Over 12 million people experience domestic violence every year in the US, impacting people of all ages and genders. Despite having so many victims, there are still many myths and a lack of knowledge surrounding domestic violence. During my childhood, I experienced physical and emotional violence at home. Because I have been directly impacted by domestic violence, I am motivated to help others who are struggling as I was. Whether due to stigma, lack of safe spaces to discuss it, or survivors’ fear of speaking up, domestic violence is seldom mentioned. Yet, openly discussing it and educating others on what it means is one step towards preventing it. Many victims, especially children, may not realize that what they are experiencing is domestic violence, which can make it difficult to seek help. I was one of those children, which motivates me to inform others. My school has a program called CARE, which helps those who have experienced sexual assault and domestic violence. I plan to join their student volunteer program in the fall. In this role, I can help develop and expand current programs, such as their sexual assault awareness workshops, and directly support those who have been impacted. Becoming a volunteer also makes it easier to become an intern in the following year, allowing me to expand my impact further. Finally, I plan to participate in their peer support groups to share my story and show other survivors they are not alone. Off-campus, I would like to volunteer for services that directly support these individuals, such as the National Domestic Violence Hotline and homeless shelters. These services provide extremely valuable assistance to victims of domestic violence by helping them leave their abuser. However, they often lack volunteers and funding. A lack of volunteers leads to long hotline waiting times, which may prevent victims from receiving the support they need quickly enough. Having waited on similar hotlines myself, I know how crucial immediate support can be. Dedicating my time to these organizations would directly address these issues. Completing my education provides me with an opportunity to make a difference on campus while preparing for a career helping domestic violence survivors. In my career, I would like to work for a nonprofit. I hope to conduct research that influences public policy by working with lawmakers and activist groups. For instance, I would like to help draft legislation to expand hotlines and pro bono legal services for victims of domestic abuse. Legal fees often prevent victims from taking action against their abuser. Researching where an increase in funding would be most effective will directly help improve these issues. Domestic violence is a crisis on a global scale, but it is not impossible to fix. Leaving a violent situation can often feel hopeless, and I want to serve as living proof that it is possible. Not only do I want to help those who are currently facing violence, but supporting those who have previously experienced it is also extremely important to making change. Through these actions, I hope to build a world where domestic violence is no longer a common occurrence.

“You only want to play baseball because it makes you feel like a boy.” When I came out to my parents as transgender at 12 years old, they did not understand my identity. They told me that I was brainwashed by social media and just trying to escape the bad things that had happened during my childhood. At the same time, they demanded I begin playing a sport. Between Covid-19 and their attempts at isolating me from my other queer friends, I hardly ever left my room. As they grew increasingly tired of this, they only gave me the option of picking what sport I wanted to play. I chose baseball, and they reluctantly agreed. Each time I went to practice, I would hide under a large hoodie and baseball cap. At first, I hardly talked to my teammates, not quite having the confidence to use my preferred name and worrying about how they would perceive me. Despite never sharing my identity with them, they all assumed I was a boy. After the rejection from my parents, hearing someone gender me correctly finally made me feel like myself. My lack of athleticism was never a problem for my teammates. Each of them encouraged me to keep going when I failed and cheered me on when I succeeded. Because of the pandemic, we spent the season practicing rather than playing against other teams. Although many players were upset about this, I appreciated the opportunity to improve and grow closer to my team. Gradually, I started joining conversations and building connection. Our two best players were a guy and the only girl on our team. The two of them never let their skill turn into rudeness toward the other players. Their kindness allowed me to get close to them, whether we were discussing baseball or our day at school. Eventually, I worked up the courage to tell them about my identity, and they fully supported me. I finally found a place where I could be myself. During our second-to-last practice, the coach let us pick our jersey colors and team name. While we still were not playing actual games, he felt it would be a fun way to commemorate the season. My male teammate, who I had become close with, suggested the name “Sparkle Ponies,” which quickly became the favorite. Naturally, we also picked pink for our jersey color. Being trans has made me worry about whether I act masculine enough. Seeing a group of mostly guys choose to embrace something that would typically be considered feminine showed me that I can have whatever interests I like and be a boy at the same time. My baseball skills did not improve much over the season, and I decided to pursue other interests. However, the lessons and acceptance I felt on the field will stick with me throughout my life. Now, I am lucky enough to have a wonderful group of friends who accept me for who I am, and I plan to continue being an activist for the LGBTQ+ community. In high school, I served as president of my school’s Gender and Sexuality Alliance, and I have already made connections with the LGBTQ+ Resource Center at my college. In my career, I would like to work for a nonprofit conducting research that influences public policy by working with lawmakers and activist groups. For example, I would like to help draft legislation to expand access to gender affirming care. Baseball may not have been for me, but it will always hold a special place in my heart.

