ability to face challenges with a positive outlook has given me the strength to tackle my own struggles and rebuild my life with a sense of purpose. Taking on the role of Daniel’s older sister, or "Yaya" as he affectionately calls me, has been a deeply rewarding and transformative experience. The responsibilities of caring for him have pushed me to become a more capable and compassionate person. I have found a new sense of direction and motivation through my relationship with him. Daniel’s dependence on me has helped me overcome my own issues and become more confident and focused on my goals. The financial burden of Daniel’s care has placed a significant strain on my family, limiting our ability to contribute to my college expenses. As a result, I am working 42 hours a week this summer to support myself and cover my educational costs. Despite these challenges, Daniel remains my greatest source of motivation. His presence drives me to excel in school and work towards a better future. Daniel’s impact on my life cannot be overstated. His ability to navigate adversity with grace has inspired me to confront my own challenges and pursue ambitious goals. My journey to a successful future and a good education is motivated not just by personal aspirations but by a deep desire to improve our family’s situation. Daniel’s love and strength continue to fuel my determination, and I am committed to making the most of every opportunity for both of us. His influence has been instrumental in shaping who I am today and who I aspire to become.

My younger brother, Daniel, was adopted due to severe issues within our extended family, including drug addictions and involvement in a sex trafficking ring in Milwaukee. Born addicted to various substances, Daniel requires extensive care, including specialized daycare, frequent medical appointments, and various therapies. With autism and ADHD, his needs are complex and demand considerable attention and resources. Despite these challenges, Daniel has become an incredibly significant part of my life. Before Daniel was adopted, I struggled deeply with my own mental health issues, particularly anxiety-related OCD. My condition was debilitating, and I reached a point where I even contemplated ending my own life. These years were marked by intense therapy sessions and a constant battle to manage my compulsive tendencies. The emotional toll was immense, and I felt trapped in a cycle of despair. Daniel’s arrival into our family has been a transformative experience. His kindness, even at such a young age, and his ability to cope with his own difficulties have provided me with a new perspective on life. Daniel's presence has been a powerful source of inspiration. His ability to face challenges with a positive outlook has given me the strength to tackle my own struggles and rebuild my life with a sense of purpose. Taking on the role of Daniel’s older sister, or "Yaya" as he affectionately calls me, has been a deeply rewarding and transformative experience. The responsibilities of caring for him have pushed me to become a more capable and compassionate person. I have found a new sense of direction and motivation through my relationship with him. Daniel’s dependence on me has helped me overcome my own issues and become more confident and focused on my goals. The financial burden of Daniel’s care has placed a significant strain on my family, limiting our ability to contribute to my college expenses. As a result, I am working 42 hours a week this summer to support myself and cover my educational costs. Despite these challenges, Daniel remains my greatest source of motivation. His presence drives me to excel in school and work towards a better future. Daniel’s impact on my life cannot be overstated. His ability to navigate adversity with grace has inspired me to confront my own challenges and pursue ambitious goals. My journey to a successful future and a good education is motivated not just by personal aspirations but by a deep desire to improve our family’s situation. Daniel’s love and strength continue to fuel my determination, and I am committed to making the most of every opportunity for both of us. His influence has been instrumental in shaping who I am today and who I aspire to become.

My younger brother, Daniel, was adopted due to multiple of my family members having serious drug addictions and being involved in a sex trafficking ring in Milwaukee. He was born addicted to many differing drugs and requires a lot of my family's time and money (like good daycare, specialized doctor visits, therapies, and other various things). He has both autism and ADHD, and a lot of my time at home is with him. Daniel is such an amazing boy, he just needs some extra love and care. Daniel is the most important person in my life, and there is truly no one in this world that I am closer to. I love him with all my heart, but a good portion of my family's earnings is spent on him, putting us in a strange financial situation. Before Daniel was born I was a young girl with severe mental health issues and even contemplated ending my own life. Daniel's kindness and ability to survive throughout all of the challenges that life has thrown him has forever changed me, he has set me on a path of love. Being his older sister, or his "Yaya," as he calls me, has melted my heart. I know that he follows my actions and relies on me being there for him. I changed drastically from a sad little girl to a smart confident woman who is ready to overtake my next year in college. I can genuinely say that I couldn't have done it without baby Daniel. Before us adopting him my parents could've helped me out with college a little, but now we can't afford it. This summer I am already scheduled to work 42 hours a week from Monday to Sunday. I have been motivated my whole life by Daniel, it drives me in school and life. I am determined to be the new beginning that my relatives and I so desperately need. It's so important to me that I do well in life and get a good education. I need to be the change in my family not just for me, but for Daniel.

My younger brother, Daniel, was adopted due to severe issues within our extended family, including drug addictions and involvement in a sex trafficking ring in Milwaukee. Born addicted to various substances, Daniel requires extensive care, including specialized daycare, frequent medical appointments, and various therapies. With autism and ADHD, his needs are complex and demand considerable attention and resources. Despite these challenges, Daniel has become an incredibly significant part of my life. Before Daniel was adopted, I struggled deeply with my own mental health issues, particularly anxiety-related OCD. My condition was debilitating, and I reached a point where I even contemplated ending my own life. These years were marked by intense therapy sessions and a constant battle to manage my compulsive tendencies. The emotional toll was immense, and I felt trapped in a cycle of despair. Daniel’s arrival into our family has been a transformative experience. His kindness, even at such a young age, and his ability to cope with his own difficulties have provided me with a new perspective on life. Daniel's presence has been a powerful source of inspiration. His ability to face challenges with a positive outlook has given me the strength to tackle my own struggles and rebuild my life with a sense of purpose. Taking on the role of Daniel’s older sister, or "Yaya" as he affectionately calls me, has been a deeply rewarding and transformative experience. The responsibilities of caring for him have pushed me to become a more capable and compassionate person. I have found a new sense of direction and motivation through my relationship with him. Daniel’s dependence on me has helped me overcome my own issues and become more confident and focused on my goals. The financial burden of Daniel’s care has placed a significant strain on my family, limiting our ability to contribute to my college expenses. As a result, I am working 42 hours a week this summer to support myself and cover my educational costs. Despite these challenges, Daniel remains my greatest source of motivation. His presence drives me to excel in school and work towards a better future. Daniel’s impact on my life cannot be overstated. His ability to navigate adversity with grace has inspired me to confront my own challenges and pursue ambitious goals. My journey to a successful future and a good education is motivated not just by personal aspirations but by a deep desire to improve our family’s situation. Daniel’s love and strength continue to fuel my determination, and I am committed to making the most of every opportunity for both of us. His influence has been instrumental in shaping who I am today and who I aspire to become. Although I am not Daniel’s biological mother, I cannot deny my desire to provide him the most loving environment possible. This isn’t just for bettering my own life, this is for my baby Daniel too.

My younger brother, Daniel, was adopted due to severe issues within our extended family, including drug addictions and involvement in a sex trafficking ring in Milwaukee. Born addicted to various substances, Daniel requires extensive care, including specialized daycare, frequent medical appointments, and various therapies. With autism and ADHD, his needs are complex and demand considerable attention and resources. Despite these challenges, Daniel has become an incredibly significant part of my life. Before Daniel was adopted, I struggled deeply with my own mental health issues, particularly anxiety-related OCD. My condition was debilitating, and I reached a point where I even contemplated ending my own life. These years were marked by intense therapy sessions and a constant battle to manage my compulsive tendencies. The emotional toll was immense, and I felt trapped in a cycle of despair. Daniel’s arrival into our family has been a transformative experience. His kindness, even at such a young age, and his ability to cope with his own difficulties have provided me with a new perspective on life. Daniel's presence has been a powerful source of inspiration. His ability to face challenges with a positive outlook has given me the strength to tackle my own struggles and rebuild my life with a sense of purpose. Taking on the role of Daniel’s older sister, or "Yaya" as he affectionately calls me, has been a deeply rewarding and transformative experience. The responsibilities of caring for him have pushed me to become a more capable and compassionate person. I have found a new sense of direction and motivation through my relationship with him. Daniel’s dependence on me has helped me overcome my own issues and become more confident and focused on my goals. The financial burden of Daniel’s care has placed a significant strain on my family, limiting our ability to contribute to my college expenses. As a result, I am working 42 hours a week this summer to support myself and cover my educational costs. Despite these challenges, Daniel remains my greatest source of motivation. His presence drives me to excel in school and work towards a better future. Daniel’s impact on my life cannot be overstated. His ability to navigate adversity with grace has inspired me to confront my own challenges and pursue ambitious goals. My journey to a successful future and a good education is motivated not just by personal aspirations but by a deep desire to improve our family’s situation. Daniel’s love and strength continue to fuel my determination, and I am committed to making the most of every opportunity for both of us. His influence has been instrumental in shaping who I am today and who I aspire to become.

My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is a frequent occurrence for too many women in STEM and I aim to prove that it is not true. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. If I could choose anything to do in my life I would be continuing on my path of learning. For most of my time in high school, I thought I didn't want to go to college, I didn't see the point in it and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself that I could just go into a trade, but after I had my junior conference with my counselor my perspective changed. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I want to major in economics and actuarial science. Not only am I going to college to learn, but also to create a better future for myself and my family. My family had relied on things like WIC (women, infants, and children's nutrition plan) to feed my baby brother when we got him and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It definitely put a large dent in my heart for a very long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better-succeeding life. I plan to go into economics and actuarial science and couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and am devoted to a career in it. Economics and mathematics offer a powerful lens through which to understand and address the intricate changes in our world. My passion is to enhance the economic well-being of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from the effects of poverty. I believe that I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided andtorn apart by economic status. By applying mathematical modeling and data analysis to economic research, I envision contributing to the development of policies that more effectively address poverty and inequality. These tools can help create more equitable economic systems that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are accessible to anyone and everyone. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and actuarial science in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change to Milwaukee.

