I grew up in a family where mental health was not a conversation that we took seriously. Thankfully, my friends and teachers have been supportive and helped to educate me on healthy methods of emotional regulation. I attended counseling sessions when I started college and continued to learn more about mental health through research articles. Since becoming more informed about my emotional well-being, I can identify harmful habits and find better alternatives. Although I’m in a good place with my own mental health, I still want to bring a positive attitude toward mental and emotional health into my family. Last year, one of my parents was encouraged by their doctor to seek a diagnosis of depression or bipolar disorder. They turned down any assistance and explained that the symptoms were just a "part of their personality." It was upsetting to hear that they were unwilling to learn more about their health and potential solutions to improve their lifestyle. I understand that it’s difficult to frame their experiences as a disorder when their symptoms have been normalized their whole life. I want to encourage them to seek help without sounding like I'm saying there's something "wrong" with them, but I still haven't found the right words. I worry about the negative impact that self-destructive habits can have on my parent even though they deny the effects. Sometimes I find my parent isolating themselves or taking on more responsibility than they need to because they were conditioned to face punishment instead of finding solutions to problems. When they build up high levels of stress, it manifests as physical pain and recurring health issues. There is a misconception that “it’s all in your head,” but I have witnessed how thoughts can influence our actions leading to changes in overall health. It’s difficult to show people why they need to unlearn bad habits when they come from a culture that values success over an individual’s health. Many people are taught that sacrificing personal needs is necessary for the survival of the family or community but it can lead to long-term issues. A lot of immigrants in the US glorify independence and self-sufficiency which is rooted in the American Dream. Asking for help is considered a weakness because they think it shows that your hard work isn’t enough. So, to prove that the sacrifices are worth it, they remain in denial of all the pain that has accumulated. Negative aspects of a culture are not an excuse to condemn the whole community because they may have been necessary for survival in the past. It’s important to learn about the context of a community before addressing their needs. We need to ensure that when we help people, we are not speaking to them condescendingly. It’s important to show that we come from a place of care, not with the intent of domination or erasure. Even though I know it will take time, I want to bridge the gap between my parent’s understanding of mental health and the information that’s out there. It won’t be easy, but I can gradually introduce ideas that could open their mind to a different perspective on mental health.

Minecraft is a video game that I always come back to because it gives me a sense of freedom and creativity even when I feel lost in my personal life. Unlike many games that follow a linear narrative or set objectives, Minecraft empowers players to forge their own paths and make their own interpretations of the game. Even though certain blocks or mobs have an intended purpose, I love being able to find a new way to incorporate them into my world. This open-ended approach appeals to me especially since I love exploration and storytelling. The game inspired me to take action and generate more ideas which has helped me become more driven. In Minecraft, I can choose to plan out my journey to explore vast landscapes, collect materials, and uncover hidden treasures. Or I can spend hours concentrating on building intricate structures, from underwater villages to towering castles. When I have a goal or dream that seems too intimidating to pursue, I just need to remind myself that I am capable of achieving it if I just start with taking the first step because there is proof of my hard work and innovation in my Minecraft projects. I had fun planning and executing those projects because I was eager to bring my ideas to life. Minecraft is not just a game; it's a canvas for my creativity and a stage for my stories.

I grew up in a family where mental health was not a conversation that we took seriously. Thankfully, my friends and teachers have been supportive and helped to educate me on healthy methods of emotional regulation. I attended counseling sessions when I started college and continued to learn more about mental health through research articles. Since becoming more informed about my emotional well-being, I can identify harmful habits and find better alternatives. Although I’m in a good place with my own mental health, I still want to bring a positive attitude toward mental and emotional health into my family. Last year, one of my parents was encouraged by medical professionals to seek a diagnosis of depression or bipolar disorder. They turned down any assistance and explained that the symptoms were just a "part of their personality." It was upsetting to hear that they were unwilling to learn more about their health and potential solutions to improve their lifestyle. I understand that it’s difficult to frame their experiences as a disorder when their symptoms have been normalized their whole life. I want to encourage them to seek help without sounding like I'm saying there's something "wrong" with them, but I still haven't found the right words. I worry about the negative impact that self-destructive habits can have on my parent even though they deny the effects. Sometimes I find my parent isolating themselves or taking on more responsibility than they need to because they were conditioned to face punishment instead of finding solutions to problems. When they build up high levels of stress, it manifests as physical pain and recurring health issues. There is a misconception that “it’s all in your head,” but I have witnessed how thoughts can influence our actions leading to changes in overall health. It’s difficult to show people why they need to unlearn bad habits when they come from a culture that values success over an individual’s health. Many people are taught that sacrificing personal needs is necessary for the survival of the family or community but it can lead to long-term issues. A lot of immigrants in the US glorify independence and self-sufficiency which is rooted in the American Dream. Asking for help is considered a weakness because they think it shows that your hard work isn’t enough. So, to prove that the sacrifices are worth it, they remain in denial of all the pain that has accumulated. Negative aspects of a culture are not an excuse to condemn the whole community because they may have been necessary for survival in the past. It’s important to learn about the context of a community before addressing their needs. We need to ensure that when we help people, we are not speaking to them condescendingly. It’s important to show that we come from a place of care, not with the intent of domination or erasure. Even though I know it will take time, I want to bridge the gap between my parent’s understanding of mental health and the information that’s out there. It won’t be easy, but I can gradually introduce ideas that could open their mind to a different perspective on mental health.

