I chose my major in electrical engineering at Kansas State University based on my intense curiosity, my passion for mathematics and my fascination for science fiction. Since childhood, I’ve loved finding out how things worked. I used to build and rebuild clocks and radios, trying to understand the wiring. I even created pulley systems in my room, trying to make doors close and sensors. Engineering allowed me to harness this innate curiosity and inquisitiveness. I found satisfaction in seeing a project go from problem to idea to prototype to the final project. While in middle school and high school, I took many engineering courses, such as civil engineering and digital electronics. These only reinforced how much I loved creating things through math applications and seeing the process from a simple sketch to a working prototype. Alongside the amazing curriculum, the support and love for the engineering of teachers from these classes encouraged me further to pursue a job in the field. Additionally, I find the study of mathematics incredible from the application of derivatives to graphing fractals. Although I had always found math to be an easy subject, understanding how theorems are proven in high school courses pushed my passion for math further. I enjoy the challenge that math presents and my innate curiosity encourages me to want to understand concepts even if they initially seem too complex. Other classes I took in high school, like physics, showed me how mathematical principles translated into the real world. Hence, I looked for a job that would allow me to continue using my appreciation for the subject. Engineering has always been a math-heavy field, so I knew I wanted to pursue a career as an engineer myself, or as someone working close to them. After taking various classes in architecture, civil engineering and robotics, I found logic and thinking in electrical engineering to peak my interest the most. I thoroughly relished the opportunity to go from a simple truth table to a working and fully functional circuit. Ultimately, through electrical engineering, I’ll be able to use math to continue the development of society, using my knowledge to help others. Finally, I’ve been an avid reader since elementary, usually reading 2-3 grades above mine. Science fiction tended to draw my attention, growing my imagination of what could be possible. Hence, I viewed engineering as a bridge between what we only imagined could be real to reality. For example, engineers made it possible to be driven and parked by a car, allowed us to see someone who is across the world in real-time and created a vaccine for a pandemic in less than a year. Being an engineer would allow me to fix the unfixable and help shape the future in what older generations could only dream about. The broadness of the field of electrical engineering will allow me to constantly be confronted with new problems and challenges to fix, never getting bored of applying my passions at my job. Consequently, my choice of major genuinely stemmed from my childhood interests, academic passions and a desire to push the technology of today to the future.

Being a first-generation college student holds immense importance to me, not only as an individual but also as a representative of the family I have created through my close-knit group of friends. Although I no longer have a close connection with my blood family, I have been fortunate enough to find friendships that feel like family. My desire to pursue an engineering degree is fueled by a combination of my passion for mathematics, the impact of being a first-generation student, and the prospect of making a meaningful contribution to society through my chosen field. Mathematics has always been my greatest passion and a driving force behind my academic pursuits. The beauty of numbers, the elegance of mathematical proofs, and the logic of problem-solving have captivated me from a young age. Throughout high school, I actively participated in math competitions, consistently challenging myself to solve complex mathematical problems and pushing the boundaries of my mathematical knowledge. These experiences not only deepened my love for mathematics but also honed my critical thinking skills and ability to approach challenges with a logical mindset. In college, I have further pursued my passion for mathematics by minoring in the subject. The rigorous coursework and advanced mathematical concepts have expanded my understanding of the discipline and allowed me to delve into areas such as abstract algebra, calculus, and mathematical modeling. Through my coursework, I have developed a strong foundation in mathematical principles and techniques that are essential in the field of engineering. To foster my enthusiasm for mathematics and create a community of like-minded individuals, I took on the role of president of the math club in high school. As the president, I organized engaging and interactive events, including math workshops, problem-solving sessions, and state-wide competitions. These activities have not only allowed me to share my passion for mathematics with others but also provided a platform for students to enhance their mathematical skills and foster a sense of camaraderie among math enthusiasts. Being actively involved in math competitions throughout high school and continuing to participate in the math club in college has further reinforced my commitment to pursuing an engineering degree. Mathematics serves as the backbone of engineering, providing the tools and problem-solving strategies necessary for innovation and advancement in the field. The ability to apply mathematical principles to real-world challenges, analyze complex systems, and develop practical solutions is at the core of