My parents came to America to give their future children a better life. Though it wasn't glamorous, my upbringing helped shape the person I am today. I didn't care to do good in school when I was young, but as I got older, I realized just how much my parents sacrificed for me. My mindset quickly changed and I knew I wanted to repay them for giving me a life that was comfortable enough. I still second-guess myself regarding my major. Did I choose the right major? Is this the career I want to work in? Can I see myself happy doing this? All these questions are continuously floating in my mind, making a permanent home there until I graduate - probably. Though my job may not be permanent, and I decide to change career paths, I know exactly what I want in the future. My dream is to live a comfortable life in a nice one-story house, working in international business, where I don't have to worry about money, food, or any other problems I worried about growing up. I would be able to travel and sightsee, and generally enjoy my life. I also would love to buy my parents a forever home. It will be long overdue, but I want to do at least this one thing for them. They deserve it. As I stated earlier, money is a huge issue for us. I've been applying to scholarships like crazy, I feel that it is making me go a bit insane. I just need to figure out how I'm going to put myself through school. I would love to make it through all four years in four years, but it's not looking bright. I know that I will be in school for at least five, but it may be more. I may have to cut down on how many classes I'm taking, so I won't have to worry greatly about debt. I have done many things to try and get more help financially, but my hope is slowly diminishing. Calling the financial aid office, applying to scholarships and grants, trying to make and sell my own art, and having a job. The first two have been no help but the second two have. Though I worry it is not enough to fund my future. I strive to continue finding a way to get myself through school, and if it takes me longer that's fine. There is no such thing as graduating late. I know I'll be able to make it and I know that my future is bright. Keeping a healthy mental state is a big factor that contributes to my success, so I just need to stay healthy and continue to push on. While I would love to, there is no "removing the block." I am just dragging the block along with me. And it may slow me down, but I know that I will make it.

Mental illness isn't real in a Mexican household. It took eighteen years of suffering before I was able to get help. I knew something was wrong with me since I was little - I lived my entire life in fear and dread. My problems spiraled out of control; what started as not being able to eat, became not being able to leave my house. It was then that I thought I had severe anxiety. When I mustered up the courage to tell my parents, they brushed it off, saying "when I lived in Mexico, we didn't have any mental illness." I couldn't go out with my friends, who soon became acquaintances, and then strangers. At this point, I felt truly alone. No interest of mine could bring up my mood, no matter how much I loved it. The lack of help in my most important growth phases impacted me immensely. It was only when I HAD to withdraw from college courses - due to panic attacks - that I got the approval to get help. At this point, I couldn't socialize with others and didn't have proper coping skills. I had to rebuild my life, one therapy appointment at a time. I've grown as a person and began hanging out with friends again! I found something I'm passionate about and now pursue. Eating in public isn't as bad as I thought, and shopping is a new favorite hobby of mine. There are many moments when I relapse but being able to go out and have fewer panic attacks are just a few things that make me ecstatic. My upbringing made me stronger - more powerful than I had ever been. I'm finally taking back the eighteen years I lost from mental illness to become someone I can be proud of.

Student loans and debt are exhausting to think about. What is supposed to be the happiest years of our lives are spent in fear; believing that debt will prevent us from getting a house or apartment, a car, or more. Our ideal futures become so clouded by anxiety that we give up on the dreams we were told to chase. Being a first-generation American and first-generation college student, a $1,000 scholarship takes me one step closer to becoming the girl my immigrant parents can be proud of. I am proving not only to them, but to myself, that I will be a strong, independent woman. They witness their sacrifices paying off by seeing success through their daughter. $1,000 aids in lifting the weight of worry on my own shoulders as well. I am the sole contributor to my higher education. A scholarship of as little as one dollar or as big as one million dollars boosts my motivation to become a successful businesswoman. I can worry less about the one thing holding me back from chasing my dreams, and direct my attention to the bright future ahead of me. With $1,000, I will prosper and make a name for myself in my industry.

