As a first-generation college student and the daughter of immigrant parents, my journey through higher education has been shaped by learning everything from scratch, often without a roadmap. I am currently a rising senior at Sacred Heart University pursuing a dual degree in Psychology and Organizational Development with minors in Catholic Studies, Human Resource Management, and Women’s Gender & Sexuality Studies. While I am proud of my academic path, I am even more aware that every step I take has been built through trial, observation, and persistence rather than inherited guidance. Growing up, I learned that education was both an opportunity and a responsibility. My parents worked long hours in physically demanding jobs to support our family, and while they deeply valued education, they did not have the experience to guide me through college systems, applications, or financial aid. I had to learn how to navigate deadlines, requirements, and expectations on my own while also figuring out how to balance school with family responsibilities at home. As a commuter student, I decided to stay close to home so I could help care for my sister, who has autism, and reduce financial strain on my family. That choice meant longer days, earlier mornings, and constant balancing, but it also grounded me in purpose. What I have learned most as a first-generation student is that success is not only about intelligence, but about access to information and support. I have seen how easily students from backgrounds like mine can feel out of place in higher education, not because they lack ability, but because they lack guidance. That realization is what motivates me to be the kind of support I once needed. That made me become a College Access Coach for Let's Get Ready, a nonprofit organization whose goal is to assist high school students from low-income communities across the U.S. to have access to resources needed for them to feel prepared for college. I was a part of their program as a participant, and they've changed my life for the better. During my junior year of college, I applied to be a College Access Coach to give that same experience to other students who were in my shoes as well. On campus, I have committed myself to becoming that source of guidance for others. As a First-Year Experience Teaching Assistant, Orientation Leader, and Peer Tutor, I work directly with students who are navigating the same confusion I once felt. I help them understand academic expectations, adjust to college life, and access financial aid and resources. Many of the students I support are first-generation as well, and I often see the relief that comes when someone simply explains things that others assume they already know. My goal is to continue using my experiences to inspire and empower other first-generation students, especially those who feel uncertain about whether they belong in higher education. I want them to see that not having a roadmap does not disqualify them; It simply means they are creating one. Through mentorship, academic support, and eventually a career in psychology and organizational development, I hope to build systems that make higher education more accessible and less isolating for students who come after me. To me, being first-generation is not a limitation—it is a responsibility. I want to use my education not only to benefit myself, but to ensure that the path becomes clearer for those who are still learning how to take their first steps.

Fridays at Holy Grove University always felt split in two. Some students rushed toward weekend freedom, while others moved like they were carrying the whole semester on their shoulders. Elena Torres walked quietly between them, her bag snug against her hip, eyes lowered as she entered the nursing building. She moved with the calm precision people expected from a nurse’s daughter, because that was the life everyone assumed she would live. Her mother had been a practical nurse—tired, steady, proud. “Your madre would be proud,” people often said, as if the words alone could shape Elena into someone else. But Elena carried something she never said aloud: she loved plants. Behind campus, past a rusted fence, she had created a hidden garden. It was the only place that felt like hers. In the lab under fluorescent lights, Elena worked carefully. “Excellent technique,” Dr. Patel said after her demonstration. “Your mother would be proud.” The words followed her home. At night, she repeated what she always heard in her head: Be strong. Keep going. But in the garden, she didn’t have to exert strength. The space was imperfect—some plants thriving, others struggling—but it felt honest. A young tree she had planted in her first year had grown enough to catch light. She tended it quietly, as if it understood her. Each visit, the garden reflected her back. Weeds felt like intrusive thoughts. Thorns felt like family expectations. Wilted flowers looked like the parts of herself she kept buried. “You must keep the legacy,” the voice in her mind insisted. “You owe it.” Elena didn’t answer it. She just kept working. A psychology professor once wrote INNER NARRATIVES on the board and said, “We inherit voices. Some we keep. Some we unlearn.” Elena wrote it down and never forgot it. Over time, she visited the garden less. Exams piled up. Family expectations grew heavier. At home, pride in her nursing path was constant, layered with stories of sacrifice and duty. She smiled through it, feeling split between who she was and who she was expected to be. One night after a difficult exam, she returned to the garden. It was overgrown. Weeds had spread. The thorn bush leaned into the path. Even the small bud she had been caring for looked unchanged, still waiting. “I don’t know who I’m supposed to be,” she whispered. “Or which voice is mine.” The answer came to her mind: obligation, legacy, sacrifice. But she didn’t leave. She knelt and pulled one weed. Then another. The action was small, but it grounded her. She watered the soil, wrapped a cut finger from a thorn, and stayed longer than she planned. “I don’t have to decide everything tonight,” she said quietly. “But I can still be here.” Something in her chest loosened—not fixed, but softened. She began returning more often. Not to solve everything, but to care for one part at a time. Slowly, the garden responded in small ways that only she noticed. And then, one day, the bud opened. Not dramatically. Not all at once. Just a quiet unfolding. Elena didn’t see it as a conclusion. She saw it as permission. She didn’t change her life overnight. She stayed a little longer each time she returned. And for the first time, she believed that becoming herself didn’t mean abandoning everything she came from—but learning, carefully, what was truly hers to carry.

As the daughter of immigrant parents and a first-generation college student, my education represents far more than a personal achievement. It represents generations of sacrifice, resilience, and hope for a better future. My parents came to the United States with dreams larger than the opportunities they were given, and I have watched them work tirelessly to build stability for our family despite financial hardship, language barriers, and unfamiliar systems. Their sacrifices shaped my understanding of perseverance and made education something I carry with purpose. Growing up, I saw how difficult it can be for immigrant families to navigate systems not designed for them. My father left the restaurant industry and transitioned into construction so he could have a more stable schedule and be more present in our lives. He worked every day to provide for and care for my sisters and me, often sacrificing his own comfort. My mother worked long hours as a home attendant, caring for others while also coming home to care for us and support my father in sustaining our household. Despite language barriers that sometimes made communication difficult, my parents continued pushing forward together. Watching them taught me resilience, patience, and endurance through uncertainty. At the same time, I became aware of how immigration systems can create fear and emotional strain within communities. Seeing the anxiety that enforcement processes brought to families around me made me more conscious of how deeply policy and environment can affect mental health, especially for children growing up in already stressful circumstances. It taught me that mental health is shaped by safety, stability, and belonging. My understanding of mental health became even more personal through my sister, who has autism. Growing up alongside her shaped how I see the world and showed me the importance of advocacy, patience, and emotional support within families. Watching my family navigate systems to ensure she receives care inspired me to pursue psychology so I can better understand and support people facing similar challenges. I am currently a rising senior at Sacred Heart University pursuing a dual degree in Psychology and Organizational Development while minoring in Catholic Studies, Human Resource Management, and Women’s Gender & Sexuality Studies. As a full-time commuter student since my freshman year, I chose to stay close to home to support my family and help care for my sister while reducing financial strain. Balancing school, leadership roles, and campus jobs has strengthened my discipline and responsibility. I work hard not only for myself, but because I understand my parents’ sacrifices. Beyond academics, I support students through leadership and mentorship roles. As a First-Year Experience Teaching Assistant, Orientation Leader, Peer Tutor, and College Access Coach, I help students navigate academics, financial aid, and college transitions. Many are first-generation students who simply need reassurance that they belong. These roles have shown me how powerful consistent support and representation can be. My long-term goal is to work in mental health and student support, combining psychology and leadership to advocate for first-generation students, immigrant families, and individuals facing systemic and emotional barriers. I want to help build systems where people feel supported, understood, and capable of reaching their potential. This scholarship resonates deeply with me because it reflects my family’s story—built on sacrifice, resilience, and hope. Every achievement I reach is rooted in my parents’ hard work and my sister’s strength, and I hope to honor that by using my education to create access and opportunity for others.

Growing up in a first-generation household, I learned early how deeply mental health can affect families, even when those struggles are not openly discussed. In many marginalized communities, especially within immigrant and Latino households like mine, mental health is often misunderstood, stigmatized, or pushed aside in favor of survival and responsibility. Those experiences shaped the person I am today and inspired my decision to pursue a career dedicated to advocacy, accessibility, and emotional support for underserved communities. I am currently a rising senior at Sacred Heart University pursuing a dual degree in Psychology and Organizational Development with minors in Catholic Studies, Human Resource Management, and Women’s Gender & Sexuality Studies. My passion for psychology is deeply personal and rooted in my experiences growing up with my sister, who has autism. Watching my family navigate systems that were not always accessible or understanding showed me how overwhelming it can feel when people do not receive the support they deserve. I saw the emotional toll caregiving, financial stress, and social stigma could place on families, especially those already facing barriers related to language, culture, or limited resources. As a full-time commuter student, I chose to remain close to home so I could continue helping care for my sister while also reducing the financial burden on my family. Balancing academics, leadership positions, multiple campus jobs, and family responsibilities has not always been easy, but it strengthened my resilience and deepened my understanding of how invisible emotional stress can affect students and families every day. Those experiences taught me that mental health support cannot exist separately from cultural understanding, compassion, and accessibility. My experiences with mental health have heavily influenced both my activism and leadership. Throughout college, I have intentionally pursued positions centered on mentorship, student support, and community building. As a First-Year Experience Teaching Assistant, Orientation Leader, Peer Tutor, and College Access Coach, I work directly with students navigating stressful life transitions, academic pressure, and uncertainty about their futures. Many students simply need someone who listens without judgment and reminds them they belong. Through these roles, I have realized how powerful representation and empathy can be, especially for first-generation students and marginalized communities who may not always feel supported in academic spaces. In addition to academic mentorship, I have become increasingly passionate about advocating for conversations surrounding mental health awareness, inclusion, and equity. As someone involved in organizations focused on leadership, peer education, and community outreach, I strive to create environments where people feel safe discussing struggles that are often hidden due to fear, stigma, or shame. I believe mental health care should be accessible, culturally informed, and rooted in dignity for all individuals regardless of socioeconomic status, identity, or background. My long-term goal is to work in a mental health-related field where I can combine psychology, advocacy, and leadership to support marginalized communities. I hope to become someone who not only provides emotional support, but also helps improve systems that often fail underserved populations. Whether through counseling, outreach programs, mentorship initiatives, or community advocacy, I want my career to focus on ensuring people feel seen, heard, and valued. The legacy of Arnetha V. Bishop deeply resonates with me because her commitment to accessibility and awareness reflects the type of impact I hope to create throughout my own life. I want to help break cycles of silence surrounding mental health while empowering individuals and families to seek support without fear or shame.

As a first-generation college student, pursuing higher education has never been something I take for granted. My education represents not only my own future, but also the sacrifices my family has made so I could have opportunities they never had. I am currently a rising senior at Sacred Heart University about to pursue my dual degree in Psychology and Organizational Development while also minoring in Catholic Studies, Human Resource Management, and Women’s Gender and Sexuality Studies. My passion for psychology is deeply personal and rooted in my experiences growing up with my sister, who has autism. Watching my sister navigate a world that was not always designed to understand her shaped the way I view people, support systems, and mental health. I saw firsthand how important patience, advocacy, and compassion can be for families who are trying to ensure their loved ones receive the care and understanding they deserve. Those experiences inspired me to study psychology because I want to dedicate my future career to helping individuals feel seen, supported, and empowered despite the challenges they may face. As a full-time commuter student since freshman year, I made the decision to stay close to home so I could continue helping my family care for my sister while also reducing financial strain. Commuting has required discipline, sacrifice, and strong time management. Between finding a good parking spot, classes, leadership roles, and multiple jobs on campus, there have been many exhausting days, but every responsibility I take on reminds me why I continue pushing forward. I do everything I can to help my parents manage the cost of my education because I understand how much they have already sacrificed for me. In addition to my academics, I have dedicated myself to leadership and mentorship opportunities that allow me to support others. As a First-Year Experience Teaching Assistant, Orientation Leader, Peer Tutor, and College Access Coach for Lets Get Ready, I work closely with students during important transitions in their lives. Whether I am helping first-year college students adjust academically and emotionally or guiding high school students through financial aid and college applications, I strive to be the type of mentor I know many students need. These experiences have shown me how powerful guidance and encouragement can be, especially for students who may feel uncertain or unsupported. Nicholas Fillmore’s dedication to mentoring young people strongly resonates with me because it reflects the kind of impact I hope to make throughout my life. I believe education and mentorship can completely change someone’s future when they are given the opportunity and support to succeed. My long-term goal is to work in a field where I can advocate for mental health awareness, student support, and accessible resources for underserved communities. Receiving this scholarship would help ease the financial burden of continuing my education while allowing me to remain focused on my academic goals, internships, and leadership work. More importantly, it would represent an investment in the future I am working tirelessly to build; one centered on service, resilience, compassion, and creating opportunities for others. I want my success to become a way of giving back to the people and communities that shaped me, just as Nicholas Fillmore dedicated his life to uplifting others.