engineering. Combining my love for constant challenges and seeing the results of weeks of hard work made pursuing a career in engineering a perfect fit for me. Starting in middle school, I took numerous engineering courses, such as civil engineering and digital electronics, among others. These experiences reinforced my passion for creating things through mathematical applications and witnessing the process from a simple sketch to a working prototype. Alongside the incredible curriculum and the support of dedicated teachers, I was encouraged to pursue a major in engineering. With engineering, I hold the potential to have a career in something I am passionate about and share my success story with others as proof that one's background can change the journey but doesn't define the destination. As a first-generation college student, I am aware of the impact I can make as an ambassador for those who come from similar backgrounds. I strive to inspire and support other first-generation students who have a passion for mathematics and engineering. By sharing my own experiences and providing guidance, I hope to empower them to pursue their academic and career aspirations, just as my chosen family has empowered me. Additionally, as an aspiring engineer, I recognize the significance of leadership skills in my field. To further develop my abilities in this area, I am actively pursuing a leadership minor and actively seeking executive positions in the organizations and clubs I am involved in. I firmly believe that effective communication and strong leadership are crucial for engineers to collaborate, coordinate projects, and drive innovation. By honing my leadership skills, I aim to not only excel in my academic and professional endeavors but also to inspire and guide others toward achieving their goals. Through these experiences, I am confident that I will be well-equipped to effectively communicate and lead multidisciplinary teams, fostering a collaborative and productive environment within the engineering field. In conclusion, as a first-generation college student with a deep passion for mathematics, pursuing an engineering degree is not only a personal goal but also an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to society. My involvement in math competitions, leadership in the math club, and my minor in mathematics have solidified my commitment to these disciplines. With the support of my chosen family and my unwavering determination, I am ready to embark on this educational journey, leveraging my mathematical knowledge and engineering skills to address real-world challenges and create a positive impact.

I chose my major in electrical engineering at Kansas State University based on my intense curiosity, my passion for mathematics and my fascination for science fiction. Since childhood, I’ve loved finding out how things worked. I used to build and rebuild clocks and radios, trying to understand the wiring. I even created pulley systems in my room, trying to make doors close and sensors. Engineering allowed me to harness this innate curiosity and inquisitiveness. I found satisfaction in seeing a project go from problem to idea to prototype to the final project. While in middle school and high school, I took many engineering courses, such as civil engineering and digital electronics. These only reinforced how much I loved creating things through math applications and seeing the process from a simple sketch to a working prototype. Alongside the amazing curriculum, the support and love for the engineering of teachers from these classes encouraged me further to pursue a job in the field. Additionally, I find the study of mathematics incredible from the application of derivatives to graphing fractals. Although I had always found math to be an easy subject, understanding how theorems are proven in high school courses pushed my passion for math further. I enjoy the challenge that math presents and my innate curiosity encourages me to want to understand concepts even if they initially seem too complex. Other classes I took in high school, like physics, showed me how mathematical principles translated into the real world. Hence, I looked for a job that would allow me to continue using my appreciation for the subject. Engineering has always been a math-heavy field, so I knew I wanted to pursue a career as an engineer myself, or as someone working close to them. After taking various classes in architecture, civil engineering and robotics, I found logic and thinking in electrical engineering to peak my interest the most. I thoroughly relished the opportunity to go from a simple truth table to a working and fully functional circuit. Ultimately, through electrical engineering, I’ll be able to use math to continue the development of society, using my knowledge to help others. Finally, I’ve been an avid reader since elementary, usually reading 2-3 grades above mine. Science fiction tended to draw my attention, growing my imagination of what could be possible. Hence, I viewed engineering as a bridge between what we only imagined could be real to reality. For example, engineers made it possible to be driven and parked by a car, allowed us to see someone who is across the world in real-time and created a vaccine for a pandemic in less than a year. Being an engineer would allow me to fix the unfixable and help shape the future in what older generations could only dream about. The broadness of the field of electrical engineering will allow me to constantly be confronted with new problems and challenges to fix, never getting bored of applying my passions at my job. Consequently, my choice of major genuinely stemmed from my childhood interests, academic passions and a desire to push the technology of today to the future.