Attending an NCT Dream concert with my best friend during my freshman year of college was an unforgettable experience that solidified our bond and created memories we cherish to this day. It all began when we saw the announcement that NCT Dream was coming to her hometown, and we instantly knew we had to be there. Our shared love for K-pop, especially NCT Dream, was a significant part of our friendship, and the prospect of seeing them live was exhilarating. We went on a trip back to her family home and excitedly prepared for the concert. Even though we didn't have any merch or advanced makeup skills we wanted our outfits to represent the spirit of the fandom. I wore a neon green hoodie, the official color of NCT, while she wore oversized jeans to capture the youthful energy of the Dream unit. As we got ready, we played their songs, singing along and hyping each other up. The anticipation built with every beat, making the air around us electric with anticipation. We arrived at the venue early, joining a long line of equally enthusiastic fans. The camaraderie among the fans was heartwarming. We chatted with fellow NCTzens, sharing our favorite songs, biases, and concert expectations. The hours flew by, and before we knew it, we were inside the arena, our seats offering a perfect view of the stage. The atmosphere was buzzing with energy, fans waving their light sticks in a sea of neon green. As the lights dimmed and the first notes of "Glitch Mode" echoed through the arena, a collective cheer erupted from the crowd. The stage lit up, and there they were—NCT Dream in all their glory. The boys looked even more charismatic in person, their energy infectious. We screamed, sang along, and danced with reckless abandon, feeling a sense of unity with the crowd. Every performance was a spectacle, from the high-energy dance tracks to the heartwarming ballads. The members’ interactions with the audience made the experience even more special. Throughout the concert, I glanced at my best friend, seeing her face light up with pure joy. It was a reminder of why we were such good friends. We both loved sharing these moments of happiness, and this concert was a pinnacle of our shared experiences. During the performance of “My First and Last,” we held hands, swaying to the music, feeling a deep connection not just to the band but to each other. After the concert, we were on an emotional high. Our voices were hoarse from screaming, and our feet ached from jumping up and down, but our hearts were full. We headed to a nearby café, where we decompressed and relived every moment of the concert. We laughed about our failed attempts to hit high notes and reminisced about how we first bonded over K-pop in the college dorms. The concert had given us a renewed appreciation for our friendship. The NCT Dream concert was more than just a musical event; it was a milestone in our friendship. It brought us closer, giving us a shared experience that we could always look back on with fondness. It reminded us of the joy in shared passions and the strength of our bond. As we drove back to her house that night, we felt invincible, knowing that no matter where life took us, we’d always have each other and the memories of that incredible concert.