Mental illness isn't real in a Mexican household. It took eighteen years of suffering before I was finally able to get help. I knew something was wrong with me since I was in the fourth grade, as I wasn't able to get along well with others, no matter how bad I wanted to. I lived my entire life in fear and dread, thinking that I would never be able to be successful or happy. When middle school came around, I began hearing of what mental illness was, and how it affects your brain. Though I wasn't able to get a proper diagnosis, I started gaining bad eating habits, leading me to believe I had an eating disorder called ARFID. It wasn't because I disliked myself, but because I was terrified of feeling sick after I ate something. My problems soon began to spiral out of control; what started as not being able to eat, became not being able to look people in the eye, or even leave my house. It was then that I thought I had severe anxiety. When I mustered up the courage to tell my parents, they brushed it off, saying "when I lived on my ranch in Mexico, we didn't have any of that (mental illness)." I began to feel as if I wasn't good enough, a disappointment. I started skipping classes because I was too nervous, and when I did attend, I would have bad panic attacks in class, which only hurt my self-esteem more. I couldn't go out with my friends, who soon became acquaintances, and then strangers. At this point in high school, I felt truly alone. No interest of mine could bring up my mood, no matter how much I loved it. Suicide sat in the back of my mind for a long time; there were days when I thought I would actually do it. I planned and planned but, ironically, anxiety helped save my life. I was too depressed to live and too nervous to die. I was alone with my thoughts, getting louder as night fell. The lack of help in my most important growth phases impacted me immensely. It was only when I HAD to withdraw from two college courses - due to panic attacks - that my parents gave me the approval to get help. I felt relief, yet saddened that it took so long. At this point, I couldn't socialize well with others and I didn't have proper coping skills. I had to rebuild my life, one therapy appointment at a time. Though it's been two years, I have grown as a person and even began hanging out with friends again! I have found something to be passionate about and pursue in my future. I am discovering new facts about myself that surprise me every day. Eating in public isn't as bad as I thought, going to an arcade is so much fun, and shopping - in PUBLIC! - is a new favorite hobby of mine. Everything seems to be falling into place now. There are many moments where I may relapse but being able to go out, eat without throwing up, and have fewer panic attacks are just a few things that make me ecstatic. My upbringing made me stronger - more powerful than I had ever been. I'm finally taking back the eighteen years I lost from mental illness to become someone I can be proud of.

To feel a sense of security by yourself; to feel free. Being independent doesn't just mean being alone, it means being yourself, knowing that you have the power to change your life. I've struggled to find myself growing up, as I had to be part of a certain religion, act a certain way, and do things that are "girly," simply because I am a girl. For as long as I could remember, I felt comfort in being a "tom-boy," and feeling spiritual; unrelated to the religion I was forced to be a part of. As soon as I graduated high school, my desire to become independent grew immensely. I waited nearly 2 years post-high school before I had the opportunity to move out. No more pressure from my family - even friends - suffocating me. Though I have to take on the challenge of grocery shopping on my own, paying bills, and more, I've never felt freer. I can breathe. I've discovered more about myself in just one month than I have the past 20 years I have been alive. I like to do "boy" things, like build lego sculptures or play video games, and I feel at peace with my religious experience. I'm Indigenous Mexican and want to take back my spiritualism before being colonized by Spain. Nature helps me grow into a "wild child," yet calms me down. Being an independent person means being truly happy.

Being a positive person isn't always easy. Being in debt, failing a class, or not being able to find a job lingers in the back of my mind constantly, creating fear. As a first-generation American, and first-generation college student, it's normal to have fears of not being good enough. The need to become someone both you, and your parents, can be proud of is anxiety-inducing. Though these thoughts float around my mind, I can't sulk in them. Setting baby goals to reach a big goal is what I feel works best for my lifestyle. Each small goal I hit, I know I'm one step closer to becoming a successful businesswoman. I'm majoring in supply chain management, and as long as I stay committed, I can achieve that goal. Because supply chain employees handle the beginning of a new production, it feels heartwarming to see the end product; you know that you were part of a team who were able to satisfy several individuals of different backgrounds. Having bad thoughts won't hold me back from achieving my dream. There's a lot to fear, but more to be excited over. I've learned to stay determined to be able to see the direct results of my thoughts and ideas. I want to help create a business model that improves the quality of life for citizens all over the world.