As a first-generation college student from a low-income family, my path to higher education has been filled with challenges, but it has also shaped my determination, resilience, and vision for the future. I am pursuing a Bachelor of Science in psychology and then a master's in Industrial and Organizational Psychology because I want to help organizations create workplaces where employees are supported, valued, and able to thrive. I hope to combine my education with my lived experiences to advocate for employees’ mental health, career development, and equitable opportunities. My ultimate goal is to become a Human Resources manager, not just to lead effectively, but to create environments where others, especially those who may face barriers as I have, can succeed and feel empowered. This scholarship would significantly help me reach that goal. Balancing multiple jobs while attending school full-time has allowed me to support my family and maintain my independence, but it also limits the resources I can dedicate to my education. Receiving this scholarship would alleviate financial stress, giving me more time and energy to focus on my studies, professional development, and community engagement. It would also provide the freedom to participate in internships, networking opportunities, and other experiences that are critical for a career in Industrial and Organizational Psychology. Beyond financial support, this scholarship represents validation of the hard work, perseverance, and resilience that have brought me this far. Being a first-generation student means navigating an educational system without a blueprint, learning to advocate for myself, and finding resources independently. It is not always easy, but I see it as an opportunity to create a path not just for myself, but for others who may come after me. This scholarship would be an investment in that vision, helping me to continue striving toward excellence while lifting others along the way. Looking forward, I envision a career where I can make a tangible difference in people’s lives. I want to help organizations recognize the potential of every employee, foster inclusive and supportive cultures, and provide growth opportunities that might otherwise be inaccessible. This scholarship would bring me one step closer to turning that vision into reality, allowing me to focus on my education, gain the skills I need, and ultimately create workplaces where kindness, empathy, and resilience, which are qualities I hold deeply, are not only valued but prioritized. College should be accessible to everyone, and for students like me, scholarships make the difference between dreams and impossibility. With this support, I will be able to continue my journey with focus and determination, honor the sacrifices my family has made, and prepare to give back to the world in meaningful ways, creating opportunities and lifting others as I climb.

As a first-generation college student, I've always felt like I'm entering a world that wasn't meant for me. My first view of education was formed by my family's history, our financial situation, and the fact that no one before me had gone to college: it was something strong, something far away, and something I wasn't sure belonged to me. However, it was also the only thing I thought might change the course of my family's future. The goal of my parents' immigration was to provide their kids with a life full of opportunities that they had never experienced. My mom balanced home duties while taking care of my younger sister with autism, while my dad spent the hottest days and coldest nights working in construction. Their sacrifices were subtle, constant, and built on their belief that education would open doors they could only imagine. However, I grew up without a guide through the very system that was meant to elevate us because they were never given the chance to attend college themselves. This gave me a lot of anxiety. I was afraid I wouldn't know the "right" course of action, the "right" replies, or the "right" choices. I was afraid of falling behind others whose parents attended college and were well-versed in financial aid applications, internships, and office hours before they ever entered a classroom. I always felt that I would have to make my way through college by trial and error, carrying not only my own goals but also the expectations of previous generations who were never given this opportunity. However, I also felt hopeful because of my childhood. It gave me empathy, tenacity, and the will to keep going even in the face of uncertainty. Knowing that my achievement affects not just myself but also my sisters, my family, and the communities I support has given me the courage to be the first to pursue higher education. Both my ambitions and my education have been influenced by those aspirations. In order to encourage justice, representation, and mental health in the workplace, especially for individuals from underrepresented or underprivileged backgrounds like mine, I am pursuing psychology and a master's degree in Industrial and Organizational (I/O) Psychology. I've discovered the value of helping those who feel alienated through tutoring, mentoring high school kids as an Access Coach, working as a SWEET Peer Educator, and taking leadership positions in college. That experience has motivated me to pursue a career in HR and I/O psychology so that I may contribute to the development of inclusive workplaces where everyone, not just those who were born with advantages, can thrive. It has been difficult for me to pursue college as an outsider, but it has also given me a sense of purpose. It allowed me to turn my background into strength and my anxieties into inspiration. In the same way that my family's sacrifices have inspired me, I want to use my knowledge to inspire others. I've learned from my path that being first-generation is a legacy in the making rather than a limitation.

For me, attending college is more than just a step toward education; it's a chance to transform my life and symbolize everything my family has given up for me, everything they envisioned for me, and everything I want to achieve for the coming generations. Getting a degree is more than just a personal objective for me as a first-generation Hispanic student from a low-income family. It is an opportunity to end long-standing cycles and establish a new legacy based on opportunity, representation, and hope. My parents put forth more effort than anyone I knew when I was a child. My dad gets up before the sun rises and frequently returns home well after it sets since he works long hours in construction. His main goal is to support our family, so he puts in long hours during the hottest summer days and the darkest winter nights without ever complaining. Managing our home, taking care of my younger sister with autism, and juggling work are all equally demanding tasks for my mom. Many people are unaware of the duties, stress, and sacrifices they make every day. More than any textbook could, their strength shaped me. I grew up understanding the importance and privilege of being the first because neither of my parents had the opportunity to go to college. I learned tenacity and independence from navigating financial aid, applications, and academic standards, which at times was intimidating. Every challenge served as a reminder of my original motivation, which was to open doors for my family and myself that had previously been unreachable. I've learned at college not just academically but also on a personal and professional level. I found my interest in helping others in their growth by teaching middle school students in the neighborhood, as well as college students on campus. Working as a Project Connect Facilitator and SWEET Peer Educator taught me how to lead with empathy and make learning spaces safer and more connected while uplifting the importance of mental health. As one of the new managers at the Student Union, I learned the value of inclusive communication and effective leadership. As an Orientation Leader, FYE Teaching Assistant, and Access Coach through Let's Get Ready, I have also had the honor of mentoring students who are similar to me: those who are searching for their identity, self-assurance, and future. My career goal, which is to become an HR manager after obtaining a bachelor's degree in psychology and a master's degree in industrial and organizational psychology, has been impacted by all of these experiences. My goal is to establish work environments where individuals feel empowered, included, and supported. I know how important it is to feel noticed, appreciated, and granted equal access to opportunities because I come from a minority, first-generation background. My goal is to be an advocate for equity, mental health, and productive workplaces, especially for people from backgrounds where these things are not known. I am paying tribute to my parents' sacrifices by attending college. It involves showing my sisters, including my autistic sister, that ambitions are worthwhile despite difficult obstacles. It involves using my education to help others as well as to improve my own future. In the end, my educational goals are straightforward: I want to build a life, as well as a legacy, that is full of impact, opportunity, and compassion.

Since Sabrina Carpenter embodies three qualities that I have come to appreciate in my own life, which are confidence, progress, and genuineness, I am a fan of hers. Her ability to navigate the world with humor, honesty, and a welcome lack of fear when it comes to being completely herself is what makes her so inspiring, in addition to her talent. Sabrina demonstrates that success doesn't require perfection but rather passion and persistence, whether she's producing chart-topping songs, dominating the stage with her joyful energy, or converting challenging circumstances into lyrics that resonate with millions. Her career has affected me because, as a first-generation college student, she exemplifies the bravery I've had to develop. Like many young women trying to figure out who they want to be, I've battled pressure, self-doubt, and the idea that I have to prove myself all the time. I found comfort in Sabrina's songs during those times. I've learned from songs like "Because I liked a boy," "Emails I Can't Send," and even her cheerful, self-assured stage presence that it's okay to grow in public, make errors, and always come back stronger. Her ability to transform vulnerability into empowerment is what I find most admirable. Her honest and humorous writing about heartbreak, identity, and insecurity has given me greater strength to face my own struggles. Sabrina's advice that "you can still shine even when everything isn't perfect" has given me strength as someone juggling work, education, and family obligations. Her accomplishment also made me realize just how important it is to be loyal to your voice even when people don't understand you. This kind of thinking has encouraged me to follow my own path, which includes studying psychology, taking on leadership roles on campus, and putting in a lot of effort to create a future for my family and myself. Sabrina's experience serves as a reminder that you can write your own story if you are resilient, self-assured, and have a little humor. In the end, Sabrina Carpenter helps individuals feel powerful, seen, and free to be who they are, which is why I'm a fan. In addition to providing me with entertainment, her career has inspired me to never stop improving, believing in myself, and going forward.

Being a first-generation college student has had the most profound impact on my career goals, as my parents' daily sacrifices serve as my inspiration. As a child, I watched my parents struggle with exhaustion, insecurity, and long hours to provide my sisters and me with a better future. My dad works outside in construction throughout the hottest summer days and the coldest winter nights, leaving the house before daybreak and frequently not coming home until late at night. In addition to working nonstop, my mom takes care of my younger sister, who has autism, making sure she gets the help and attention she requires. Their strength became the foundation of my own. As a first-generation college student from a low-income family, I've had to figure out how to get financial aid, manage several jobs, and take leadership roles to advance both personally and professionally. My desire to become an HR manager, fueled by a bachelor's degree in psychology and a master's degree in industrial and organizational psychology, was shaped by these experiences. I want to contribute to the creation of workplaces where people, especially those from backgrounds where possibilities aren't always certain, feel appreciated, seen, and supported. My personal experience has demonstrated the positive effects of inclusive settings and advice. I've learned that people grow when they are provided support, justice, and understanding through my work as a tutor, mentor through Let's Get Ready, Orientation Leader, and SWEET Peer Educator. As an HR manager, I try to apply these values in the workplace by establishing environments where people can grow without obstacles, where different viewpoints are valued, and where growth is accessible. Being first-generation means carrying both the burden and the hope of my family's aspirations. It has influenced my aspirations, values, and the person I am growing into, which is someone who is committed to creating a brighter future not only for myself but also for those who gave their lives to make me achievable.

I am a fan of Wicked for many reasons, but mainly because it made me root for a green girl with social anxiety who can sing better than I ever will. From the moment Elphaba stepped onstage with her awkward, brilliant, and completely misunderstood self, I thought, “Oh wow… that’s me, but greener.” Wicked somehow manages to be hilarious, emotional, and empowering all at once, which is basically my personality on a good day. What I love most is that Wicked flips the whole “good vs. evil” thing upside down. It reminds us that sometimes the real villain is just bad PR. Elphaba spends the whole show trying to do the right thing, yet everyone insists on calling her wicked. Honestly, it feels relatable when you do one thing slightly unconventional and suddenly people have opinions. However, her determination to stay true to herself inspires me. She doesn’t shrink to make others comfortable. Instead, she belts out “Defying Gravity” and literally flies away from the drama. I respect that energy. The friendship between Elphaba and Glinda is another reason I adore the musical. Watching two complete opposites become best friends is both heartwarming and hilarious. Glinda is bubbly, extra, and absolutely committed to her brand, while Elphaba is sarcastic and allergic to nonsense. Somehow, they balance each other perfectly. Their friendship reminds me that the people who challenge you are often the ones who change you “for good”, even if they start by giving you questionable makeover advice. And the music is another big factor in why I love Wicked so much. Every song is a full-body experience. “Popular” makes me laugh every time, mostly because I’m convinced Glinda would make an excellent life coach with terrible strategies. Meanwhile, “Defying Gravity” convinces me I can accomplish anything, even if the most I’ll actually do is finally tackle my laundry. Still, the motivation counts. Ultimately, I’m a fan of Wicked because it blends humor, heart, and a little chaos in a way that feels honest. It celebrates the weird, the misunderstood, and the people who refuse to let anyone else write their story. It reminds me that being different isn’t just okay, it's magical and shouldn't be a barrier to anyone. All jokes aside, Wicked is a story that stays with me and continues to inspire the person I am becoming.