NCT, or Neo Culture Technology, has profoundly impacted my life as a student and contributed significantly to global culture through their music, dance, YouTube content, and experimental style. Their influence extends beyond the realm of entertainment, shaping my perspective on creativity, hard work, and cultural interconnectedness. As a student, NCT's music and messages have been a constant source of motivation and inspiration. Their lyrics often emphasize themes of perseverance, self-discovery, and unity, resonating deeply during challenging academic moments. Songs like "Limitless" and "Boss" encapsulate the spirit of pushing boundaries and striving for excellence, encouraging me to adopt a growth mindset. The group's dynamic discography, ranging from energetic tracks like "Cherry Bomb" to the introspective "From Home," provides a diverse soundtrack that caters to various moods and study sessions. NCT's dance performances are another significant aspect of their impact. Their intricate choreography and seamless synchronization show the importance of both discipline and passion. Watching their performances not only inspired me to persevere and improve my own skills but also to enjoy dancing. NCT has encouraged me to explore my own capabilities through movement and creativity. Beyond their music and dance, NCT's YouTube content offers a unique window into their lives and creative processes. Through series like "NCT Daily" and "NCT Life," fans gain insight into the members' personalities, experiences, and behind-the-scenes efforts. This content humanizes the idols, making them relatable figures who face challenges and triumphs just like any person. Their interactions and friendship serve as a reminder of the importance of maintaining strong relationships and supporting one another in any journey. NCT's experimental style is perhaps one of their most significant contributions to global culture. Their innovative approach to music production, blending various genres and incorporating unconventional sounds, challenges traditional norms and pushes the boundaries of contemporary music. This fearless experimentation encourages fans, including myself, to embrace creativity and think outside the box. It teaches us that taking risks and exploring new ideas can lead to groundbreaking achievements, a valuable lesson applicable in academics and beyond. Moreover, NCT's multicultural and multilingual makeup highlights the importance of diversity and global collaboration. With members hailing from different countries and backgrounds, the group embodies a modern, interconnected world. This diversity is reflected in their music, which often incorporates elements from various cultures, fostering a sense of global unity. As a student, this exposure to different languages and cultural expressions broadens my understanding and appreciation of the world, promoting a more inclusive and open-minded perspective. In summary, NCT's impact on my life and their contribution to global culture are multifaceted. Their music, dance, YouTube content, and experimental style provide inspiration, motivation, and valuable life lessons. NCT's dedication to their craft and innovative spirit encourage a growth mindset and creative thinking, while their multiculturalism promotes global understanding and unity. Through their work, NCT not only entertains but also educates and inspires, making a lasting impression on fans worldwide.

This semester I visited a Family Abuse Center in Waco for a sociology course that I'm taking. The Family Abuse Center offers services to individuals and families suffering from domestic violence. Their clients come from a range of living situations and the abuse they suffered was not just from family members, but also from roommates, caretakers, or other people in their household. There is a client hallway where people live and they rely on donations to support their stay. I have always wanted to get involved in volunteering or advocacy for child abuse and domestic violence, but I did not know how to get started because many facilities require personnel with training and expertise. Visiting the Family Abuse Center and researching more about how organizations like it function helped me understand how I can help. Their emphasis on the importance of physical and monetary donations helped me realize how valuable my contributions can be. I've started putting aside money that I plan to donate to the Family Abuse Center and I am searching for other organizations with similar causes I can support. I've been researching foster care and support systems for families and children involved in social work cases. Even in turbulent times, all children should have the opportunity to develop their self-esteem and motivation to achieve their life goals. In the future, I hope to become a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA). CASA are volunteers who are trained in working with children in foster care, navigating the legal system, and speaking in court. They offer guidance for foster children and some stability when they are moving around, changing schools, and talking to new lawyers and case workers. CASAs are assigned to one child throughout the whole process so they are important informants who can keep everyone updated. I want to make an impact by personally helping foster children through a difficult stage of their lives and being a familiar face or someone they can confide in.

In the crisp embrace of autumn's arrival, there's a ritual that my roommate and I eagerly await each year, our Starbucks apple cider rendezvous. It's become an essential part of our fall experience, a tradition that binds us together in warmth and camaraderie amidst the changing seasons. It all began during our first year living together. As the leaves outside turned shades of amber and gold, we found ourselves seeking solace from the crowded libraries and academic pressures in the cozy ambiance of our local Starbucks. It was there, amidst the comforting aroma of brewing coffee and the chatter of fellow patrons, that we discovered the magic of Starbucks' apple cider. I was hesitant to order anything other than my go-to chocolate croissant, but my roommate urged me to try her favorite drink. Despite the strange looks the cashier gave us for ordering such a simple drink, the first taste was nothing short of revelatory. With each sip, we were transported to a world of autumnal splendor – the tang of crisp apples mingling with fragrant spices, enveloping us in a blanket of warmth and nostalgia. From that moment on, our weekly visits to Starbucks became a cherished tradition, a respite from the demands of our busy lives, and a celebration of the fall season. As the holidays approached and the festivities ensued, it gave us all the more reason to visit Starbucks and join in on the winter cheer. The apple cider evolved into much more than just a simple indulgence, it became a cornerstone of our friendship, a ritual that we looked forward to with eager anticipation. We'd spend hours curled up in our favorite corner booth, savoring our cider as we shared stories, dreams, and laughter. But it wasn't just about the cider itself, it was about the memories we created with each conversation from the line at Starbucks to our walk back to the dorm. We reminisced about our first impressions, laughed over inside jokes that had emerged during our Starbucks outings, and marveled at how much had changed since we first embarked on this tradition. Now, as the scent of autumn fills the air once more, my roommate and I find ourselves drawn back to Starbucks, eager to reignite our beloved ritual. With each sip of cider, we're reminded of the bond that unites us. We share a bond forged in friendship, flavored with nostalgia, and infused with the magic of fall.

