As I navigate the familiar streets of my neighborhood, with the majestic Chicago skyline in the backdrop, I often find myself immersed in profound thought. Chicago's vibrant and diverse culture is an integral part of my identity and offers opportunities, sanctuary and happiness to those willing to open their heart to the Windy City. This city, pulsating with resilience and opportunity, has fostered my passion for law and truth, and most importantly forged a desire to always follow the truth in our world filled with so much misinformation and lies. This brings me to a new emerging field in technology that I am most excited about: cybersecurity. Cybersecurity serves as a bridge between my love for computer science and my commitment to creating safer digital communities. I look forward to diving deeper into cybersecurity post-graduation, working at the intersection of technology and law. By helping draft comprehensive cybersecurity policies or advocating for digital equality, I aim to contribute to a safer and more inclusive digital future for my community. In an increasingly digital age, the vulnerabilities of cybersecurity have become all too apparent, with misinformation and data security breaches posing significant threats. These challenges are particularly pertinent to underprivileged communities that often lack the resources to defend themselves adequately. Unlike the often-voiced desire to "change the world," my ambitions are focused on making a tangible difference within Chicago. I am currently a student at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), pursuing a degree in Philosophy and Computer Science. At first glance, the connection between these disciplines might not be apparent, yet they beautifully intertwine with my academic and career aspirations. Philosophy, with its intellectual rigor, sharpens my critical thinking and argumentative skills, preparing me for my dream of attending law school. Computer Science, on the other hand, allows me to delve into the realm of coding and data encryption, cementing my technical foundation for a career in cybersecurity law. Born to working-class Mexican immigrants, I learned from a young age how important it is to get a higher education because it opens so many opportunities in one’s life. Knowledge and knowing how to apply it is a crucial life skill that is important no matter your background and I hope to use my higher education to good use by securing not only financial stability for me and my family but also to make significant contributions to my community.

As I navigate the familiar streets of my neighborhood, with the majestic Chicago skyline in the backdrop, I often find myself immersed in profound thought. Chicago's vibrant and diverse culture is an integral part of my identity and offers opportunities, sanctuary and happiness to those willing to open their heart to the Windy City. Born to working-class Mexican immigrants, I learned from a young age how important it is to get a higher education because it opens so many opportunities in one’s life. Knowledge and attaining good judgment for deciphering what is true is a crucial life skill that is important no matter your background and I hope to use my higher education to good use by securing not only financial stability for me and my family but also making significant contributions to my community in Chicago. This city, pulsating with resilience and opportunity, has fostered my passion for law, and most importantly forged a desire to always follow the truth in our world filled with so much misinformation and lies. Unlike the often-voiced desire to "change the world," my ambitions are focused on making a tangible difference within Chicago. I am currently a first-generation college student at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), pursuing a degree in Philosophy and Computer Science. At first glance, the connection between these disciplines might not be apparent, yet they beautifully intertwine with my academic and career aspirations. Philosophy, with its intellectual rigor, sharpens my critical thinking and argumentative skills, preparing me for my dream of attending law school. Computer Science, on the other hand, allows me to delve into the realm of coding and data encryption, cementing my technical foundation for a career in cybersecurity law. The field of computer science that I am most excited about is cybersecurity. It serves as a bridge between my love for computer science and my commitment to creating safer digital communities. I look forward to diving deeper into cybersecurity post-graduation, working at the intersection of technology and law. By helping draft comprehensive cybersecurity policies or advocating for digital equality, I aim to contribute to a safer and more inclusive digital future for my community. The fusion of these two fields is not a random choice, but a strategic decision rooted in the realities of my beloved city. In an increasingly digital age, the vulnerabilities of cybersecurity have become all too apparent, with misinformation and data security breaches posing significant threats. These challenges are particularly pertinent to underprivileged communities that often lack the resources to defend themselves adequately. However, my journey towards this goal is not without its challenges. The financial constraints of pursuing a higher education have always been a concern for my family and me and despite part-time jobs and financial savings, the cost is still expensive despite attending a state school. This scholarship would not only lighten the financial burden but would also empower me to fully dedicate my time and energy to my studies. It would offer me the freedom to engage more deeply in my academic pursuits, participate in research, and contribute to my community. With this scholarship's support, I am confident that I can contribute meaningfully to the field of cybersecurity and ensure that Chicago thrives amidst the challenges of the digital era. This is the dream that accompanies me on my walks and the vision that I am dedicated to making a reality.