Although many may see leadership as a simple hierarchy between someone in charge and those who follow, effective leadership stems from social influence and brings people of all backgrounds and circumstances together towards a common goal. A leader seeks both the greater good for those around them and personal growth. Their commitment in time and efforts proves their intrinsic enthusiasm towards the mission and its objectives. For example, I demonstrate my commitment towards providing safe, affordable housing towards my community by spending time off school and work volunteering at programs such as Habitat for Humanity. Additionally, good leadership unites through common values, while recognizing and values diversity in decision-making. To do so, they both balance keeping stability and encouraging change alongside the world around them. For instance, I had the opportunity to help with a Kitchen Project, where families and individuals in need could reach out and be given a “kit,” or a tub packed full of essential gently used or new kitchen items. Throughout, I experienced how something as pivotal as kitchen tools and equipment better someone’s life, bring together a community and build trust between families who have never even met before. Hence, strong leadership displays perspective, creativity, communication and determination. In order to best resolve issues, using empathy to best understand possible restrictions and both advantages and disadvantages to solutions. Thus, as a co-president for Book Club, I ensured the safety of all our members during the pandemic by only allowing pre-wrapped foods and snacks. Additionally, we continued to maintain social distance in consideration of members with compromised immune systems. Furthermore, through using input from all members and their own creativity, communication between an organization reflects capable leadership. While helping on the Kitchen Restore project I took on a leadership role to organize a packing day for a high school class where students would have the opportunity to pack as many kits as possible. With strong communication skills between the students and the benefited members of our community, the impact in people’s lives grew beyond kitchen supplies. Finally, a leader proves themselves in their determination to ensure the solution implementation and organization's goal achievement. Similarly, I ensured all members involved with the Kitchen Restore project found satisfaction in making a difference, not just in providing a better furnished kitchen, but in uniting them with a common cause. Ultimately, leadership for me is beyond being a Habitat for Humanity volunteer, Book Club co-president and leader in community service projects; leadership is the connection I make with others while working to make the world a better place, little by little.

I actually chose my major of electrical engineering at Kansas State University based on my intense curiosity, my passion for mathematics and my fascination for science fiction. Since childhood, I’ve loved finding out how things worked. I used to build and rebuild clocks and radios, trying to understand the wiring. I even created pulley systems in my room, trying to make doors close and sensors. Engineering allowed me to harness this innate curiosity and inquisitiveness. I found satisfaction in seeing a project go from problem to idea to prototype to final project. While in middle school and high school, I took many engineering courses, such as civil engineering and digital electronics. These only reinforced how much I loved creating things through math application, and seeing the process from a simple sketch to a working prototype. Alongside the amazing curriculum, the support and love for engineering of teachers from these classes encouraged me further to pursue a job in the field. Additionally, I find the study of mathematics incredible from the application of derivatives to graphing fractals. Although I had always found math to be an easy subject, understanding how theorems are proven in high school courses pushed my passion for math further. Personally, I enjoy the challenge that math presents and my innate curiosity encourages me to want to understand concepts even if they initially seem too complex. Other classes I took in high school, like physics, showed me how mathematical principles translated into the real world. Hence, I looked for a job that would allow me to continue using my appreciation for the subject. Engineering has always been a math-heavy field, so I knew I wanted to pursue a career as an engineer myself, or as someone working close to them. After taking various classes in architecture, civil engineering and robotics, I found logic and thinking in electrical engineering to peak my interest the most. I thoroughly relished the opportunity to go from a simple truth table to a working and fully functional circuit. Ultimately, through electrical engineering, I’ll be able to use math to continue the development of society, using my knowledge to help others. Finally, I’ve been an avid reader since elementary, usually reading 2-3 grades above mine. Science fiction tended to draw my attention, growing my imagination in what could be possible. Hence, I viewed engineering as a bridge between what we only imagined could be real to reality. For example, engineers made it possible to be driven and parked by a car, allowed us to see someone who is across the world in real time and created a vaccine for a pandemic in less than a year. Being an engineer would allow me to fix the unfixable and help shape the future in what older generations could only dream about. The broadness of the field of electrical engineering will allow me to constantly be confronted with new problems and challenges to fix, never getting bored of applying my passions at my own job. Consequently, my choice of a math-heavy major stemmed from my curiosity, love for the principles of math and a desire to push the technology of today to the future.