Chappell Roan's music has had a profound impact on my life, offering a sense of belonging and empowerment that I often struggled to find elsewhere. During high school, I frequently felt like an outcast, unable to fit into the typical social molds that surrounded me. In this environment, Chappell Roan's music became a refuge, providing a soundtrack to my journey of self-discovery and acceptance. One of the aspects I love most about Chappell Roan's music is its free-spirited nature. Her songs are unapologetically bold, embracing themes of individuality, self-expression, and the beauty of standing out rather than blending in. This resonated deeply with me, especially during those moments when I felt isolated or misunderstood. Her music permitted me to embrace my quirks and differences, to see them not as flaws, but as unique attributes that contribute to my identity. Chappell Roan's music is not just about catchy melodies and engaging lyrics; it’s about creating a space where listeners can feel seen and celebrated for who they are. Her ability to fuse vulnerability with strength in her songwriting has been particularly inspiring to me. Songs like "Pink Pony Club" and "California" are not only anthems of personal liberation but also reminders that it’s okay to pursue paths that are unconventional or outside the norm. These messages have been instrumental in helping me to embrace my path, even when it felt like no one else understood it. Supporting Chappell Roan's career feels like supporting a movement that champions authenticity and self-love. In a world that often pressures us to conform, her music stands as a beacon of individuality and creative freedom. Her fearless approach to her artistry encourages her fans, including myself, to break free from societal expectations and to celebrate their true selves. This has had a lasting impact on my outlook, allowing me to approach life with more confidence and a greater appreciation for diversity in expression. Moreover, Chappell Roan's evolution as an artist mirrors the journey many of us go through in finding our voice and place in the world. Watching her grow and succeed has been incredibly empowering, reinforcing the idea that success doesn't have to come from following the crowd, but from staying true to oneself. This is a powerful message for anyone who has ever felt like an outsider, reminding us that our differences are not weaknesses, but strengths that set us apart and can lead to unique and fulfilling experiences. Chappell Roan's music has not only been a source of comfort and joy for me but has also played a significant role in shaping my perspective on life and self-worth. Her free spirit and dedication to being her authentic self have inspired me to embrace my individuality with pride. Supporting her career is my way of acknowledging the positive impact her music has had on my life and advocating for the importance of artists who dare to be different. Chappell Roan is more than just a musician; she is a symbol of the power of embracing who you are, and I am proud to support her as she continues to inspire others to do the same.

Pam Beesly, with her quiet resilience and unassuming charm, is a character many resonate with from The Office. Her journey from a timid receptionist to a self-aware individual mirrors the struggle many of us face in the pursuit of personal and professional fulfillment. Having watched The Office over ten times, I find comfort in Pam's experiences, which echo the challenges of feeling accomplished in both life and work. Pam's character is defined by a longing for something more, coupled with the fear of stepping out of her comfort zone. This is most evident in her early relationship with Roy, where she stays in an unfulfilling engagement for years, fearing the unknown more than the stagnation she feels. This situation reflects how many of us settle for less than what we truly want because the prospect of change is daunting. Watching Pam's journey, I'm reminded that accomplishment often requires the courage to face discomfort and uncertainty. One of the most relatable aspects of Pam's character is her struggle with self-doubt. Even when she decides to pursue her passion for art, she grapples with the fear of not being good enough. This is a universal challenge—wanting to succeed but being held back by insecurities. Pam’s decision to attend art school is a pivotal moment in the series and inspires anyone who has ever doubted their abilities. Her journey illustrates that feeling accomplished isn't about external validation but personal growth and the courage to follow one's passions. Pam's character development is subtle yet profound. She doesn't undergo a dramatic transformation but evolves in a genuine and relatable way. This gradual growth is comforting because it reminds us that change and progress don't always happen overnight. Pam’s experiences teach us that it's okay to take small steps toward our goals and that perseverance, even in the face of setbacks, is key to feeling accomplished. Pam also provides valuable insights into workplace dynamics. Her relationships with coworkers, particularly with Michael and Jim, highlight the importance of connection and support at work. Michael's belief in Pam, though sometimes misguided, helps her recognize her potential, while her friendship with Jim evolves into a partnership based on mutual respect and shared dreams. These relationships underscore the significance of having allies and mentors at work who believe in us and push us to grow. Pam Beesly’s character resonates deeply with anyone who has ever struggled with self-doubt or felt trapped in their circumstances. Her journey is a reminder that feeling accomplished is not about achieving grand milestones but about the courage to pursue one’s passions and the resilience to keep going, even when the path is uncertain. The Office serves as a comforting reminder that we are not alone in our struggles and that, like Pam, we all have the potential to grow and find fulfillment in our own time.

My younger brother, Daniel, was adopted due to multiple of my family members having serious drug addictions and being involved in a sex trafficking ring in Milwaukee. He was born addicted to many health issues and requires a lot of my family's time and money (like good daycare, specialized doctor visits, therapies, and other various things). I have spent my entire life dealing with my family's addiction problems, but this was different, this involved a little boy who hadn't done anything to deserve these hardships. He has both autism and ADHD, and a lot of my time at home is with him. Daniel is such an amazing boy, he just needs some extra love and care. I love him with all my heart, but a good portion of my family's earnings is spent on him, putting us in a strange financial situation. Daniel is the most important person in my life, and there is truly no one in this world that I am closer to. Before Daniel was born I was a young girl with very serious mental health issues and even contemplated ending my own life. Daniel's kindness and ability to survive throughout all of the challenges that life has thrown him has forever changed me, he has set me on a path of love. Being his older sister, or "Yaya" as he calls me, is something that has melted my heart. I know that he follows my actions and relies on me being there for him. I changed drastically from a sad little girl to a smart confident woman who is ready to overtake my next year in college. I can genuinely say that I couldn't have done it without baby Daniel. Before us adopting him my parents could've helped me out with college a little, but now we can't afford it. I work every week during the school year and have various jobs over the summer to try and pay for college. Although this is not a challenge I have fixed in my family, I believe that I have overcome the pattern. I have been motivated my whole life by Daniel, it drives me in school and in life. I am determined to be the new beginning that my relatives and I so desperately need. I need to be the change in my family not just for me, but for Daniel. I plan to go into economics and actuarial sciences and couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and am devoted to a career in it. My enthusiasm for STEM is matched by my ambition to make an impact on the world. My passion is to enhance the economic well-being of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from the effects of poverty. I believe that I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and applied mathematics in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change to Milwaukee.

My younger brother, Daniel, was adopted due to multiple of my family members having serious drug addictions and being involved in a sex trafficking ring in Milwaukee. He was born addicted to many health issues and requires a lot of my family's time and money (like good daycare, specialized doctor visits, therapies, and other various things). He has both autism and ADHD, and a lot of my time at home is with him. Daniel is such an amazing boy, he just needs some extra love and care. I love him with all my heart, but a good portion of my family's earnings is spent on him, putting us in a strange financial situation. Daniel is the most important person in my life, and there is truly no one in this world that I am closer to. Before Daniel was born I was a young girl with very serious mental health issues and even contemplated ending my own life. Daniel's kindness and ability to survive throughout all of the challenges that life has thrown him has forever changed me, he has set me on a path of love. Being his older sister, or "Yaya" as he calls me, is something that has melted my heart. I know that he follows my actions and relies on me being there for him. I changed drastically from a sad little girl to a smart confident woman who is ready to overtake my next year in college! I can genuinely say that I couldn't have done it without baby Daniel. Before us adopting him my parents could've helped me out with college a little, but now we simply can't afford it. I work every week during the school year and have various jobs over the summer to try and pay for college. This summer I have already applied to three jobs so I can make it past my first year of college. Although this is not a challenge I have fixed in my family, I believe that I have overcome the pattern. I have been motivated my whole life by my Daniel, it drives me in school, in word, and in life. I am determined to be the new beginning that my relatives and I so desperately need. It's so important to me that I do well in life and get a good education. I need to be the change in my family not just for me, but for Daniel. I plan to go into economics and actuarial sciences and couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and am devoted to a career in it. My enthusiasm for STEM is matched by my ambition to impact the world. economics and actuarial sciences offer a powerful lens through which to understand and address the intricate changes in our world. With the use of my chosen majors, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of complex systems and foster new solutions to provide economic stability and growth. My passion is to enhance the financial well-being of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from the effects of poverty. I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and applied mathematics in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change to Milwaukee.

My younger brother, Daniel, was adopted due to multiple of my family members having serious drug addictions and being involved in a sex trafficking ring in Milwaukee. He was born addicted to many health issues and requires a lot of my family's time and money (like good daycare, specialized doctor visits, therapies, and other various things). He has both autism and ADHD, and a lot of my time at home is with him. Daniel is such an amazing boy, he needs some extra love and care. I love him with all my heart, but a good portion of my family's earnings is spent on him, putting us in a strange financial situation. Daniel is the most important person in my life, and there is no one in this world to whom I am closer. Before Daniel was born I was a young girl with very serious mental health issues and even contemplated ending my own life. Daniel's kindness and ability to survive throughout all of the challenges that life has thrown him has forever changed me, he has set me on a path of love. Being his older sister, or "Yaya" as he calls me, is something that has melted my heart. I know that he follows my actions and relies on me being there for him. I changed drastically from a sad little girl to a smart confident woman who is ready to overtake my next year in college! I can genuinely say that I couldn't have done it without my baby Daniel. Before us adopting him my parents could've helped me out with college a little, but now we simply can't afford it. I work every week during the school year and have various jobs over the summer to try and pay for college. This summer I have already applied to three jobs so I can make it past my first year of college. Although this is not a challenge I have fixed in my family, I believe that I have overcome the pattern. I have been motivated my whole life by my Daniel, it drives me in school, in word, and in life. I am determined to be the new beginning that my relatives and I so desperately need. It's so important to me that I do well in life and get a good education. I need to be the change in my family not just for me, but for Daniel. I plan to go into Economics and Mathematics and couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and am devoted to a career in it. My enthusiasm for STEM is matched by my ambition to make an impact on the world. Economics and mathematics offer a powerful lens through which to understand and address the intricate changes in our world. My passion is to enhance the economic well-being of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from the effects of poverty. I believe that I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. These tools can help create more equitable economic systems that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are accessible to anyone and everyone. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and applied mathematics in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change to Milwaukee.

My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is a frequent occurrence for too many women in STEM and I aim to prove that it is not true. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. If I could choose anything to do in my life I would be continuing on my path of learning. For most of my time in high school, I thought I didn't want to go to college, I didn't see the point in it and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself that I could just go into a trade, but after I had my junior conference with my counselor Ms. Norris my perspective changed. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all of my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I love school so much, even though waking up early is hard and sometimes it is stressful, school is the structure in my life that I need. I currently want to major in economics with a minor in applied mathematics. Not only am I going to college to learn, but also to create a better future for myself and my family. My family had relied on things like WIC (women, infants, and children's nutrition plan) to feed my baby brother when we got him and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It put a large dent in my heart for a very long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better-succeeding life. I am so ready to start this next portion of my life! I plan to go into Economics and Actuarial Sciences and couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and am devoted to a career in it. My enthusiasm for STEM is matched by my ambition to make a tangible impact on the world. Economics and mathematics offer a powerful lens through which to understand and address the intricate changes in our world. With the use of my chosen majors, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of complex systems and foster new solutions to provide economic stability and growth. My passion is to enhance the economic well-being of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from the effects of poverty. I believe that I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. By applying mathematical modeling and data analysis to economic research, I envision contributing to the development of policies that more effectively address poverty and inequality. These tools can help create more equitable economic systems that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are accessible to anyone and everyone. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and applied mathematics in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change to Milwaukee.

