Motherhood is a complex challenge many individuals face, but it takes on a unique significance when personal circumstances introduce additional layers of complexity. My journey through a high-risk pregnancy and the subsequent birth of two premature yet healthy identical twin boys during the COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly influenced my outlook on life. This essay outlines the difficulties I faced in the early years of my children's lives while balancing work and caregiving responsibilities alongside my husband. During the pandemic, I was grateful for the opportunity to work from home, a blessing that enabled my husband and me to adapt to the sudden demands of parenthood with a degree of flexibility that wouldn't have been possible otherwise. The ability to work remotely allowed us to be present for our newborns during those critical first years while still maintaining our professional commitments. It was a delicate balancing act, with days filled with Teams meetings and nights spent soothing crying babies, but the remote work structure helped create a semblance of normalcy amidst the chaos. However, transitioning into motherhood was not without its struggles. I faced the added burden of postpartum depression, a challenge that threatened to overshadow the joys of welcoming my twin boys into the world. As my maternity leave came to an end, I found myself grappling with the dual pressures of returning to work and managing the demands of caring for two premature infants. The physical and emotional exhaustion was overwhelming. Yet, I refused to be defeated. The experience forced me to confront my limitations, and I emerged with a newfound strength and determination to support my family in any way I could. In the beginning, we were both remote teleworkers alternating and sharing the responsibility of night feedings, diaper changes, and wooing our children to sleep every night. After a short while, we were both promoted to corporate salaried roles. However, my husband's career trajectory heavily outgrew mine, so I placed my focus on career stability in hopes that my husband could achieve greater things for the good of the whole. The decision came with many rewards and struggles, as I found great fulfillment in playing a supporting role in my family. Looking back, I recognize that I was only sidelining my career aspirations out of the fear of taking on more challenges and risks while having two new humans dependent on me. I would rather stay in my comfort zone while my spouse tackled those obstacles. Fast-forward three years, when my husband, whose income was more than double mine, was unexpectedly affected by the 2024 tech layoffs and struggled to find work. This new reality shattered my false sense of security, making me realize that I could no longer stay dormant and continue down a path of stagnancy as a working mother. It became clear that I needed to invest in my own growth and career prospects to help evenly distribute the burden of securing a stable future for our children alongside my spouse. In conclusion, the high highs and low lows of balancing work, marriage, and being a mom of multiple have profoundly influenced my career aspirations. I have emerged with a clearer sense of purpose and direction. It has been a transformative experience that has reshaped my career goals and strengthened my resolve to create a fulfilling professional life that supports and uplifts my family. As I embark on this new chapter of higher education and career advancement, I am motivated by the knowledge that my sacrifices and efforts will ultimately contribute to a brighter future for my family.

Growing up as a Vietnamese "boat people" refugee, I faced significant challenges that tested my fortitude and threatened my dreams of higher education and a successful career. My family arrived in the United States with little more than hope, fleeing the aftermath of the Vietnam War. We were confronted with the harsh reality of starting anew in a foreign land, compounded by the weight of the "model minority" myth, which painted an unrealistic picture of success for Asian Americans. Economic hardship was a constant companion during my formative years. My parents worked tirelessly in early mobile phone manufacturing facilities, earning minimal wages that barely sustained us. Public assistance programs like Medicaid, subsidized school lunches, and food stamps were essential to our survival. Language barriers added another layer of difficulty, as my limited English proficiency affected my academic performance and ability to connect with peers and educators. Being a first-generation immigrant profoundly impacted my mental health. As a teenager, I struggled with severe depression, ADHD, and chronic migraines. Financial constraints and cultural stigma surrounding mental health made accessing support and medication challenging. After high school, I chose to enter the workforce instead of pursuing higher education. This decision was driven by the necessity to secure financial stability and access the healthcare I desperately needed. This period of my life was an uphill battle. However, I refused to let these challenges define my future. I embarked on a journey in the technology sector, starting in support roles within contact centers. Over the next decade, I honed my skills and worked diligently to climb the corporate ladder. My current position represents a seven-year endeavor of growth and learning in an ever-evolving industry. Being a woman in technology with two children in my 30s presented its own set of challenges. I constantly felt the pressure to exceed expectations, battling imposter syndrome and the industry's preference for formal education. Despite obtaining various certifications and undertaking self-study programs sponsored by my employer, I found it difficult to advance into higher-paying positions without a formal degree. Throughout these experiences, I learned invaluable lessons about determination, perseverance, and the importance of self-advocacy. I discovered that challenges could be overcome with tenacity and strategic planning, no matter how daunting. These lessons have significantly impacted my life, driving me to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at Western Governors University. I am determined to break through the barriers that have hindered my progress and to set a positive example for my children. My journey as an immigrant has taught me the importance of diversity and inclusion, both in the tech industry and beyond. I am committed to using my experiences to advocate for underrepresented communities and ensure that others do not face the same barriers I encountered. This scholarship will play a crucial role in helping me achieve my educational goals and continue to contribute meaningfully to society. In conclusion, my adversities as a Vietnamese refugee and first-generation immigrant have shaped me into a strong and determined individual. The challenges have only strengthened my resolve to achieve my dreams and inspire others to do the same.