Growing up in a neighborhood full of black and Latino residents, fitting in was easy. I had no problem talking to my friends or caring about how I looked because I looked just like everyone else. When I was 10, my parents made the decision to move to an area that provided higher-quality education. Though it was for my sake, I felt terrible. The individuals who lived in this new area were all Caucasian, nothing like me. It was scary; I felt like an animal at the zoo. I didn't have straight blonde hair or blue eyes. I couldn't speak perfect English, and I wasn't rich. The world today is very progressive, but you don't realize how many people still have a racist mindset until you are in an area dominated by white individuals. The number of comments I've received made me rethink my looks. I would even edit my photos on social media to look more European. It wasn't until I got to high school that I realized that I'm perfect the way I am. My Indigenous features are something to be proud of. The high cheekbones, high nose, and red undertones are all things that make me... me. My curly hair is gorgeous, and I don't need to straighten it every chance I got. I started looking at myself through the lens of someone who wasn't affected by Eurocentric beauty standards, which instantly brought up my self-esteem. Not being white is not ugly. I'm proud to be part of a culture I love so much and look like someone from that culture. I love everything about myself, including my mind, which produces these positive thoughts. Racism is still a challenge that needs to be tackled, and teaching children to love each other is what affects BIPOC most positively.

Being a positive person isn't always easy. Being in debt, failing a class, or not being able to find a job lingers in the back of my mind constantly, creating fear. As a first-generation American, and first-generation college student, it's normal to have fears of not being good enough. The need to become someone both you and your parents can be proud of is anxiety-inducing. Though these thoughts float around my mind, I can't sulk in them. Setting baby goals to reach a big goal is what I feel works best for my lifestyle. Each small goal I hit, I know I'm one step closer to becoming a successful businesswoman. At the end of my educational journey, I hope to find a career pertaining to East Asia. Learning how different countries interact with each other in the business world is something that I feel is important to keeping citizens of those countries satisfied. Because supply chain employees handle the beginning of a new production, it feels heartwarming to see the end product; you know that you were part of a team who were able to satisfy several individuals of different backgrounds. Having bad thoughts won't hold me back from achieving my dream. There's a lot to fear, but more to be excited over. Seeing the direct results of my thoughts and ideas is something I look forward to. I want to help create a business model that improves the quality of life for citizens all over the world.

As a first-generation American, and first-generation college student, it is hard to find role models to look up to. Choosing a major is already a challenge in itself. Though it is hard, I am becoming the role model I wish to look up to. I became interested in the international aspect of the supply chain, as I've always wanted to travel. Due to my interest in East Asian media, my ideal career is one that revolves around East Asian – specifically South Korean – communications. A few companies that catch my attention are Samsung, LG Electronics, Hyundai, Baker Hughes, Pw, and KIA; these are the ones I wish to work for. With my associate degree completed in December of last year, I am now hoping to get my bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management & Logistics with The University of Houston. I am open to learning about subjects outside of my ideal job, as it will help me become a successful businesswoman. I want to make a positive impact in the business world by applying skills I learn to achieve a result I'm proud of.

Mental illness isn't real in a Mexican household. It took eighteen years of suffering before I was finally able to get help. I knew something was wrong with me since I was in the fourth grade, as I wasn't able to get along well with others, no matter how bad I wanted to. I lived my entire life in fear and dread, thinking that I would never be able to be successful or happy. When middle school came around, I began hearing of what mental illness was, and how it affects your brain. Though I wasn't able to get a proper diagnosis, I started gaining bad eating habits, leading me to believe I had an eating disorder called ARFID. It wasn't because I disliked myself, but because I was terrified of feeling sick after I ate something. My problems soon began to spiral out of control; what started as not being able to eat, became not being able to look people in the eye, or even leave my house. It was then that I thought I had severe anxiety. When I mustered up the courage to tell my parents, they brushed it off, saying "when I lived on my ranch in Mexico, we didn't have any of that (mental illness)." I began to feel as if I wasn't good enough, a disappointment. I started skipping classes because I was too nervous, and when I did attend, I would have bad panic attacks in class, which only hurt my self-esteem more. I couldn't go out with my friends, who soon became acquaintances, and then strangers. At this point in high school, I felt truly alone. No interest of mine could bring up my mood, no matter how much I loved it. Suicide sat in the back of my mind for a long time; there were days when I thought I would actually do it. I planned and planned but, ironically, anxiety helped save my life. I was too depressed to live and too nervous to die. I was alone with my thoughts, getting louder as night fell. The lack of help in my most important growth phases impacted me immensely. It was only when I HAD to withdraw from two college courses - due to panic attacks - that my parents gave me the approval to get help. I felt relief, yet saddened that it took so long. At this point, I couldn't socialize well with others and I didn't have proper coping skills. I had to rebuild my life, one therapy appointment at a time. Though it's been two years, I have grown as a person and even began hanging out with friends again! I have found something to be passionate about and pursue in my future. Everything seems to be falling into place now. There are many moments, where I may relapse but being able to go out in public, eat without throwing up, and have fewer panic attacks are just a few things to be happy about. I'm taking back the eighteen years I lost from mental illness to become someone I can be proud of.