Being a Mexican American first-generation college student is more than just a personal accomplishment; it's an important message about identity, resilience, and the potential for change in education. The sacrifices made by my family, my cultural background, and my desire to build a future in which opportunity is determined by one's heart and determination rather than one's zip code or background are the roots of my motivation for obtaining a degree, specifically a bachelor's in psychology and a master's in industrial and organizational psychology. As a Mexican American, I uphold the values that have been passed down through the years, including faith, hard work, humility, and the belief that education has the power to transform the world. Despite their lack of access to higher education, my parents and grandparents set the stage with their tenacity, which gave me the unbreakable will to overcome structural obstacles and pave a different course. My parents constantly encouraged me to "be better than them" because they wanted me to have a far better future than theirs. Their dream remains inside of me, and when I cross the graduation stage, it's a win for them just as much as it is for me. Puerto Rico, where my mother was raised, had few resources and possibilities that felt unreachable. She had to struggle for her education, which was a privilege that sometimes took a backseat to her family's necessities. Similar struggles were experienced by my father, who was raised in Mexico. In his case, however, many people disliked him only because he was Mexican and the stereotypes always outshine his true character in society. Economic instability and limited access to high-quality education also characterized his childhood. My parents were both bright, strong, and driven, but they had limited choices because of the structural obstacles and financial difficulties they encountered. They never give up on their dreams in spite of their situation. Rather, they put all of their energy into making sure that my path and my younger sisters' paths would be different. I witnessed right away as a child what it was like to struggle for every bit of stability. Despite their long hours and numerous sacrifices, my parents instilled in me the belief that education was the key to a brighter future. After visiting the places where they both grew up, their stories inspired me. While poverty and hardships were certainly present, being with my family also gave me a feeling of optimism and commitment for change. I was aware that obtaining a college degree would allow me to both honor their hardships and end the poverty cycle that had taken in previous generations. Being a first-generation college student has not been easy. I've had to figure out everything on my own, including how to apply for financial aid, pick the best schools, and juggle leadership positions and jobs with my schoolwork. However, each obstacle just strengthens my willpower. The lack of representation in higher education, my parents' sacrifices, and my heritage all serve as reminders of why I am here: to be the first, but not the last, to obtain higher education. Being a college student who is a first-generation Puerto Rican and Mexican is more than simply a name. It serves as a source of pride, a reminder of our progress, and a message to continue. I am able to attend college because of my parents, who were not able to do so. And I'll take advantage of that chance to inspire others, respect my heritage, and create a future they can be proud of.

Being a first-generation Hispanic college student, both my family's and my own experiences with mental health have had a significant influence on my academic path. With the goal of becoming a human resources manager, I am now in my third year in college within a dual degree program in industrial and organizational psychology. My dedication to raising mental health awareness and making it more accessible for those without access is closely linked with my academic and personal journeys. I experienced anxiety from an early age since I grew up in an environment where mental health was frequently stigmatized or misunderstood. It started with my first-grade teacher, who I thought I would trust, frequently belittling my own worth because I was Hispanic. Going through that experience that valued emotional strength over emotional expression, it was challenging to express or even understand what I was going through. My younger sister, who has autism, also has to deal with everyday obstacles that are frequently overlooked or unsupported by systems that were not designed with her needs in mind. Even in systems whose job is meant to help people like my sister, they still fail to give them the proper help and support they need and their families need. Living with her has increased my empathy, awareness, and determination to support others who are frequently overlooked in the medical field as well as in the fields of education and employment. My participation in my college's Student Wellness Empowerment and Educational Team (SWEET), a student-led program that encourages mental wellness and destigmatizes mental health on campus, is a result of these experiences. I've been able to establish connections with other students—particularly those from marginalized communities—who feel that they are being ignored or underrepresented through therapy dog events we hold, peer conversations, and resource distribution. I've learned from being a part of SWEET that empowerment is a type of mental health advocacy in and of itself and that healing starts with community. I chose to study industrial and organizational psychology after obtaining my bachelor's in psychology because I think that workplaces may be successful drivers of change. An organization's culture, employee productivity, and job satisfaction are all impacted by mental health, which reaches beyond the actual surroundings of employees' workstations. As an aspiring HR manager, I want to establish work settings where fairness, inclusivity, and mental health are not optional but rather crucial to the success of the company. I aspire to be the type of manager who pays attention to staff members, supports mental health support networks, and makes sure that accommodations are not just permitted but also promoted. Supporting underrepresented workers, like people of color, neurodivergent people, and first-generation professionals, who frequently lack the tools or representation they need to succeed, is something I am extremely passionate about. In the long run, I want to challenge the idea that emotional well-being must be sacrificed for professionalism by creating HR guidelines and training programs that incorporate mental wellbeing into organizational structures. My own experiences have taught me that mental health is a right, not a privilege. It needs to be community-driven, culturally aware, and easily accessible. I plan to spread this message and make sure that no one, regardless of background, has to suffer in silence through my education, social activism, and future HR profession.

The biggest challenge my community faces is discrimination of race. For example, growing up, I had a teacher who failed at being the role model I’m meant to look up to. My parents always told me that teachers are there to help students grow and learn, not to be afraid of or ridicule their students. That’s what she did to me—pick on a young six-year-old girl to the point that she became traumatized and feared adults who were there to help her. Why? All because I was half Mexican and half Puerto Rican and I wasn’t capable of doing anything. I started having the mindset that I’m not perfect enough and that I’m not trying hard enough. It got to me from time to time, especially when I’m having the worst days of my life. However, that didn’t stop me. That same six-year-old girl grew up with a special mindset, and that was “you are more than that." She was more than just a quiet and shy little girl. She grew up to be an independent and intelligent young woman who’s about to graduate high school and go to college. To me, this shows that not only can a Hispanic be capable of making a difference, but anyone can. My sisters viewed me as their best role model to look up to, considering what they have learned from my past encounters with racism and discrimination in school. I showed them that they shouldn’t hide their true selves from the world just because they are Hispanic or a little different from someone else. Beauty comes in all shapes and sizes, so why disregard someone just because they are a different race from you? However, despite this tragic beginning to my tale, I didn't let it stop me from building my future. Yes, it was hard to deal with people who belittle me because of my Hispanic heritage, but I kept moving forward. Yes, my parents are immigrants, but they've worked hard to build a brighter future for their four daughters for them to succeed in. Now, as a sophomore in college, I've accomplished so much to prove to everyone I'm more than what they think I am. I have taken part in numerous life-changing initiatives in my sophomore year of college in an effort to influence my community. For instance, I've been helping people who need writing support by tutoring at my school, which has helped me become more involved in my community. I joined my school's SWEET program (The Student Wellness Education and Empowerment Team) because I also want to promote mental health awareness and make sure that social and emotional well-being are given equal importance with academic achievement. Often, first-generation struggles can lead to stress and feelings of isolation, and I hope to create a safe space where students can seek help, build confidence, and form meaningful connections. I'm also planning to pursue a dual degree in industrial and organizational psychology to pursue a job as an HR manager to help those whose voices aren't being heard. This led me to now join the Student Leadership Consortium, a leadership program where other student leaders contribute to create ideas that directly impact our campus community and further the development of the students in my college. If I could talk to the people who thought I couldn't make it, I would like to thank them. Why? Because they gave me the motivation to work harder to prove them wrong about not just me but to all Hispanics and minority individuals, and I can't wait to see what my future holds.

The biggest challenge I faced in my life was discrimination. Growing up, I had a teacher who failed at being the role model I’m meant to look up to. My parents always told me that teachers are there to help students grow and learn, not to be afraid of or ridicule their students. That’s what she did to me—pick on a young six-year-old girl to the point that she became traumatized and feared adults who were there to help her. Why? All because I was half Mexican and half Puerto Rican and I wasn’t capable of doing anything in her eyes. I started having the mindset that I’m not perfect enough and that I’m not trying hard enough. It got to me from time to time, especially when I’m having the worst days of my life. However, that didn’t stop me. That same six-year-old girl grew up with a special mindset, and that was “you are more than that." She was more than just a quiet and shy little girl. She grew up to be an independent and intelligent young woman who’s about to graduate high school and go to college. To me, this shows that not only can a Hispanic be capable of making a difference, but anyone can. My sisters viewed me as their best role model to look up to, considering what they have learned from my past encounters with racism and discrimination in school. I showed them that they shouldn’t hide their true selves from the world just because they are Hispanic or a little different from someone else. Beauty comes in all shapes and sizes, so why disregard someone just because they are a different race from you? However, despite this tragic beginning to my tale, I didn't let it stop me from building my future. Yes, it was hard to deal with people who belittle me because of my Hispanic heritage, but I kept moving forward. Yes, my parents are immigrants, but they've worked hard to build a brighter future for their four daughters for them to succeed in. Now, as a sophomore in college, I've accomplished so much to prove to everyone I'm more than what they think I am. I have taken part in numerous life-changing initiatives in my sophomore year of college in an effort to influence my community. For instance, I've been helping people who need writing support by tutoring at my school, which has helped me become more involved in my community. I joined my school's SWEET program (The Student Wellness Education and Empowerment Team) because I also want to promote mental health awareness and make sure that social and emotional well-being are given equal importance with academic achievement. Often, first-generation struggles can lead to stress and feelings of isolation, and I hope to create a safe space where students can seek help, build confidence, and form meaningful connections. I'm also planning to pursue a dual degree in industrial and organizational psychology to pursue a job as an HR manager to help those whose voices aren't being heard. This led me to now join the Student Leadership Consortium, a leadership program where other student leaders contribute to create ideas that directly impact our campus community and further the development of the students in my college. As my parents always tell me, when I see an opportunity, I will do my best to get it. Having this scholarship would be a big honor for me, as it demonstrates my sincere gratitude for having the opportunity to apply, whether I get the award or not.

Since I'm interested in helping people overcome obstacles in their lives and understanding human behavior, emotions, and mental processes, I decided to pursue a degree in psychology. Not only this, but the inspiration for studying psychology comes from my younger sister, who has autism. Having my sister in my life growing up gave me the motivation to help those struggling and needing the support they need, which is why I'm also going to do a masters in industrial and organizational psychology in the future to become an HR manager. Psychology offers resources for addressing mental health issues, advancing wellbeing, and encouraging development. I think that mental health is an important aspect of overall health, and I can contribute to an area that directly and significantly affects people and communities by studying psychology. Due to social inequalities, cultural stigmas, generational trauma, and limited access to culturally appropriate care, BIPOC people and communities suffer particular mental health issues. BIPOC people can greatly benefit from mental health treatments in a number of ways. Given linguistic and cultural limitations, BIPOC people frequently feel misunderstood in mental health settings. Clients feel noticed, affirmed, and valued when healthcare professionals are trained to provide culturally sensitive treatment. Also, since BIPOC groups are particularly impacted by social aspects of health like poverty, prejudice, and educational access, mental health professionals can support laws and structural reforms that address these issues. I have taken part in numerous life-changing initiatives in my sophomore year of college in an effort to influence my community. For instance, I've been helping people who need writing support by tutoring at my school, which has helped me become more involved in my community. I joined my school's SWEET program (The Student Wellness Education and Empowerment Team) because I also want to promote mental health awareness and make sure that social and emotional well-being are given equal importance with academic achievement. Often, socioeconomic struggles can lead to stress and feelings of isolation, and I hope to create a safe space where students can seek help, build confidence, and form meaningful connections. This led me to now join the Student Leadership Consortium, a leadership program where other student leaders contribute to create ideas that directly impact our campus community and further the development of the students in my college. I think that little things can have a big impact on my community. I would like to partner with neighborhood groups to give families in need resources like food drives, school supplies, or financial literacy classes. I try to be someone who listens, comprehends, and takes action to open doors for others because I recognize the power of kindness and empathy. Emotionally, psychologically, and socially, BIPOC people and communities will thrive if mental health treatments are made more accessible and adapted to the requirements of various groups. A vital first step toward achieving justice and general societal well-being is mental health equity.