As a student aspiring to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science, I am driven by a profound passion for harnessing the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) to address some of the world's most pressing challenges, particularly in healthcare. My journey into the world of technology began with a curiosity about how machines could emulate human intelligence. Still, it quickly evolved into a mission to leverage these technologies for the greater good. The impact of AI and ML on the medical field is awe-inspiring, and I am determined to be a part of this innovative wave, using my education to make a meaningful difference in the world. Growing up, I was captivated by the intersection of technology and human experience. I was drawn to STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) because ethics and humanities should be taught alongside science and engineering majors. This integration is crucial to help graduates understand society and ground their experiments in empathy. By appreciating the human context, we can create technology that advances innovation and respects and uplifts the individuals it serves. One of the most compelling aspects of AI and ML is their ability to enhance diagnostic accuracy and speed in healthcare. AI algorithms can accurately analyze medical images, often surpassing human capabilities. This technology holds immense promise in the early detection of diseases such as cancer and neurodegenerative disorders, enabling timely interventions that can save lives. For example, AI's ability to detect subtle changes in brain scans could lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment of conditions like Alzheimer's, ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of life. Moreover, AI and ML are instrumental in personalized medicine, allowing treatment plans tailored to an individual's unique genetic makeup and lifestyle. This approach enhances treatment efficacy and minimizes adverse effects, leading to better patient outcomes. As someone who values empathy and understanding, I am particularly drawn to the potential of personalized medicine to transform patient care and empower individuals to take charge of their health. However, the application of AI and ML in healthcare is challenging. One of the most pressing issues is the potential for algorithm bias, which can lead to disparities in healthcare outcomes. I am committed to addressing these challenges and ensuring that ethical considerations guide the development of AI and ML technologies. My education in Computer Science will equip me with the technical skills needed to develop fair and unbiased algorithms. At the same time, my commitment to STEAM principles will ensure that these technologies are used responsibly and effectively. Beyond healthcare, I am excited about the potential of AI and ML to drive innovation in various fields, from environmental conservation to education. By analyzing vast amounts of data, these technologies can uncover new insights and solutions to complex problems, paving the way for a more sustainable and equitable future. I envision myself collaborating with experts from diverse fields, leveraging my Computer Science education to create interdisciplinary solutions that address societal challenges. In conclusion, my passion for AI and ML and my commitment to STEAM education drive my ambition to positively impact the world. Through my Computer Science studies, I aspire to be at the forefront of technological advancements that improve healthcare outcomes, promote social equity, and enhance the well-being of individuals worldwide. By grounding my work in empathy and understanding, I hope to create a future where technology serves as a force for good, transforming lives and communities for the better.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) have profoundly inspired me, igniting a passion to harness their potential to improve the world. These technologies offer solutions to some of humanity's most pressing challenges, particularly in the medical field. The power of AI and ML to revolutionize healthcare and save lives is both awe-inspiring and motivating, driving my unwavering commitment to becoming an integral part of this innovative wave. One of the most compelling aspects of AI and ML is their ability to enhance diagnostic accuracy and speed. For instance, AI algorithms can accurately analyze medical images, often surpassing human capabilities. Similarly, AI and ML hold immense promise in the early detection of neurodegenerative diseases like dementia. These technologies can analyze patterns in medical data, identifying subtle cognitive changes that may indicate the onset of dementia long before noticeable symptoms appear. Early diagnosis enables patients to receive appropriate care and interventions sooner, improving their quality of life and slowing disease progression. The application of AI and ML extends beyond diagnostics. These technologies are instrumental in personalized medicine, where treatment plans are tailored to an individual's genetic makeup, lifestyle, and specific health conditions. This approach enhances treatment efficacy and minimizes adverse effects, leading to better patient outcomes. Moreover, AI and ML are pivotal in advancing medical research. By analyzing vast amounts of data, these technologies can uncover new insights into disease mechanisms, paving the way for novel treatments and therapies. They enable researchers to identify potential drug candidates more efficiently, accelerating the development of new medications and bringing hope to patients with untreatable conditions. This potential for groundbreaking discoveries in healthcare is a source of optimism and excitement, fueling my determination to contribute to this transformative journey. However, I am also aware of the limitations of these technologies, such as the potential for bias in algorithms. I am committed to addressing these challenges and ensuring the responsible and effective use of AI and ML in healthcare. By pursuing a career in AI and ML, I aspire to be at the forefront of technological advancements that improve healthcare outcomes, save lives, and enhance the well-being of individuals worldwide. I recognize that the fusion of technology and medicine and the successful application of AI and ML in healthcare require interdisciplinary collaboration. I am committed to working with professionals from various fields to leverage these innovations and create a lasting, positive impact on society.

