Being raised in a single-parent home has had a big impact on my academic path and taught me important lessons about perseverance, accountability, and willpower. My mother, who has consistently been my main support system, put in a lot of effort to provide for us. I learned early on that I would need to put in a lot of effort if I wanted to succeed because of her sacrifices and unwavering work ethic. As a result, I was taught early on how to manage my obligations to my family, career, and education. My mother has always been the pillar of our family because my father isn't always present, and this has motivated me to go toward my objectives for both her and myself. Living in a low-income household has forced me to be more resourceful and driven to complete my higher education in order to better myself and support my family. I recognized early on the value of education as a means of achieving a better life. Even though I didn't always have the same financial means as many of my classmates when I was younger, I understood that education was the only way to open doors for me. Despite not having the money to acquire the newest materials or send me to extracurricular activities, my mother constantly pushed me to be independent and focused. I discovered how to maximize my resources and never allow my situation to limit my potential.My approach to school has been influenced by these events, and I still put in a lot of effort, remain dedicated, and search for methods to maximize the resources at my disposal. I have always maintained my focus on my long-term objectives in spite of the difficulties, understanding that education is the key to unlocking opportunities that would enable me to build a better life. I'm determined to give back to my community in the future by utilizing my degree and the chances I have. I intend to use the knowledge and abilities I gain while pursuing a degree in automotive technologies to assist those in need, especially those who have faced hardships like me. For low-income individuals and families, particularly veterans and those with physical disabilities, I want to establish programs that provide easily accessible and reasonably priced auto repair services. By demonstrating to young people from comparable backgrounds that hard work and determination can overcome any challenges, I also hope to encourage them to pursue careers in STEM. I've seen firsthand how a lack of resources may impede advancement, therefore I want to establish initiatives that offer information, tools, and mentorship to assist others in overcoming these obstacles. I learned the value of community and helping one another from my upbringing in a single-parent home. In addition to advancing my profession, I hope to actively participate in my community by mentoring and advising young people who could be going through similar struggles as I did. I have a strong desire to give back because of my experiences, and I'm determined to use my degree to improve people's lives—not just in my sector, but also in the lives of others who are trying to overcome their own obstacles. My journey has been shaped by the principles I learnt from growing up in a single-parent home, and they still motivate me to accomplish my objectives and support others in my path.

My long-term objectives center on working in automotive technologies and having a significant influence on the sector. I've been fascinated with autos since I was a little child, learning about their construction, operation, and potential improvements. Despite his personal struggles as a U.S. Army veteran, my father, with whom I spent many hours working on cars as a child, always stressed the value of perseverance and hard work. My long-term objective is to work as an auto mechanic and eventually become an expert in automotive technologies, with an emphasis on developing creative, affordable, and ecological solutions. Additionally, I want to mentor young people in my community, especially those from disadvantaged homes, to demonstrate to them that, like me, they can pursue jobs in STEM and automotive professions. But reaching these objectives has not been without its difficulties. My mom is the only provider for our family, so we live in a low-income environment. Even though my mother has put in a lot of effort to help me and my schooling, there is always a financial strain. To enable me to follow my aspirations, we have had to make sacrifices, such as cutting back on our spending and applying for all available financial help and scholarships. These struggles have strengthened my fortitude and taught me the importance of tenacity. I am aware that earning a college degree involves more than simply academic achievement; it also entails conquering challenges in life. A big step toward achieving my objectives has been enrolling in Southern Illinois University's Automotive Technologies program. However, the financial burden persists. Living expenses, textbooks, and tuition are a continual cause of stress, and it has been draining to juggle my studies with the requirement to work part-time employment. I continue to be committed to my long-term goals in spite of these obstacles. I've put a lot of effort into keeping up a stellar academic record while balancing a number of household duties. In order to obtain experience in the automotive industry, which is crucial for my future, I have also taken on internships and practical projects. These encounters, together with the guidance I've gotten from mentors, have kept me inspired and on course. recognize that the road ahead will not be simple and that, as I pursue my education and start my job, there will be additional obstacles to face. However, I'm resolved to keep going. I'm determined to work hard for my family, especially my mother, who has given up so much for me, as well as for myself. In addition to attaining personal achievement, this journey aims to give back to my community and demonstrate that anybody, from any background, can realize their aspirations with perseverance and hard effort. Despite the challenges, I'm committed to achieving my objectives and using my degree to influence the automotive sector for a long time while encouraging others to pursue their own successful careers.