The biggest challenge my community faces is discrimination of race. For example, growing up, I had a teacher who failed at being the role model I’m meant to look up to. My parents always told me that teachers are there to help students grow and learn, not to be afraid of or ridicule their students. That’s what she did to me—pick on a young six-year-old girl to the point that she became traumatized and feared adults who were there to help her. Why? All because I was half Mexican and half Puerto Rican and I wasn’t capable of doing anything. I started having the mindset that I’m not perfect enough and that I’m not trying hard enough. It got to me from time to time, especially when I’m having the worst days of my life. However, that didn’t stop me. That same six-year-old girl grew up with a special mindset, and that was “you are more than that." She was more than just a quiet and shy little girl. She grew up to be an independent and intelligent young woman who’s about to graduate high school and go to college. To me, this shows that not only can a Hispanic be capable of making a difference, but anyone can. My sisters viewed me as their best role model to look up to, considering what they have learned from my past encounters with racism and discrimination in school. I showed them that they shouldn’t hide their true selves from the world just because they are Hispanic or a little different from someone else. Beauty comes in all shapes and sizes, so why disregard someone just because they are a different race from you? However, despite this tragic beginning to my tale, I didn't let it stop me from building my future. Yes, it was hard to deal with people who belittle me because of my Hispanic heritage, but I kept moving forward. Yes, my parents are immigrants, but they've worked hard to build a brighter future for their four daughters for them to succeed in. Now, as a sophomore in college, I've accomplished so much to prove to everyone I'm more than what they think I am. I have taken part in numerous life-changing initiatives in my sophomore year of college in an effort to influence my community. For instance, I've been helping people who need writing support by tutoring at my school, which has helped me become more involved in my community. I joined my school's SWEET program (The Student Wellness Education and Empowerment Team) because I also want to promote mental health awareness and make sure that social and emotional well-being are given equal importance with academic achievement. Often, first-generation struggles can lead to stress and feelings of isolation, and I hope to create a safe space where students can seek help, build confidence, and form meaningful connections. I'm also planning to pursue a dual degree in industrial and organizational psychology to pursue a job as an HR manager to help those whose voices aren't being heard. This led me to now join the Student Leadership Consortium, a leadership program where other student leaders contribute to create ideas that directly impact our campus community and further the development of the students in my college. If I could talk to the people who thought I couldn't make it, I would like to thank them. Why? Because they gave me the motivation to work harder to prove them wrong about not just me but to all Hispanics and minority individuals, and I can't wait to see what my future holds.

Since I'm interested in helping people overcome obstacles in their lives and understanding human behavior, emotions, and mental processes, I decided to pursue a degree in psychology. Not only this, but the inspiration for studying psychology comes from my younger sister, who has autism. Having my sister in my life growing up gave me the motivation to help those struggling and needing the support they need, which is why I'm also going to do a masters in industrial and organizational psychology in the future to become an HR manager. Psychology offers resources for addressing mental health issues, advancing wellbeing, and encouraging development. I think that mental health is an important aspect of overall health, and I can contribute to an area that directly and significantly affects people and communities by studying psychology. Due to social inequalities, cultural stigmas, generational trauma, and limited access to culturally appropriate care, BIPOC people and communities suffer particular mental health issues. BIPOC people can greatly benefit from mental health treatments in a number of ways. Given linguistic and cultural limitations, BIPOC people frequently feel misunderstood in mental health settings. Clients feel noticed, affirmed, and valued when healthcare professionals are trained to provide culturally sensitive treatment. Also, since BIPOC groups are particularly impacted by social aspects of health like poverty, prejudice, and educational access, mental health professionals can support laws and structural reforms that address these issues. I have taken part in numerous life-changing initiatives in my sophomore year of college in an effort to influence my community. For instance, I joined my school's SWEET program (The Student Wellness Education and Empowerment Team) because I want to promote mental health awareness and make sure that social and emotional well-being are given equal importance with academic achievement. Often, struggles that BIPOC individuals face can lead to stress and feelings of isolation, and I hope to create a safe space where students can seek help, build confidence, and form meaningful connections. This led me to now join the Student Leadership Consortium, a leadership program where other student leaders contribute to create ideas that directly impact our campus community and further the development of the students in my college. I think that little things can have a big impact on my community. I would like to partner with neighborhood groups to give families in need resources like food drives, school supplies, or financial literacy classes. I try to be someone who listens, comprehends, and takes action to open doors for others because I recognize the power of kindness and empathy. Emotionally, psychologically, and socially, BIPOC people and communities will thrive if mental health treatments are made more accessible and adapted to the requirements of various groups. A vital first step toward achieving justice and general societal well-being is mental health equity.

My identity, morals, and outlook on the future have all been influenced by my upbringing in a socioeconomically challenging environment. I have personally witnessed the difficulties that arise from having few resources, yet these encounters have given me compassion, resilience, and a strong feeling of responsibility to give back to my community. I learned the virtues of resilience and hard work from socioeconomic adversity. I have a deep respect for chances that others might take for granted after witnessing my family make sacrifices to meet our needs. It has also taught me the value of connections and the life-changing impact of outside support. As a result, I've made it my goal to encourage people who are going through similar struggles in my neighborhood and school. As a first-generation Hispanic student, I've experienced what it's like to have many hardships that make it seem impossible to accomplish in life, such as racism, low income, and anxiety. I have taken part in numerous life-changing initiatives in my sophomore year of college in an effort to influence my community. For instance, I've been helping people who need writing support by tutoring at my school, which has helped me become more involved in my community. I joined my school's SWEET program (The Student Wellness Education and Empowerment Team) because I also want to promote mental health awareness and make sure that social and emotional well-being are given equal importance with academic achievement. Often, socioeconomic struggles can lead to stress and feelings of isolation, and I hope to create a safe space where students can seek help, build confidence, and form meaningful connections. This led me to now join the Student Leadership Consortium, a leadership program where other student leaders contribute to create ideas that directly impact our campus community and further the development of the students in my college. I think that little things can have a big impact on my community. I would like to partner with neighborhood groups to give families in need resources like food drives, school supplies, or financial literacy classes. I try to be someone who listens, comprehends, and takes action to open doors for others because I recognize the power of kindness and empathy. Failure has also influenced my goals for the future. I want to work in a field that enables me to address structural problems associated with poverty and inequality, and I will eventually be an HR manager after finishing my masters. My belief is that no one should be defined by their circumstances, and everyone deserves a chance to thrive. As I continue to work for a better future, I hope that by sharing my experiences and actively giving back to my community, I will encourage others to see their own potential and give them the tools they need to overcome hardship just like I have, or maybe even more than I did.

One well-known mental disorder is Anxiety. We're all anxious. It’s a natural aspect of life. It turns into a disorder when it gets to the point where it interferes with your way of life. Panic attacks, insomnia, excessive worrying, illogical concerns, muscle tension, persistent indigestion, memories of upsetting or traumatic events, and compulsive habits are just a few of the symptoms. I've always had anxiety; in fact, some of my earliest memories include that uneasy, nervous feeling in the pit of my stomach. However, even though I had to struggle with this mental disorder, I still try to put myself out there and make the community a better place. Throughout my life, my friends have always come to me whenever they have their issues to talk about. I'm always by everyone's side and I don't judge them for what they're going through. Life can be difficult for all of us, so why bother judging what a person is going through? I remember when I was in my catholic classes and I was getting ready to do my first confirmation of my religion. To do so, I must do an act of community service for at least 8 hours. To do this, I was assigned to do my community service by packing food for the poor. It was a lot of hard work packaging food for about 13 hours a day, but the thought that I was a part of doing something right for the community always stuck in my mind. Even now in college, I plan on doing community service when I get the chance to continue what I enjoy doing. With all my heart, I enjoy volunteer work. It always makes me feel good about myself that I'm doing a service in changing another person's life. It gives me more motivation to continuously pursue my interest in psychology. I am inspired to raise my standards even higher and pursue success in every area of my academic and professional life because I know that there are people and organizations out there who have faith in my ability. My dream is to become a clinical therapist because I'll support clients using a range of therapeutic modalities as a registered clinical therapist as they struggle with issues like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), drug abuse, and serious mental illness. Yes, I know that I probably don't make a lot of money, but working as a clinical therapist has perks that go above and beyond pay: helping people. I like knowing that I can use my compassion and empathy to help them out when things are hard. I am enthusiastic about pursuing this career so I may assist people with their mental health concerns because I think I have many significant abilities that can help me succeed as a mental health counselor. Volunteering is a powerful way to give back to the community, contribute to meaningful causes, and make a positive impact on the lives of others. I have impacted numerous lives through volunteering, and that is something that I take great pride in. Whether it was reading to children at the library, helping seniors play dominos, giving meals to the less fortunate, or anything else, I made someone’s day better, and that is an amazing feeling. I feel as if I have grown significantly through my community service; it shaped me into a responsible leader. I am grateful for all that volunteering has done for me. It's the most memorable and significant moment in college so far and I hope to do more of this in the future.

In considering the similarities between the problems that the Greatest Generation and Millennials/Gen Z encountered, the essay highlights the potential for the latter group to become "The Greatest Generation 2.0." By highlighting common hardships, social issues, and a sense of responsibility, it calls attention to the particular difficulties that the younger generation faces. Despite criticism from the older generation, the optimism voiced demonstrates a belief in their abilities to face and overcome modern difficulties. For example, the main focus is on economic challenges, drawing comparisons between the high unemployment and low incomes of the 1930s and the current financial struggles faced by Millennials and Gen Z. The weight of student loan debt is acknowledged, and criticisms are leveled at a health insurance system that appears to penalize younger people. The essay also discusses topics like global warming and how societal concerns are allegedly exacerbated by an unfair tax system. As it states it the text, “In the 30s incomes were very low, and unemployment was 25 percent. For Millennials-Gen Z, incomes are very low and underemployment, by some accounts, approaches 25 percent." In this analysis, the economic hardships that the Greatest Generation encountered in the 1930s are compared to those that Millennials and Generation Z are currently facing, which include low earnings and high rates of underemployment. The text highlights the persistent difficulties that differing generations encounter by drawing a contrast between the economic hardships of the Greatest Generation and Millennials/Gen Z. It suggests that financial setbacks are a common occurrence and that every generation faces different financial challenges. Another example in the text was the mention of college loans: "They accept the sickness of school loans that were designed to perpetuate poverty." This illustration highlights a current economic issue that only Millennials and Generation Z face. It suggests that the character of financial hardships changes throughout time, with new problems emerging in the modern day, such the weight of student loans. The expression "designed to perpetuate poverty" conveys a critical viewpoint about the ways in which particular economic arrangements might worsen ongoing financial hardships for the younger population. This example serves to highlight the fact that each generations have different economic challenges that are determined by the current state of society. This viewpoint promotes a more comprehensive social contemplation of the systemic and structural elements impacting economic circumstances over an extended period. Furthermore, by drawing attention to a cyclical pattern of economic difficulties, the text emphasizes how critical it is to address fundamental problems in order to promote more sustainable economic conditions for coming generations. All in all, I believe that it depicts a courteous, compassionate, and strong young person prepared to face their fate. Recognizing this dynamic component promotes a broader understanding of economic hardships and a conversation about how social structures and policies might change to accommodate the changing requirements of successive generations.