As I navigate the familiar streets of my neighborhood, with the majestic Chicago skyline in the backdrop, I often find myself immersed in profound thought. Chicago's vibrant and diverse culture is an integral part of my identity and offers opportunities, sanctuary and happiness to those willing to open their heart to the Windy City. Born to working-class Mexican immigrants, I learned from a young age how important it is to get a higher education because it opens so many opportunities in one’s life. Knowledge and attaining good judgment for deciphering what is true is a crucial life skill that is important no matter your background and I hope to use my higher education to good use by securing not only financial stability for me and my family but also making significant contributions to my community in Chicago. This city, pulsating with resilience and opportunity, has fostered my passion for law, and most importantly forged a desire to always follow the truth in our world filled with so much misinformation and lies. Unlike the often-voiced desire to "change the world," my ambitions are focused on making a tangible difference within Chicago. I am currently a first-generation college student at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), pursuing a degree in Philosophy and Computer Science. At first glance, the connection between these disciplines might not be apparent, yet they beautifully intertwine with my academic and career aspirations. Philosophy, with its intellectual rigor, sharpens my critical thinking and argumentative skills, preparing me for my dream of attending law school. Computer Science, on the other hand, allows me to delve into the realm of coding and data encryption, cementing my technical foundation for a career in cybersecurity law. The field of computer science that I am most excited about is cybersecurity. It serves as a bridge between my love for computer science and my commitment to creating safer digital communities. I look forward to diving deeper into cybersecurity post-graduation, working at the intersection of technology and law. By helping draft comprehensive cybersecurity policies or advocating for digital equality, I aim to contribute to a safer and more inclusive digital future for my community. The fusion of these two fields is not a random choice, but a strategic decision rooted in the realities of my beloved city. In an increasingly digital age, the vulnerabilities of cybersecurity have become all too apparent, with misinformation and data security breaches posing significant threats. These challenges are particularly pertinent to underprivileged communities that often lack the resources to defend themselves adequately. However, my journey towards this goal is not without its challenges. The financial constraints of pursuing a higher education have always been a concern for my family and me and despite part-time jobs and financial savings, the cost is still expensive despite attending a state school. This scholarship would not only lighten the financial burden but would also empower me to fully dedicate my time and energy to my studies. It would offer me the freedom to engage more deeply in my academic pursuits, participate in research, and contribute to my community. With this scholarship's support, I am confident that I can contribute meaningfully to the field of cybersecurity and ensure that Chicago thrives amidst the challenges of the digital era. This is the dream that accompanies me on my walks and the vision that I am dedicated to making a reality.

As I navigate the familiar streets of my neighborhood, with the majestic Chicago skyline in the backdrop, I often find myself immersed in profound thought. Chicago's vibrant and diverse culture is an integral part of my identity and offers opportunities, sanctuary and happiness to those willing to open their heart to the Windy City. This city, pulsating with resilience and opportunity, has fostered my passion for law, and most importantly forged a desire to always follow the truth in our world filled with so much misinformation and lies. Born to working-class Mexican immigrants, I learned from a young age how important it is to get a higher education because it opens so many opportunities in one’s life. Knowledge and knowing how to apply it is a crucial life skill that is important no matter your background and I hope to use my higher education to good use by securing not only financial stability for me and my family but also to make significant contributions to my community. Unlike the often-voiced desire to "change the world," my ambitions are focused on making a tangible difference within Chicago. I am currently a student at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), pursuing a degree in Philosophy and Computer Science. At first glance, the connection between these disciplines might not be apparent, yet they beautifully intertwine with my academic and career aspirations. Philosophy, with its intellectual rigor, sharpens my critical thinking and argumentative skills, preparing me for my dream of attending law school. Computer Science, on the other hand, allows me to delve into the realm of coding and data encryption, cementing my technical foundation for a career in cybersecurity law. The fusion of these two fields is not a random choice, but a strategic decision rooted in the realities of my beloved city. In an increasingly digital age, the vulnerabilities of cybersecurity have become all too apparent, with misinformation and data security breaches posing significant threats. These challenges are particularly pertinent to underprivileged communities that often lack the resources to defend themselves adequately. As a Latinx individual from a low-income background, I have observed these challenges in my community and am compelled to address them. The field of computer science that I am most excited about is cybersecurity. It serves as a bridge between my love for computer science and my commitment to creating safer digital communities. I look forward to diving deeper into cybersecurity post-graduation, working at the intersection of technology and law. By helping draft comprehensive cybersecurity policies or advocating for digital equality, I aim to contribute to a safer and more inclusive digital future for my community. However, my journey towards this goal is not without its challenges. The financial constraints of pursuing a higher education have always been a concern for my family and me and despite part-time jobs and financial savings, the cost is still expensive despite attending a state school. This scholarship would not only lighten the financial burden but would also empower me to fully dedicate my time and energy to my studies. It would offer me the freedom to engage more deeply in my academic pursuits, participate in research, and contribute to my community. With this scholarship's support, I am confident that I can contribute meaningfully to the field of cybersecurity and ensure that Chicago thrives amidst the challenges of the digital era. This is the dream that accompanies me on my walks and the vision that I am dedicated to making a reality.

