If there's one thing history has taught me, it is that every powerful change starts with a voice bold enough to change what is considered to be society's Norm. My name is Daniella, and my journey through political science, cultural anthropology, and history isn't just academic; it's a personal, transformational, and the foundation of the plan I have to create a welcoming, inclusive work environment. I hope that I am the Catalyst that makes a change globally. I recently spent a summer at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo studying political science. I am determined to learn the system and change it from the inside out. For that, I need to know how the foundation was initially constructed. This is something I learned very early on in my elementary school days, when I began studying Greek and Egyptian mythology, which later led to a deeper dive into their cultures. They're rich history intrigued me. it was during my middle school years that I began to recognize just how deep of an impact the Greek history and the Egyptians have had on our world here in the United States. I became truly passionate about how even the smallest class discussion, which would quickly turn into a fiery debate, was an activity I loved. It reminded me of what I had learned about ancient cultures and how they must have had similar conversations and discussions during their time. With thoughts of the similarities between then and now, I maintained my convictions and didn't shy away from controversy. I dove into it first, challenging ideas and bracing myself for complex arguments, and learning that political discourse, when done respectfully, is one of the most powerful tools for change, just like it was back then. I also learned that the law isn't just text on paper; it's a living, breathing force that shapes the lives of each citizen. Being able to experience the local government's meetings firsthand or watching a local trial was like seeing theory and practice collide in real time; it was invigorating. It made me think about the civilizations of Egypt and Greece. Their contributions to governance philosophy and even the infrastructure that continued to shape the modern world as it is today. from the intricate Egyptian legal system to the birth of democracy and ancient Athens , I've learned that civilizations don't just Rise by accident, they rise through Innovation collaboration and an understanding of human needs across diverse groups. These lessons taught me that progress isn't made by ignoring history but learning from it, improving upon it, and adapting in pivotal ways. Ryan T Herich believed in the same ideals, a curiosity about the physical world, the movements of history, and a spark of politics. Like Ryan, I'm driven by a desire to understand how people in the past shaped history, not merely to admire them, but to build upon their successes and address their failures. My goal is to create an inclusive work environment that empowers people from all backgrounds and abilities, not just within the company I will lead one day, but across industries. I want to work to change laws that allow discrimination in some form or another to persist. I want to shift the culture to educate business leaders and build policies that ensure Equity isn't just a buzzword, but a reality. It is impossible to do that without a deep understanding of the historical essence of the workplace, the forces of politics, and the foundations of our human societies.

Reflecting on a time when I actively contributed to my community brings to mind the values exemplified by Jorge Campos. I admire Don Jorge as he had a remarkable knack for anticipating the needs of others. He often went above and beyond to help those around him, even if it meant straying from the original request. His calm demeanor, quick wit, and ability to lighten situations with humor made him a beloved figure in his community. I admire how Don Jorge blended his patience with firm guidance to create an environment filled with support, and what seems to be growth within everyone he encountered. During a particularly challenging period in my life, I took very similar actions to Don Jorge’s. I focused on helping fellow students at my school who were struggling emotionally and mentally. This commitment not only allowed me to divert my attention from my difficulties but also opened my eyes to the brighter side of each day's struggles. As I engaged with others, I realized that my selfless efforts were mutually beneficial, creating a sense of purpose and community on campus. Where once I felt unseen and unable to fit in, I felt valuable, as I had a purpose. My classmates and I found that tough love isn't mean but supportive. I always tried to help them see the humor in any given situation, and when anxiety began, I showed them a positive perspective of the situation. One of the significant tools I employed was teaching my peers about Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) coping skills. In sharing these skills, I was reminded to actively practice them in my own life. I learned the importance of mindfulness, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness, which significantly improved my perspective. Listening to the struggles of others helped to alleviate my feelings of isolation, making me feel more connected and supported. Each smile and moment of gratitude from those I assisted brightened my day, reinforcing the idea that helping others can also lead to personal healing. My actions in this period went beyond simply providing support; they demonstrated my commitment to service, positivity, and the fostering of unity within my community. Engaging with my peers allowed us to build a stronger bond, creating an atmosphere of shared experiences and mutual understanding. Moreover, this experience has had a profound influence on my personal growth and aspirations. I have come to understand that community service is not just about assisting others; it’s also about learning and growing together. This journey has inspired me to continue advocating for mental health awareness and support within my community, emphasizing the importance of compassion, empathy, and connection. Through this ongoing commitment, I aspire to embody the spirit of Don Jorge, continuously striving to make a positive impact in the lives of those around me. Thank you for considering me for this scholarship.