My passion for pursuing a civil engineering degree is deeply rooted in my desire to make a meaningful impact on the world. From a young age, I found joy in constructing things, whether it was building intricate structures with Legos or crafting creations from cardboard. The innate fascination with creating, designing, and building has been a constant in my life, and it's this passion that fuels my aspiration to contribute to the field of civil engineering. In high school, I was fortunate to delve into engineering courses that not only expanded my understanding of the field but also solidified my commitment to pursuing civil engineering. Working with tools like AutoCAD, Inventor, and Revit allowed me to witness the tangible transformation of my ideas into concrete designs. The satisfaction of seeing a project evolve from its conceptual stages to a fully realized structure is a reward I find deeply fulfilling. Growing up on Guam has provided me with a unique perspective on the advancements in building technologies. Comparing the structures on Guam to those in the United States highlighted the importance of innovation, sustainability, and efficiency in civil engineering. The more advanced and sustainable buildings in the states served as a beacon, inspiring me to contribute to the development of similar advancements in my community. The realization that the field of civil engineering holds the key to creating a better, more sustainable future intensified my commitment to pursuing this career path. I am driven by a genuine desire to bring positive change to the world through my work. The global challenges of climate change and environmental degradation underscore the need for civil engineers who can envision and implement sustainable solutions. Beyond the technical aspects of engineering, my goal is to give back to my community on Guam. I am motivated by a sense of responsibility to enhance the local infrastructure, making it more resilient and environmentally friendly. I envision myself playing a role in elevating the standards of construction on the island, contributing to the well-being and progress of the community that has shaped my identity. As I embark on this journey towards a civil engineering degree, I am fueled by a passion to be a catalyst for change. I believe in the transformative power of engineering to address global challenges and create a more sustainable and resilient future. With every project, my aim is not just to build structures but to contribute to a legacy of positive impact, leaving a mark that extends beyond the concrete and steel. In essence, my pursuit of a civil engineering degree is not merely a career choice; it's a commitment to a purpose-driven path aimed at shaping a better world for future generations. It's about channeling my passion for building into a profession that allows me to be a part of something larger, something that goes beyond the physical structures and contributes to the well-being of communities and the planet.

My passion for pursuing a civil engineering degree is deeply rooted in my desire to make a meaningful impact on the world. From a young age, I found joy in constructing things, whether it was building intricate structures with Legos or crafting creations from cardboard. The innate fascination with creating, designing, and building has been a constant in my life, and it's this passion that fuels my aspiration to contribute to the field of civil engineering. In high school, I was fortunate to delve into engineering courses that not only expanded my understanding of the field but also solidified my commitment to pursuing civil engineering. Working with tools like AutoCAD, Inventor, and Revit allowed me to witness the tangible transformation of my ideas into concrete designs. The satisfaction of seeing a project evolve from its conceptual stages to a fully realized structure is a reward I find deeply fulfilling. Growing up on Guam has provided me with a unique perspective on the advancements in building technologies. Comparing the structures on Guam to those in the United States highlighted the importance of innovation, sustainability, and efficiency in civil engineering. The more advanced and sustainable buildings in the states served as a beacon, inspiring me to contribute to the development of similar advancements in my community. The realization that the field of civil engineering holds the key to creating a better, more sustainable future intensified my commitment to pursuing this career path. I am driven by a genuine desire to bring positive change to the world through my work. The global challenges of climate change and environmental degradation underscore the need for civil engineers who can envision and implement sustainable solutions. Beyond the technical aspects of engineering, my goal is to give back to my community on Guam. I am motivated by a sense of responsibility to enhance the local infrastructure, making it more resilient and environmentally friendly. I envision myself playing a role in elevating the standards of construction on the island, contributing to the well-being and progress of the community that has shaped my identity. As I embark on this journey towards a civil engineering degree, I am fueled by a passion to be a catalyst for change. I believe in the transformative power of engineering to address global challenges and create a more sustainable and resilient future. With every project, my aim is not just to build structures but to contribute to a legacy of positive impact, leaving a mark that extends beyond the concrete and steel. In essence, my pursuit of a civil engineering degree is not merely a career choice; it's a commitment to a purpose-driven path aimed at shaping a better world for future generations. It's about channeling my passion for building into a profession that allows me to be a part of something larger, something that goes beyond the physical structures and contributes to the well-being of communities and the planet.