Pursuing my love of automotive technologies has always been more than simply a professional objective for me; it is an integral part of who I am, which is why I am seeking for this award. I grew up in a family that values perseverance and hard work in Miami, Florida, and spending time with my father sparked my passion for cars. I learned the value of tenacity and finding fulfillment in one's work from a U.S. Army veteran who overcome severe physical and emotional obstacles. I realized early on that this was my vocation from our conversations about automotive developments and our hours spent in the garage fixing engines. I gained practical experience and the self-assurance to pursue a profession as an auto mechanic by working with my father on a variety of automotive tasks. My sense of obligation and motivation were influenced by my father's efforts and dedication. My father is a veteran who has had two knee replacements and has PTSD, which makes his day-to-day living difficult. In spite of this, he has consistently been a source of courage and resolve. I aspire to be like him and assist those who might require automobile solutions that address physical constraints or difficulties. I want to use my training and professional experience to create automobiles and modifications that improve the comfort and accessibility of transportation for veterans, individuals with disabilities, and other marginalized groups. My family and I, however, struggle financially to pay for my schooling. With the help of this scholarship, I would be able to concentrate on my studies at Southern Illinois University, where I am majoring in Automotive Technologies, without putting my family under further strain. I would be able to improve my abilities and further my knowledge, which would set me up for success in realizing my goal of being an auto technician and industry innovator. Fixing cars is simply one aspect of being an auto mechanic; another is solving problems and coming up with innovative methods to make people's lives better. By applying my abilities to create flexible, cost-effective, and sustainable solutions for the automotive sector, I hope to have a significant influence in the future. Whether it's engineering modifications for individuals with physical limitations or developing eco-friendly solutions to lessen the industry's environmental impact, I want to work on cars that serve the people who need them the most. I also want to give back by mentoring young students interested in STEM and the automotive industry, particularly those from underrepresented communities. I became aware of how crucial it is to represent and inspire people from similar backgrounds to follow their goals after growing up in Miami with a mixed Puerto Rican and Dominican heritage. Just like my parents encouraged me to pursue my aspirations, I want to encourage others to do the same. I would be able to advance in my quest to have an influence in the automobile industry with the aid of this scholarship. With it, I can hone my talents, concentrate on my studies, and eventually produce innovations that increase accessibility to transportation for individuals with varying abilities. In the end, I want to pursue what I love, reflect my heritage, and honor my father's history.

I'm Dominic McDaniels, and I'm honored to live in Miami, Florida. Being raised in this energetic, culturally diverse city has influenced who I am and given me a strong respect for community and diversity. My mother is Puerto Rican, my father is Dominican, and my grandmother's Italian history has given me a strong sense of tradition and pride in my heritage, which mirrors the diversity of Miami. My values and goals have been significantly shaped by these cultural influences. I cherish tenacity, family, and a dedication to changing the world for the better. My personal and professional objectives are guided by these values. I've always had a fascination for automobiles and fixing problems, therefore I'm currently working toward a degree in automotive technologies. I have always enjoyed working on cars, learning about their functions, and coming up with new ideas for improvement. My ideal job would be in the automotive industry, where I could help develop innovations that improve the sustainability, efficiency, and accessibility of transportation. I find the "Patrick A. Visaggi Memorial Scholarship" to be quite meaningful. The principles my own family taught me are reflected in Patrick's commitment to family and community. My grandmother's Italian heritage gave me a strong sense of cultural identification, and my parents instilled in me the value of resiliency and kindness as I grew up. My perspective is further layered by my Puerto Rican and Dominican ancestry, which serves as a reminder to value diversity and give back to the communities that have influenced me. Using my studies to develop solutions that tackle pressing issues in the actual world is one important way I intend to have an influence. I'm thrilled about the chance to develop in ways that benefit people as I learn more about automotive technologies. For example, in order to ensure that everyone may have independence and mobility, I want to develop cars specifically for those with physical restrictions. I also have a strong interest in creating aftermarket automobile technology that allow individuals to safely increase the speed and enjoyment of their vehicles. In addition to my career goals, I wish to respect my heritage by building relationships in multicultural communities. My grandmother's Italian ancestry and my parents' Puerto Rican and Dominican ancestry have instilled in me the value of embracing diversity and celebrating ethnic identity. In order to support them in pursuing their goals and breaking down barriers, I intend to mentor young individuals from underrepresented backgrounds who are as passionate about STEM subjects as I am. More than just financial assistance, being awarded this scholarship would reaffirm my dedication to upholding the principles Patrick A. Visaggi advocated. I am motivated to continue his legacy by aiming for greatness and giving back to my community. I'm committed to honoring the ideals and sacrifices that have led me to this point, whether it is via my work in the automobile business or my attempts to inspire others. Giving back and making a lasting impression are more important goals of this trip than achieving personal achievement. With the help of this scholarship and the values of community, service, and resilience that have shaped my life, I am sure I can make a difference.