As I navigate the familiar streets of my neighborhood, with the majestic Chicago skyline in the backdrop, I often find myself immersed in profound thought. Chicago's vibrant and diverse culture is an integral part of my identity and offers opportunities, sanctuary and happiness to those willing to open their heart to the Windy City. This city, pulsating with resilience and opportunity, has fostered my passion for law and truth, and most importantly forged a desire to always follow the truth in our world filled with so much misinformation and lies. This brings me to a new emerging field in technology that I am most excited about: cybersecurity. Cybersecurity serves as a bridge between my love for computer science and my commitment to creating safer digital communities. I look forward to diving deeper into cybersecurity post-graduation, working at the intersection of technology and law. By helping draft comprehensive cybersecurity policies or advocating for digital equality, I aim to contribute to a safer and more inclusive digital future for my community. In an increasingly digital age, the vulnerabilities of cybersecurity have become all too apparent, with misinformation and data security breaches posing significant threats. These challenges are particularly pertinent to underprivileged communities that often lack the resources to defend themselves adequately. Unlike the often-voiced desire to "change the world," my ambitions are focused on making a tangible difference within Chicago. I am currently a student at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), pursuing a degree in Philosophy and Computer Science. At first glance, the connection between these disciplines might not be apparent, yet they beautifully intertwine with my academic and career aspirations. Philosophy, with its intellectual rigor, sharpens my critical thinking and argumentative skills, preparing me for my dream of attending law school. Computer Science, on the other hand, allows me to delve into the realm of coding and data encryption, cementing my technical foundation for a career in cybersecurity law. Born to working-class Mexican immigrants, I learned from a young age how important it is to get a higher education because it opens so many opportunities in one’s life. Knowledge and knowing how to apply it is a crucial life skill that is important no matter your background and I hope to use my higher education to good use by securing not only financial stability for me and my family but also to make significant contributions to my community.

As I navigate the familiar streets of my neighborhood, with the majestic Chicago skyline in the backdrop, I often find myself immersed in profound thought. Chicago's vibrant and diverse culture is an integral part of my identity and offers opportunities, sanctuary and happiness to those willing to open their heart to the Windy City. This city, pulsating with resilience and opportunity, has fostered my passion for law, and most importantly forged a desire to always follow the truth in our world filled with so much misinformation and lies. Born to working-class Mexican immigrants, I learned from a young age how important it is to get a higher education because it opens so many opportunities in one’s life. Knowledge and knowing how to apply it is a crucial life skill that is important no matter your background and I hope to use my higher education to good use by securing not only financial stability for me and my family but also to make significant contributions to my community. This scholarship would not only lighten the financial burden but would also empower me to fully dedicate my time and energy to my studies. It would offer me the freedom to engage more deeply in my academic pursuits, participate in research, and contribute to my community. Unlike the often-voiced desire to "change the world," my ambitions are focused on making a tangible difference within Chicago. I am currently a student at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), pursuing a degree in Philosophy and Computer Science. At first glance, the connection between these disciplines might not be apparent, yet they beautifully intertwine with my academic and career aspirations. Philosophy, with its intellectual rigor, sharpens my critical thinking and argumentative skills, preparing me for my dream of attending law school. Computer Science, on the other hand, allows me to delve into the realm of coding and data encryption, cementing my technical foundation for a career in cybersecurity law. In an increasingly digital age, the vulnerabilities of cybersecurity have become all too apparent, with misinformation and data security breaches posing significant threats. These challenges are particularly pertinent to underprivileged communities that often lack the resources to defend themselves adequately. As a Latinx individual from a low-income background, I have observed these challenges in my community and am compelled to address them. The field of software engineering that I am most excited about is cybersecurity. It serves as a bridge between my love for computer science and my commitment to creating safer digital communities. I look forward to diving deeper into cybersecurity post-graduation, working at the intersection of technology and law. By helping draft comprehensive cybersecurity policies or advocating for digital equality, I aim to contribute to a safer and more inclusive digital future for my community.

