I am currently a senior who intends to major in political science or public policy because of my fervent passion for understanding and influencing governance and public policy. I firmly believe my interest in political science will equip me with essential knowledge of political theory and institutions that will help me grasp the intricacies of government at the local, state, and national level. My first experience in the realm of politics was through, Youth and Government (YAG), which is a student-run model government where high school students simulate the legislative process by debating bills and learning about the functions of government at the state level. Through Youth and Government, I have been able to help my school community be more civically engaged. In the first year as president of my school’s chapter, I was able to get a quarter of my school’s population to attend our annual spring conference where we won the superior delegation award. I also wrote a bill during the spring conference that limits elected officials' trading ability to 10% of their official income, I was able to advocate for the City Council to review their policies and consider adopting harsher rules during our advocacy days. Another poignant example is from our national advocacy days when I was able to lobby legislators on Capitol Hill to reduce childcare costs and push for the highest level of financing for the childcare and development block grant. These experiences have fueled my passion for striving for change and have taught me that I can contribute to the betterment of our society through a comprehensive understanding of politics, policy, and governance. This program has had a long-lasting impact personal impact on me, teaching me the importance of mobilization and how our combined voices are the only way to create and fight for long-term change. What distinguishes this experience from others is that I was able to contribute to a larger mission of creating measurable change. Civic engagement is vital for societal growth. Being civically engaged through youth and government has helped me make a long-lasting positive impact in my school and community, meet new and amazing people, broaden my worldview, and teach me the value of my voice. This program has taught me the importance of mobilizing young people's voices, their strength, and their ability to contribute to society, and I intend to continue organizing my community to be a positive force for change.

The immigrant experience is a tapestry woven with stories of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of a better life. As a descendant of Chinese immigrants, I have navigated the intricate web of cultural pressures that often come hand in hand with high expectations of achievement. Growing up in a household shaped by the values and traditions of my immigrant ancestors, I was acutely aware of the sacrifices made for our family's future. The weight of these sacrifices translated into an unspoken obligation to excel academically and professionally. The cultural pressures to uphold family honor through exceptional achievements cast a shadow over my formative years. However, these pressures also ignited a fire within me – a drive to not only meet expectations but surpass them and effect lasting change. As I got older, I recognized that my personal narrative was not unique – countless individuals from similar backgrounds were grappling with comparable challenges. It was during this realization that my passion for public policy began to take root. The more I learned about the interconnectedness of society and the potential for policy to shape and mold it, the more I understood the immense power I could wield in addressing the concerns of my community and beyond. Embracing my passion, I immersed myself in rigorous activities that spanned from volunteering to interning with the State Board of Education. These disciplines became the lens through which I viewed the world, allowing me to dissect complex issues and propose viable solutions. By transforming my cultural pressures into a burning desire for knowledge and understanding, I found myself equipped to navigate the intricate web of public policy with an informed and empathetic perspective. The transition from cultural pressures to advocacy was not without its challenges. As I delved deeper into the world of public policy, I realized that my unique perspective, shaped by the immigrant experience, endowed me with a potent tool for change. I became an advocate for marginalized communities, utilizing my platform to champion issues such as equitable access to education, affordable healthcare, and social justice. Through research, collaboration, and community engagement, I witnessed the tangible impact of my efforts on individuals who had been voiceless for far too long. My journey from the burdens of cultural pressures to the realms of public policy has been one of metamorphosis and empowerment. The immigrant experience has instilled in me a profound sense of duty to effect positive change and amplify the voices of the marginalized. As I continue to navigate the intricate landscape of policy, I am reminded of the strength and resilience that define the immigrant narrative. Through my unwavering commitment to public policy, I strive to transform adversity into opportunity, ultimately shaping a world that is equitable, just, and compassionate for all.