Being a Vietnamese 'boat people' refugee, I've encountered unique challenges on my path to higher education. The model minority myth has proved to be a double-edged sword for many Asian Americans, including Vietnamese refugees. This stereotype, which presents Asian Americans as universally successful and hardworking, overlooks the diverse experiences within the community and disregards the substantial challenges faced by subgroups such as the Vietnamese "boat people." My family, escaping the aftermath of the Vietnam War, arrived in the United States with scarcely more than the clothes on our backs. We had to adapt to a society that expected us to meet an unrealistic standard of success while coping with the traumas of war and displacement. During my formative years, my family grappled with economic challenges that caused persistent worry and strain. My parents toiled long hours in early mobile phone manufacturing facilities like Nokia's, earning meager wages that barely covered our essential expenses. Consequently, we heavily relied on public assistance programs such as Medicaid, subsidized school lunches, and food stamps to make ends meet. The hurdles posed by language barriers further compounded our difficulties. On entering the American school system, I had limited English proficiency, which in turn impacted my academic performance and hindered my ability to connect with peers and educators. The experiences I went through had a significant impact on my mental health. During my teenage years, I began to experience severe depression, ADHD, and chronic debilitating migraines. Accessing mental health support and prescription medications was often a challenge due to financial limitations and the stigma attached to mental health problems in our culture. After completing high school, I made the decision to enter the workforce instead of pursuing further education in order to secure the financial resources needed to prioritize my well-being and access the healthcare I required. After stepping away from formal education, I refused to let this obstacle dictate my path. I transitioned into the professional world, dedicating over a decade to refining my skills in the technology sector. My career kicked off with support roles in different contact centers, setting the stage for a seven-year endeavor to progress in the corporate realm at my current company. The lessons I've learned in this dynamic and continually evolving industry have been priceless. Being a woman in the field of technology with two children in my 30s has presented its fair share of challenges. Throughout the years, I've devoted myself to expanding my skill set and knowledge through various certifications and self-study programs sponsored by my employer. Nevertheless, I've encountered difficulties in showcasing my expertise and advancing into higher-paying positions due to the industry's emphasis on formal education. Despite these obstacles, I am resolute in my ambition to obtain a formal degree as a first-generation college student and surmount these challenges. Recently, my interest has shifted towards Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML). Rather than being fearful of the rapid changes brought by advancements in AI technology and automation, I embrace them with enthusiasm and curiosity. The transformative potential of these fields fascinates me and is a driving force that compels me to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science. This academic pursuit is not merely about earning a degree but about using applied mathematics and programming to deepen my understanding of neural network algorithms and statistical and large language models and positioning myself for a possible future in these dynamic and impactful fields. By awarding me this scholarship, you are supporting a dedicated and passionate individual eager to contribute to the future of AI and ML. Thank you for considering my application.