As I navigate the familiar streets of my neighborhood, with the majestic Chicago skyline in the backdrop, I often find myself immersed in profound thought. Chicago's vibrant and diverse culture is an integral part of my identity and offers opportunities, sanctuary and happiness to those willing to open their heart to the Windy City. This city, pulsating with resilience and opportunity, has shaped my goals and fostered my passion for law, and most importantly following and discovering the truth in our world filled with much misinformation and lies. Born to working-class Mexican immigrants, I learned from a young age how important it is to get a higher education because it opens so many opportunities in one’s life. Knowledge and knowing how to apply it is a crucial life skill that is important no matter your background and I hope to use my higher education to good use by securing not only financial stability for me and my family but also to make significant contributions to my community. Unlike the often-voiced desire to "change the world," my ambitions are focused on making a tangible difference within Chicago. I am currently a student at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), pursuing a degree in Philosophy and Computer Science. At first glance, the connection between these disciplines might not be apparent, yet they beautifully intertwine with my academic and career aspirations. Philosophy, with its intellectual rigor, sharpens my critical thinking and argumentative skills, preparing me for my dream of attending law school. Computer Science, on the other hand, allows me to delve into the realm of coding and data encryption, cementing my technical foundation for a career in cybersecurity law. The fusion of these two fields is not a random choice, but a strategic decision rooted in the realities of my beloved city. In an increasingly digital age, the vulnerabilities of cybersecurity have become all too apparent, with misinformation and data security breaches posing significant threats. These challenges are particularly pertinent to underprivileged communities that often lack the resources to defend themselves adequately. As a Latinx individual from a low-income background, I have observed these challenges in my community and am compelled to address them. The field of software engineering that I am most excited about is cybersecurity. It serves as a bridge between my love for computer science and my commitment to creating safer digital communities. I look forward to diving deeper into cybersecurity post-graduation, working at the intersection of technology and law. By helping draft comprehensive cybersecurity policies or advocating for digital equality, I aim to contribute to a safer and more inclusive digital future for my city. However, my journey towards this goal is not without its challenges. The financial constraints of pursuing a higher education have always been a concern for my family and me and despite part-time jobs and financial savings, the cost is still expensive despite attending a state school. This scholarship would not only lighten the financial burden but would also empower me to fully dedicate my time and energy to my studies. It would offer me the freedom to engage more deeply in my academic pursuits, participate in research, and contribute to my community. With this scholarship's support, I am confident that I can contribute meaningfully to the field of cybersecurity and ensure that Chicago thrives amidst the challenges of the digital era. This is the dream that accompanies me on my walks and the vision that I am dedicated to making a reality.