My passion for pursuing a civil engineering degree is deeply rooted in my desire to make a meaningful impact on the world. From a young age, I found joy in constructing things, whether it was building intricate structures with Legos or crafting creations from cardboard. The innate fascination with creating, designing, and building has been a constant in my life, and it's this passion that fuels my aspiration to contribute to the field of civil engineering. In high school, I was fortunate to delve into engineering courses that not only expanded my understanding of the field but also solidified my commitment to pursuing civil engineering. Working with tools like AutoCAD, Inventor, and Revit allowed me to witness the tangible transformation of my ideas into concrete designs. The satisfaction of seeing a project evolve from its conceptual stages to a fully realized structure is a reward I find deeply fulfilling. Growing up on Guam has provided me with a unique perspective on the advancements in building technologies. Comparing the structures on Guam to those in the United States highlighted the importance of innovation, sustainability, and efficiency in civil engineering. The more advanced and sustainable buildings in the states served as a beacon, inspiring me to contribute to the development of similar advancements in my community. The realization that the field of civil engineering holds the key to creating a better, more sustainable future intensified my commitment to pursuing this career path. I am driven by a genuine desire to bring positive change to the world through my work. The global challenges of climate change and environmental degradation underscore the need for civil engineers who can envision and implement sustainable solutions. Beyond the technical aspects of engineering, my goal is to give back to my community on Guam. I am motivated by a sense of responsibility to enhance the local infrastructure, making it more resilient and environmentally friendly. I envision myself playing a role in elevating the standards of construction on the island, contributing to the well-being and progress of the community that has shaped my identity. As I embark on this journey towards a civil engineering degree, I am fueled by a passion to be a catalyst for change. I believe in the transformative power of engineering to address global challenges and create a more sustainable and resilient future. With every project, my aim is not just to build structures but to contribute to a legacy of positive impact, leaving a mark that extends beyond the concrete and steel. In essence, my pursuit of a civil engineering degree is not merely a career choice; it's a commitment to a purpose-driven path aimed at shaping a better world for future generations. It's about channeling my passion for building into a profession that allows me to be a part of something larger, something that goes beyond the physical structures and contributes to the well-being of communities and the planet.

Growing up with the privilege of traveling to various places has been a remarkable aspect of my life, shaping my perspective and fostering personal growth. Thanks to my mom's employment with United, we've had the incredible opportunity to explore diverse states and countries, each offering a unique cultural and environmental experience. From Japan to Hawaii, California to Maryland, these journeys have been more than just vacations; they've been catalysts for personal development. Japan, with its rich history and distinct traditions, opened my eyes to a world vastly different from my own. The meticulous attention to detail, the value placed on respect, and the blending of modernity with tradition left a lasting impression. Exposure to such a disciplined and culturally rich environment instilled in me a greater appreciation for diversity and a curiosity about different ways of life. Hawaii, with its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant Polynesian culture, provided a contrasting experience. The laid-back atmosphere and the strong connection to nature underscored the importance of balance and harmony in life. Witnessing the aloha spirit and the deep-rooted respect for the environment instilled in me a sense of environmental consciousness and the significance of community. California, a melting pot of cultures and a hub of innovation, offered a dynamic setting for personal growth. The fast-paced lifestyle and the spirit of entrepreneurship encouraged me to embrace change and think creatively. Exposure to diverse communities and lifestyles broadened my understanding of people, fostering empathy and adaptability. Nevada, with its stark deserts and vibrant entertainment scene, presented a unique juxtaposition. The resilience required to thrive in such an arid environment mirrored the adaptability needed in life's challenges. The bustling city of Las Vegas, with its constant energy, emphasized the importance of balance between work and leisure. Oregon, known for its lush landscapes and outdoor adventures, introduced me to the therapeutic power of nature. The emphasis on sustainability and the appreciation for the outdoors instilled a sense of responsibility towards the environment. The tranquility of the Pacific Northwest allowed for introspection and personal connection. Maryland, steeped in history and diversity, provided a rich tapestry of experiences. The proximity to the nation's capital exposed me to the corridors of power and the importance of civic engagement. Exploring historical sites and understanding the roots of the American story deepened my sense of identity and civic responsibility. In each of these places, I've not only indulged in the pleasures of travel but also absorbed the essence of different cultures and environments. The exposure to diverse perspectives, lifestyles, and values has been instrumental in my personal growth. It has cultivated adaptability, broadened my worldview, and fostered a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of our global community. These experiences have shaped me into a more open-minded, empathetic, and adaptable individual. The lessons learned from each culture and environment continue to resonate in my daily life, influencing my decisions, fostering resilience, and enriching my personal journey of growth and development.