Being a Vietnamese 'boat people' refugee, I've encountered unique challenges on my path to higher education. The model minority myth has proved to be a double-edged sword for many Asian Americans, including Vietnamese refugees. This stereotype, which presents Asian Americans as universally successful and hardworking, overlooks the diverse experiences within the community and disregards the substantial challenges faced by subgroups such as the Vietnamese "boat people." My family, escaping the aftermath of the Vietnam War, arrived in the United States with scarcely more than the clothes on our backs. We had to adapt to a society that expected us to meet an unrealistic standard of success while coping with the traumas of war and displacement. During my formative years, my family grappled with economic challenges that caused persistent worry and strain. My parents toiled long hours in early mobile phone manufacturing facilities like Nokia's, earning meager wages that barely covered our essential expenses. Consequently, we heavily relied on public assistance programs such as Medicaid, subsidized school lunches, and food stamps to make ends meet. The hurdles posed by language barriers further compounded our difficulties. On entering the American school system, I had limited English proficiency, which in turn impacted my academic performance and hindered my ability to connect with peers and educators. The experiences I went through had a significant impact on my mental health. During my teenage years, I began to experience severe depression and chronic migraines that were debilitating. Accessing mental health support and prescription medications was often a challenge due to financial limitations and the stigma attached to mental health problems in our culture. After completing high school, I made the decision to enter the workforce instead of pursuing further education in order to secure the financial resources needed to prioritize my well-being and access the healthcare I required. After stepping away from formal education, I refused to let this obstacle dictate my path. I transitioned into the professional world, dedicating over a decade to refining my skills in the technology sector. My career kicked off with support roles in different contact centers, setting the stage for a seven-year endeavor to progress in the corporate realm at my current company. The lessons I've learned in this dynamic and continually evolving industry have been priceless. Being a woman in the field of technology with two children in my 30s has presented its fair share of challenges. I've consistently felt the need to exceed expectations in order to prove my capabilities. Throughout the years, I've devoted myself to expanding my skill set and knowledge through various certifications and self-study programs sponsored by my employer. Nevertheless, I've encountered difficulties in showcasing my expertise and advancing into higher-paying positions due to the industry's emphasis on formal education. Despite these obstacles, I am resolute in my ambition to obtain a formal degree and surmount these challenges. As I prepare to pursue higher education, I am facing financial challenges. Earlier this year, my husband was affected by the widespread tech layoffs. Our family, consisting of two adults and two children, relies on a single source of income. I am the sole provider, earning an annual take-home pay of approximately $28,262. My income supports our household, which has significant expenses. The scholarship I am applying for is essential for my long-term career aspirations. Financial assistance would help alleviate the pressures of juggling work, family, and education, enabling me to concentrate on my studies and accomplish my academic and professional objectives.

My life has been a series of trials that have forged my character. Departing from a hostile home environment at 16 catalyzed my journey toward self-reliance and independence. This was not a typical teenage rebellion but a necessary step for my safety and well-being. It thrust me into the adult world prematurely, where I had to navigate life's complexities at an age when most were still discovering their identities and passions. At that tender age, I boldly decided to drop out of high school. This was not a choice of convenience but of survival. I needed to balance my immediate need to sustain myself with my long-term educational goals. At 18 or 19, I took the initiative to enroll at a local community college while working to support myself. My goal was to further my education and secure a better future. However, the reality of juggling work and studies, along with the burden of living expenses, was overwhelming. The financial strain eventually led to my difficult decision to pause my academic pursuits. This period was a profound learning experience, teaching me the value of perseverance and the harsh realities many students face. Despite stepping away from formal education, I did not allow this setback to define my trajectory. I entered the working world, where I have spent over a decade honing my skills in the technology sector. My professional journey began in support jobs in various contact centers. The one that impacted me the most was the one that started my seven-year journey of trying to advance the corporate world at my current company. My experiences in this fast-paced, ever-evolving industry have been invaluable. As a woman in technology and a mother of two in her 30s, I have navigated a challenging landscape, consistently having to over-achieve to demonstrate my competence. These years have provided me with practical skills and reinforced my belief in the importance of education. Over the years, I've actively sought to expand my skills and understanding through multiple certifications and work-sponsored self-study programs. Despite my extensive experience and dedication to continuous learning, I have faced significant challenges in breaking into higher-paying roles within the tech industry. I have encountered the industry's preference for candidates with formal education. This competitiveness has often disadvantaged me despite my practical knowledge and skills. Yet, this experience has not deterred me. On the contrary, it has only reinforced my determination to pursue a formal degree and break through these barriers. I intend to direct my career goals toward Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML). Rather than being fearful of the rapid changes brought by advancements in AI technology and automation, I embrace them with enthusiasm and curiosity. I understand that these technologies are here to stay and will continue to evolve, shaping the future of numerous industries. I desire to be an integral part of this change, not only to adapt to these advancements but also to drive them forward through innovative solutions and applications. The transformative potential of these fields fascinates me and is a driving force that compels me to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science. In conclusion, my technological journey has been marked by a commitment to continuous learning, flexibility in facing challenges, and a passion for innovation. I am committed to leveraging my education and experiences to drive innovation and significantly impact the technology sector. I also plan to give back to the community by sharing my knowledge and experiences with others, mentoring aspiring technologists, and actively participating in initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion in the tech industry.