As I navigate the familiar streets of my neighborhood, with the majestic Chicago skyline in the backdrop, I often find myself immersed in profound thought. Chicago's vibrant and diverse culture is an integral part of my identity and offers opportunities, sanctuary and happiness to those willing to open their heart to the Windy City. This city, pulsating with resilience and opportunity, has shaped my goals and fostered my passion for law, and most importantly following and discovering the truth in our world filled with much misinformation and lies. Born to working-class Mexican immigrants, I learned from a young age how important it is to get a higher education because it opens so many opportunities in one’s life. Knowledge and knowing how to apply it is a crucial life skill that is important no matter your background and I hope to use my higher education to good use by securing not only financial stability for me and my family but also to make significant contributions to my community. Unlike the often-voiced desire to "change the world," my ambitions are focused on making a tangible difference within Chicago. I am currently a student at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), pursuing a degree in Philosophy and Computer Science. At first glance, the connection between these disciplines might not be apparent, yet they beautifully intertwine with my academic and career aspirations. Philosophy, with its intellectual rigor, sharpens my critical thinking and argumentative skills, preparing me for my dream of attending law school. Computer Science, on the other hand, allows me to delve into the realm of coding and data encryption, cementing my technical foundation for a career in cybersecurity law. The fusion of these two fields is not a random choice, but a strategic decision rooted in the realities of my beloved city. In an increasingly digital age, the vulnerabilities of cybersecurity have become all too apparent, with misinformation and data security breaches posing significant threats. These challenges are particularly pertinent to underprivileged communities that often lack the resources to defend themselves adequately. As a Latinx individual from a low-income background, I have observed these challenges in my community and am compelled to address them. The field of software engineering that I am most excited about is cybersecurity. It serves as a bridge between my love for computer science and my commitment to creating safer digital communities. I look forward to diving deeper into cybersecurity post-graduation, working at the intersection of technology and law. By helping draft comprehensive cybersecurity policies or advocating for digital equality, I aim to contribute to a safer and more inclusive digital future for my city. However, my journey towards this goal is not without its challenges. The financial constraints of pursuing a higher education have always been a concern for my family and me and despite part-time jobs and financial savings, the cost is still expensive despite attending a state school. This scholarship would not only lighten the financial burden but would also empower me to fully dedicate my time and energy to my studies. It would offer me the freedom to engage more deeply in my academic pursuits, participate in research, and contribute to my community. With this scholarship's support, I am confident that I can contribute meaningfully to the field of cybersecurity and ensure that Chicago thrives amidst the challenges of the digital era. This is the dream that accompanies me on my walks and the vision that I am dedicated to making a reality.

Chicago's skyline is my constant companion as I wander through the streets of my neighborhood. This city, with its mélange of cultures and languages, its vibrancy and resilience, is a part of me just as much as I am a part of it. As the child of Mexican immigrants who met here, this city is more than just my home; it is the backdrop of my dreams and the motivation for my aspirations. Among the rich tapestry of thoughts that I weave during my regular walks, two subjects often stand out - Philosophy and Computer Science. These subjects may seem worlds apart, but to me, they are two sides of the same coin. Philosophy sharpens my critical thinking and argumentative skills, preparing me for the rigors of Law school. Computer Science, on the other hand, nurtures my love for coding and data encryption, providing a solid foundation for my aspirations in cybersecurity law. Why this unusual combination, you might ask? The answer is rooted deeply in the city I love. My aim is not to change the world but rather to contribute positively to my community in Chicago. With the rise of digital technology, cybersecurity threats have become a harsh reality. Misinformation and data security breaches pose significant risks to individuals and communities, particularly to those that are underprivileged and lack the resources to protect themselves. As a Latinx student from a low-income background, I have seen firsthand how these issues can impact my community. It is my goal to use my education in Philosophy and Computer Science to advocate for better cybersecurity practices and laws that safeguard the digital spaces of my city. Upon graduating, I envision myself working at the intersection of technology and law, leveraging my unique skill set to ensure that the digital landscape is safe and accessible for all Chicagoans. Whether it is by drafting robust cybersecurity laws or advocating for equitable technology policies, I want to ensure that my city, which has given me so much, can thrive in the digital age. Pursuing a degree at UIC and receiving this scholarship would bring me one step closer to this goal. It will not only provide the necessary financial support but also affirm my commitment to using technology for good. And as I walk through the streets of Chicago, I will carry the knowledge that I am working towards securing a safer digital future for my city.