Being a military child is a unique journey, filled with both ups and downs that shape one's perspective on life. In my case, my father serves as an active duty first sergeant in the army. His commitment to duty has instilled in me a sense of pride, but it hasn't come without its challenges. Throughout my life, I've witnessed my dad embarking on numerous missions and deployments, a testament to his dedication to serving our country. While I admire his commitment, it's impossible to ignore the sacrifices he's made, particularly in missing significant family moments. His absence during my birth, birthdays, holidays, and other special occasions has created a void that echoes through our family memories. The weight of these moments is not solely mine to bear; my mother, a resilient and strong woman, has taken on the role of holding our family together during my dad's deployments. It's not an easy task, and I've seen her navigate the challenges of parenting and maintaining a household with grace and determination. Witnessing her strength has been both inspiring and humbling. My dad's decision to join the military was rooted in a desire to provide a better life for our family. Growing up, he faced limited opportunities, and the military became a pathway to stability and progress. The doors it opened for our family have been transformative, ensuring we have a roof over our heads and access to education – opportunities my dad might not have dreamed of in his own youth. The absence of my father during critical milestones has also been a source of strength for me. It taught me resilience, self-reliance, and the importance of cherishing moments with loved ones. While his physical presence may have been absent during certain times, his influence has been a constant, shaping my values and perspective on life. Deployments are not just a physical separation; they also bring emotional challenges. The anxiety of not knowing when he'll return and the fear that accompanies news of military conflicts are experiences that many military children share. However, these challenges also foster a deep appreciation for the sacrifices that military families make, and the bonds formed within these families are resilient. Being a military child has woven a complex tapestry of emotions, from the pride of a parent in uniform to the ache of missing them during pivotal moments. It's a journey that builds character, resilience, and a profound understanding of the significance of service and sacrifice. As I reflect on my upbringing, I am grateful for the opportunities provided by my father's military service, even as I acknowledge the difficulties that accompany it.

Being a woman in STEM is a dream I’ve always dreamt about. In the classroom and outside of the classroom, standards have been set high, especially for male students/workers. I wanted to make a difference and prove to my teacher and people around me that women have just as much persistence, creativity, and passion for these types of fields. In high school, I pursued an Engineering and Health Science Therapeutic Services program. Not only were these courses challenging, but they taught me many life lessons I use until this day. First, never let what others tell you affect your goal. Many of my peers have talked about dropping the classes and enjoying one that’s more “fun.” They questioned why I’m still in them and how I’m getting through. These thoughts have crossed my mind multiple times and the answer I came up with included not being one to give up. Of course being apart of these rigorous classes had it’s cons, whether it’s staying up to do homework or even missing out on group hangouts. The truth is that I focused on what I wanted in the future. I knew that these difficulties would present itself over the next few years, but I kept myself focused on what was important for my career. Second, one bad day doesn’t set the mood for an entire week or next few days. There have been multiple times where I felt drained and fatigued, but being able to comeback from something is what teaches you the lesson. I learned how to reflect on my feelings and grow past what I went through. Being able to take a step back when things got tough is a blessing that I never thought I needed. Bad days are bound to come, but how you work through them make them important to your journey. Third, celebrate the little accomplishments. Although there are many times where it feels like you still have a long way to go, celebrating the little things come a very long way. I’ve been able to grow even more when learning that not everything has to be a big achievement. Learning how to celebrate getting through a bad day or even finishing part of an assignment helped get me to where I am today. All these aspects make me a better person and student. Being apart of a male dominated career has only pushed me to work harder. This meant putting in more work than others around me. I’ve spent multiple time working on assignments and doing research of my own to ensure my success. I know that choosing Engineering as a career choice will be difficult, but that’s what makes my journey fun and worthwhile.

Many people around the world struggle with mental health. Mental health plays an enormous impact in the way we live and other activities we partake in. With COVID-19 and quarantine, mental health matters have sprung. One way we can work on mental health is to spread awareness of what it is and ways people can reach out if they are dealing with any hardships. Our emotional, psychological, and social well-being are all part of our mental health. It has an impact on the way we think, feel, and act. It also influences how we deal with stress, interact with others, and make decisions. In the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, global prevalence of anxiety and depression increased by a massive 25%, according to a scientific brief released by the World Health Organization (WHO) today. In today’s generation, we have slowly been building towards a more receptive way of communicating. Using social media platforms has been beneficial. Raising awareness of mental health and the problems others face help others who are dealing with similar problems not feel alone. Continuing to address what mental health is a way to support those who going through adversities. Mental health is an important factor for everything that we do and it is seen prevalent today. Advocating for hotlines and other organizations that seek to improve the wellness of others should continue to be supported. With the help of everyone across the world, in understanding what others might be going through, can encourage people to get the assistance that they need.