It has been a special and difficult experience to be the kid of a U.S. Army veteran, and it has influenced who I am now. Although my father bravely and devotedly served his nation, his duty had long-lasting psychological and physical effects. Through his sacrifices, I have learned the value of fortitude, empathy, and helping others—lessons that have been a constant throughout my life. There were challenges associated with my father's military career. He struggles with the lingering symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and has two titanium plates in his knees as a result of the wear and tear of his duty. I was too young to completely comprehend the toll his duty had put on him. When we visited, all I saw was the tough, resolute man who put in countless hours to support my brother and sister , and myself. As I grew older, I became aware of the invisible scars from his experiences as well as the physical suffering he went through every day. It has taken understanding and tolerance to have a parent with PTSD. Sometimes he would be reminded of his Army days by loud noises or sudden changes in routine. In order to provide a secure and encouraging atmosphere for him, my siblings and I had to learn how to handle these situations delicately. in addition to keeping everything dangerous out of the house. I learned to be understanding and flexible from these experiences, which are now essential to how I handle difficulties in my own life. My father's will to keep going in spite of his difficulties has always been an inspiration. He managed to stay active and involved despite his physical restrictions, frequently concentrating on his passion for cars. Our mutual love of automobile technology served as a major point of connection between us. Repairing engines, learning about mechanics, and working together in the garage were more than just pastimes; they were times of support and companionship. I also have a strong appreciation for the virtues of sacrifice and duty because my father served in the military. I've been inspired to look for ways to give back to my community by my father's devotion to his nation. I want my work to uphold the values my father taught me, whether that means assisting people with auto repairs or pursuing a career in automotive technologies. His struggles have also strengthened my resolve to bring attention to the difficulties veterans encounter. Though they are mostly unseen burdens, PTSD and physical impairments like his have a significant influence on families and communities. In order to guarantee that veterans and their families receive the attention and compassion they are entitled to, I wish to promote improved support networks for them. Although it hasn't always been easy, having a military veteran as a parent has greatly increased my feeling of purpose. My father's fortitude and commitment serve as a constant reminder to me of the value of tenacity and compassion. My perspective on life has been influenced by his experiences, which have motivated me to follow my goals in a way that respects his sacrifices.I take the lessons I've learnt from my father's journey with me as I pursue my studies in automotive technologies. His service has made me realize how important it is to contribute to something bigger than myself, and I'm resolved to have a significant influence on both my community and my job.