It was a chilly November night as expected in Chicago, as I waited for my mom to pick me up, much like in high school, at my college campus after getting help for my computer science assignment from teacher assistant office hours. I haven't earned my driver’s license yet despite turning twenty-two this very month. When it is late at night, and I am still at my college campus my mother comes to pick me up because she worries, I might get mugged or hurt on my way home while traveling so late at night. To be honest, I don't mind being surprised with the unexpected obstacle or difficulty that arises because that is just a truth about life, so we must always expect to endure whatever hardship comes our way. I learned this the hard way through middle school because it was one of the most challenging periods of my life. While not all middle school was an unbearable hell, eighth grade was by far the worst year of my life as it showed me how cruel people can be, and how cruel I can be in conditions of distress. I was ostracized and bullied throughout the year by my peers and seen as annoying and weak, the teacher was indifferent and negligent to the class that telling her to help me only made my treatment from the class worse. I was once even thrown rocks as a cruel joke, but aside from the hellhole I was living as a fourteen-year-old, it was one of the most useful experiences I ever had. Education isn't just the homework we do or our classes at school, but the experiences we are given from life and what to make of the experiences we have had. Education is a valuable tool that can be used to improve your life but one must apply themselves and always have an open mind to learn from anything whether it was a bad time in your life, a great book or a simple class at your college you took because it interested you. The experience taught me to endure and stand up for myself and learn that life is unexpected and all you can do is control your own decisions and reactions to terrible circumstances in life. However, I have grown much since then and my negative experience in middle school made me persevere towards my education in life such as taking hard classes in college or being brave enough to ask stupid questions. Receiving new life experiences always gives people another perspective to understand and grow, but only if we are willing to learn and open our minds to that education that the world around us offers.

Taking long walks through my neighborhood in Chicago whether it's in autumn, spring, summer or even in the cold weather of winter never fails at times to help clear my head. Admiring the trees and their rusty red brown leaves in fall or the clear blue sky in Spring and Summer helps me feel at peace. I love taking long walks to keep my mind healthy because I struggle with anxiety and depression. Without a doubt, I need a way to relieve my inner demons before they get a hold of me and leave me drowning in an Ocean of anxiety, guilt, and self-hatred that will only keep rising like our very own real Oceans due to the melting polar ice caps because of climate change. It may seem like a hyperbole to compare my struggles with mental illness to a literal existential threat like climate change, but when my anxiety rises and gives me panic attacks it really feels like the world around me is ending. Appreciating nature and letting it soothe my inner conflict and doubts is a form of self-care while simultaneously appreciating the world around me in all its ethereal beauty. Taking care of myself through these solitary walks helps me realize that this conflict will eventually pass and everything is temporary much like the seasons in the year. Appreciating the nature around me makes me calm down and realize it's not the end of the world or my life like my depression or anxiety makes me believe. Unless I neglect my mental health and self-care, the problem will only get worse much like the current problem of climate change, which requires effort and collective social change, it takes time and effort to take care of both problems effectively.

It was a chilly night as expected in a November in Chicago, and I stayed at my college campus to get help for my assignment through teacher assistant office hours. I wait for my mother to pick me up much like in high school, I haven't earned my drivers license yet, despite turning twenty-two this very month. When it is late at night and I am still at my college campus, my mother comes to pick me up because she worries I might get mugged or hurt on my way home while traveling so late at night. To be honest, I don't mind being surprised with the unexpected obstacle or difficulty that arises because that is just a truth about life, so we must always expect to endure whatever hardship comes our way. I learned this the hard way through middle school because it was one of the most challenging periods of my life. While not all of middle school was an unbearable hell, eighth grade was by far the worst year of my life as it showed me how cruel people can be, and how cruel I can be as well. I was ostracized and bullied throughout the year by my peers and seen as annoying and weak, the teacher was indifferent and negligent to the class that telling her to help me only made my treatment from the class worse. I was once even thrown rocks as a cruel joke, but aside from the hellhole I was living as a fourteen-year old, it was one of the most useful experiences I ever had. The experience taught me to endure and learn that life and people cannot be controlled or expected all you can do is to control your own decisions and reactions to terrible circumstances in life. Education isn't just the homework we do or our classes at school, but the experiences we are given from life and what to make of the experiences we have had. I have had plenty of negative experiences like the one I had mentioned above, but I would never have learned an important lesson about life without the experience.