"Big Hero 6" has held a profound significance in my life, particularly in the aftermath of losing someone very dear to me. The film's themes and characters spoke to me during a period of intense grief, offering comfort and connection that extended beyond entertainment. The journey began with the sudden loss of a family member, leaving me emotionally shattered and struggling to find myself amidst overwhelming sorrow. In this dreadful time, "Big Hero 6" came out in theaters. I watched it with my mother and father and as my eyes stuck to the big screen I felt a wave of emotion. The main character Hiro Hamada, a young prodigy dealing with the loss of his brother, Tadashi. Hiro's journey of grappling with grief mirrored my own experience, allowing me to deeply empathize with his emotional turmoil and search for meaning amid loss. The film's portrayal of Hiro's struggle felt remarkably authentic, capturing the complexities of mourning the loss of someone once vital to your life. One of the most memorable moments for me was when Hiro encounters Baymax, the inflatable healthcare companion created by his brother. Baymax's gentle presence and commitment to supporting Hiro through his grief struck a chord within me. It reminded me of the person I had lost, whose kindness and support had been a constant source of comfort in my life. Through Baymax, I learned that healing doesn't mean forgetting or moving on, but rather finding a way to cherish memories while embracing life's new challenges. The bond between Hiro and his group of friends, who ultimately become the superheroes known as Big Hero 6, also deeply touched me. Their solidarity and willingness to stand by one another in times of adversity served as a powerful reminder of the importance of community and friendship during difficult times. I found myself drawing strength from the people around me who offered empathy and support without judgment, helping me navigate the unpredictable waves of grief. Hiro's determination to honor his brother's legacy by using his talents for good inspired me to channel my own grief into positive actions. I began embracing new challenges and opportunities, motivated by the belief that even in loss, there lies the potential for growth and understanding.In essence, "Big Hero 6" expanded its role as a mere movie and became my comfort during a time of loss. It provided me with a narrative that mirrored my own journey of grief, offering insights, solace, and a renewed sense of hope. Through its storytelling and memorable characters, the film not only helped me confront the reality of loss, but also encouraged me to cherish memories of my loved one as they are never gone. As I continue to navigate life's challenges, "Big Hero 6" remains a reminder of the power of love and the importance of finding strength in community and friendship. It holds a special place in my heart as the most important movie in my life, forever intertwined with my journey of healing and remembrance.

My younger brother, Daniel, was adopted due to multiple of my family members having serious drug addictions and being involved in a sex trafficking ring in Milwaukee. He was born addicted to many health issues and requires a lot of my family's time and money (like good daycare, specialized doctor visits, therapies, and other various things). He has both autism and ADHD, and a lot of my time at home is with him. Daniel is such an amazing boy, he just needs some extra love and care. I love him with all my heart, but a good portion of my family's earnings is spent on him, putting us in a strange financial situation. Daniel is the most important person in my life, and there is truly no one in this world that I am closer to. Before Daniel was born I was a young girl with very serious mental health issues and even contemplated ending my own life. Daniel's kindness and ability to survive throughout all of the challenges that life has thrown him has forever changed me, he has set me on a path of love. Being his older sister, or "yaya" as he calls me, is something that has melted my heart. I know that he follows my actions and relies on me being there for him. I changed drastically from a sad little girl to a smart confident woman who is ready to overtake my next year in college! I can genuinely say that I couldn't have done it without baby Daniel. Before us adopting him my parents could've helped me out with college a little, but now we simply can't afford it. I work every week during the school year and have various jobs over the summer to try and pay for college. This summer I have already applied to three jobs so I can make it past my first year of college. Although this is not a challenge I have fixed in my family, I believe that I have overcome the pattern. I have been motivated my whole life by my Daniel, it drives me in school, in word, and in life. I am determined to be the new beginning that my relatives and I so desperately need. It's so important to me that I do well in life and get a good education. I need to be the change in my family not just for me, but for Daniel.

My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is a frequent occurrence for too many women in STEM and I aim to prove that it is not true. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. If I could choose anything to do in my life I would be continuing on my path of learning. For most of my time in high school, I thought I didn't want to go to college, I didn't see the point in it and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself that I could just go into a trade, but after I had my junior conference with my counselor my perspective changed. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all of my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I currently want to major in economics with a minor in applied mathematics. Not only am I going to college to learn, but also to create a better future for myself and my family. My family had relied on things like WIC (women, infants, and children's nutrition plan) to feed my baby brother when we got him and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It definitely put a large dent in my heart for a very long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better-succeeding life. I plan to go into Economics and Applied Mathematics and couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and am devoted to a career in it. My enthusiasm for STEM is matched by my ambition to make an impact on the world. Economics and mathematics offer a powerful lens through which to understand and address the intricate changes in our world. With the use of my chosen majors, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of complex systems and foster new solutions to provide economic stability and growth. My passion is to enhance the economic well-being of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from the effects of poverty. I believe that I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. By applying mathematical modeling and data analysis to economic research, I envision contributing to the development of policies that more effectively address poverty and inequality. These tools can help create more equitable economic systems that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are accessible to anyone and everyone. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and applied mathematics in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change to Milwaukee.

My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is a frequent occurrence for too many women in STEM and I aim to prove that it is not true. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. If I could choose anything to do in my life I would be continuing on my path of learning. For most of my time in high school, I thought I didn't want to go to college, I didn't see the point in it and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself that I could just go into a trade, but after I had my junior conference with my counselor my perspective changed. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all of my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I currently want to major in economics with a minor in applied mathematics. Not only am I going to college to learn, but also to create a better future for myself and my family. My family had relied on things like WIC (women, infants, and children's nutrition plan) to feed my baby brother when we got him and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It definitely put a large dent in my heart for a very long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better-succeeding life. I plan to go into Economics and Applied Mathematics and couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and am devoted to a career in it. My enthusiasm for STEM is matched by my ambition to make an impact on the world. Economics and mathematics offer a powerful lens through which to understand and address the intricate changes in our world. With the use of my chosen majors, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of complex systems and foster new solutions to provide economic stability and growth. My passion is to enhance the economic well-being of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from the effects of poverty. I believe that I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. By applying mathematical modeling and data analysis to economic research, I envision contributing to the development of policies that more effectively address poverty and inequality. These tools can help create more equitable economic systems that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are accessible to anyone and everyone. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and applied mathematics in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change to Milwaukee.

My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is a frequent occurrence for too many women in STEM and I aim to prove that it is not true. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. If I could choose anything to do in my life I would be continuing on my path of learning. For most of my time in high school, I thought I didn't want to go to college, I didn't see the point in it and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself that I could just go into a trade, but after I had my junior conference with my counselor my perspective changed. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all of my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I currently want to major in economics with a minor in applied mathematics. Not only am I going to college to learn, but also to create a better future for myself and my family. My family had relied on things like WIC (women, infants, and children's nutrition plan) to feed my baby brother when we got him and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It definitely put a large dent in my heart for a very long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better-succeeding life. I plan to go into Economics and Applied Mathematics and couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and am devoted to a career in it. My enthusiasm for STEM is matched by my ambition to make an impact on the world. Economics and mathematics offer a powerful lens through which to understand and address the intricate changes in our world. With the use of my chosen majors, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of complex systems and foster new solutions to provide economic stability and growth. My passion is to enhance the economic well-being of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from the effects of poverty. I believe that I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. By applying mathematical modeling and data analysis to economic research, I envision contributing to the development of policies that more effectively address poverty and inequality. These tools can help create more equitable economic systems that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are accessible to anyone and everyone. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and applied mathematics in STEM is rooted to help societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change to Milwaukee.

My younger brother, Daniel, was adopted due to multiple of my family members having serious drug addictions and being involved in a sex trafficking ring in Milwaukee. He was born addicted to many health issues and requires a lot of my family's time and money (like good daycare, specialized doctor visits, therapies, and other various things). He has both autism and ADHD, and a lot of my time at home is with him. Daniel is such an amazing boy, he just needs some extra love and care. I love him with all my heart, but a good portion of my family's earnings is spent on him, putting us in a strange financial situation. Daniel is the most important person in my life, and there is truly no one in this world that I am closer to. Before Daniel was born I was a young girl with very serious mental health issues and even contemplated ending my own life. Daniel's kindness and ability to survive throughout all of the challenges that life has thrown him has forever changed me, he has set me on a path of love. Being his older sister, or "yaya" as he calls me, is something that has melted my heart. I know that he follows my actions and relies on me being there for him. I changed drastically from a sad little girl to a smart confident woman who is ready to overtake my next year in college! I can genuinely say that I couldn't have done it without baby Daniel. Before us adopting him my parents could've helped me out with college a little, but now we simply can't afford it. I work every week during the school year and have various jobs over the summer to try and pay for college. This summer I have already applied to three jobs so I can make it past my first year of college. Although this is not a challenge I have fixed in my family, I believe that I have overcome the pattern. I have been motivated my whole life by my Daniel, it drives me in school, in word, and in life. I am determined to be the new beginning that my relatives and I so desperately need. It's so important to me that I do well in life and get a good education. I need to be the change in my family not just for me, but for Daniel.

Attempting academic excellence, particularly in fields like STEM, the emphasis is often placed on grades, GPA, and various internships. However, amid all the homework, essays, quizzes, and tests, the significance of mental health can be easily overlooked. Growing up in a family grappling with addiction, I was exposed to the complexities of mental health from a young age. The environment consisted of familial struggles and personal losses which harmed my understanding of self-love. I thought about what I was expected to achieve, if it was expected I would achieve anything at all. Despite the challenges, I remained strong in my pursuit of academic success, driven by a determination for a better future for myself. Throughout my educational journey, I encountered numerous obstacles stemming from mental health challenges. I am diagnosed with anxiety, depression, and OCD, and it has threatened to overshadow my aspirations. I grappled with concentration, battling overwhelming feelings of inadequacy, and struggling to maintain balance amidst the chaos. A few times grades dropped and I sat there wondering what more I could do now. The relentless demands of school highlighted my mental struggles, creating a cycle of stress and anxiety. However, amidst the darkness, I discovered glimmers of hope. Recognizing the importance of prioritizing my mental health, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery and healing. I spent more of my time and effort thinking I couldn't succeed due to who I was than I did studying and preparing myself for the world. As I spent multiple days a week in therapy I had come to terms with my life, not letting go of the hardships, but remembering my lost loved ones and moving on. At school, I learned to approach challenges with a newfound sense of determination for a better life. Rather than allowing setbacks to define me, I viewed them as opportunities for growth and self-improvement. I recognized the importance of a supportive network of peers, mentors, and loved ones. Surrounding myself with individuals who uplifted and encouraged me became essential in my journey toward mental well-being. My loved ones always reminded me that I was never alone in my struggles. As I continue to navigate the complexities of school and grades, I remain committed to prioritizing my mental health above all else. I have realized that success is not measured by academic achievements but by the ability to cultivate a fulfilling and balanced life rooted in my well-being. In conclusion, prioritizing mental health in academia is essential for my happiness. With support, I have embarked on a journey of growth and empowerment—one that has transformed my academic pursuits and enriched my life in profound ways. I believe that with good mental health comes good grades.

