My Puerto Rican heritage has greatly influenced my desire to pursue law. As a child, during my experiences with the justice system in and out of courtrooms, I only saw people who looked like me as defendants. I rarely saw female judges or attorneys, let alone Puerto Rican ones. It made me even wonder if females were allowed to hold such positions. Without the representation in the courtroom, I was left with doubt as to whether or not law school was even an option for me. Representation has always been integral as it showcases capability. I knew I wanted to become the difference and increase the statistics about Puerto Rican lawyers. I started volunteering for Teen Court, taking law classes in high school, and joined the National Law Honor Society at my high school. Then, in college, I took law classes, joined legal clubs, and continued serving my community. My passion for law has been reinforced through my service and advocacy to the student body. I have created opportunities for myself and created a seat at the table in spaces where historically Puerto Ricans weren’t welcomed. This is just the beginning. As a lawyer, I hope to mentor Puerto Rican high school and college students. I want to teach them that they can accomplish their dreams even if things may seem impossible. I want to inspire them to pursue opportunities, and to create them when they seem unattainable or nowhere to be found. I struggled with self doubt and hiding my identity for a while, until I realized I am the only thing standing in the way of my success. I used to be embarrassed of my culture and my ability to speak another language. I remember getting bullied in school for speaking in Spanish or for eating authentic Puerto Rican food for lunch. I used to want to fit in and be like all the other kids. But, why would I fit in when Puerto Ricans are born to stand out? Why would I try to find a seat at the table if I’m unwelcome? Why not create new tables that champion diversity and flip the tables that oppress and silence? It took me a long time, but I now take pride in the very qualities that make me different because they are beautiful, and I hope to show Puerto Ricans around the world that our differences and our culture are beautiful.