It was a chilly night as expected in a November in Chicago, and I stayed at my college campus to get help for my assignment through teacher assistant office hours. I wait for my mother to pick me up much like in high school, I haven't earned my drivers license yet, despite turning twenty-two this very month. When it is late at night and I am still at my college campus, my mother comes to pick me up because she worries I might get mugged or hurt on my way home while traveling so late at night. To be honest I don't mind being surprised with the unexpected obstacle or difficulty that arises because that is just a truth about life, so we must always expect to endure whatever hardship comes our way. I learned this the hard way through middle school because it was one of the most challenging periods of my life. While not all of middle school was an unbearable hell, eighth grade was by far the worst year of my life as it showed me how cruel people can be and how cruel I can be as well. I was ostracized and bullied throughout the year by my peers and seen as annoying and weak, the teacher was indifferent and negligent to the class that telling her to help me only made my treatment from the class worse. I was once even thrown rocks as a cruel joke, but aside from the hellhole I was living as a fourteen-year old, it was one of the most useful experiences I ever had. The experience taught me to endure and learn that life and people cannot be controlled or expected all you can do is to control your own decisions and reactions to terrible circumstances in life.

I remember my mom picking me up from my college campus on a late night in spring due to taking my Physics final exam. Frustrated and anxious about my score I tell my mom about how I tried my best and expected a better score after retaking the class this semester. Weeks later when my scores came out I was waiting anxiously to see if I have passed only to realize that my score placed me just below one cutoff point needed for a passing grade. We were allowed to turn in regrades if we felt that a mistake in grading our exams had been made, so I decided to look at my exam and look for any partial credit a teacher assistant could have overlooked. when I was given my regrade score they told me nothing was wrong with the grading. I trembled and accepted my failed grade in Physics again until I got a notification email from my Professor around two days before final semester grades were due. In the email my Physics Professor explained that he couldn't help but notice I was only one point below the cutoff for a C grade. He told me that he cannot let my grade be a failure incase a teacher assistant graded one of my other assignments wrong and it would cost me the class credit. My professor said he had a sense of fairness and could not allow a simple point keep me from getting a passing grade, so he gave me a passing grade and let me have the credit I needed for the semester. My college physics professor could have let me fail but he recognized my efforts and struggles and without his generosity I would have been kept on academic probation after that semester.

It was a chilly night as expected in a November in Chicago, and I stayed at my college campus to get help for my assignment through teacher assistant office hours. I wait for my mother to pick me up much like in high school, I haven't earned my drivers license yet, despite turning twenty-two this very month. When it is late at night and I am still at my college campus, my mother comes to pick me up because she worries I might get mugged or hurt on my way home while traveling so late at night. To be honest I don't mind being surprised with the unexpected obstacle or difficulty that arises because that is just a truth about life, so we must always expect to endure whatever hardship comes our way. I learned this the hard way through middle school because it was one of the most challenging periods of my life. While not all of middle school was an unbearable hell, eighth grade was by far the worst year of my life as it showed me how cruel people can be and how cruel I can be as well. I was ostracized and bullied throughout the year by my peers and seen as annoying and weak, the teacher was indifferent and negligent to the class that telling her to help me only made my treatment from the class worse. I was once even thrown rocks as a cruel joke, but aside from the hellhole I was living as a fourteen-year old, it was one of the most useful experiences I ever had. The experience taught me to endure and learn that life and people cannot be controlled or expected all you can do is to control your own decisions and reactions to terrible circumstances in life.

Taking long walks through my neighborhood in Chicago whether it's in autumn, spring, summer or even in the cold weather of winter never fails at times to help clear my head. Admiring the trees and their rusty red brown leaves in fall or the clear blue sky in Spring and Summer helps me feel at peace. I love taking long walks to keep my mind healthy because I struggle with anxiety and depression. Without a doubt, I need a way to relieve my inner demons before they get a hold of me and leave me drowning in an Ocean of anxiety, guilt, and self-hatred that will only keep rising like our very own real Oceans due to the melting polar ice caps because of climate change. It may seem like a hyperbole to compare my struggles with mental illness to a literal existential threat like climate change, but when my anxiety rises and gives me panic attacks it really feels like the world around me is ending. Appreciating nature and letting it soothe my inner conflict and doubts is a form of self-care while simultaneously appreciating the world around me in all its ethereal beauty. Taking care of myself through these solitary walks helps me realize that this conflict will eventually pass and everything is temporary much like the seasons in the year. Appreciating the nature around me makes me calm down and realize it's not the end of the world or my life like my depression or anxiety makes me believe. Unless I neglect my mental health and self-care, the problem will only get worse much like the current problem of climate change, which requires effort and collective social change, it takes time and effort to take care of both problems effectively.