This past summer, I had the opportunity to volunteer at my local Habitat for Humanity and personally saw the difference the use of STEM in real world application makes on real people. For these months, I helped finalize homes through general construction work, assisting in electrical work and touching up the finished homes. However, what impacted me the most was the people I met while volunteering. The people I met impacted me with their inspiring stories of facing challenges and not only overcoming them, but finding ways to improve their lives nonetheless. For example, I met a single mother with three children who had recently moved from South Africa. From working multiple jobs to raising her children, she still found time to volunteer to ensure her children would one day live in a proper home. Hearing her heartfelt story alongside numerous others, explaining how they came to be a partner family with Habitat for Humanity and the struggles that ultimately defined the person they are today, touched me personally. I was able to first-hand experience the effect a project worked on by many engineers, contractors and construction workers had on an individual's life. Additionally, after hearing numerous stories from mothers, fathers, and children, I learned the impact STEM knowledge can make. This non-profit organization gives much more than just a home to families, it gives them a new chapter in their lives and an opportunity they otherwise might have never gotten. I currently aspire to continue with Habitat for Humanity and expand my use of science, technology, engineering and mathematics to benefit my local community. From constructing homes to finding new solutions for affordable water sources to using solar energy to lower a neighborhood’s electricity cost, the application of engineering principles truly has no limit to their practical use. Throughout my university experience, my priorities lie in both advancing my skill levels and education in conjunction with volunteering and helping people on a personal level. This way, I better understand the problems they confront and possible solutions on a larger scale. After graduating with a civil engineering degree, more opportunities will open for me, giving me more chances to help people worldwide through non-profit organizations, such as Engineers without Borders. Consequently, my STEM education allows me now and will continue to encourage me to personally help people locally, regionally and even internationally, focusing on providing safe and affordable housing for all people.

1. This past summer, I had the opportunity to volunteer at my local Habitat for Humanity and personally saw the difference I could make on real people. For these months, I helped finalize homes through general construction work, assisting in electrical work and touching up the finished homes. However, what impacted me the most was the people I met while volunteering. The people I met impacted me with their inspiring stories of facing challenges and not only overcoming them, but finding ways to improve their lives nonetheless. For example, I met a single mother with three children who had recently moved from South Africa. From working multiple jobs to raising her children, she still found time to volunteer to ensure her children would one day live in a proper home. Hearing her heartfelt story alongside numerous others, explaining how they came to be a partner family with Habitat for Humanity and the struggles that ultimately defined the person they are today, touched me personally. I was able to first-hand experience the effect a project worked on by many engineers, contractors and construction workers had on an individual's life. This non-profit organization gives much more than just a home to families, it gives them a new chapter in their lives and an opportunity they otherwise might have never gotten. Hence, this single mother didn’t just gain a house, she gained a community of people who care. 2. I chose my major of electrical engineering at Kansas State University based on my intense curiosity, my passion for mathematics and my fascination for science fiction. Since childhood, I’ve loved finding out how things worked. Engineering allowed me to harness this innate curiosity and inquisitiveness. Additionally, I find the study of mathematics incredible from the application of derivatives to graphing fractals. I enjoy the challenge that math presents and my innate curiosity encourages me to want to understand concepts even if they initially seem too complex. Other classes I took in high school, like physics, showed me how mathematical principles translated into the real world. Hence, I looked for a job that would allow me to continue using my appreciation for the subject. After taking various classes in architecture, civil engineering and robotics, I found logic and thinking in electrical engineering to peak my interest the most. Ultimately, through electrical engineering, I’ll be able to use math to continue the development of society, using my knowledge to help others. Finally, I’ve been an avid reader since elementary, usually reading 2-3 grades above mine. Hence, I viewed engineering as a bridge between what we only imagined could be real to reality. Being an engineer would allow me to fix the unfixable and help shape the future in what older generations could only dream about. Consequently, my choice of major genuinely stemmed from my childhood interests, academic passions and a desire to push the technology of today to the future. 3. As a child, you are taught to always obey your parents, because they know best. Therefore, I had no reason to question the religion my parents instilled on me growing up. At 12 years old, I dedicated my whole life to the organization with my baptism, not fully understanding the ramifications it would have. The stress put on a middle school child grew to a substation burden, and my own mental health paid the price. When I reached out to the people I had admired my whole life, they only criticized my faith, telling me to just pray more. Fortunately, I found support and the help I needed in friends from school, counselors and many more who I owe my life to. Their constant empathy opened my eyes to stop seeing the world as black and white. The love instilled into me for the organization slowly broke down and I saw more and more reasons to grow weary of the teachings I once believed whole-heartedly. Despite the threats and fear of losing my family, at 15 years old, I publicly renounced my association with the religion. For the upcoming months, my family swung between shunning me and berating me with verbal abuse. Despite all this, leaving the stringent religion allowed me to finally work on myself, develop true friendships and find my own voice. As the days pass, my confidence in my action to disassociate with the organization only strengthens. Ultimately, I am living a life I am proud of. No matter what I may face in the future, I am assured that I will always stand up for what’s right rather than stay seated in ignorance.