I fell in love with rollerblading at age six when my parents took me to our local roller rink's grand opening. Eight years later, I started the Roller-Skating Club at my high school. What started as a simple way to meet others had a larger impact on me and my community than I could have ever anticipated. As the club continued, I began to notice a pattern. We would meet once a month at our local rink to skate together in addition to our school meetings, yet several members would frequently not attend. After further investigation, I discovered that many students could not afford the entrance fee. Not wanting anyone to miss out due to their financial situation, we decided to start fundraising. By partnering with a local boba shop to sell drinks on campus, we were able to raise hundreds of dollars. Additionally, our members gave their time to make and sell keychains, earning community service hours towards the graduation requirement. These fundraisers were meaningful to me as they allowed us to spread the joy of skating and give everyone a chance to help. Through our hard work, we were able to pay for all of our members to attend our end-of-the-year party. Having everyone there together, and knowing no one was left out, created a lasting memory for all of us. My volunteer work showed me how leadership through service can help overcome significant challenges. When I saw students staying after school to make keychains, I realized leadership is about showing up alongside your team. Sometimes, all it takes to include everyone is a group coming together to make it happen. As someone who has been on the receiving end of this assistance myself, I have seen just how impactful it can be. At 16, I became physically disabled due to a genetic condition. Support from others allowed me to accomplish all that I have today. My teachers provided me with accommodations even when I was struggling to get official ones from the school. Without their assistance, I would not have graduated as salutatorian. Through this experience, I learned that leadership is not about being in charge, but identifying a need and guiding others to help fix it. The support I have received from others has made me want to provide that same support to the community. The lessons I have learned will continue to help me in my future endeavors. For example, I plan to join my school’s Student Success Coaching Program to help other first-generation students with their transition to college. In my career, I would like to use my political science background to work for a nonprofit. I hope to make policy change by working with lawmakers and activists, such as helping draft legislation to simplify the FAFSA process. Receiving this scholarship would help me afford tuition while focusing on research and internships, bringing me one step closer to my goals. Through the club, I have learned that the best work happens when you are building something for others. The club may be in the past, but its lessons are not.

For as long as I can remember, I have loved exercising and playing sports. I was an avid runner and even started a roller-skating club at my school. At 16, I started experiencing the symptoms of Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and chronic fatigue, which forced me to quit these activities. Suddenly, I could no longer participate in several clubs or complete my schoolwork in the same way. I was devastated, but I refused to let my diagnosis define what I could achieve. Rather than focusing on what I lost, I shifted to what I could build. Education helps create an independent future, so I began taking online college classes. Balancing my health needs, high school classes, and college coursework required continuous effort year-round, but I was committed to improving my future. When I missed classes due to pain, I made sure to contact my teachers and work from home. Because of my dedication, I am on track to complete three associate degrees by the fall in law, political science, and sociology. My studies allowed me to further understand systemic factors that negatively impact disabled people, reflecting my own life experiences. Being a first-generation student makes completing these degrees even more meaningful. Realizing that I could overcome these challenges motivated me to keep going. Support from others allowed me to accomplish all that I have today. My teachers provided me with accommodations even when I was struggling to get official ones from the school. Being unable to handwrite my assignments or take the stairs to class initially caused setbacks in several classes, but being able to use the elevator and type my assignments helped me catch up. Without their assistance, I would not have graduated as salutatorian. Through this experience, I learned the importance of self-advocacy, which is why I have already started advocating for my future needs by connecting with my college’s disability office. They have ensured I will have an accessible experience by providing me with accommodations, such as a wheelchair-accessible dorm room. Everyone who has supported me has reinforced my confidence in standing up for my needs. That same drive to advocate for myself has grown into a desire to advocate for others. Completing my political science degrees will allow me to work for a nonprofit. I hope to conduct research that influences public policy by working with lawmakers and activist groups. For instance, I would like to help draft legislation to expand financial aid programs and simplify the FAFSA process. Convoluted processes disproportionately affect first-generation students without parental guidance, and rigid financial aid criteria ignore the extra medical costs many disabled students face. Having dealt with these exact struggles myself, I want my work to prevent future generations from facing them. The same determination that allowed me to complete these achievements will drive my policy work. College will prepare me for this path, but cost poses a barrier. My limited options for work mean this scholarship would not just provide financial relief, but a bridge over economic and physical hardships. Receiving this scholarship would reduce the hours I work, allowing me to prioritize research and internship opportunities. With this scholarship, I can reach my goal of having a stable financial future while building a nation where birth circumstances do not determine outcomes.