The biggest challenge my community faces is discrimination of race. For example, growing up I had a teacher who failed at being the role model I’m meant to look up to. My mother always told me that teachers are there to help students grow and learn, not to be afraid of or ridicule their students. That’s what she did to me, picked on a young six-year-old girl to the point that she became traumatized and feared adults who were there to help her. Why? All because I was Hispanic and I wasn’t capable of doing anything. I started having a mindset that I’m not perfect enough, that I’m not trying hard enough. It got to me from time to time, especially when I was having the worst days of my life. However, that didn’t stop me. That same six-year-old girl grew up with a special mindset, and that “you are more than that”. She was more than just a quiet and shy little girl. She grew up to be an independent and intelligent young woman who’s about to graduate high school and go to college. To me, this shows that not only can a Hispanic be capable of making a difference, but anyone can. My sisters viewed me as their best role model to look up to, considering what they have learned from my past encountering racism and discrimination in school. I would take all the credit, but it was really my mother who put in the hard work in raising the four of us. My mother showed us that we shouldn’t have to hide our true self from the world just because we are Hispanic or they are a little different from someone else. Beauty comes in all shapes and sizes, so why disregard someone just because they are a different race from you? My sister has mental problems of her own and my mother did everything she could in her ability to try to understand her. Even when times were difficult when my sister wasn't able to control her emotions, she still didn't give up on helping her, especially when many mental health institutions kept calling her to place my sister in their facilities. Her response to them was always "no". She cared about her daughter, no matter what. That's what inspired me to help others with those same conditions as she did. My mother worked her very best to give us the life she never got to have growing up. She’s what inspired me to pursue a clinical therapist or psychologist. I want to be able to help those who are in need, as well as be an inspiration to many Hispanic children that anything is possible. Who knows, I might be able to help cure my sister one day.

The biggest challenge my community faces is discrimination of race. For example, growing up I had a teacher who failed at being the role model I’m meant to look up to. My parents always told me that teachers are there to help students grow and learn, not to be afraid of or to ridicule their students. That’s what she did to me, picked on a young six year old girl to the point that she became traumatized and feared adults who were there to help her. Why? All because I was Hispanic and I wasn’t capable of doing anything. I started having a mindset that I’m not perfect enough, that I’m not trying hard enough. It got to me from time to time, especially when I’m having the worst days of my life. However, that didn’t stop me. That same six year old girl grew up with a special mindset, and that was “you are more than that”. She was more than just a quiet and shy little girl. She grew up to be an independent and intelligent young woman who is currently a first generation college student that’s also Hispanic. To me, this shows that not only can a Hispanic be capable of making a difference, but anyone can. My sisters viewed me as their best role model to look up to, considering what they have learned from my past encountering racism and discrimination in school. I showed them that they shouldn’t hide their true self from the world just because they are Hispanic or they are a little different from someone else. Beauty comes in all shape and sizes, so why disregard someone just because they are a different race from you? I’m apart of the National Honor Society, and my first time doing community service was life changing to me. Seeing the impact on my small act of kindness brings joy to me. Why stop there when I can contribute to the community even more? Throughout my experience, I have learned that every person can find a way to contribute to the society and those in need. I’ve found out that my true calling is to inspire young people to find themselves in a less fortunate position than the majority of the population. My dream is to become a clinical therapist or psychologist and create a positive impact on an international level. We need people who want to make the world a better place and want to make people’s days better. The big reason was because of my sister and my mother. My sister has mental problems of her own and my mother did everything she could in her ability to try to understand her. Even when times were difficult when my sister wasn't able to control her emotions, she still didn't give up on helping her, especially when many mental health institutions kept calling her to place my sister in their facilities. Her response to them was always "no". She cared about her daughter, no matter what. That's what inspired me to help others with those same conditions as she did. Who knows, I might be able to help cure my sister one day. In fact, I might be able to help many other people in the best of my ability. Hispanics are more than just Hispanics: they’re believers who want to make the best of their lives too. That’s why I’m proud to be Hispanic and always will be.

One thing I am fully passionate about is giving back to my community. Because I’m from The Bronx, financial struggles are not new to me. Being connected to my community allows me to understand that people need assistance and that I can be that help. Now here I am, in Connecticut, going to a private university with many volunteer services in store for me. Every freshman who shows their love for volunteer work is awarded to receive the Pioneer Service Grant to help pay off their tuition. Did I do this just to get a grant? No. I had a more better reason for it. I find it rather important to help the needy because it is a loving and judge-free environment, one in which everyone feels connected and tells jokes/funny stories. It is this sense of comfort that urges me to want to continue volunteering while in college. Every day, no matter where in the world, people need help from others; from the disabled to the old, everyone needs help. Unfortunately, not many people do this because they feel that they aren't making a meaningful and purposeful impact. Motivations can vary by age. Younger volunteers are often motivated to get community service hours for school. Older volunteers, with professional jobs and more experience, are looking for personal fulfillment. Because of this, it is vital that we need more motivated individuals to make an impact not just in the world, but in someone's life. Despite the fact that I am not “in the same boat” as the families that come in, I know that I have touched many people's hearts throughout my volunteer work and brought a change to their lives. Furthermore, being able to do this, I learned a valuable lesson about my community: At the end of the day, humans are conventional and it doesn’t take much to put a smile on someone’s face. This is why I will continue to participate in any event throughout college, as I want to be the change in people’s lives. I went to senior centers, food pantries, local farms, afterschool helpings, and even helped pre-schoolers whose first language isn't even English. A lot of people at my school would mostly be doing volunteer work just to get a grant. However, I feel that the whole point of this isn't just to cut back on tuition, but also to show us to be fortunate in where we're at and see what other people are going through differently. Volunteering is a powerful way to give back to the community, contribute to meaningful causes, and make a positive impact on the lives of others. I have impacted numerous lives through volunteering, and that is something that I take great pride in. Whether it was reading to children at the library, helping seniors play dominos, giving meals to the less fortunate, or anything else, I made someone’s day better, and that is an amazing feeling. In addition, I have developed numerous skills through volunteer work. I feel as if I have grown significantly through my community service. Community service has shaped me into a responsible leader. I am grateful for all that volunteering has done for me. It's the most memorable and significant moment in college so far and I hope to do more of this in the future.

Five years from now, I see that I'll be able to have a successful job, either as an intern or as an actual therapist. Working to help mentally ill people is my biggest goal to make the world a better place. I felt that people with mental health problems need the type of people to be around them and tell them that life will get better. The illness doesn't define who that person is and they shouldn't have to feel that their illness is one of the characteristics that make up them. With all that being said, those aren't the big reasons why I wanted to be a therapist. The big reason was because of my sister and my mother. My sister has mental problems of her own and my mother did everything she could in her ability to try to understand her. Even when times were difficult when my sister wasn't able to control her emotions, she still didn't give up on helping her, especially when many mental health institutions kept calling her to place my sister in their facilities. Her response to them was always "no". She cared about her daughter, no matter what. That's what inspired me to help others with those same conditions as she did. Who knows, I might be able to help cure my sister one day. Even though I don’t belong to a millionaire family, still I would never consider trading them for the world. I have been strongly influenced by my family background over the years, as they have taught me to look at the world in an entirely different way. I learned from my family to look at the world compassionately. I try to be readily available to help others and try my best to provide positive impacts on others around me, especially those who are mentally challenged like my sister. Based on my background and experiences, my perception of the people, and situations in the real world has changed tremendously. My sister has had the biggest impact on my view of the world. I couldn’t imagine living with autism and anxiety while not being able to talk my feelings out to anyone. It must be hard to feel as though no one is by your side to help you with this challenge. Sometimes, I put myself in my sister’s shoes. If I could be able to make my sister talk and communicate with us, I would definitely do it. Success is triumphing over hardships, working yourself over anything and everything to achieve the best for yourself and your family. I will fight for what's right, and protect those who don't have a voice to say in all this, just like my mother did with my sister. My dream is to become an educator and create a positive impact on an international level. We need people who want to make the world a better place and want to make people’s days better. And what better way to do so than to experience what it's like to have a mental disorder in the first place?

The biggest challenge my community faces is discrimination of race. For example, growing up I had a teacher who failed at being the role model I’m meant to look up to. My parents always told me that teachers are there to help students grow and learn, not to be afraid of or ridicule their students. That’s what she did to me, picked on a young six-year-old girl to the point that she became traumatized and feared adults who were there to help her. Why? All because I was Hispanic and I wasn’t capable of doing anything. I started having a mindset that I’m not perfect enough, that I’m not trying hard enough. It got to me from time to time, especially when I was having the worst days of my life. However, that didn’t stop me. That same six-year-old girl grew up with a special mindset, and that “you are more than that”. She was more than just a quiet and shy little girl. She grew up to be an independent and intelligent young woman who’s about to graduate high school and go to college. To me, this shows that not only can a Hispanic be capable of making a difference, but anyone can. My sisters viewed me as their best role model to look up to, considering what they have learned from my past encountering racism and discrimination in school. I showed them that they shouldn’t hide their true self from the world just because they are Hispanic or they are a little different from someone else. Beauty comes in all shapes and sizes, so why disregard someone just because they are a different race from you? Five years from now, I see that I'll be able to have a successful job, either as an intern or as an actual therapist. Working to help mentally ill people is my biggest goal to make the world a better place. I felt that people with mental health problems need the type of people to be around them and tell them that life will get better. The illness doesn't define who that person is and they shouldn't have to feel that their illness is one of the characteristics that make up them. With all that being said, those aren't the big reasons why I wanted to be a therapist. The big reason was because of my sister and my mother. My sister has mental problems of her own and my mother did everything she could in her ability to try to understand her. Even when times were difficult when my sister wasn't able to control her emotions, she still didn't give up on helping her, especially when many mental health institutions kept calling her to place my sister in their facilities. Her response to them was always "no". She cared about her daughter, no matter what. That's what inspired me to help others with those same conditions as she did. Who knows, I might be able to help cure my sister one day.

Nowadays, money has threatened to crush my dreams since starting college. Even by working hard in high school, it still wasn't enough to cover the cost. With all my heart, I enjoy volunteer work. It always makes me feel good about myself that I'm doing a service in changing another person's life. It gives me more motivation to continuously pursue my interest in psychology. I am inspired to raise my standards even higher and pursue success in every area of my academic and professional life because I know that there are people and organizations out there who have faith in my ability. My dream is to become a clinical therapist because I'll provide clients with support using a range of therapeutic modalities as a registered clinical therapist as they struggle with issues like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), drug abuse, and serious mental illness. Yes, I am aware that I probably don't make a lot of money, but working as a clinical therapist has perks that go above and beyond pay: helping people. I like knowing that I can use my compassion and empathy to help them out when things are hard. I am enthusiastic about pursuing this career so I may assist people with their mental health concerns because I think I have many significant abilities that can help me succeed as a mental health counselor. Throughout my life, my friends have always come to me whenever they have their own issues to talk about. I'm always by everyone's side and I don't judge them for what they're going through. Life can be difficult for all of us, so why bother judging on what a person is going through? I remember when I was in my catholic classes and I was getting ready to do my first confirmation of my religion. In order to do so, I must do an act of community service for at least 8 hours. To do this, I was assigned to do my community service by packing food for the poor. It was a lot of hard work packaging food for about 13 hours a day, but the thought that I was a part of doing something right for the community always stuck in my mind. Even now in college, I'm planning on doing community service when I get the chance as a way to continue what I enjoy doing. However being a first-generation college student, my family does not have the money to completely support my education. The price of tuition, books, and other educational costs frequently appears to be an overwhelming barrier. I will be able to concentrate fully on my studies with the help of this scholarship since I won't have to worry about building up debt or working many part-time jobs to make ends meet. I will be able to thrive mentally and make full use of the educational options I have access to thanks to this scholarship. I'll be able to graduate with less debt and financial pressure, allowing me to choose a job that is motivated by my love and objectives rather than only by financial factors. This scholarship will be crucial in helping me realize my dream of becoming a clinical therapist in the field of psychology. It will give me the financial independence I need to take chances, grasp opportunities, and have a significant effect on the industry I choose. We need more therapists and psychologists in this world to embrace and take care of everyone and anyone who is in need of help and I plan on being one of them someday.