Attempting academic excellence, particularly in fields like STEM, the emphasis is often placed on grades, GPA, and various internships. However, amid all the homework, essays, quizzes, and tests, the significance of mental health can be easily overlooked. Growing up in a family grappling with addiction, I was exposed to the complexities of mental health from a young age. The environment consisted of familial struggles and personal losses which harmed my understanding of self-love. I thought about what I was expected to achieve, if it was expected I would achieve anything at all. Despite the challenges, I remained strong in my pursuit of academic success, driven by a determination for a better future for myself. Throughout my educational journey, I encountered numerous obstacles stemming from mental health challenges. I am diagnosed with anxiety, depression, and OCD, and it has threatened to overshadow my aspirations. I found myself grappling concentrating, battling overwhelming feelings of inadequacy, and struggling to maintain a semblance of balance amidst the chaos. A few times grades dropped and I sat there wondering what more I could do now. The relentless demands of school highlighted my mental struggles, creating a cycle of stress and anxiety. However, amidst the darkness, I discovered glimmers of hope and resilience. Recognizing the importance of prioritizing my mental health, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery and healing. I spent more of my time and effort thinking I couldn't succeed due to who I was than I did studying and preparing myself for the world. As I spent multiple days a week in therapy I had come to terms with my life, not letting go of the hardships, but remembering my lost loved ones and moving on. At school, I learned to approach challenges with a newfound sense of resilience and determination. Rather than allowing setbacks to define me, I viewed them as opportunities for growth and self-improvement. I recognized the importance of fostering a supportive network of peers, mentors, and loved ones. Surrounding myself with individuals who uplifted and encouraged me became essential in my journey toward mental well-being. My loved ones always reminded me that I was never alone in my struggles. As I continue to navigate the complexities of school and grades, I remain committed to prioritizing my mental health above all else. I have realized that success is not measured by academic achievements but by the ability to cultivate a fulfilling and balanced life rooted in well-being and resilience. In conclusion, prioritizing mental health in academia is essential for my personal happiness. With support, I have embarked on a journey of growth and empowerment—one that has transformed my academic pursuits and enriched my life in profound ways. I believe that with good mental health comes good grades.

My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is a frequent occurrence for too many women in STEM and I aim to prove that it is not true. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. If I could choose anything to do in my life I would be continuing on my path of learning. For most of my time in high school, I thought I didn't want to go to college, I didn't see the point in it and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself that I could just go into a trade, but after I had my junior conference with my counselor my perspective changed. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all of my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I currently want to major in economics with a minor in applied mathematics. Not only am I going to college to learn, but also to create a better future for myself and my family. My family had relied on things like WIC (women, infants, and children's nutrition plan) to feed my baby brother when we got him and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It definitely put a large dent in my heart for a very long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better-succeeding life. I plan to go into Economics and Applied Mathematics and couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and am devoted to a career in it. My enthusiasm for STEM is matched by my ambition to make a tangible impact on the world. Economics and mathematics offer a powerful lens through which to understand and address the intricate changes in our world. With the use of my chosen majors, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of complex systems and foster new solutions to provide economic stability and growth. My passion is to enhance the economic well-being of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from the effects of poverty. I believe that I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. By applying mathematical modeling and data analysis to economic research, I envision contributing to the development of policies that more effectively address poverty and inequality. These tools can help create more equitable economic systems that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are accessible to anyone and everyone. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and applied mathematics in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change to Milwaukee.

My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is a frequent occurrence for too many women in STEM and I aim to prove that it is not true. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. If I could choose anything to do in my life I would be continuing on my path of learning. For most of my time in high school, I thought I didn't want to go to college, I didn't see the point in it and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself that I could just go into a trade, but after I had my junior conference with my counselor my perspective changed. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all of my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I currently want to major in economics with a minor in applied mathematics. Not only am I going to college to learn, but also to create a better future for myself and my family. My family had relied on things like WIC (women, infants, and children's nutrition plan) to feed my baby brother when we got him and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It definitely put a large dent in my heart for a very long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better-succeeding life. I plan to go into Economics and Applied Mathematics and couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and am devoted to a career in it. My enthusiasm for STEM is matched by my ambition to make a tangible impact on the world. Economics and mathematics offer a powerful lens through which to understand and address the intricate changes in our world. With the use of my chosen majors, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of complex systems and foster new solutions to provide economic stability and growth. My passion is to enhance the economic well-being of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from the effects of poverty. I believe that I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. By applying mathematical modeling and data analysis to economic research, I envision contributing to the development of policies that more effectively address poverty and inequality. These tools can help create more equitable economic systems that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are accessible to anyone and everyone. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and applied mathematics in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change to Milwaukee.

My younger brother, Daniel, was adopted due to multiple of my family members having serious drug addictions and being involved in the sex trafficking ring in Milwaukee. He was born addicted to many health issues and requires a lot of my family's time and money (like good daycare, specialized doctor visits, therapies, and other various things). He has both autism and ADHD, and a lot of my time at home is with him. Daniel is such an amazing boy, he just needs some extra love and care. I love him with all my heart, but a good portion of my family's earnings is spent on him, putting us in a strange financial situation. Before us adopting him my parents could've helped me out with college, but now we simply can't afford it. I work every week during the school year and have various jobs over the summer to try and pay for college. This summer I have already applied to three jobs so I can make it past my first year of college. Although this is not a challenge I have fixed in my family, I believe that I have overcome the pattern. I have been motivated my whole life by my family, it drives me in school, in the world, and in life. I am determined to be the new beginning that my relatives and I so desperately need. It's so important to me that I do well in life and get a good education. I need to be the change in my family not just for me, but for Daniel. I plan to go into Economics and Mathematics and couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and am devoted to a career in it. My enthusiasm for STEM is matched by my ambition to make a tangible impact on the world. Economics and mathematics offer a powerful lens through which to understand and address the intricate changes in our world. With the use of my chosen majors, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of complex systems and foster new solutions to provide economic stability and growth. My passion is to enhance the economic well-being of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from the effects of poverty. I believe that I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. By applying mathematical modeling and data analysis to economic research, I envision contributing to the development of policies that more effectively address poverty and inequality. These tools can help create more equitable economic systems that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are accessible to anyone and everyone. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and applied mathematics in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change to Milwaukee.

My younger brother, Daniel, was adopted due to multiple of my family members having serious drug addictions and being involved in a sex trafficking ring in Milwaukee. He was born addicted to many health issues and requires a lot of my family's time and money (like good daycare, specialized doctor visits, therapies, and other various things). He has both autism and ADHD, and a lot of my time at home is with him. Daniel is such an amazing boy, he just needs some extra love and care. I love him with all my heart, but a good portion of my family's earnings is spent on him, putting us in a strange financial situation. Daniel is the most important person in my life, and there is truly no one in this world that I am closer to. Before Daniel was born I was a young girl with very serious mental health issues and even contemplated ending my own life. Daniel's kindness and ability to survive throughout all of the challenges that life has thrown him has forever changed me, he has set me on a path of love. Being his older sister, or "yaya" as he calls me, is something that has melted my heart. I know that he follows my actions and relies on me being there for him. I changed drastically from a sad little girl to a smart confident woman who is ready to overtake my next year in college! I can genuinely say that I couldn't have done it without baby Daniel. Before us adopting him my parents could've helped me out with college a little, but now we simply can't afford it. I work every week during the school year and have various jobs over the summer to try and pay for college. This summer I have already applied to three jobs so I can make it past my first year of college. Although this is not a challenge I have fixed in my family, I believe that I have overcome the pattern. I have been motivated my whole life by my Daniel, it drives me in school, in word, and in life. I am determined to be the new beginning that my relatives and I so desperately need. It's so important to me that I do well in life and get a good education. I need to be the change in my family not just for me, but for Daniel.

My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is a frequent occurrence for too many women in STEM and I aim to prove that it is not true. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. If I could choose anything to do in my life I would be continuing on my path of learning. For most of my time in high school, I thought I didn't want to go to college, I didn't see the point in it and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself that I could just go into a trade, but after I had my junior conference with my counselor my perspective changed. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all of my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I currently want to major in economics with a minor in applied mathematics. Not only am I going to college to learn, but also to create a better future for myself and my family. My family had relied on things like WIC (women, infants, and children's nutrition plan) to feed my baby brother when we got him and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It definitely put a large dent in my heart for a very long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better-succeeding life. I plan to go into Economics and Applied Mathematics and couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and am devoted to a career in it. My enthusiasm for STEM is matched by my ambition to make a tangible impact on the world. Economics and mathematics offer a powerful lens through which to understand and address the intricate changes in our world. With the use of my chosen majors, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of complex systems and foster new solutions to provide economic stability and growth. My passion is to enhance the economic well-being of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from the effects of poverty. I believe that I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. By applying mathematical modeling and data analysis to economic research, I envision contributing to the development of policies that more effectively address poverty and inequality. These tools can help create more equitable economic systems that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are accessible to anyone and everyone. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and applied mathematics in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change to Milwaukee.

My younger brother, Daniel, was adopted due to multiple of my family members having serious drug addictions and being involved in a sex trafficking ring in Milwaukee. He was born addicted to many health issues and requires a lot of my family's time and money (like good daycare, specialized doctor visits, therapies, and other various things). He has both autism and ADHD, and a lot of my time at home is with him. Daniel is such an amazing boy, he just needs some extra love and care. I love him with all my heart, but a good portion of my family's earnings is spent on him, putting us in a strange financial situation. Daniel is the most important person in my life, and there is truly no one in this world that I am closer to. Before Daniel was born I was a young girl with very serious mental health issues and even contemplated ending my own life. I was crippled with anxiety and could barely complete any work that was given to me. I was unmedicated and felt hopeless. Daniel's kindness and ability to survive throughout all of the challenges that life has thrown him has forever changed me, he has set me on a path of love. Being his older sister, or "yaya" as he calls me, is something that has melted my heart. I know that he follows my actions and relies on me being there for him. I changed drastically from a sad little girl to a smart confident woman who is ready to overtake my next year in college! I can genuinely say that I couldn't have done it without baby Daniel. Before us adopting him my parents could've helped me out with college a little, but now we simply can't afford it. I work every week during the school year and have various jobs over the summer to try and pay for college. This summer I have already applied to three jobs so I can make it past my first year of college. Although this is not a challenge I have fixed in my family, I believe that I have overcome the pattern. I have been motivated my whole life by my Daniel, it drives me in school, in word, and in life. I am determined to be the new beginning that my relatives and I so desperately need. It's so important to me that I do well in life and get a good education. I need to be the change in my family not just for me, but for Daniel.

