In the summer of 2023, I found myself in the heart of Baltimore, navigating the city's vibrant yet struggling neighborhoods. Armed with nothing but a Purple Air monitor and an unyielding passion for environmental justice, I embarked on an internship with STEMcx that would forever change my life. This experience was not just a professional challenge but a deeply personal one, as it exposed me to the harsh realities of environmental disparities in marginalized communities—realities I had only read about before. The journey was difficult and filled with many firsts, but it taught me the true meaning of perseverance and Agape love. The challenge I faced was daunting. Baltimore's environmental landscape was marred by air pollution, urban heat islands, and systemic neglect that disproportionately affected the city's most vulnerable populations. As I collected data and engaged with the community, I was often met with skepticism and resistance. There were moments when the sheer scale of the problem felt overwhelming, and the weight of the responsibility seemed too heavy to bear. But it was in these moments of doubt that I found my strength. I realized that change doesn’t happen overnight and that every small step forward counts. With this mindset, I pressed on, driven by the belief that I could make a difference, no matter how small. To overcome the challenges, I leaned on the concept of Agape love—the selfless, unconditional love that transcends all obstacles. I saw this love in the eyes of the community members who welcomed me into their lives, despite their struggles. I saw it in the resilience of the single mother who attended our workshops after working a double shift, determined to learn how to protect her children from the effects of pollution. Inspired by their strength, I devoted myself fully to the cause. I worked late into the night analyzing data, organized community events to raise awareness, and collaborated with local organizations to advocate for policy changes. Through this experience, I grew not just as an advocate for environmental justice, but as a person. I learned the value of patience, persistence, and the power of empathy. I realized that true leadership isn’t about imposing solutions but about listening, understanding, and working alongside those you seek to help. This realization has shaped how I give back to my community today. Whether it’s mentoring young students interested in STEM or volunteering at local environmental organizations, I strive to approach every interaction with the same love and empathy that guided me through my internship. In the future, I plan to continue this work on a larger scale by pursuing a career in sustainable architecture. My goal is to design buildings and urban spaces that are not only environmentally friendly but also accessible and equitable for all. I want to create spaces where communities can thrive, free from the burdens of pollution and neglect. And as I move forward, I will carry with me the lessons I learned during that summer in Baltimore—the importance of love, empathy, and the unwavering belief that even in the face of adversity, we can all be agents of change. Through this scholarship, I hope to gain the support I need to continue my education and achieve my dreams. My journey has been shaped by the challenges I’ve faced, but it is those very challenges that have fueled my passion for making the world a better place. I am determined to use my experiences to inspire others, to show them that no matter where they come from or what they’ve been through, they too can make a difference.