People need aid every day, and the only way to see this is to look for individuals who are in need, therefore the potential for helping people is limitless. My personal journey to start truly helping others began in my junior year after I started doing so through school clubs. One of these clubs was the National Honor Society, of which I was the president and would like to recruit more members during my senior year of high school. As club president, I have personally observed people who do not want to participate in service projects because they find the work to be too difficult or simply do not feel like doing it. The inaugural NHS meeting had so many attendees that it hardly fit in the classroom for one minute. Then, as soon as we listed community service as a requirement for membership, the numbers started to decline; just a small proportion of those who actually performed the service were accepted. As club president and a person who enjoys helping others, I want to demonstrate to others that doing good deeds can be enjoyable and gratifying. However, in order to help others and continue my academic studies, I need money to pay for my college expenses, which is why I joined NHS during my junior year of high school. This new way of thinking can even be found in friends and relatives, who act as though assisting others all the time makes them weak, but in reality the most helpful person is just unselfish. Because anyone may have been the person in need of help, helping others is crucial. We assist one another for a variety of reasons. Some people assist because they simply cannot refuse to assist those in need. The assistance provided by the other individuals may be motivated by a desire to spread goodwill or may simply be necessary. Sometimes we are able to assist people because we have faith in their ability to make wise decisions in the future. As we all know, it's crucial to assist others in the neighborhood. It will enhance our lives, introduce us to our neighborhood, and put us in touch with individuals and viewpoints that will benefit our outlook for the rest of our lives. We have the chance to develop as people and gain a greater understanding of how we fit into the world by giving back to our community. Not only does helping others benefit them, but it also improves our own happiness and health. Giving strengthens our ties to one another, our communities, and our society as a whole. And it concerns our time, thoughts, and energies. Many people do not understand how important it is to assist others. Some individuals believe that it takes time to escape their pursuit. Others merely undervalue the influence of compassion. But when we assist others in succeeding, we don't just enhance our own lives. Helping others enhances social relationships, diverts attention away from issues, and boosts one's own strengths and self-esteem. physically healthy Helping others increases social integration, which enables individuals to live more actively. Each of us may make a difference in the lives of others and contribute to the system that can improve our own. Whatever the case, giving to others makes you happier than you were before, and you can be sure that others will do the same for you.

Soccer. In addition to the fact that it runs in my family, it is one of my all-time favorite sports because of how thrilling it was to simply kick a ball about. This is my first time playing on an actual soccer team. That day, they accepted me. Prior to seeing the team I would be playing on for the entire season, it was my dream to be on an actual soccer team. Birds were chirping in the late afternoon on a Wednesday after a hard day of school, and we had a game the following Saturday. I was among the players who arrived early. They greeted each other as usual and immediately started lamenting how exhausted they were while jogging around the whole field before the coach arrived. Of course being the new player, I was alone. The reason why I was alone…I was the only girl in my team. All of my team members were boys, so they were very surprised when they saw a girl playing on their team. They looked at me and they whispered in Spanish —not thinking I would actually understand Spanish— “how did they let in a girl here? I bet she can barely kick a ball into the goal.” Ouch. I didn’t think that would be my first impression of my team. I kind of got me and made me second guess myself. “What if I’m not good enough? What if they’re right? What if I mess up on game day? They will all hate me for sure.” Those thoughts kept pouring into my brain as I jog around the field. When our coach came, he started by welcoming me into the team and said to the other members to behave when it comes to the new player. Of course I saw some of the boys laughing under their breaths, not like they were trying to hide it anyway. We started doing high knees and lunges as part of our warmup. Along with performing rapid back-and-forth sprints, we also formed a circle and stretched our hamstrings, quadriceps, calf muscles, and hips. Who knew soccer training would be hard work, but totally worth the training if it meant doing well in the game. After we’re done stretching, the coach made us all practice our kicking by trying to kick the ball into the net without him catching it. From what I could tell, the coach was a pretty good goalie based on the number of times he caught the ball. When it was my turn the boys were trying so hard not to laugh, thinking I wouldn’t make it. The coach told me “it’s your first time so it’s ok if you don’t make it the first try.” I took a deep breath and kicked the ball… Goal. I kicked the ball in without the coach catching it. Everyone was shocked and it became silent. The coach was even impressed. “Wow, first time player and actually got it in a goal. Take some notes boys, you should’ve known this since you first got here.” I was very proud of myself. That felt amazing rubbing it into the boys who thought I wasn’t good enough. We continued to kick the ball into the net and I kept doing so much better than the boys. It was very impressive of me to do. During the game, guess who made her team won? It’s me! They said I couldn’t do it, but I proved them wrong. That just shows that just because someone says something about you doesn’t mean it’s true. You can prove them wrong.

I have Anxiety. When people hear such phrase, it typically means they struggle on a regular basis to control their anxiety. It's challenging to manage, particularly when it comes to stressful situations. In high school, I wasn’t known to have a mental health problem since I was known as the “top of our school”. I was valedictorian in our graduating class, president of the National Honor Society, been in honor roll since 9th grade, even being known for her community service around the school. Everyone adored me because I was not only all of those things, but also a supportive and caring friend. In my friend group, I’m known as the “therapist in the group”, meaning whenever my friends needed to let out their feelings to someone, they would go to me. They said I have a good opinion on things they struggled with and gave them good suggestions on how to deal with it. However, with me helping them with their problems, who’s helping me? No one because I barely ever rant at them about my problems. I keep my problems to myself until my boyfriend came along in my life. Currently, I'm in a relationship. I love him so dearly, but sometimes I get so insecure that I constantly fear coming across as needy and clinging. I occasionally also experience a lot of dreams of him abandoning me and finding someone much better. I'm considered a "perfectionist" since I become anxious whenever something seems off or if I do something that I shouldn't have done. I therefore make every effort to be his best girlfriend. I would do all in my ability to let him know how much I care. I feared that if I wasn't the best girlfriend to him, he would leave me for someone else and I wanted him to adore me. I like to think of my anxiety as a sort of pet; one minute it’s small and it wouldn’t do anything to you, but if you don’t train it well it will grow out of control and destroy the new things you got in life. At the time when we started dating, my boyfriend never knew I had anxiety, until one day he found out. I was filling out my FAFSA and CSS Profile for college at the time. My mother has always worked extremely hard to get me into college and to do it at a cost we could afford. Being the concerned parent that she was, my mother insisted that I constantly check to make sure I was filling out those applications correctly. She frequently said phrases like, "You sure you know what you're doing?" “Have you received any response from your college yet? Are you sure you’re able to do this?” All the questions were feeding my anxiety, it made me sweat a lot everyday, breath heavily, and even made me feel nauseous. My boyfriend noticed me panicking one day and hold my hand saying “are you alright? You look pale”. “Yeah I’m ok I’m just tired that’s all”, but of course he didn’t believe that. At lunch, he gave me the look of concern and worry, asking me again “are you sure you’re alright? You can always tell me if something is wrong.”Hearing him say that made me conflicted if I should tell him or not. It was like two sides of my brain were always at war with each other, with one saying “tell him, he’ll understand”, while the other saying “don’t tell him, he will leave you”. Finally, I made my decision on telling him. “There’s something I have to tell you”, I said while holding his hands close. I was shaking my right leg as I said to him the following sentence: “I have anxiety and it’s been making me overthink a lot recently.” I had a feeling that he thought differently of me. However, he just looked at me and hugged me close. “I had a feeling you had anxiety. I knew because…I have anxiety too.” I was shocked when he said this. I knew sometimes he would overthink about stuff that are difficult in school, but I didn’t think he had anxiety too. He just held me close and kissed my cheek. “It’s going to be ok. I’m here for you. I’m going to help you. You’re not alone on this. You helped me now I’m helping you.” At that moment, I knew what he said was the truth. It calmed my nerves, knowing that no matter what he will still be here for me. “We’re both going to help each other. No more hiding your feelings. You’re clearly stressed. Like you always said, holding in your feelings isn’t healthy for your body. Too much stress means you’ll pop like a balloon.” We both laughed a little while hugging each other close. For the first time, I didn’t feel so nervous when I’m with him. He made me feel as if I’m not alone in this world. We both had problems of our own, but now we tell each other what’s wrong and try to make each other feel better. Sometimes I listen and he let out his feelings, other times it’s the other way around, or even the both of us having a mental breakdown and trying to make each other better. That just shows that you’re not alone when it comes to dealing with your mental health, especially in a relationship. When you meet that special someone, that gives you a sigh of relief that you matter to someone and that someone will be there to help you no matter what.

Keeping our minds healthy is essential for mental wellness. In general, men are more concerned about maintaining their physical health. People frequently fail to consider their mental state. Therefore, it becomes crucial for a man to maintain his physical and mental health. Since the human brain serves as the body's command center, it is engaged in making decisions, giving the body instructions, and coordinating a variety of bodily processes. In light of this, it is essential for people to gain more knowledge about mental health, mental disorders, and the steps society can take to eliminate the stigma associated with mental health. The threat of suicide has slowly crept into society, and people's lack of awareness is to blame. One mental disorder that’s well known is Anxiety. We're all anxious. It’s a natural aspect of life. It turns into a disorder when it gets to the point where it interferes with your way of life. Panic attacks, insomnia, excessive worrying, illogical concerns, muscle tension, persistent indigestion, memories of upsetting or traumatic events, and compulsive habits are just a few of the symptoms. I've always had anxiety; in fact, some of my earliest memories include that uneasy, nervous feeling in the pit of my stomach. I was always the quiet one in the class, which you would think I would get over as I got older, but that was not the case at all, especially now that I’m in a relationship. People didn't even consider that I had anxiety; they just assumed that I was shy and anxious. Being nervous or anxious is not the same as suffering from an anxiety disorder that may be properly diagnosed. Anxiety is a frightening concern or interest that is accompanied by physical symptoms (such as perspiration, tension, or an accelerated heart rate), doubt about the existence and nature of the threat, and self-doubt about one's ability to handle it. However, just because I have anxiety doesn’t mean I can’t be in a relationship. Recently, I admitted to him that I had anxiety and to my surprise, he understood and would always help me whenever I have my mental breakdowns or sometimes even my small panic attacks. That just shows that whether you have a mental health issue or not, someone will be there to help you no matter what. Even though I have anxiety, it doesn’t stop me from pursuing my goal of being a clinical art therapist. People would think I was insane if I told them I have a mental illness and am training to become a clinical therapist. It’s well known that people who work in the mental health field are immune to developing mental illnesses themselves. They aren't immune, though, and their worry can spiral out of control and become a much bigger issue for them. However, they know how to control that stress and that’s what I’m aiming for. Usually, to calm my nerves would be talking to someone I trust about my feelings, like to my boyfriend. Other times, I would digitally and traditionally draw or doodle my feelings out if I can’t explain them well, listen to music in my room, read a book, or even just talk to myself in my room. I know that sounds weird, but talking to myself and reflecting on why I’m getting anxious always make me feel better in the end. Mental health disorders like Anxiety can be a struggle, but for those who are struggling, just know that life will get better one step at a time and that’s the biggest relief life will give.