My younger brother, Daniel, was adopted due to multiple of my family members having serious drug addictions and being involved in a sex trafficking ring in Milwaukee. He was born addicted to many health issues and requires a lot of my family's time and money (like good daycare, specialized doctor visits, therapies, and other various things). He has both autism and ADHD, and a lot of my time at home is with him. Daniel is such an amazing boy, he just needs some extra love and care. I love him with all my heart, but a good portion of my family's earnings is spent on him, putting us in a strange financial situation. Daniel is the most important person in my life, and there is truly no one in this world that I am closer to. Before Daniel was born I was a young girl with very serious mental health issues and even contemplated ending my own life. I was crippled with anxiety and could barely complete any work that was given to me. I was unmedicated and felt hopeless. Daniel's kindness and ability to survive throughout all of the challenges that life has thrown him has forever changed me, he has set me on a path of love. Being his older sister, or "yaya" as he calls me, is something that has melted my heart. I know that he follows my actions and relies on me being there for him. I changed drastically from a sad little girl to a smart confident woman who is ready to overtake my next year in college! I can genuinely say that I couldn't have done it without baby Daniel. Before us adopting him my parents could've helped me out with college a little, but now we simply can't afford it. I work every week during the school year and have various jobs over the summer to try and pay for college. This summer I have already applied to three jobs so I can make it past my first year of college. Although this is not a challenge I have fixed in my family, I believe that I have overcome the pattern. I have been motivated my whole life by my Daniel, it drives me in school, in word, and in life. I am determined to be the new beginning that my relatives and I so desperately need. It's so important to me that I do well in life and get a good education. I need to be the change in my family not just for me, but for Daniel.

My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is a frequent occurrence for too many women in STEM and I aim to prove that it is not true. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. If I could choose anything to do in my life I would be continuing on my path of learning. For most of my time in high school, I thought I didn't want to go to college, I didn't see the point in it and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself that I could just go into a trade, but after I had my junior conference with my counselor my perspective changed. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all of my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I currently want to major in economics with a minor in applied mathematics. Not only am I going to college to learn, but also to create a better future for myself and my family. My family had relied on things like WIC (women, infants, and children's nutrition plan) to feed my baby brother when we got him and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. My younger brother, Daniel, was adopted due to multiple of my family members having serious drug addictions and being involved in the sex trafficking ring in Milwaukee. He was born addicted to many health issues and requires a lot of my family's time and money (like good daycare, specialized doctor visits, therapies, and other various things). He has both autism and ADHD, and a lot of my time at home is with him. Daniel is such an amazing boy, he just needs some extra love and care. I love him with all my heart, but a good portion of my family's earnings is spent on him, putting us in a strange financial situation. Before us adopting him my parents could've helped me out with college, but now we simply can't afford it. I work every week during the school year and have various jobs over the summer to try and pay for college. This summer I have already applied to three jobs so I can make it past my first year of college. Although this is not a challenge I have fixed in my family, I believe that I have overcome the pattern. I have been motivated my whole life by my family, it drives me in school, in the world, and in life. I am determined to be the new beginning that my relatives and I so desperately need. It's so important to me that I do well in life and get a good education. I need to be the change in my family not just for me, but for Daniel. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It put a large dent in my heart for a very long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better-succeeding life. I plan to go into Economics and Applied Mathematics and couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and am devoted to a career in it. My enthusiasm for STEM is matched by my ambition to make a tangible impact on the world. Economics and mathematics offer a powerful lens through which to understand and address the intricate changes in our world. With the use of my chosen majors, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of complex systems and foster new solutions to provide economic stability and growth. My passion is to enhance the economic well-being of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from the effects of poverty. I believe that I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. By applying mathematical modeling and data analysis to economic research, I envision contributing to the development of policies that more effectively address poverty and inequality. These tools can help create more equitable economic systems that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are accessible to anyone and everyone. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and applied mathematics in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change to Milwaukee.

My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is a frequent occurrence for too many women in STEM and I aim to prove that it is not true. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. If I could choose anything to do in my life I would be continuing on my path of learning. For most of my time in high school, I thought I didn't want to go to college, I didn't see the point in it and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself that I could just go into a trade, but after I had my junior conference with my counselor my perspective changed. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all of my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I currently want to major in economics with a minor in applied mathematics. Not only am I going to college to learn, but also to create a better future for myself and my family. My family had relied on things like WIC (women, infants, and children's nutrition plan) to feed my baby brother when we got him and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It definitely put a large dent in my heart for a very long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better-succeeding life. I plan to go into Economics and Applied Mathematics and couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and am devoted to a career in it. My enthusiasm for STEM is matched by my ambition to make a tangible impact on the world. Economics and mathematics offer a powerful lens through which to understand and address the intricate changes in our world. With the use of my chosen majors, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of complex systems and foster new solutions to provide economic stability and growth. My passion is to enhance the economic well-being of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from the effects of poverty. I believe that I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. By applying mathematical modeling and data analysis to economic research, I envision contributing to the development of policies that more effectively address poverty and inequality. These tools can help create more equitable economic systems that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are accessible to anyone and everyone. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and applied mathematics in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change to Milwaukee.

I plan to go into Economics and Mathematics and couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and am devoted to a career in it. My enthusiasm for STEM is matched by my ambition to make a tangible impact on the world. I love math because there is always an answer and I am a very logical-minded person! My love for math came at a young age when I began learning math in Spanish! Economics and mathematics offer a powerful lens through which to understand and address the intricate changes in our world. With the use of my chosen majors, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of complex systems and foster new solutions to provide economic stability and growth. My passion is to enhance the economic well-being of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from the effects of poverty. I believe that I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. By applying mathematical modeling and data analysis to economic research, I envision contributing to the development of policies that more effectively address poverty and inequality. These tools can help create more equitable economic systems that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are accessible to anyone and everyone. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and applied mathematics in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change to Milwaukee.

My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is a frequent occurrence for too many women in STEM and I aim to prove that it is not true. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. If I could choose anything to do in my life I would be continuing on my path of learning. For most of my time in high school, I thought I didn't want to go to college, I didn't see the point in it and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself that I could just go into a trade, but after I had my junior conference with my counselor my perspective changed. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all of my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I currently want to major in economics with a minor in applied mathematics. Not only am I going to college to learn, but also to create a better future for myself and my family. My family had relied on things like WIC (women, infants, and children's nutrition plan) to feed my baby brother when we got him and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It definitely put a large dent in my heart for a very long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better-succeeding life. I plan to go into Economics and Applied Mathematics and couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and am devoted to a career in it. My enthusiasm for STEM is matched by my ambition to make a tangible impact on the world. Economics and mathematics offer a powerful lens through which to understand and address the intricate changes in our world. With the use of my chosen majors, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of complex systems and foster new solutions to provide economic stability and growth. My passion is to enhance the economic well-being of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from the effects of poverty. I believe that I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. By applying mathematical modeling and data analysis to economic research, I envision contributing to the development of policies that more effectively address poverty and inequality. These tools can help create more equitable economic systems that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are accessible to anyone and everyone. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and applied mathematics in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change to Milwaukee.

My mother has worked at a library for over 20 years. Every time she came home she brought a bundle of books into my life. Through those books came tears, laughter, and empathy for the world around me. I would get lost in literature about fantasy worlds and science and they guarded me from the harsh realities of life. When I was ten, I lost one of the most important people in my life to drugs. Through that time my only comfort was literature, realizing those little stories may be the only thing shielding me from the fact that I would never see her again. In those moments I realized I needed to create my own story for life, and that I couldn't follow the trend of drugs in my family. I worked hard every day to achieve my path in life, I got good grades, I volunteered, I helped out my teachers, and I worked three jobs most summers just to be able to afford my first year of college. I read books about loss and grief and had to revive myself from the hardships that faced me. I read articles about the effects of drugs on familial relationships. I read blogs from real-life drug addicts explaining their choices and why they left their families. Through reading, I was mended. I was determined to change my family's plot, when my baby cousin was brought into this world with five different illegal substances in his body I knew this was enough. My family adopted him and he is now my little brother, every night I read him at least three different books and I make sure he experiences all the love in the world. I am hoping like me, he will be able to create a new path for our family. I tell him stories about his mother and how she used to be like a mother to me, even when it shatters my heart. When he looks up at me with his little blue eyes and asks if we can keep reading I never say no. I know how reading heals souls and brings creativity to people's lives. I doubt I would be anywhere without books, I would still just be that broken little girl. Reading has saved me and I believe it can save many others because we all have the chance to write our own stories in life.

My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is a frequent occurrence for too many women in STEM and I aim to prove that it is not true. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. If I could choose anything to do in my life I would be continuing on my path of learning. For most of my time in high school, I thought I didn't want to go to college, I didn't see the point in it and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself that I could just go into a trade, but after I had my junior conference with my counselor my perspective changed. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all of my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I currently want to major in economics with a minor in applied mathematics. Not only am I going to college to learn, but also to create a better future for myself and my family. My family had relied on things like WIC (women, infants, and children's nutrition plan) to feed my baby brother when we got him and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It definitely put a large dent in my heart for a very long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better-succeeding life. I plan to go into Economics and Applied Mathematics and couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and am devoted to a career in it. My enthusiasm for STEM is matched by my ambition to make a tangible impact on the world. Economics and mathematics offer a powerful lens through which to understand and address the intricate changes in our world. With the use of my chosen majors, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of complex systems and foster new solutions to provide economic stability and growth. My passion is to enhance the economic well-being of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from the effects of poverty. I believe that I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. By applying mathematical modeling and data analysis to economic research, I envision contributing to the development of policies that more effectively address poverty and inequality. These tools can help create more equitable economic systems that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are accessible to anyone and everyone. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and applied mathematics in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change to Milwaukee.

My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is a frequent occurrence for too many women in STEM and I aim to prove that it is not true. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. If I could choose anything to do in my life I would be continuing on my path of learning. For most of my time in high school, I thought I didn't want to go to college, I didn't see the point in it and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself that I could just go into a trade, but after I had my junior conference with my counselor my perspective changed. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all of my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I currently want to major in economics with a minor in applied mathematics. Not only am I going to college to learn, but also to create a better future for myself and my family. My family had relied on things like WIC (women, infants, and children's nutrition plan) to feed my baby brother when we got him and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It definitely put a large dent in my heart for a very long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better-succeeding life. I plan to go into Economics and Applied Mathematics and couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and am devoted to a career in it. My enthusiasm for STEM is matched by my ambition to make a tangible impact on the world. Economics and mathematics offer a powerful lens through which to understand and address the intricate changes in our world. With the use of my chosen majors, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of complex systems and foster new solutions to provide economic stability and growth. My passion is to enhance the economic well-being of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from the effects of poverty. I believe that I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. By applying mathematical modeling and data analysis to economic research, I envision contributing to the development of policies that more effectively address poverty and inequality. These tools can help create more equitable economic systems that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are accessible to anyone and everyone. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and applied mathematics in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change to Milwaukee.