Being the kid of an Army veteran, I was able to observe firsthand the perseverance, selflessness, and commitment that the military fosters. Two knee replacements are a permanent reminder of the physical toll my father's Army service imposed on his body. As a veteran of the National Guard, my uncle bears the responsibility of his dedication to our nation. Their tales of dedication and service have had a profound impact on me and helped to mold my own sense of accountability. These encounters motivated me to seek a degree in automotive technologies, a STEM discipline that not only satisfies my love of automobiles but also enables me to make a significant contribution to my community. Growing up, one of the biggest challenges I had was observing my father deal with the psychological and physical fallout from his military duty. He had to constantly adjust to new constraints as a result of his knee surgery. But he never allowed his difficulties to define who he was. Rather, he gave me a passion for working on vehicles, which we both found to be a source of strength. I learned the virtue of patience, problem-solving, and always finding a way forward from working on cars with you.My father and I have always had a connection to automotive technologies. We worked on automobiles in the garage for hours, fixing his cars and talking about their mechanics, ever since I could grasp a wrench. This interest has developed into a professional goal. I could explore ways to innovate in the industry by studying automotive technologies, such developing adaptive automobile solutions for those with physical restrictions and veterans. The story of my father motivates me to combine my passion for automobiles with worthwhile community service. My father's garage is the location in the picture I sent in, therefore it has particular meaning. I gained a profound understanding of the relationship between problem-solving and workmanship there. The garage is a representation of tenacity and inventiveness in addition to being a place of work. It makes me think of the many hours I spent working on vehicles with my dad, when we also learned about perseverance, accuracy, and the value of helping something greater than oneself. Southern Illinois University has given me the technical know-how I need to accomplish my objectives. I want to develop and construct cars that put sustainability and accessibility first, with a degree in automotive technologies. I also intend to set up programs that teach automotive skills to young people, particularly those from underprivileged communities. They would gain useful knowledge from these programs, which would pave the road for STEM-related employment while encouraging teamwork and a sense of service. I really relate to the military's emphasis on service. Like my father and uncle, I try to give back by enhancing lives with my knowledge and abilities. I want my profession to embody the ideals of commitment and community support that my family taught me, whether that means teaching the next generation of automotive enthusiasts or assisting a veteran in regaining mobility through adapted automobile modifications. I hope that my contributions to the automobile industry will have a real impact in the future, in keeping with the spirit of service. I commemorate my family's legacy by earning a STEM degree and working to develop cutting-edge solutions that benefit entire communities as well as individuals. More than achieving personal achievement, this journey is about upholding the value of service and leaving a lasting impression.

I'm Dominic McDaniels, and ever since I can remember, cars have captivated me. As a child, my family and I would spend many hours in the garage fiddling with engines, resolving small problems, and learning about how cars operate. My passion for automobiles has influenced who I am and led me to pursue a career in the automotive sector. At Southern Illinois University, I'm presently pursuing a degree in Automotive Technologies, fusing my love with the knowledge and abilities necessary to make it a lifetime job. Around the age of 15, I had an event that helped me discover my mission. My neighbors, a family who had always been there for me, had a financial crisis and were unable to fix their automobile, which they needed for everyday living and work. I could see how stressed they were since their car had been lying unused for weeks. I made the decision to step in and offer my assistance after becoming more knowledgeable about auto mechanics. I spent days diagnosing and fixing their car with them, using tools from my garage and techniques my family has taught me over the years. It was challenging; I had to investigate new topics, solve obstacles, and use my limited resources creatively. However, the joy they felt when they were able to start their vehicle was priceless. I had a strong sense of purpose as I saw the thankfulness in their eyes as their lives resumed their usual routine. I learned the value of blending service and enthusiasm in that moment. Automobiles are more than simply tools; they are vital conduits that link people to their ambitions, loved ones, and possibilities. It was life-changing to realize that my abilities may have a significant influence on other people. Since then, I've made a commitment to use my automotive expertise to better the lives of people around me as well as further my profession. I've been honing my technical skills at Southern Illinois University while also looking for opportunities to give back. I've assisted friends from back home as well as friends here with auto maintenance and issues. These encounters serve as a reminder of the lasting effect that seemingly insignificant actions may have on a person's life. My passion for cars has not only helped others but also motivated me to pursue my dreams. In order to contribute to the development of sustainable vehicle technologies, I hope to work for a large automaker. As an alternative, I want to operate my own business where I can provide high-quality, reasonably priced services, train young car fans who are as passionate as I am, and perhaps even join a racing team that competes across the nation. Helping my friends and family taught me more than just technical skills; it also taught me the importance of making significant contributions, empathy, and tenacity. I've discovered that even tiny deeds of kindness, like repairing a car or helping someone in need, can have a big impact and bring about long-lasting change.In the end, my love of vehicles is about more than just a job; it's about making friends and helping others. I intend to keep transforming my passion for automotive technology into a positive influence and constructing a future in which I can significantly impact the lives of people.