I have Anxiety. When people hear such phrase, it typically means they struggle on a regular basis to control their anxiety. It's challenging to manage, particularly when it comes to stressful situations. Currently, I'm in a relationship. I love him so dearly, but sometimes I get so insecure that I constantly fear coming across as needy and clinging. I occasionally also experience a lot of dreams of him abandoning me and finding someone much better. I'm considered a "perfectionist" since I become anxious whenever something seems off or if I do something that I shouldn't have done. I therefore make every effort to be his best girlfriend. I would do all in my ability to let him know how much I care. I feared that if I wasn't the best girlfriend to him, he would leave me for someone else and I wanted him to adore me. I like to think of my anxiety as a sort of pet; one minute it’s small and it wouldn’t do anything to you, but if you don’t train it well it will grow out of control and destroy the new things you got in life. At the time when we started dating, my boyfriend never knew I had anxiety, until one day he found out. I was filling out my FAFSA and CSS Profile for college at the time. My mother has always worked extremely hard to get me into college and to do it at a cost we could afford. Being the concerned parent that she was, my mother insisted that I constantly check to make sure I was filling out those applications correctly. She frequently said phrases like, "You sure you know what you're doing?" “Have you received any response from your college yet? Are you sure you’re able to do this?” All the questions were feeding my anxiety, it made me sweat a lot everyday, breath heavily, and even made me feel nauseous. My boyfriend noticed me panicking and hold my hand saying “are you alright? You look pale”. “Yeah I’m ok I’m just tired that’s all”, but of course he didn’t believe that. At lunch, he gave me the look of concern and worry, which made me conflicted if I should tell him or not. It was like two sides of my brain were always at war with each other, with one saying “tell him, he’ll understand”, while the other saying “don’t tell him, he will leave you”. Finally, I made my decision on telling him. “There’s something I have to tell you”, I said while holding his hands close. I was shaking my right leg as I said to him the following sentence: “I have anxiety and it’s been making me overthink a lot recently.” I had a feeling that he thought differently of me. However, he just looked at me and hugged me close. “I had a feeling you had anxiety. I knew because…I have anxiety too.” I was shocked when he said this. I knew sometimes he would overthink about stuff that are difficult in school, but I didn’t think he had anxiety too. He just held me close and kissed my cheek. “It’s going to be ok. I’m here for you. I’m going to help you. You’re not alone on this. You helped me now I’m helping you.” At that moment, I knew what he said was the truth. It calmed my nerves, knowing that no matter what he will still be here for me. That just shows that you’re not alone when it comes to dealing with your mental health, especially in a relationship.

In the LGBTQ+ community, there are several obstacles to seeking higher education as a demisexual and bisexual. The inability to access resources, harassment, and discrimination can all hinder academic success. Scholarships can be a huge help in this situation. The first benefit is that this scholarship can help cover the cost of tuition, books, and other educational expenditures. This is crucial for LGBTQ+ students, especially those who may not receive the same degree of financial assistance from their families or communities owing to prejudice or misunderstanding, as I did. Scholarships can lessen the financial burden of going to college, enabling students like myself to concentrate on our studies and professional objectives. Second, this scholarship may give you access to networks and resources. I believe that LGBTQ+ scholarships like this one include networking possibilities, mentorship programs, and other resources that can assist students in overcoming the difficulties associated with being a member of the LGBTQ+ community in the academic setting. Access to LGBTQ+ student organizations, counseling services, and other support networks, which I believe are essential for me to achieve throughout my time in college, are examples of this. Third, scholarships can assist LGBTQ+ students in achieving their professional aspirations. This is significant to me since many LGBTQ+ scholarships are designed expressly for students pursuing careers in industries like STEM, law, or politics where there is a dearth of LGBTQ+ representation. I want to work as an art therapist, and by getting this scholarship, I can encourage other LGBTQ+ students to pursue careers in these professions and take on leadership roles in their communities. Last but not least, this award can support LGBTQ+ students in improving their communities. Scholarships can enable LGBTQ+ students to positively influence their communities and advance equality and acceptance for all, as I would do, by helping them financially with these efforts. I want to make a difference in my campus community and promote equality for all racial groups, genders, and sexual orientations. To make this Dream a reality, there must be change and the proper people must inspire others. Being bisexual and demisexual can be challenging for me since I'm constantly worried about how other people will see me, especially now that I'm dating. I am aware of how challenging it may be to conceal a facet of oneself from others. I was able to inform my partner that I was bisexual and demisexual as a result, and to my amazement, he was too! Therefore, this scholarships can support me as a LGBTQ+ studebt in my academic efforts and help me have a good influence on my communities by giving me access to resources and support networks, employment prospects, financial assistance, and community involvement. Organizations and institutions must acknowledge the particular difficulties LGBTQ+ students experience and offer assistance in the form of scholarships and other resources. By doing this, I can even build a society that is more open minded and inclusive for everyone.

As a Hispanic, receiving this scholarship will significantly boost my self-confidence, knowing that I have achieved something that will support me with my current financial condition. This scholarship will create a foundation for getting me closer to my long-term psychological career goals. My dream of having a successful career as a successful art therapist can come true if I am awarded with this opportunity. Even though I don’t belong to a millionaire family, still I would never consider trading them for the world. I have been strongly influenced by my family background over the years, as they have taught me to look at the world in an entirely different way. I learned from my family to look at the world compassionately. We try to be readily available to help others, and try my best to provide positive impacts over others around me, especially those who are mentally challenged like my sister. Based on my background and experiences, my perception of the people, and situations in the real world has been changed tremendously. My sister has been the biggest impact on my view about the world. I couldn’t imagine living with autism and anxiety while not being able to talk your feelings out to anyone. It must be hard to feel as though no one is by your side to help you with this challenge. Sometimes, I put myself in my sister’s shoes. If I could be able to make my sister talk and communicate with us, I would definitely do it. As a child of immigrant parents, I learned to take responsibility for my family and myself at a very young age. Although my parents spoke English, they constantly worked in order to financially support my little sisters and I. Meanwhile, they barely knew English so I became their translator for basically everything. Even until now, I was able to learn more Spanish than I could ever learn. The more involved I became with my family, the more I knew what I wanted to be in the future. My education is another contribution to who I am today. It has helped me to become a more knowledgeable person, ultimately making me a better person. I am a better person not because I have achieved good academic qualification, but because I have developed a strong ability to use my knowledge to help others in making their lives better. I will be able to make wise and educated decisions on the future of my country in elections. Education has provided me with all the required knowledge, skills, and experience to pursue my long-term career dream and will allow me to exploit the opportunities to the fullest extent. Success is triumphing over hardships, working yourself over anything and everything to achieve the best for yourself and your family. With this scholarship, I will use it to continue focusing on my studies in psychology and even visual arts, instead of worrying about extra making money to help my mom pay for my college funds. It will be an investment into myself for my family.

Psychology students are often motivated by personal experiences and a wish for healthier, happier communities. That’s what I passionately wanted to do in college. We live in a world filled with hurt and suffering, and a place that is not equal for all. My dream is to use my unique set of skills, abilities, privileges, resources, and knowledge in a way that increases equality and privilege for all (not just people with white skin). I am pursuing a degree in Industrial and Organizational Psychology which combines psychology and business. The biggest inspiration of this path was my sister. My sister was born with autism and anxiety. Despite the hassle and struggle with taking care of my autistic and nonverbal sister, I still cared about her no matter what. My family treats her equally, trying to include her in everything because even though she has a disability, she’s still human. She never asked to be born with autism and develop anxiety afterward. That’s what I see in every child and adult having these mental illnesses/ disorders. It hurts my heart when I see them not getting any further aid or support from the people they should entrust. I strongly believe large scale change happens on the individual level first, and if we want to see a world where we value the earth and all the people living on it, we have to do the work with ourselves first. I want to help people in their transformation towards becoming more unconditionally loving, tolerant, and compassionate people. I think when people are more comfortable with, and accepting of, who they are, they are consequently kinder and more loving towards those around them. However, when life as a student feels exceptionally challenging, I remind myself of the impact that the work I wish to practice has on people’s lives and those around them. I strongly believe large scale change happens on the individual level first, and if we want to see a world where we value the earth and all the people living on it, we have to do the work with ourselves first. It is my hope that, through increased research and advocacy, society can come to understand that extreme distress is often a message about something that is wrong in a person’s world, and as such, is meaningful and can be understood. Furthermore, by understanding the psychosocial origins of distress – trauma, poverty, inequality, etc. – we can refocus upstream and create policies that protect against these stressors in the first place. I believe that I can make people in my environment, as well as myself, healthier by providing some sense of clarity whenever life situations become foggy. My dream is to someday become a successful art therapist, a type of therapist that works with people who are only able to express their feelings through the way of the arts. Why not a clinical psychologist? Working one-on-one with individuals who are struggling would definitely bring me pleasure. However, I believe that I would have a greater impact within my society by helping larger groups. This dream of mine to become an art therapist would allow me to make the environment of common day people the most comfortable and enjoyable one. The struggles and risk of being a therapist is crucial because despite all what I can impact on the person, there are many risks of being one, such as the work environment may feel stressful with difficult patients or an unbalanced schedule. However, I love to take that risk and my first patient will be my own sister.

My dream of having a successful career as a successful art therapist can come true if I am awarded with this opportunity. Even though I don’t belong to a millionaire family, still I would never consider trading them for the world. I have been strongly influenced by my family background over the years, as they have taught me to look at the world in an entirely different way. I learned from my family to look at the world compassionately. We try to be readily available to help others, and try my best to provide positive impacts over others around me, especially those who are mentally challenged like my sister. Based on my background and experiences, my perception of the people, and situations in the real world has been changed tremendously. My sister has been the biggest impact on my view about the world. I couldn’t imagine living with autism and anxiety while not being able to talk your feelings out to anyone. It must be hard to feel as though no one is by your side to help you with this challenge. Sometimes, I put myself in my sister’s shoes. If I could be able to make my sister talk and communicate with us, I would definitely do it. As a child of immigrant parents, I learned to take responsibility for my family and myself at a very young age. Although my parents spoke English, they constantly worked in order to financially support my little sisters and I. Meanwhile, they barely knew English so I became their translator for basically everything. Even until now, I was able to learn more Spanish than I could ever learn. The more involved I became with my family, the more I knew what I wanted to be in the future. My education is another contribution to who I am today. It has helped me to become a more knowledgeable person, ultimately making me a better person. I am a better person not because I have achieved good academic qualification, but because I have developed a strong ability to use my knowledge to help others in making their lives better. I will be able to make wise and educated decisions on the future of my country in elections. Education has provided me with all the required knowledge, skills, and experience to pursue my long-term career dream and will allow me to exploit the opportunities to the fullest extent. Success is triumphing over hardships, working yourself over anything and everything to achieve the best for yourself and your family. I will use those hardships to continue focusing on my studies in psychology and visual arts, as well as better discover myself as an individual. I passed the audition for my show, and now it’s time for me to be the lead of my play called “life”.

As a Hispanic, receiving this scholarship will significantly boost my self-confidence, knowing that I have achieved something that will support me with my current financial condition. My dream of having a successful career as a successful art therapist can come true if I am awarded with this opportunity. Even though I don’t belong to a millionaire family, still I would never consider trading them for the world. I have been strongly influenced by my family background over the years, as they have taught me to look at the world in an entirely different way. I learned from my family to look at the world compassionately. We try to be readily available to help others, and try my best to provide positive impacts over others around me, especially those who are mentally challenged like my sister. Based on my background and experiences, my perception of the people, and situations in the real world has been changed tremendously. My sister has been the biggest impact on my view about the world. I couldn’t imagine living with autism and anxiety while not being able to talk your feelings out to anyone. It must be hard to feel as though no one is by your side to help you with this challenge. Sometimes, I put myself in my sister’s shoes. If I could be able to make my sister talk and communicate with us, I would definitely do it. As a child of immigrant parents, I learned to take responsibility for my family and myself at a very young age. Although my parents spoke English, they constantly worked in order to financially support my little sisters and I. Meanwhile, they barely knew English so I became their translator for basically everything. Even until now, I was able to learn more Spanish than I could ever learn. The more involved I became with my family, the more I knew what I wanted to be in the future. My education is another contribution to who I am today. It has helped me to become a more knowledgeable person, ultimately making me a better person. I am a better person not because I have achieved good academic qualification, but because I have developed a strong ability to use my knowledge to help others in making their lives better. I will be able to make wise and educated decisions on the future of my country in elections. Education has provided me with all the required knowledge, skills, and experience to pursue my long-term career dream and will allow me to exploit the opportunities to the fullest extent. Success is triumphing over hardships, working yourself over anything and everything to achieve the best for yourself and your family. With this scholarship, I will use it to continue focusing on my studies in psychology and even visual arts, instead of worrying about extra making money to help my mom pay for my college funds. It will be an investment into myself for my family.