My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is a frequent occurrence for too many women in STEM and I aim to prove that it is not true. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. If I could choose anything to do in my life I would be continuing on my path of learning. For most of my time in high school, I thought I didn't want to go to college, I didn't see the point in it and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself that I could just go into a trade, but after I had my junior conference with my counselor my perspective changed. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all of my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I currently want to major in economics with a minor in applied mathematics. Not only am I going to college to learn, but also to create a better future for myself and my family. My family had relied on things like WIC (women, infants, and children's nutrition plan) to feed my baby brother when we got him and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It definitely put a large dent in my heart for a very long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better-succeeding life. I plan to go into Economics and Applied Mathematics and couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and am devoted to a career in it. My enthusiasm for STEM is matched by my ambition to make a tangible impact on the world. Economics and mathematics offer a powerful lens through which to understand and address the intricate changes in our world. With the use of my chosen majors, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of complex systems and foster new solutions to provide economic stability and growth. My passion is to enhance the economic well-being of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from the effects of poverty. I believe that I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. By applying mathematical modeling and data analysis to economic research, I envision contributing to the development of policies that more effectively address poverty and inequality. These tools can help create more equitable economic systems that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are accessible to anyone and everyone. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and applied mathematics in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change to Milwaukee.

My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is a frequent occurrence for too many women in STEM and I aim to prove that it is not true. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. If I could choose anything to do in my life I would be continuing on my path of learning. For most of my time in high school, I thought I didn't want to go to college, I didn't see the point in it and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself that I could just go into a trade, but after I had my junior conference with my counselor my perspective changed. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all of my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I currently want to major in economics with a minor in applied mathematics. Not only am I going to college to learn, but also to create a better future for myself and my family. My family had relied on things like WIC (women, infants, and children's nutrition plan) to feed my baby brother when we got him and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It definitely put a large dent in my heart for a very long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better-succeeding life. I plan to go into Economics and Applied Mathematics and couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and am devoted to a career in it. My enthusiasm for STEM is matched by my ambition to make a tangible impact on the world. Economics and mathematics offer a powerful lens through which to understand and address the intricate changes in our world. With the use of my chosen majors, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of complex systems and foster new solutions to provide economic stability and growth. My passion is to enhance the economic well-being of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from the effects of poverty. I believe that I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. By applying mathematical modeling and data analysis to economic research, I envision contributing to the development of policies that more effectively address poverty and inequality. These tools can help create more equitable economic systems that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are accessible to anyone and everyone. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and applied mathematics in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change to Milwaukee.

My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is a frequent occurrence for too many women in STEM and I aim to prove that it is not true. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. If I could choose anything to do in my life I would be continuing on my path of learning. For most of my time in high school, I thought I didn't want to go to college, I didn't see the point in it and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself that I could just go into a trade, but after I had my junior conference with my counselor my perspective changed. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all of my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I currently want to major in economics with a minor in applied mathematics. Not only am I going to college to learn, but also to create a better future for myself and my family. My family had relied on things like WIC (women, infants, and children's nutrition plan) to feed my baby brother when we got him and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It definitely put a large dent in my heart for a very long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better-succeeding life. I plan to go into Economics and Applied Mathematics and couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and am devoted to a career in it. My enthusiasm for STEM is matched by my ambition to make a tangible impact on the world. Economics and mathematics offer a powerful lens through which to understand and address the intricate changes in our world. With the use of my chosen majors, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of complex systems and foster new solutions to provide economic stability and growth. My passion is to enhance the economic well-being of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from the effects of poverty. I believe that I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. By applying mathematical modeling and data analysis to economic research, I envision contributing to the development of policies that more effectively address poverty and inequality. These tools can help create more equitable economic systems that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are accessible to anyone and everyone. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and applied mathematics in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change to Milwaukee.

My younger brother, Daniel, was adopted due to multiple of my family members having serious drug addictions and being involved in the sex trafficking ring in Milwaukee. He was born addicted to many health issues and requires a lot of my family's time and money (like good daycare, specialized doctor visits, therapies, and other various things). He has both autism and ADHD, and a lot of my time at home is with him. Daniel is such an amazing boy, he just needs some extra love and care. I love him with all my heart, but a good portion of my family's earnings is spent on him, putting us in a strange financial situation. Daniel is the most important person in my life, and there is truly no one in this world that I am closer to. Before Daniel was born I was a young girl with very serious mental health issues and even contemplated ending my own life. Daniel's kindness and ability to survive throughout all of the challenges that life has thrown him has forever changed me, he has set me on a path of love. Being his older sister, or "yaya" as he calls me, is something that has melted my heart. I know that he follows my actions and relies on me being there for him. I changed drastically from a sad little girl to a smart confident woman who is ready to overtake my next year in college! I can genuinely say that I couldn't have done it without baby Daniel. Prior to us adopting him my parents could've helped me out with college a little, but now we simply can't afford it. I work every week during the school year and have various jobs over the summer in order to try and pay for college. This summer I have already applied to three jobs so I can make it past my first year of college. Although this is not a challenge I have fixed in my family, I myself believe that I have overcome the pattern. I have been motivated my whole life by my Daniel, it drives me in school, in word, and in life. I am determined to be the new beginning that my relatives and I so desperately need. It's so important to me that I do well in life and get a good education. I need to be the change in my family not just for me, but for Daniel.

My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is a frequent occurrence for too many women in STEM and I aim to prove that it is not true. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. If I could choose anything to do in my life I would be continuing on my path of learning. For most of my time in high school, I thought I didn't want to go to college, I didn't see the point in it and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself that I could just go into a trade, but after I had my junior conference with my counselor my perspective changed. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all of my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I currently want to major in economics with a minor in applied mathematics. Not only am I going to college to learn, but also to create a better future for myself and my family. My family had relied on things like WIC (women, infants, and children's nutrition plan) to feed my baby brother when we got him and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It definitely put a large dent in my heart for a very long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better-succeeding life. I plan to go into Economics and Applied Mathematics and couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and am devoted to a career in it. My enthusiasm for STEM is matched by my ambition to make a tangible impact on the world. Economics and mathematics offer a powerful lens through which to understand and address the intricate changes in our world. With the use of my chosen majors, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of complex systems and foster new solutions to provide economic stability and growth. My passion is to enhance the economic well-being of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from the effects of poverty. I believe that I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. By applying mathematical modeling and data analysis to economic research, I envision contributing to the development of policies that more effectively address poverty and inequality. These tools can help create more equitable economic systems that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are accessible to anyone and everyone. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and applied mathematics in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change to Milwaukee.

I am planning to go into Economics and Applied Mathematics and I couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and I am devoted to a career in it. My enthusiasm about STEM is matched by my ambition to make a tangible impact on the world. The use of economics and mathematics offers a powerful lens through which to understand and address the intricate changes of our world. With the use of my chosen majors I hope to enable a deeper understanding of complex systems, and foster new solutions to provide economic stability and growth. I’m aware this isn’t the typical case of “creativity,” but this is the way I show creativity. Learning is my creativity, which is why I want to pursue higher education. I use creativity everyday and I hope so continue to use it throughout my professional career! My passion is to enhance the economic wellbeing of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from the effects of poverty. I believe that I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. By applying mathematical modeling and data analysis to economic research, I envision contributing to the development of policies that more effectively address poverty and inequality. These tools can help create more equitable economic systems that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are accessible to anyone and everyone. I am very grateful go attend Shorewood High School, although I do not live in the village of Shorewood. Shorewood High School, while being a good school, has little to no creativity due to the fact that the community is lacking diversity. Many of the students have been living in this community that is uniform with rich, white people, that have been with the same individuals all twelve years of schooling. I believe that my school is in need of more creativity, whether it’s more community bonding, or voicing on behalf of other cultures present in Milwaukee! It’s the schools job to showcase the diversity of the community they live around! Ultimately, my excitement for economics and applied mathematics in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change in Milwaukee.

My younger brother, Daniel, was adopted due to multiple of my family members having serious drug addictions and being involved in sex trafficking ring in Milwaukee. He was born addicted to many health issues and requires a lot of my family's time and money (like good daycare, specialized doctor visits, therapies, and other various things). He has both autism and ADHD, a lot of my time at home is with him. Daniel is such an amazing boy, he just needs some extra love and care. I love him with all my heart, but a good portion of my family's earnings is spent on him, putting us in a strange financial situation. Daniel is the most important person in my life, and there is truly no one in this world that I am closer to. Before Daniel was born I was a young girl with very serious mental health issues and even contemplated ending my own life. Daniel's kindness and ability to survive throughout all of the challenges that life has thrown him has forever changed me, he has set me on a path of love. Being his older sister, or "yaya" as he calls me, is something that has melted my heart. I know that he follows my actions and relies on me being there for him. I changed drastically from a sad little girl to a smart confident woman who is ready to overtake my next year in college! I can genuinely say that I couldn't have done it without baby Daniel. Prior to us adopting him my parents could've helped me out with college a little, but now we simply can't afford it. I work every week during the school year and have various jobs over the summer in order to try and pay for college. This summer I have already applied to three jobs so I can make it past my first year of college. Although this is not a challenge I have fixed in my family, I myself believe that I have overcome the pattern. I have been motivated my whole life by my Daniel, it drives me in school, in word, and in life. I am determined to be the new beginning that my relatives and I so desperately need. It's so important to me that I do well in life and get a good education. I need to be the change in my family not just for me, but for Daniel.