Linguistics is a really important part of my life and I hope to share it with people that need this knowledge. Hopefully, the university environment will help to bridge my education with the people that it will benefit. So, I want to be in a place where I can study a variety of courses in linguistics and also meet people from different backgrounds. In terms of academics, I am looking for a school with a linguistics program that focuses on growing fields, like multilingualism and big data. My goal is to participate in and eventually conduct meaningful research so I am looking to hone the skills needed to work with research participants and analyze data. I personally grew up bilingual in English and Cantonese, so I have plenty of resources that would help me investigate Chinese language variation. I have family friends that consist of Cantonese speakers from Vietnam, Malaysia and Hong Kong so I have firsthand experience with speakers that demonstrate Cantonese language variation. Immersion in multiple forms of Cantonese gave me insight into how language can be preserved over time. My family has been in the US since the 70s so the kind of Cantonese we speak has retained features from Hong Kong from that period. This is possible because we have lived in an environment that isolates us from Cantonese influences that could change our speech. Language is vital to the culture of a people and sometimes these natural methods of language preservation are not enough to retain its vitality. Others believe that it is equally important to have an organized method of language education for diaspora communities. I grew up attending Chinese schools which encouraged me to maintain my Cantonese fluency and literacy, but this isn’t always the case with third-generation immigrants. Families tend to have other restraints that prevent language preservation. Most of my experiences with language preservation are anecdotal so I am interested in conducting research to analyze a more widespread set of factors that uphold language preservation. To me, education means taking what I have experienced and applying it to what I am learning. My main goal with education is that I would like to do research to assist in the preservation and enrichment of the Chinese diaspora. I value community and giving back to the people who made me who I am. So, linguistics is a versatile and meaningful way to explore my interests and furthering my education will give me the tools to share knowledge to the benefit of others.

Watching the Great British Bake-Off on Netflix with my best friend has helped me keep in touch with him and inspired us to chase our dreams. After he moved to a different state we found that watching shows and movies made it easier for us to consistently spend time together. It all started when we considered studying abroad in the UK together. We chose to watch the Great British Bake-Off so that we could get to know the different British dialects and be better prepared to live in the UK. That was only a small part of it though, we mostly just enjoyed cheering on our favorite bakers and making inside jokes. Keeping up with the Great British Bake-Off was a light-hearted way of getting used to the idea of living in Britain and making a big life change together. The bakers on the show come from a variety of backgrounds and many of them came to Britain from other countries. Watching them learn and develop throughout the season was encouraging and inspiring. I would imagine myself in their place when they succeeded in creating a good bake as motivation to work toward my goals so that I would have the same feeling of accomplishment. My best friend and I would check in on each other and make sure we were staying updated during different parts of the application process. We would talk about our goals and envision our lives abroad and hope that our futures would be just as fulfilling as the bakers on the Great British Bake-Off. After going through the British application process, I was more open to having dreams and ambitions that would widen the scope of my opportunities. Learning about British culture and having someone to talk to about life abroad has allowed me to consider pathways that I had never thought of before. I learned that no dream is too small or unimportant from the Great British Bake-Off. I never would have thought that baking could make such a big change in someone's life until I saw the ups and downs of the bakers' journey together. I had my own star baker moment when I finally received offers from three schools that I had been interested in for a long time. I enthusiastically emailed the professors from my program with all the questions that came to my mind so I could make a decision. My friend also heard back from his dream school. He committed after a week of deliberation and felt just as excited for the opportunity as when he first applied. Fast forward a few months, I ended up staying in the US due to personal reasons while he went to university in Scotland. Even though there is a 7-hour difference between us and we both have busy student schedules, we make time to call and message every so often. Even though we are in different places with different things on our minds, all the inside jokes, random baking knowledge and ability to dream are something that we still share.