Being disabled, Latino, and LGBTQ+ has given me intersectional experiences that inspire my goals. I want my work to ensure future marginalized people do not face the same struggles many do now. At 16, I became physically disabled due to a genetic condition. Despite my devastation, I focused on what I could build rather than what I lost. Education helps create an independent future, so I began taking online college classes. Balancing my health, high school, and college required continuous effort year-round, but I was committed to improving my future. When I missed classes due to pain, I made sure to contact my teachers and work from home. My dedication has put me on track to complete three associate degrees by the fall in law, political science, and sociology. Being a first-generation student makes completing these degrees even more meaningful. Saving money is one of my top priorities due to my limited work options, so starting a cookie business became a necessity. I focused on social media advertising and made personal connections to ensure the business’s success. While I have saved a few hundred dollars, it does not compare to the immense cost of college. My experiences and coursework have motivated me to support others who are facing similar challenges. I have contributed over 300 hours to community service, including 21 for Luv Michael, a company that provides jobs for autistic adults. Working for Luv Michael was particularly important to me as an autistic person, as I could give back to my own community. Much of my service was conducted through a student organization. During my freshman year, I joined my school’s Gender and Sexuality Alliance. Everyone welcomed me, which was impactful after frequently facing exclusion. To support other students the same way I had been, I became the club’s treasurer in my junior year, and during my senior year, I served as president. In this role, I learned how important community is for the wellbeing of marginalized people. To build community in other ways, I founded the Roller Skating Club in my freshman year. The club hosted multiple fundraisers to support our low-income members. We partnered with a local boba shop to sell drinks on campus and made our own keychains to sell. These fundraisers raised hundreds of dollars, covering all our members’ attendance at our end-of-the-year event. Unfortunately, I had to quit the club in my junior year because I became physically disabled, but I am proud of what I built. Knowing no one was left out made our efforts worthwhile. Completing my political science degrees will allow me to work for a nonprofit. I hope to conduct research that influences public policy by working with lawmakers and activist groups. For instance, I would like to help draft legislation to expand financial aid programs and simplify the FAFSA process. Convoluted processes disproportionately affect first-generation students without parental guidance, and rigid financial aid criteria ignore the extra medical costs many disabled students face. Having dealt with these struggles myself, I want my work to prevent future generations from facing them. Ultimately, I hope my actions allow all Americans to live the life they desire, whether they would like to start a family, attend college, or live independently. Support from others enabled me to achieve my goals, so I now want to support others. My limited job options mean this scholarship would not just provide financial relief, but a bridge over economic and physical hardships. With this scholarship, I can complete my education and help build a world where birth circumstances do not determine outcomes.

“How can you say you’re a man with the way you dress?” When I came out to my parents as transgender at 12 years old, they did not understand me. As a child, I had always fit into the “tomboy” stereotype: playing sports, loving insects, and hanging out with the boys in my class. However, I also loved dressing traditionally feminine and eventually started experimenting with makeup. My parents could not wrestle with the idea that I was truly a boy on the inside, regardless of my fashion choices. The apparent conflict between my identity and interests prevented me from realizing who I was for a long time. I felt that I had to decide between being a boy or enjoying fashion; two parts of me that were impossible to give up. Realizing I could be both allowed me to finally embrace my true self. While I finally accepted my identity, others were not so quick to understand. In middle school, I faced bullying for both the way I dress and my identity. Discrimination from the staff was similar. At one point, the principal even accused me of lying about my gender because of how I dressed, making me late to class and embarrassing me in front of my friends. The harassment forced me into online PE, as the locker room became a place where I could not safely exist. Although difficult, I was not entirely without support. I continued to stand up for myself, refusing to let hate force me to hide. In 8th grade, one of my former math teachers came out as transgender. She said that my courageousness gave her the strength to be herself and asked me to be the student ambassador for the new LGBTQ+ club. Naturally, I agreed, as I wanted to support other queer students who were facing these same struggles. I still keep in touch with her, and she even attended my graduation, where I wore bold makeup with the historically male cap and gown color. Moving into high school, I wanted to continue engaging with the queer community, while also embracing my interests. I joined the Fashion Club, Makeup Club, and Gender and Sexuality Alliance (GSA) to do so. Everyone welcomed me in these groups, which was impactful after the exclusion I had faced. To support other students, I became GSA’s treasurer in my junior year, and during my senior year, I served as president. In this role, I focused on recruiting new members and ensuring everyone felt welcome. As I begin college, I will continue being myself and connecting with others like me. I have already made connections with the LGBTQ+ Resource Center at UCSD and would like to join other student organizations relating to fashion. College also provides an education that will allow me to continue supporting others. In class discussions, I can share my unique experiences to ensure my community does not get overlooked. Completing my political science degrees will allow me to pursue my career in nonprofit work. I hope to conduct research that influences public policy by working with lawmakers and activist groups. For instance, I would like to help draft legislation to expand access to gender affirming care and therapy. As someone who has used these services myself, I understand how essential they can be for LGBTQ+ people. Even if others consider my identities and interests awkward, weird, or unusual, I will continue fighting against the boxes they have tried to put me in. As a transgender man who loves makeup and fashion, I now realize that my existence does not contradict itself.