As a first-generation American, and first-generation college student, it is hard to find role models to look up to. Choosing a major is already a challenge in itself. Though it is hard, I am becoming the role model I wish to look up to. I became interested in the international aspect of the supply chain, as I've always wanted to travel. Due to my interest in East Asian media, my ideal career is one that revolves around East Asian – specifically South Korean – communications. A few companies that catch my attention are Samsung, LG Electronics, Hyundai, Baker Hughes, Pw, and KIA; these are the ones I wish to work for. With my associate degree completed in December of last year, I am now hoping to get my bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management & Logistics with The University of Houston. I am open to learning about subjects outside of my ideal job, as it will help me become a successful businesswoman. I want to make a positive impact in the business world by applying skills I learn to achieve a result I'm proud of.

I wrap my yarn around the hook for hours on end, intertwining several colors to create a masterpiece. It's so silent, the clock upstairs can be heard ticking, second by second. This is the beauty of crochet. It is a hobby so relaxing, yet so captivating it's hard to put down. Though I'm unsure why I started it, I've come to love it in just one year. What once was learning how to do a single stitch by watching YouTube videos, became stiching an entire blouse in one day. My first "amigurumi," or crochet stuffed animal, was a small whale, in which I named "Whalie." Undenieably, it wasn't perfect, but it holds a special place in my heart, as it was the very first official creation made by my very own hook and hands. I was hungry for more; I've become obsessed with a craft I picked up merely because I was bored at the start of the COVID shutdown. Wanting to fulfill my 6-year-old dream of becoming a fashion designer, I took on the challenge of creating articles of clothing. I began working on a goal I've always wanted to do: design, and make my own sweater. I truly felt like a real designer. Writing down measurements, calculating how I would crochet certain aspects of my design, and watching it all come together. Though it was hard, I loved every minute I spent doing something for myself. Before this, the last time I felt that I accomplished something big was probably when I won first in my gymnastics competitions. I didn't ever wear my own medal outside of competitions, but I can wear my own sweater anywhere, full of pride.

Though I have yet to open one, I know having a credit card is has become a necessity in today's world. Having one is convenient in terms of the possibility of losing it (being able to freeze your account), being able to afford something you can't afford in cash, tracking your spending, protecting your purchases, and getting rewards that come with the card. Online banking has become the norm and it can help with several expenses, though it does have its downsides. If I am smart with my money, I won't have to worry about my loans, or going into major debt. With great credit, comes many great opportunities. Building up a great credit score can affect getting a house, car, apartment, and more. My strategy is to obtain a credit card and use it towards purchases I know I can cover with cash. This way, I am building good credit while saving as much money as I can. I hope to open an account soon and start great spending habits!

