When I first looked up at the stars as a child, I felt an unmistakable curiosity about what lies beyond our world. That curiosity turned into determination in 2018, when I saw the first-ever image of a black hole captured by the Event Horizon Telescope. In that moment, I realized that aerospace engineering is not just about complex machinery and science, but that it is about discovery and reshaping the future of humanity. Every step I have taken since then has brought me closer to that vision. Today, I serve as the program manager for a 3U Cube Satellite project with Cal Poly Pomona and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, funded by NASA. Leading this project has been transformative. It taught me that I don’t just want to design satellites, but that I want to help advance humanity's understanding of our universe. I feel a deep calling to create technologies that leave Earth’s boundaries and enable discoveries that advance humanity. My ultimate goal is to lead a team that develops a probe capable of leaving our solar system, much like Voyagers 1 and 2. To me, aerospace innovation means pushing the limits of what we believe is possible. My journey has not been without challenges. I have battled anxiety and depression for most of my life, and there are days when even getting out of bed feels overwhelming. However, my dreams have given me the strength to push on in life. My dreams remind me that my purpose in this life is to make a positive change this this world through meaningful discoveries. Every time I encounter a roadblock caused by my mental health, I remind myself that it is this perseverance fueled by my dreams that is the key to unlocking the future I envision. These struggles have shaped me into someone who values resilience and determination, character values that are essential in aerospace engineering. Financial challenges add another layer of difficulty. Aerospace engineering demands countless hours of study and project work, leaving little time for employment. As a student managing a major satellite project while maintaining a position in the top percent of my class, I cannot work to support myself. Without financial assistance, tuition and related expenses become a heavy burden. This scholarship would allow me to focus fully on my education and leadership responsibilities without the constant worry of debt. It would empower me to continue striving for excellence and innovation. I look forward to a future where my contributions help humanity explore beyond the stars. With your support, I can continue on this path—pushing boundaries, leading groundbreaking projects, and ultimately leaving a positive mark on the world.

I recently picked up Carl Sagan's "Cosmos." This book details the beauty of our universe, walking the reader through the wonders of the cosmos. This book particularly fascinates me because it was written in a way for non-astronomers to understand. More specifically, Sagan holds your hand through the book, providing personal anecdotes and further explanations on higher topics. My favorite quote in "Cosmos" is the line, "The Cosmos is all that is or ever was or ever will be." To me, this perfectly encapsulates my love of space. Growing up, I have always been fascinated with the topic. Looking at the stars, I pondered the questions of life and our place in this universe. The Cosmos existed before us and Cosmos will exist after we are gone. I've never been the one to read the standard YA novels one might expect from a teenager. No, I was always reading books on astronomy because I have always been naturally drawn toward the subject. "Cosmos" further reinforced my passion for space by walking me through why I find it so special. I've been in rough spots in life, not knowing what to do in where to go. However, it is my love for space that keeps me going during these times. This book is especially important to me because it was given to me during the lowest point in my life. Reading it today reminds me of how far I have come and how much farther I can go. Sagan's "Cosmos" is my favorite book.