To me, caregiving has always meant doing something for someone not because you have to, but because you love and care about them. It’s never felt like a chore or an obligation—it’s something that comes from the heart. I care for my father, who is legally blind and has been since birth. All my life, I’ve done my best to take care of him the way he has always taken care of me. Growing up, I quickly realized that my family was different from many others. While my dad couldn’t drive or do certain things on his own, he never let that stop him from living a full life or supporting others. In fact, he was a caregiver in his own way. He was deeply involved in the community—leading as president of the Ecuadorian Club of Las Vegas, working in journalism, and helping others at the Blind Center of Nevada. He often brought me with him, and through those experiences, I met people who struggled with basic daily tasks but didn’t always have someone to help them. Watching my dad give so much of himself to others, even while managing his own challenges, taught me what real caregiving looks like: selflessness, compassion, and showing up for people no matter what. My dad walked me to school every day and returned home on his own with his white cane. As I got older, I helped more—cooking, cleaning, guiding him to appointments, translating documents or conversations, and reading him the daily news. None of these things felt like tasks—they were just how we supported each other. And through those years, I became more aware of the people around us, especially those who lacked the support system we had. That awareness made me more patient, more empathetic, and more committed to helping others. These experiences have shaped who I am today. I’m a Communications major at UNLV, working toward a career in journalism and U.S. politics. I want to continue telling stories that matter and one day create a nonprofit organization to support people in underserved communities. This scholarship means more than just financial help—it’s a chance to keep moving forward, to share my story, and to make a difference. While I have always had emotional support from my family, financial support has been limited. My father has been unemployed since I was born, and my mother has worked minimum-wage jobs for over 20 years. Receiving this scholarship would lift a huge burden and allow me to focus on my education, knowing that someone believes in my potential.

Growing up I felt so incredibly tiny. Not physically, I was actually very tall for my age. Elementary is a time when our minds are so pure and innocent. For a while I was too, then 4th grade came along. I could tell popular from nerdy. I was somehow labeled as weird. Too tall, poor clothing, no friends, I was just kind of there. I existed but no one really knew. Why was I treated so crudely? As I kept explaining to my parents that I did not want to go to school, they were confused because I always loved going and learning something new every day. I concluded by just pushing my feelings aside so I would not make them feel bad. They gave me enough and all they could afford and even as a 9-year old I could understand that they were trying. As time passed by it somehow became the middle of the school year. Yes! Halfway done, then one day. On a random Wednesday morning, a new girl appears. Everyone automatically wanted to be her friend. She was taller than the other kids, she had radical clothes and pretty, long, sleeked, curled hair. She sat next to me, I did not think she would even say hi. She just talked and talked to me, making me feel as if I belonged. I couldn't help but smile from ear to ear. She even invited me to play with her in recess. That was one of the happiest days I ever experienced. Such little things can go a long way, even if it sounds corny. A Lot of the time we don't know what someone could be going through and even just with a wave you can make someone smile and brighten their day. I believe that kindness should be taught to all kids as they grow up. School is usually where we start to figure out who we are. How we treat others and if we can humble ourselves enough to make sure everyone feels included. We could all strengthen each other and build up the confidence to make an impact on different lives. Even if it is scary, even if we move in silence. It's one of the most important aspects of the time we have here on this earth. If we keep pushing others down, no one will succeed. Together we are stronger than alone.