Mental illness isn't real in a Mexican household. It took eighteen years of suffering before I was finally able to get help. I knew something was wrong with me since I was in the fourth grade, as I wasn't able to get along well with others, no matter how bad I wanted to. I lived my entire life in fear and dread, thinking that I would never be able to be successful or happy. When middle school came around, I began hearing of what mental illness was, and how it affects your brain. Though I wasn't able to get a proper diagnosis, I started gaining bad eating habits, leading me to believe I had an eating disorder called ARFID. It wasn't because I disliked myself, but because I was terrified of feeling sick after I ate something. My problems soon began to spiral out of control; what started as not being able to eat, became not being able to look people in the eye, or even leave my house. It was then that I thought I had severe anxiety. When I mustered up the courage to tell my parents, they brushed it off, saying "when I lived on my ranch in Mexico, we didn't have any of that (mental illness)." I began to feel as if I wasn't good enough, a disappointment. I started skipping classes because I was too nervous, and when I did attend, I would have bad panic attacks in class, which only hurt my self-esteem more. I couldn't go out with my friends, who soon became acquaintances, and then strangers. At this point in high school, I felt truly alone. No interest of mine could bring up my mood, no matter how much I loved it. Suicide sat in the back of my mind for a long time; there were days when I thought I would actually do it. I planned and planned but, ironically, anxiety helped save my life. I was too depressed to live and too nervous to die. I was alone with my thoughts, getting louder as night fell. The lack of help in my most important growth phases impacted me immensely. It was only when I HAD to withdraw from two classes - due to panic attacks - that my parents gave me the approval to get help. I felt relief, yet saddened that it took so long. At this point, I couldn't socialize well with others and I didn't have proper coping skills. I had to rebuild my life, one therapy appointment at a time. Though it's been two years, I have grown as a person and even began hanging out with friends again! I have found something to be passionate about and pursue in my future. Everything seems to be falling into place now. There are many moments, where I may relapse but being able to go out in public, eat without throwing up, and have fewer panic attacks are just a few things to be happy about. I'm taking back the eighteen years I lost from mental illness to become someone I can be proud of.

Though college is not a requirement to be successful, having that higher-level education has become more appealing on a resume. Many jobs are even unsatisfied with just an associate degree. As a first-generation American, and first-generation college student, there are not many role models in my life regarding higher education. I'm creating history within my bloodline while becoming my own role model. I grew up in a poor neighborhood full of immigrants from South America. Many of my classmates had no intention of going to college; all they knew was to grow up, work and survive as their parents did. Being surrounded by a group of people such as this, I grew to have a similar mindset. It wasn't being unmotivated, but the feeling that we needed to work as soon as we turned fifteen to live. If it weren't for my parents' constant encouragement (or as I heard it - nagging), I would have been stuck searching for a job that can give me financial peace - which isn't as easy as it sounds. Understandably, I was scared to enroll. College is a big responsibility, both financially and mentally, but I knew that getting an education would help me in the long run. My opportunities would widen, and I can achieve that financial peace I long for. The peace that my parents couldn't achieve themselves. Furthermore, I never knew a college had so many programs that could help students succeed, such as mentor programs, mental health aid, and even programs that provide living essentials like food or toiletries. These all became greater encouraging factors that contributed to my motivation. My goal now is to graduate with my bachelor's degree in supply chain management & logistics and give back to my parents whom I owe my life to. I'm most interested in the international aspect of the supply chain field, and I hope to gain experience soon that will help me grow. My ideal career is one that revolves around East Asian (specifically South Korean) communication. Because many universities have a study abroad program, I know that if I could be accepted, I would be many steps closer to my dream job. I have already graduated with my associate degree in December of 2021, with a GPA of 3.7, and am now pursuing my bachelor's degree. I've come too far to quit now. I know my future is bright, and I wouldn't have even come close to where I am now without college. My education is important, not only because it opens more opportunities but because I am breaking boundaries, such as becoming a successful woman in a man dominated field. I want to make a positive impact in the business world by applying the skills I learn to achieve a result I'm proud of.

My album name is "Gateway" and my artist name is Neo. The title of this album represents the opportunities I may encounter through my college career, leading me to a new start. The songs I have "written" for this album describe the range of emotions I have gone through up until now, as a first-generation college student. 1. 10-20-40 by Rina Sawayama. This song is about the experiences with taking different doses of anti-depressants. As someone with depression, and has gone through several medicines as well, I relate to this song very much. "Trying for no reason, giving up so easy. Talking to myself, watching everybody else, just roll on by." 2. You Seem Busy - Melody Day. A sad song about feeling overworked, ending in a reassuring tone. College sucks the energy out of me, but I know I am working towards something I want. "At the end of the day, only deep sighs... It's not easy living the way I want... It's alright, I know you are doing a great job. You will shine... Everything will be alright." 3. Dynasty - Rina Sawayama. Written about being a first-generation daughter in another country, Rina Sawayama expresses how she represents her bloodline. Being a first-generation daughter myself, everything about this song hits close to home. "Mother and father, I know you were raised differently, now it's my time to make things right, and if I fail then I am my dynasty." 4. My Girl - Mindless Behavior. This song doesn't necessarily have a meaning, but it's perfect for when I want to jam to some childhood hits. This song makes me feel energetic and brings me positivity, along with nostalgia. 5. La La Land - Demi Lovato. Another childhood bop that puts me in a great mood. As childish as this may sound, this song is about being yourself and it does put my mood up high. "I won't change anything of my life. I'm staying myself tonight!"