The biggest challenge my community faces is discrimination of race. For example, growing up I had a teacher who failed at being the role model I’m meant to look up to. My parents always told me that teachers are there to help students grow and learn, not to be afraid of or to ridicule their students. That’s what she did to me, picked on a young six year old girl to the point that she became traumatized and feared adults who were there to help her. Why? All because I was Hispanic and I wasn’t capable of doing anything. I started having a mindset that I’m not perfect enough, that I’m not trying hard enough. It got to me from time to time, especially when I’m having the worst days of my life. However, that didn’t stop me. That same six year old girl grew up with a special mindset, and that was “you are more than that”. She was more than just a quiet and shy little girl. She grew up to be an independent and intelligent young woman who’s about to graduate high school and go to college. To me, this shows that not only can a Hispanic be capable of making a difference, but anyone can. My sisters viewed me as their best role model to look up to, considering what they have learned from my past encountering racism and discrimination in school. I showed them that they shouldn’t hide their true self from the world just because they are Hispanic or they are a little different from someone else. Beauty comes in all shape and sizes, so why disregard someone just because they are a different race from you? I’m apart of the National Honor Society, and my first time doing community service was life changing to me. Seeing the impact on my small act of kindness brings joy to me. Why stop there when I can contribute to the community even more? Throughout my experience, I have learned that every person can find a way to contribute to the society and those in need. I’ve found out that my true calling is to inspire young people to find themselves in a less fortunate position than the majority of the population. My dream is to become an educator and create a positive impact on an international level. We need people who want to make the world a better place and want to make people’s days better. And what better way to do so than to help your community by volunteering in your free time?

Everyone experiences stress, everyone has fears, and phobias. Anxiety and fears aren’t unnatural, from an adult to a young child. Anxiety isn’t something that is fun to have either. To children these certain “feelings” they aren’t just normal; they are essential. You should feel comfortable at school knowing that others will watch out for you and prevent bullying and harassment. You might be wondering how I overcame my fear of being bullied by other kids my age. I was bullied by an adult, not a child, as it happens. Unbelievable, I know. I never knew why my first-grade teacher disliked me so much. I was a quiet but respectable child who always did my best to complete the assignment on my own. Who knows: whether I did something to cause her to behave this way toward me…perhaps she did this because I was the only Hispanic kid in her class… or perhaps she saw me as an easy target because of how quiet I was—after all, I wouldn't tell anyone what she did to me…right?- whatever it may be, that doesn’t give her the right to mentally damage me. She always picked on me whenever I got an answer wrong, and gave me work without explaining what to do while she sat near the window, having her face glued onto her phone all day. As she does this, a little bit of my innocence slowly breaks piece by piece everyday. I felt unmotivated, scared and alone, especially when all the other kids made fun of me whenever my teacher picked on me. One day, it was parent teacher conference and this was before my mom understood English, so she needed a translator. The janitor had to help my mom with translation since there weren’t any translators available. My teacher told me to go play by the blocks while they chat. As I did so, my teacher was just slandering me to my mom, telling me how I was the worse student and I was “incapable of anything”. My mom didn’t take that lightly and started to argue back at her in Spanish. Surprisingly, the janitor was on my mom’s side saying stuff like “she is capable, you’re just unable to see that. She’s only a little girl, she doesn’t deserve this treatment”. I was scared as I heard them all argue about me because I never witnessed an argument so intense at school. After what seem like hours, my mom and the janitor weren’t going to let this slide. They decided to make a report to the principal to get this teacher fired for good. Everyone in the office took this to consideration and did everything they could to help me out. One day, all that work paid off because she was immediately fire after that. What a triumph! The evil teacher is fired at last…but the damage to me was already done.. From that point, I’ve always been a worrier after that; constantly worrying about things left and right. Worrying about my grades in school, worrying about how to please my parents, and of course worrying about my future. I wanted to be the “perfect child” my parents deserve to have. Nowadays, I try to openly talk about anxiety, in the hope of being able to help others who have had similar symptoms to me and in effect reduce stigma around mental illness. Overtime I learned that I didn’t need to be perfect or to worry a lot, because I’m not alone and I never will be.

As a Hispanic, receiving this scholarship will significantly boost my self-confidence, knowing that I have achieved something that will support me with my current financial condition. This scholarship will create a foundation for getting me closer to my long-term psychological career goals. My dream of having a successful career as a successful art therapist can come true if I am awarded with this opportunity. Even though I don’t belong to a millionaire family, still I would never consider trading them for the world. I have been strongly influenced by my family background over the years, as they have taught me to look at the world in an entirely different way. I learned from my family to look at the world compassionately. We try to be readily available to help others, and try my best to provide positive impacts over others around me, especially those who are mentally challenged like my sister. Based on my background and experiences, my perception of the people, and situations in the real world has been changed tremendously. My sister has been the biggest impact on my view about the world. I couldn’t imagine living with autism and anxiety while not being able to talk your feelings out to anyone. It must be hard to feel as though no one is by your side to help you with this challenge. Sometimes, I put myself in my sister’s shoes. If I could be able to make my sister talk and communicate with us, I would definitely do it. As a child of immigrant parents, I learned to take responsibility for my family and myself at a very young age. Although my parents spoke English, they constantly worked in order to financially support my little sisters and I. Meanwhile, they barely knew English so I became their translator for basically everything. Even until now, I was able to learn more Spanish than I could ever learn. The more involved I became with my family, the more I knew what I wanted to be in the future. My education is another contribution to who I am today. It has helped me to become a more knowledgeable person, ultimately making me a better person. I am a better person not because I have achieved good academic qualification, but because I have developed a strong ability to use my knowledge to help others in making their lives better. I will be able to make wise and educated decisions on the future of my country in elections. Education has provided me with all the required knowledge, skills, and experience to pursue my long-term career dream and will allow me to exploit the opportunities to the fullest extent. Success is triumphing over hardships, working yourself over anything and everything to achieve the best for yourself and your family. With this scholarship, I will use it to continue focusing on my studies in psychology and even visual arts, instead of worrying about extra making money to help my mom pay for my college funds. It will be an investment into myself for my family.

The biggest challenge my community faces is discrimination of race. For example, growing up I had a teacher who failed at being the role model I’m meant to look up to. My parents always told me that teachers are there to help students grow and learn, not to be afraid of or to ridicule their students. That’s what she did to me, picked on a young six year old girl to the point that she became traumatized and feared adults who were there to help her. Why? All because I was Hispanic and I wasn’t capable of doing anything. I started having a mindset that I’m not perfect enough, that I’m not trying hard enough. It got to me from time to time, especially when I’m having the worst days of my life. However, that didn’t stop me. That same six year old girl grew up with a special mindset, and that was “you are more than that”. She was more than just a quiet and shy little girl. She grew up to be an independent and intelligent young woman who’s about to graduate high school and go to college. To me, this shows that not only can a Hispanic be capable of making a difference, but anyone can. My sisters viewed me as their best role model to look up to, considering what they have learned from my past encountering racism and discrimination in school. I showed them that they shouldn’t hide their true self from the world just because they are Hispanic or they are a little different from someone else. Beauty comes in all shape and sizes, so why disregard someone just because they are a different race from you? I’m apart of the National Honor Society, and my first time doing community service was life changing to me. Seeing the impact on my small act of kindness brings joy to me. Why stop there when I can contribute to the community even more? Throughout my experience, I have learned that every person can find a way to contribute to the society and those in need. I’ve found out that my true calling is to inspire young people to find themselves in a less fortunate position than the majority of the population. My dream is to become an educator and create a positive impact on an international level. We need people who want to make the world a better place and want to make people’s days better. And what better way to do so than to help your community by volunteering in your free time?

I use challenges as a learning experience and try to turn the small mistake into a huge positive, rather than dwelling on it as a negative. I don’t let my past take control of my life. I write a new chapter in my life and remember my old memories as an old issue to my book series. Growing up, I had a teacher who failed at being the role model I’m meant to look up to. My parents always told me that teachers are there to help students grow and learn, not to be afraid of or to ridicule their students. That’s what she did to me, picked on a young six year old girl to the point that she became traumatized and feared adults who were there to help her. I started having a mindset that I’m not perfect enough, that I’m not trying hard enough. It got to me from time to time, especially when I’m having the worst days of my life. However, that didn’t stop me. That same six year old girl grew up with a special mindset, and that was “you are more than that”. She was more than just a quiet and shy little girl. She grew up to be an independent and intelligent young woman who’s about to graduate high school and go to college. I can’t change my past, but I’m able to change my future. That’s why I’m proud to have that mindset that my challenges are more than just obstacles, but just learning experiences that I’m capable to learn one step at a time. To me, community is not just a word. I am that person in the group who always wants to take part in activities that make a huge impact on the community. My contribution may be small on a global scale, but I take pride in my daily actions that help to create a positive impact. For example, I’m apart of the National Honor Society, and my first time doing community service was life changing to me. Seeing the impact on my small act of kindness brings joy to me. Why stop there when I can contribute to the community even more? Throughout my experience, I have learned that every person can find a way to contribute to the society and those in need. I’ve found out that my true calling is to inspire young people to find themselves in a less fortunate position than the majority of the population. My dream is to become an educator and create a positive impact on an international level. We need people who want to make the world a better place and want to make people’s days better. And what better way to do so than to help your community by volunteering in your free time?

Autumn Silent as they drift down with the wind And come to rest on the ground Beneath the trees without a care, They lay on a blanket, rich and rare The colors gleamed in the sun With colors warm as they glistered The wind blew its strong breath on the leaves, As they danced and fly wildly on that breezy day Twisting, whirling, and turning through the air Til at last they touch the ground The trees stayed stiff and still With their bodies naked and bare It was a sign to let everyone know That autumn was finally here And summer was taking a snooze. Now we all wait, like children, for First Frost to come

When the pandemic rose rapidly during my 9th-grade year, it caused many unfortunate upbringings to my plans. For instance, transitioning to remote learning was nerve-racking yet accessible to me. One being I wasn't used to the idea of classes being online, I had to multitask many jobs around the house (such as helping my sisters with their courses while maintaining my classes), and I had to keep my grades as high as -B. I was concerned about my future because I felt I couldn't be a clinical therapist due to the pandemic ruining my chances. What did make remote learning work was the idea that every assignment given to me was online. It was easier not to lose important papers I needed for each class. However, those struggles didn't stop me. I knew that life as we knew it wouldn't be as normal as we all expected it to be this decade, but I still try to remain optimistic. I knew the wind blowing me like a leaf to my fate wasn't the solution. I needed to continue to work hard to have a successful future of my own, the future that my parents wanted me to have. They've worked for many hours to sustain the needs we need to survive in this world. I wanted to repay them for all they have done for me. They raised me to be a successful, intelligent, and respectable young lady in this society. As I keep up my studies in school and get my GED at the end of my year in high school, I can see that even though my future may have some challenges to face along the way, I'll be able to defeat them. Five years from now, I see that I'll be able to have a successful job, either as an intern or as an actual therapist. Working to help mentally ill people is my biggest goal to make the world a better place. I felt that people with mental health problems need the type of people to be around them and tell them that life will get better. The illness doesn't define who that person is and they shouldn't have to feel that their illness is one of the characteristics that make up them. With all that being said, those aren't the big reasons why I wanted to be a therapist. The big reason was because of my sister and my mother. My sister has mental problems of her own and my mother did everything she could in her ability to try to understand her. Even when times were difficult when my sister wasn't able to control her emotions, she still didn't give up on helping her, especially when many mental health institutions kept calling her to place my sister in their facilities. Her response to them was always "no". She cared about her daughter, no matter what. That's what inspired me to help others with those same conditions as she did. Who knows, I might be able to help cure my sister one day.