In the pursuit of academic excellence, particularly in fields like STEM, the emphasis is often placed on intellectual prowess, dedication, and perseverance. However, amid all the homework, essays, quizzes, and tests, the significance of mental health can sometimes be overlooked. Growing up in a family grappling with addiction, I was exposed to the complexities of mental health from a young age. The tumultuous environment marked by familial struggles and personal losses shaped my understanding of resilience and fortitude. Despite the challenges, I remained strong in my pursuit of academic success, driven by a deep-seated determination to carve out a better future for myself. Throughout my educational journey, I encountered numerous obstacles stemming from mental health challenges. I am diagnosed with anxiety, depression, and OCD, and it has threatened to overshadow my academic aspirations. I found myself grappling with difficulties concentrating, battling overwhelming feelings of inadequacy, and struggling to maintain a semblance of balance amidst the chaos. Few times my grades and dropped and I sat there wondering what I could possibly do now. The relentless demands of academia exacerbated my internal struggles, creating a vicious cycle of stress and anxiety. However, amidst the darkness, I discovered glimmers of hope and resilience. Recognizing the importance of prioritizing my mental health, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery and healing. Seeking hope in therapy, I learned to let go of the past hardships. I spent more of my time and efforts thinking I couldn't succeed due to who I was, than I did studying and preparing myself for the world. Embracing mindfulness practices and incorporating self-care rituals into my daily routine became instrumental in fostering a sense of inner peace and tranquility. In the academic arena, I learned to approach challenges with a newfound sense of resilience and determination. Rather than allowing setbacks to define me, I viewed them as opportunities for growth and self-improvement. I recognized the importance of fostering a supportive network of peers, mentors, and loved ones. Surrounding myself with individuals who uplifted and encouraged me became essential in my journey toward mental well-being. Their unwavering support served as a beacon of light during the darkest of times, reminding me that I was never alone in my struggles. As I continue to navigate the complexities of academia, I remain committed to prioritizing my mental health above all else. I have come to realize that true success is not measured solely by academic achievements but by the ability to cultivate a fulfilling and balanced life rooted in well-being and resilience. In conclusion, prioritizing mental health in academia is essential for fostering strength and well-being. As a young woman navigating the complexities of academia, I have learned to confront my inner struggles with courage and grace. Through self-discovery, support, and resilience, I have embarked on a journey of personal growth and empowerment—one that has transformed my academic pursuits and enriched my life in profound ways.

"Super Mario 3D World" has always been my go-to game for co-op fun, especially when playing with my cousin Henry. Living just a few miles away, Henry was more than just a cousin; he was my partner in crime, my confidant, and my closest friend. Our families faced tough times, battling the demons of addiction that seemed to lurk in the shadows of our daily lives. One summer afternoon, with the weight of our family struggles heavy on our shoulders, Henry came over for a gaming session. As we fired up the console and dove into the vibrant world of "Super Mario 3D World," the troubles of the outside world melted away, replaced by the excitement of our virtual adventures.Navigating through tricky levels and overcoming obstacles together, Henry and I found solace in the simple joy of teamwork. With each successful jump and power-up collected, our spirits lifted, if only for a moment. But it was during one particular level, a challenging platforming section fraught with perilous jumps and winding pathways, that our bond truly solidified. As we guided Mario and friends through the treacherous terrain, Henry's hand slipped on the controller, sending his character hurtling into the abyss below. My heart sank as I watched him plummet, but before I could react, Henry miraculously recovered, executing a series of expertly timed jumps to land safely on solid ground. With adrenaline coursing through our veins, we pressed on, determined to conquer the level together. As we finally reached the end, panting and exhilarated, Henry turned to me with a grin that lit up his face. In that moment, I realized that no matter what challenges our families faced, we had each other – and the power of friendship – to see us through.

As a young woman starting college with a love for math, I believe calculus is a vital tool in STEM fields. It's not just about passing exams—it's about solving real-world problems and making a difference. Calculus helps us understand how things change over time. Whether it's tracking the spread of a disease or designing a new bridge, calculus gives us the skills to analyze complex situations and find solutions. Moreover, calculus acts as a unifying force across STEM, bridging the gap between mathematics, science, and engineering. My skills in Calculus have opened many opportunities for me such as internships or jobs! As I set on my academic journey, I embrace calculus not as a daunting obstacle but as a powerful tool for personal and professional growth! It also brings different STEM subjects together. By breaking down barriers between fields like science, engineering, and math, calculus encourages teamwork and sparks new ideas. As a woman entering this exciting field, I'm eager to collaborate and contribute. I have personally spent my entire high school career trying to advance myself in math. I am currently two years ahead of my grade level in math and in a majority of my classes I seem to be the only girl. Calculus also empowers women to break stereotypes and succeed in male-dominated areas. By mastering calculus and pursuing careers in STEM, we can inspire others to do the same. For a few months I spent my time tutoring young girls in math to try and teach them the opportunities that are open for women in STEM. I remember an eight year old girl telling me that she "just didn't think women were good at math," and being heartbroken. Women need far more representation in not just math, but also STEM, and I am prepared to change that. Beyond academics, calculus has big impacts on society. From finding renewable energy sources to improving healthcare, it's crucial for solving global challenges. By learning calculus, I'm preparing to make a difference in the world. In short, calculus isn't just a tough subject—it's a key to unlocking opportunities in STEM. Beyond its academic significance, calculus holds immense practical value in addressing global issues and driving progress. I am ready to take my skills in Calculus As a young woman entering college, I'm ready to embrace the challenges and use calculus to shape a brighter future. I hope for a World where women are at the forefront of scientific innovation and discovery.

My younger brother, Daniel, was adopted due to multiple of my family members having serious drug addictions and being involved in sex trafficking ring in Milwaukee. I have grieved the loss of far too many family members because of drugs. Daniels mother was my idol and a child and seeing her lose herself to heroin was one of the most painful things I have ever endured. He was born addicted to many health issues and requires a lot of my family's time and money (like good daycare, specialized doctor visits, therapies, and other various things). He has both autism and ADHD, a lot of my time at home is with him. Daniel is such an amazing boy, he just needs some extra love and care. I love him with all my heart, but a good portion of my family's earnings is spent on him, putting us in a strange financial situation. Daniel is the most important person in my life, and there is truly no one in this world that I am closer to. Before Daniel was born I was a young girl with very serious mental health issues and even contemplated ending my own life. Daniel's kindness and ability to survive throughout all of the challenges that life has thrown him has forever changed me, he has set me on a path of love. Being his older sister, or "yaya" as he calls me, is something that has melted my heart. I know that he follows my actions and relies on me being there for him. I changed drastically from a sad little girl to a smart confident woman who is ready to overtake my next year in college! I can genuinely say that I couldn't have done it without baby Daniel. Prior to us adopting him my parents could've helped me out with college a little, but now we simply can't afford it. I work every week during the school year and have various jobs over the summer in order to try and pay for college. This summer I have already applied to three jobs so I can make it past my first year of college. Although this is not a challenge I have fixed in my family, I myself believe that I have overcome the pattern. I have been motivated my whole life by my Daniel, it drives me in school, in word, and in life. I am determined to be the new beginning that my relatives and I so desperately need. It's so important to me that I do well in life and get a good education. I will to be the change in my family not just for me, but for Daniel.

My younger brother, Daniel, was adopted due to multiple of my family members having serious drug addictions and being involved in sex trafficking ring in Milwaukee. He was born addicted to many health issues and requires a lot of my family's time and money (like good daycare, specialized doctor visits, therapies, and other various things). He has both autism and ADHD, a lot of my time at home is with him. Daniel is such an amazing boy, he just needs some extra love and care. I love him with all my heart, but a good portion of my family's earnings is spent on him, putting us in a strange financial situation. Daniel is the most important person in my life, and there is truly no one in this world that I am closer to. Before Daniel was born I was a young girl with very serious mental health issues and even contemplated ending my own life. Daniel's kindness and ability to survive throughout all of the challenges that life has thrown him has forever changed me, he has set me on a path of love. Being his older sister, or "yaya" as he calls me, is something that has melted my heart. I know that he follows my actions and relies on me being there for him. I changed drastically from a sad little girl to a smart confident woman who is ready to overtake my next year in college! I can genuinely say that I couldn't have done it without baby Daniel. Prior to us adopting him my parents could've helped me out with college a little, but now we simply can't afford it. I work every week during the school year and have various jobs over the summer in order to try and pay for college. This summer I have already applied to three jobs so I can make it past my first year of college. Although this is not a challenge I have fixed in my family, I myself believe that I have overcome the pattern. I have been motivated my whole life by my Daniel, it drives me in school, in word, and in life. I am determined to be the new beginning that my relatives and I so desperately need. It's so important to me that I do well in life and get a good education. I will to be the change in my family not just for me, but for Daniel.

My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, or not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is a frequent occurrence for too many women in STEM and I aim to prove that it is not true. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. If I could choose anything to do in my life I would be continuing on my path of learning. For most of my time in high school I thought I didn't want to go to college, I didn't see the point in it and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself that I could just go into a trade, but after I had my junior conference with my counselor Ms. Norris my perspective changed. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all of my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I love school so much, even though waking up early is hard and sometimes it is stressful, school really is the structure in my life that I need. I currently want to major in economics with a minor in applied mathematics. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It definitely put a large dent in my heart for a very long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better succeeding life. I am so ready to start this next portion of my life! I am planning to go into Economics and Applied Mathematics and I couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and I am devoted to a career in it. My enthusiasm about STEM is matched by my ambition to make a tangible impact on the world. The use of economics and mathematics offers a powerful lens through which to understand and address the intricate changes of our world. With the use of my chosen majors I hope to enable a deeper understanding of complex systems, and foster new solutions to provide economic stability and growth. My passion is to enhance the economic wellbeing of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from the effects of poverty. I believe that I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. By applying mathematical modeling and data analysis to economic research, I envision contributing to the development of policies that more effectively address poverty and inequality. These tools can help create more equitable economic systems that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are accessible to anyone and everyone. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and applied mathematics in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change in Milwaukee.

My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, or not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is a frequent occurrence for too many women in STEM and I aim to prove that it is not true. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. If I could choose anything to do in my life I would be continuing on my path of learning. For most of my time in high school I thought I didn't want to go to college, I didn't see the point in it and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself that I could just go into a trade, but after I had my junior conference with my counselor Ms. Norris my perspective changed. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all of my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I love school so much, even though waking up early is hard and sometimes it is stressful, school really is the structure in my life that I need. I currently want to major in economics with a minor in applied mathematics. Not only am I going to college to learn, but also to create a better future for myself and my family. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It definitely put a large dent in my heart for a very long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better succeeding life. I am so ready to start this next portion of my life! I am planning to go into Economics and Applied Mathematics and I couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and I am devoted to a career in it. My enthusiasm about STEM is matched by my ambition to make a tangible impact on the world. The use of economics and mathematics offers a powerful lens through which to understand and address the intricate changes of our world. With the use of my chosen majors I hope to enable a deeper understanding of complex systems, and foster new solutions to provide economic stability and growth. My passion is to enhance the economic wellbeing of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from the effects of poverty. I believe that I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. By applying mathematical modeling and data analysis to economic research, I envision contributing to the development of policies that more effectively address poverty and inequality. These tools can help create more equitable economic systems that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are accessible to anyone and everyone. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and applied mathematics in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change in Milwaukee.