My uncle had a motorbike accident that changed his life when I was ten years old. He fell from an overpass and was seriously hurt. My family went through a terrible time of uncertainty and sadness after the accident left him unconscious and injured. Having grown up with him, my mother was devastated to see her brother in such a precarious situation. The two children of my uncle and my grandmother were also severely impacted. This was a really difficult period for me. Even though my uncle and I didn't spend much time together, the times we did spend together were incredibly significant. He added special touches to the times we spent together, whether it was playing video games, getting food, or simply conversing on the porch. Following his accident, I was unable to manage my feelings. I wanted to be strong for my mom and grandparents, as well as for my cousins, who were like siblings to me. However, I experienced a profound sense of loss, as if a part of my heart had been lost. As the years passed, my uncle's health somewhat improved, but he was never able to entirely recover from the brain damage he had suffered. He had trouble moving, talking, and even seeing with one eye. The situation weighed heavily on me, and I carried a silent emptiness inside of me even as I put on a brave front for my family. When I went to see relatives in Chicago two years ago, I got to know my uncle Rene, who is a pastor at his church. I took solace in his love of preaching, and we bonded over discussions about God and faith. He asked us to one of his church services while I was there, and I was overjoyed to accept. My mom and I were requested to stand at the front of the service by my uncle Rene. He prayed for us, presented us to the congregation, and prayed for my mom through her custody battle. He then requested to pray for my injured uncle, which surprised me. My uncle Rene urged her to confide in God about her hardships. He then encouraged me to release what I had been carrying. I informed him that because I thought I had to be strong for everyone, I hadn't told God about my suffering. He encouraged me that allowing God into my heart and being vulnerable was ok. I sobbed as he talked, letting go of years' worth of repressed grief and rage. I screamed in thought, asking why my family and my uncle had to go through this suffering. It was a life-changing moment. I was reminded by him that I wasn't the only one who had to bear the burden of my suffering. I discovered serenity and direction by letting myself grieve and turning to God. I was able to overcome my bitterness toward my father as well as the grief of my uncle's accident because of my faith. I'm currently enrolled at Southern Illinois University to study automotive technologies. Even though my family and I are having financial difficulties paying for this kind of schooling, I am doing it for my uncle, who has always supported me in pursuing my goals of completing college and working with vehicles. Early on, He encouraged me to follow my passions and aspirations as he did. I do this to make him proud as well as for myself and my family. His faith in me drives every action I take, and I am confident that he would be pleased with the direction I've taken.

I had always dreamed of working in the automotive industry because I have had a strong interest in cars since I was a young child. My objectives are obvious, whether they involve creating and producing auto parts, competing in races as a driver or team member, or working for a large automaker. It will take commitment, strategic planning, and the utilization of appropriate resources to achieve them. Learning every facet of the automobile industry is the first step towards my ultimate objective of becoming a major participant in it. In order to develop and help improve vehicle performance, I want to focus on parts production. On the other hand, my dream is to be a driver or a key team member for a professional race team, pushing the boundaries of engineering on the racetrack. Last but not least, another way I can combine my interests and abilities is by working for a large automaker like Nissan, Toyota, or Ford. Establishing a strong educational foundation is the first step toward achieving these objectives. I intend to finish my present automotive coursework and work toward more advanced credentials, such as the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification. In addition, I want to earn a degree in mechanical or automotive engineering, which is essential for employment in corporate or factory environments. Which is what I'm doing right now in Carbondale, Illinois' Southern Illinois University. I'll also keep improving my practical expertise by working on automobiles, which will help me stand out. I will be able to keep up with industry trends and technological breakthroughs by networking with professionals, attending automotive expos, and joining vehicle clubs. It will cost a lot of money to reach these targets. According to my university, the annual cost of tuition for an engineering degree might be around $30,000. I'll apply for scholarships like the SEMA Memorial Scholarship, which is intended for students who are enthusiastic about the automotive aftermarket sector, to pay for my studies. I'm hoping that later on, working part-time in an auto shop will provide me with experience and money. I project yearly expenses for racing to range from $10,000 to $20,000 for practice runs, equipment, and licenses if I were to get to that point. Here, sponsorships will be essential. My plan is divided into three stages. I'll concentrate on finishing my present coursework, obtaining certifications, and accumulating professional experience throughout the following three years. I want to finish my engineering degree in five years and raise my profile by competing in local races. By year ten, I hope to be a professional racer, manager of a profitable parts production company, or employee of a large automaker. I know that the automobile sector is a competitive place to work. I must make sure my abilities meet industry standards and adjust to quick changes in technology, like the move to electric cars, if I want to prosper. It will need extraordinary time management and perseverance to juggle work, school, and racing. My passion for automobiles influences every choice I make, and I have a lofty yet attainable goal of establishing a prosperous career in the automotive sector. I am certain that I can make my passion a career if I have a good plan, the appropriate tools, and unyielding resolve. I'm getting closer to a time when I'll be able to influence the development of automobiles from the factory floor, the corporate headquarters, or the racetrack with every step I take now.