Mental health is a pervasive element of our lives, subtly influencing every facet of our existence. My struggle with mental illness has profoundly shaped my beliefs, strained my relationships, and directed my career aspirations in ways I could never have anticipated. Understanding and addressing mental health is not just a personal journey but a societal necessity, especially when considering the devastating impact of conditions like postpartum depression and anxiety on new mothers. It's a call to action, a plea for us all to recognize the urgency and importance of this issue. Living with mental illness often means oscillating between moments of triumph and despair. One day, I may feel capable of conquering the world; the next, I can barely face it. This inconsistency has given me a deep sense of empathy and awareness of the struggles others might be silently enduring. I recognize mental illness in people around me, understanding that their erratic behaviors or seeming lack of motivation might stem from an internal battle rather than a character flaw. Mental illness means constantly battling feelings of inadequacy and self-loathing. Despite my achievements, I often find myself plagued by the belief that nothing I do is ever good enough. This self-criticism can be isolating, making it challenging to share my true feelings with others for fear of judgment or misunderstanding. It forces me to wear a "human suit" when socializing, presenting a façade of normalcy while concealing the turmoil within. The impact of mental illness on relationships cannot be overstated. It requires immense courage to reach out and form new connections or even maintain existing ones. My relationships often suffer as a result of my condition. Friends and family may struggle to understand why I withdraw or seem disinterested. They may not see the internal struggle that makes even simple social interactions daunting. We must be more understanding, patient, and willing to see beyond the surface. This struggle is exacerbated by societal stigma and discrimination. In professional settings, admitting to a mental health condition can lead to biased treatment or misconceptions about one's ability to handle stress. This reality forces many, including myself, to hide their struggles, creating a cycle of isolation and misunderstanding. It's crucial to recognize that societal attitudes towards mental health play a significant role in the challenges faced by individuals with mental illness. Navigating the professional world with mental illness is fraught with challenges. Job interviews become a test of my ability to mask my true self, as I feel compelled to assert that I handle stress well despite the reality often being the opposite. This façade is necessary to avoid the potential discrimination that comes with admitting to mental health struggles. My mental health has significantly influenced my career trajectory. In my early twenties, my arrogance and depression led me to believe that I was irreplaceable at my job. Losing that position taught me a harsh lesson about the replaceable nature of employees and the difficulty of finding new employment, especially when mental health is a constant hurdle. Injuries and failed attempts at finding a fulfilling career compounded my struggles, making it clear that worrying about income is the last thing anyone suffering from mental health issues needs. The impact of mental health on career aspirations is a significant aspect of the struggle with mental illness, often leading to professional challenges and financial instability. Postpartum depression and anxiety are particularly devastating forms of mental illness that affect new mothers. The transition to motherhood is already challenging, and the added burden of mental health issues can be overwhelming. Postpartum depression can lead to feelings of intense sadness, exhaustion, and anxiety, making it difficult for mothers to care for themselves and their newborns. My husband's experience with losing his mother to suicide underscores the dire consequences of untreated mental illness. Her severe depression led her to take her own life, leaving a lasting impact on those she left behind. This tragedy highlights the importance of paying attention to the mental health of those around us, especially new mothers who might be silently struggling. The reality is that those suffering from depression and other mental health conditions often do not reach out for help. They feel helpless, alone, and fearful of becoming a burden to their loved ones. This is why mental illness can be so deadly. It is not just the responsibility of those suffering to seek help; it is equally important for the non-depressed to be vigilant and supportive. We must be more than just aware; we must be actively supportive and understanding. In conclusion, mental health has shaped my life in profound ways, influencing my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. Understanding the pervasive impact of mental illness is crucial for fostering a more compassionate and supportive society. For new mothers, the added challenge of postpartum depression and anxiety necessitates even greater awareness and support. By acknowledging and addressing mental health openly, we can create an environment where individuals feel safe to seek help and are supported in their journey toward wellness. It's not just about raising awareness but also about creating a supportive environment that encourages open dialogue and understanding.