As a first-generation American, and the first person in my family to attend college, it's hard to know exactly what to do. Choosing a major and what school to attend is already a challenge in itself. There aren't many role models in a first-generation Americans' life to look up to regarding higher education, leading me to become my own. Creating a successful life for myself, while breaking barriers in the business field is a challenge I'm eager to tackle. I am majoring in Supply Chain Management & Logistics at the University of Houston. Ideally, I would love to obtain a job that is revolved around the international aspect of the supply chain, focusing on East Asia. Because many of my hobbies revolve around Asian media - anime, K-dramas, and webtoons - it has captured my interest in what business is like between the United States and East Asia. Being able to travel across the world would be a dream as well. Companies that have caught my attention and are successful in the U.S. are South Korean companies LG Electronics, Samsung, and Hyundai. These are the companies I want to learn most about and hopefully work for one day. In December of 2021, I was able to get my associate degree from my community college - Lone Star College-University Park, graduating with a GPA of 3.6. Though I graduated with a high GPA, I was not extremely satisfied. I slacked my first semester, due to the "basic courses aren't that hard" mindset. It was an eye-opener for how college is, and I needed to get myself together quickly. Because I am the first college student in my family of immigrants, I want to become someone my parents can be truly proud of. This meant that I needed to try my hardest in school and maintain a high average. Being a woman of color in a predominately white men-dominated field, it will be tough to work my way up in an area full of bias. Though it's a challenge, my goal is to break down those boundaries and open other opportunities for both women and people of color. Slowly but surely, business in America is becoming more diverse, and I feel honored to contribute to that. I'm open to learning about subjects outside of my ideal field, as it will help me become a successful businesswoman. Additionally, I do have simple skills essential to my major, such as communication, and problem-solving, but would love to learn more. Becoming an intern this summer would help me greatly, as it will help me gain knowledge in knowing how a company functions. An opportunity such as this not only builds my already existing skills, but will aid me in gaining new ones. I want to make a positive impact in the business world by applying what I learn to my work and achieving a satisfactory result while making my parents proud. They came to America for a better life, and I want to give back to them; the people who have sacrificed so much for me.

As a first-generation American, and the first person in my family to attend college, it's hard to know exactly what to do. Choosing a major and what school to attend is already a challenge in itself. There aren't many role models in a first-generation Americans' life to look up to regarding higher education, leading me to become my own. Creating a successful life for myself, while breaking barriers in the business field is a challenge I'm eager to tackle. I am majoring in Supply Chain Management & Logistics at the University of Houston. Ideally, I would love to obtain a job that is revolved around the international aspect of the supply chain, focusing on East Asia. Because many of my hobbies revolve around Asian media - anime, K-dramas, and webtoons - it has captured my interest in what business is like between the United States and East Asia. Being able to travel across the world would be a dream as well. Companies that have caught my attention and are successful South Korean companies in America are LG Electronics, Samsung, and Hyundai. These are the companies I want to learn most about and hopefully work for one day. In December of 2021, I was able to get my associate degree from my community college - Lone Star College-University Park, graduating with a GPA of 3.6. Though I graduated with a high GPA, I was not extremely satisfied.I slacked my first semster, due to the "basic courses aren't that hard" mindset. It was an eye-opener for how college is, and I needed to get myself together quick. Because I am the first college student in my family of immigrants, I want to become someone my parents can be truly proud of. This meant that I needed to try my hardest in school and maintain a high average. Being a woman of color in a predominately white men-dominated field, it will be tough to work my way up in an area full of bias. Though it's a challenge, my goal is to break down those boundaries and open other opportunities for both women and people of color. Slowly but surely, business in America is becoming more diverse, and I feel honored to contribute to that. I'm open to learning about subjects outside of my ideal field, as it will help me become a successful businesswoman. Additionally, I do have simple skills essential to my major, such as communication, and problem-solving, but would love to learn more. Becoming an intern this summer would help me greatly, as it will help me gain knowledge in knowing how a company functions. An opportunity such as this not only builds my already existing skills but will aid me in gaining new ones. I want to make a positive impact in the business world by applying what I learn to my work and achieving a satisfactory result while making my parents proud. They came to America for a better life, and I want to give back to them; the people who have sacrificed so much for me.