Choosing between Team Conrad or Team Jeremiah is not a simple task. However I find myself firmly aligned with Team Conrad, and it's not just about his brooding looks! Conrad embodies the depth, complexity, and realism of a young girl's first love, especially when it comes to Belly's coming-of-age journey. My commitment to Team Conrad is rooted in his multifaceted nature, which mirrors the bittersweet journey of growing up. Conrad's character is a canvas of vulnerability riddled with hardship, which is a very prominent feeling when one is becoming an adult. I think it is interesting because this is in parallel to Belly's internal battles, like her feelings of invisibility, her newfound change, and her yearning to be seen as more than just a younger sister figure. Conrad's initial aloof behavior isn't indifference, but its a manifestation of his own personal struggles, his mothers spreading cancer, the expectations of being the eldest son, and the weight of reality. The complexity of Conrad's character is what makes him interesting to the audience and he is the imperfect protagonist of Belly's story. He is a relatable person not only to Belly, but to the people watching him. Conrad's character is pivotal for understanding the depth of Belly's own narrative of self-discovery and love. The defining moment for my support of Conrad is the beach bonfire scene, where his usually guarded demeanor slips and he reveals a glimpse of his longing for Belly. The scene depicts the poignant, often painful, beauty of first love-- it is raw and real. Conrad's newcome vulnerable feelings resonate with Belly's own quest for authenticity in relationships and her hope to be loved for who she is and not just a summer fling. Conrad's evolution through the TV series-- from a distant and indifferent character to one who opens up and shows his fears-- shows the process of growing up. It is an outstanding reflection of adolescence to adulthood, made by one's willingness to put forth their emotions. I believe Belly's relationship with Conrad, full of misunderstandings and moments of tenderness, is a metaphor for her own growth. It teaches her patience, the importance of forgiveness, and the courage to face one's fears. The Summer I Turned Pretty is not supposed to be a Cinderella story, it is real and filled with real depictions of love. Conrad is the only brother who she had experienced real love with and pursuit of real love involves struggles.

My younger brother, Daniel, was adopted due to multiple of my family members having serious drug addictions and being involved in sex trafficking ring in Milwaukee. He was born addicted to many health issues and requires a lot of my family's time and money (like good daycare, specialized doctor visits, therapies, and other various things). He has both autism and ADHD, a lot of my time at home is with him. Daniel is such an amazing boy, he just needs some extra love and care. I love him with all my heart, but a good portion of my family's earnings is spent on him, putting us in a strange financial situation. Daniel is the most important person in my life, and there is truly no one in this world that I am closer to. Before Daniel was born I was a young girl with very serious mental health issues and even contemplated ending my own life. Daniel's kindness and ability to survive throughout all of the challenges that life has thrown him has forever changed me, he has set me on a path of love. Being his older sister, or "yaya" as he calls me, is something that has melted my heart. I know that he follows my actions and relies on me being there for him. I changed drastically from a sad little girl to a smart confident woman who is ready to overtake my next year in college! I can genuinely say that I couldn't have done it without baby Daniel. Prior to us adopting him my parents could've helped me out with college a little, but now we simply can't afford it. I work every week during the school year and have various jobs over the summer in order to try and pay for college. This summer I have already applied to three jobs so I can make it past my first year of college. Although this is not a challenge I have fixed in my family, I myself believe that I have overcome the pattern. I have been motivated my whole life by my Daniel, it drives me in school, in word, and in life. I am determined to be the new beginning that my relatives and I so desperately need. It's so important to me that I do well in life and get a good education. I need to be the change in my family not just for me, but for Daniel.

My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young woman who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, or not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is a frequent occurrence for too many women in STEM and I aim to prove that it is not true. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either side of my family and I couldn't be more proud. If I could choose anything to do in my life I would be continuing on my path of learning. For most of my time in high school I thought I didn't want to go to college, I didn't see the point in it and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself that I could just go into a trade, but after I had my junior conference with my counselor Ms. Norris my perspective changed. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn. I spent all of my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I love school so much, even though waking up early is hard and sometimes it is stressful, school really is the structure in my life that I need. I currently want to major in economics with a minor in applied mathematics. Not only am I going to college to learn, but also to create a better future for myself and my family. My family had relied on things like WIC (women, infants, and children's nutrition plan) to feed my baby brother when we got him and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost loved ones both physically and mentally. It definitely put a large dent in my heart for a very long time, but I try to use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better succeeding life. I am so ready to start this next portion of my life! I am planning to go into Economics and Applied Mathematics and I couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and I am devoted to a career in it. My enthusiasm about STEM is matched by my ambition to make a tangible impact on the world. The use of economics and mathematics offers a powerful lens through which to understand and address the intricate changes of our world. With the use of my chosen majors I hope to enable a deeper understanding of complex systems, and foster new solutions to provide economic stability and growth. My passion is to enhance the economic wellbeing of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from the effects of poverty. I believe that I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because it's heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. By applying mathematical modeling and data analysis to economic research, I envision contributing to the development of policies that more effectively address poverty and inequality. These tools can help create more equitable economic systems that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are accessible to anyone and everyone. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and applied mathematics in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change in Milwaukee.

1) My past is the main motivator of my future. I am a young women who has constantly been told that I am not smart enough, or not pretty enough, or not headstrong enough for the careers I have been interested in. This is a frequent occurrence for too many women in STEM and I aim prove that it is not true. I will be the first woman going into STEM on either sides of my family and I couldn't be more proud. If I could choose anything to do in my life I would be continuing on my path of learning. For most of my time in high school I thought I didn't want to go to college, I didn't see the point in it and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself that I could just go into a trade, but after I had my junior conference with my counselor Ms. Norris my perspective changed. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn, I spent all of my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I love school, so much, even though waking up early is hard and sometimes it is stressful, school really is the structure in my life that I need. I currently want to major in economics with a minor in applied mathematics. Not only am I going to college to learn, but also to create a better future for myself and my family. My family had relied on things like WIC (woman, infants, and children's nutrition plan) to feed my baby brother when we got him and life has been full of financial burdens, college being one of them. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost love ones both physically and mentally. It definitely put a large dent in my heart for a very long time, but I try and use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better succeeding life. I am so ready to start this next portion of my life! 2) I am planning to go into Economics and Applied Mathematics and I couldn't be more thrilled! I have spent years doing internships and clubs relating to STEM and I am devoted to a career in it. My enthusiasm about STEM is matched by my ambition to make a tangible impact on the world. The use of economics and mathematics offers a powerful lens through which to understand and address the intricate changes of our world. With the use of my chosen majors I hope to enable a deeper understanding of complex systems, and foster new solutions to provide economic stability and growth. My passion is to enhance the economic wellbeing of my city, Milwaukee, which struggled daily from the effects of poverty. I believe that I could change the city I know and love for the better through my future career because its heart-wrenching to see how my city is divided and torn apart by economic status. By applying mathematical modeling and data analysis to economic research, I envision contributing to the development of policies that more effectively address poverty and inequality. These tools can help create more equitable economic systems that balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are accessible to anyone and everyone. Ultimately, my excitement for economics and applied mathematics in STEM is rooted in their capacity to empower societies. I was born in Milwaukee, I live in Milwaukee, I will graduate in Milwaukee, and I will bring change in Milwaukee. 3) My younger brother, Daniel, was adopted due to multiple of my family members having serious drug addictions and being involved in sex trafficking ring in Milwaukee. He was born addicted with many health issues and requires a lot of my family's time and money (like good daycare, specialized doctor visits, therapies, and other various things). He has both autism and ADHD, a lot of my time at home is with him. Daniel is such an amazing boy, he just needs some extra love and care. I love him with all my heart, but a good portion of my family's earnings is spent on him, putting us in a strange financial situation. Prior to us adopting him my parents could've helped me out with college, but now we simply can't afford it. I work every week during the school year and have various jobs over the summer in order to try and pay for college. This summer I have already applied to three jobs so I can make it past my first year of college. Although this is not a challenge I have fixed in my family, I myself believe that I have overcome the pattern. I have been motivated my whole life by my family, it drives me in school, in word, and in life. I am determined to be the new beginning for that my relatives and I so desperately need. It's so important to me that I do well in life and get a good education. I need to be the change in my family not just for me, but for Daniel.

My younger brother, Daniel, was adopted due to multiple of my family members having serious drug addictions and being involved in sex trafficking ring in Milwaukee. He was born addicted with many health issues and requires a lot of my family's time and money (like good daycare, specialized doctor visits, therapies, and other various things). He has both autism and ADHD, a lot of my time at home is with him. Daniel is such an amazing boy, he just needs some extra love and care. I love him with all my heart, but a good portion of my family's earnings is spent on him, putting us in a strange financial situation. Prior to us adopting him my parents could've helped me out with college, but now we simply can't afford it. I work every week and have various jobs over the summer in order to try and pay for college. This summer I have already applied to three jobs so I can make it past my first year of college. It's so important to me that I do well in life and get a good education. I need to be the change in my family not just for me, but for Daniel. For most of my time in high school I thought I didn't want to go to college, I didn't see the point in it and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself that I could just go into a trade, but after I had my junior conference with my counselor Ms. Norris my perspective changed. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn, I spent all of my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I love school, so much, even though waking up early is hard and sometimes it is stressful, school really is the structure in my life that I need. I currently want to major in economics with a minor in computer science, which is a topic I have gotten into after I interned at UWM. I am hoping to maybe get a PhD after I complete my bachelors! Not only am I going to college to learn, but also to create a better future for myself and my family. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost love ones both physically and mentally. It definitely put a large dent in my heart for a very long time, but I try and use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better succeeding life. I am so ready to start this next portion of my life!

My younger brother, Daniel, was adopted due to multiple of my family members having serious drug addictions and being involved in sex trafficking ring in Milwaukee. He was born addicted with many health issues and requires a lot of my family's time and money (like good daycare, specialized doctor visits, therapies, and other various things). He has both autism and ADHD, a lot of my time at home is with him. Daniel is such an amazing boy, he just needs some extra love and care. I love him with all my heart, but a good portion of my family's earnings is spent on him, putting us in a strange financial situation. Prior to us adopting him my parents could've helped me out with college, but now we simply can't afford it. I work every week and have various jobs over the summer in order to try and pay for college. This summer I have already applied to three jobs so I can make it past my first year of college. It's so important to me that I do well in life and get a good education. I need to be the change in my family not just for me, but for Daniel. For most of my time in high school I thought I didn't want to go to college, I didn't see the point in it and I couldn't afford it anyway. I had convinced myself that I could just go into a trade, but after I had my junior conference with my counselor Ms. Norris my perspective changed. She pointed out to me how much I loved to learn, I spent all of my life taking hard classes not because I wanted good grades, but because I love learning. I love school, so much, even though waking up early is hard and sometimes it is stressful, school really is the structure in my life that I need. I currently want to major in economics with a minor in computer science, which is a topic I have gotten into after I interned at UWM. I am hoping to maybe get a PhD after I complete my bachelors! Not only am I going to college to learn, but also to create a better future for myself and my family. I want to be the person to put my family on a better track. My life has been filled with the tragedies of addiction, an all-to-common occurrence in Milwaukee, I have lost love ones both physically and mentally. It definitely put a large dent in my heart for a very long time, but I try and use it to remind myself to keep going. College is my next step in life because it will help me provide a better succeeding life. I am so ready to start this next portion of my life!