As a first-generation American, and the first person in my family to attend college, it's hard to know exactly what to do. Choosing a major and what school to attend is already a challenge in itself. There aren't many role models in a first-generation Americans' life to look up to in regards to higher education. I am fortunate enough to attend college, starting at community and working my way up to a University. I may struggle financially, but this is a small bump in the road that I need to overcome to be a successful businesswoman. I grew up in a poor neighborhood, full of immigrants from South America. Many of my classmates had no intention of going to college; all they knew was to grow up, work and survive as their parents did. A couple of years after high-school graduation, many of my childhood friends began thinking of enrolling in college. They were scared, just as I was when I graduated, but because I had those 2 years of experience, I felt honored to help them. It is a big responsibility, but there are many financial help options for low-income and/or BIPOC students. Additionally, I never knew a college had so many programs that could help students succeed, such as mentor programs, mental health programs, and even programs that provide living essentials like food or toiletries. I always mention this to those who want to attend college, as it is an encouraging factor to push one to enroll. It is my goal to encourage others to go to college, as it is a key factor for a successful future. No amount of questions asked will annoy me, as long as I know I'm helping someone to who I can relate to. I know that the experience I have can greatly help a student like me.

1. I think I deserve this scholarship because I'm so perfect, you will want to give me money. My beauty will take your breath away, even celebrities like Ariana Grande can't compare to me. My gorgeous, luscious curls alone will make you think God spilled the entire jar of "beauty" on me. 2. My current life goals are to be rich and famous. My life would be nothing without having a perfect white poodle and a hot pool boy. I can mingle with celebrities and talk about our pretentious, silly, little lives... 3. I, personally, have never gone through anything bad. My psychic abilities allow me to avoid every situation that would put me at a disadvantage. The only thing I have to worry about is my mom. If I don't listen to her, the world will probably explode.

I wrap my yarn around the hook for hours on end, intertwining several colors to create a masterpiece. It's so silent, the clock upstairs can be heard ticking, second by second. This is the beauty of crochet. It is a hobby so relaxing, yet so captivating it's hard to put down. Though I'm unsure why I started it, I've come to love it in just one year. What once was learning how to do a single stitch by watching YouTube videos, became stiching an entire blouse in one day. My first "amigurumi," or crochet stuffed animal, was a small whale, in which I named "Whalie." Undenieably, it wasn't perfect, but it holds a special place in my heart, as it was the very first official creation made by my very own hook and hands. From this, I started making more amigurimi - ranging from sea life, to forest animals, and even dinosaurs! It was fun but there's only so many stuffed animals one can have. I was hungry for more; I've become obsessed with a craft I picked up merely because I was bored at the start of the COVID-19 shutdown. Wanting to fulfill my 6-year-old dream of becoming a fashion designer, I took on the challenge of creating articles of clothing. Once again, I followed a YouTube tutorial, but because I had more experience, it was easier to construct. Soon after, I began working on a goal I've always wanted to do: design, and make my own clothes. I truly felt like a real designer. Writing down measurements, calculating how I would crochet certain aspects of my design, and watching it all come together. Though it was hard, I loved every minute of every hour I spent doing something for myself. Before this, the last time I felt that I accomplished something big was probably when I won first in my gymnastics competitions... in middle school. I didn't ever wear my own medal outside of competitions, as it would only attract weird stares, but I can wear my own homemade clothes anywhere full of pride. Crocheting is now a big part of my life and I love it immensely. When school and work begin to stress me out, I can always sit down, crochet for a moment, and feel calm almost immediately. I find myself concentrating better when I do my schoolwork after crocheting. Not only do I enjoy this hobby, but it has helped my mental health more than I could ever imagine, in which, I will always be grateful for.