Being disabled, Latino, and LGBTQ+ has given me intersectional experiences that inspire my goals. To assist marginalized people, I want my work to ensure future generations do not face the same struggles many do now. At 16, I became physically disabled due to a genetic condition. Despite my devastation, I focused on what I could build rather than what I lost. Education provides independence, so I began taking online college classes. Balancing my health needs, high school classes, and college coursework required year-round effort, but I was committed to improving my future. Because of my dedication, I graduated as salutatorian and am on track to complete three associate degrees by the fall in law, political science, and sociology. Being a first-generation student makes completing these degrees even more meaningful. My studies allowed me to further understand systemic factors that impact marginalized groups, motivating me to help alleviate them. My experiences and coursework have motivated me to support others who are facing similar challenges. I have contributed over 300 hours to community service, including 21 for Luv Michael, a company that provides jobs for autistic adults. Working for Luv Michael was particularly important to me as an autistic person. Much of my service was conducted through a student organization. During my freshman year, I joined my school’s Gender and Sexuality Alliance. Everyone welcomed me, which was impactful after frequently facing exclusion. To support other students the same way I had been, I took on leadership roles. In my junior year, I became the club’s treasurer, and during my senior year, I served as president to keep the club’s legacy alive and create a safe environment for all. The club showed me how community spaces for marginalized groups can create a support system. I also founded the Roller Skating Club in my freshman year. The club hosted multiple fundraisers to support our low-income members. Several students could not attend our meetings at the skating rink due to the entrance fee. Partnering with a local boba shop to sell drinks on campus and making our own keychains to sell raised hundreds of dollars, covering all our members’ attendance at our end-of-the-year event. Unfortunately, I had to quit the club in my junior year due to my disability, but I am proud of what I built. Completing my political science degrees will allow me to work for a nonprofit. Nonprofits allow me to engage directly with the community I aim to serve. I hope to conduct research that influences public policy by working with lawmakers and activist groups. For instance, I would like to help draft legislation to expand financial aid programs and simplify the FAFSA process. Convoluted processes disproportionately affect first-generation students without parental guidance, and rigid financial aid criteria ignore the extra medical costs many disabled students face. Having dealt with these struggles myself, I want my work to prevent future generations from facing them. Ultimately, I hope my actions allow all Americans to live the life they desire. Whether they would like to start a family, attend college, or live independently, I want my work to facilitate their ability to do so. Support from others enabled me to achieve my goals, which is why I now want to provide that same support for others. My limited job options mean this scholarship would not just provide financial relief, but a bridge over economic and physical hardships. With this scholarship, I can complete my education and help build a world where birth circumstances do not determine outcomes.

Being disabled, Latino, and LGBTQ+ has given me intersectional experiences that directly inspire my goals. To assist marginalized people globally, I hope to work for a nonprofit, ensuring future generations do not face the same struggles many do now. At the age of 16, I became physically disabled due to a genetic condition. Despite my devastation, I focused on what I could build rather than what I lost. Education provides the opportunity to create an independent future, so I began taking online college classes. Balancing my health needs, high school classes, and college coursework required year-round effort, but I was committed to improving my future. Because of my dedication, I graduated as salutatorian and am on track to complete three associate degrees by the fall in law, political science, and sociology. My studies allowed me to further understand systematic factors that impact marginalized groups, motivating me to help alleviate them. Being a first-generation student makes completing these degrees even more meaningful. Saving money is one of my top priorities due to my limited work options, so starting a cookie business became a necessity. While I have saved a few hundred dollars, it does not compare to the immense cost of college. My experiences and coursework have motivated me to support others who are facing similar challenges. Currently, I have contributed over 300 hours to community service, including 60 for Rise Against Hunger and 21 for Luv Michael, a company that provides jobs for autistic adults. Working for Luv Michael was particularly important to me as an autistic person. Much of my service was conducted through a student organization. During my freshman year, I joined my school’s Gender and Sexuality Alliance. Everyone welcomed me, which was impactful after frequently facing exclusion. To support other students the same way I had been, I took on official leadership roles. In my junior year, I became the club’s treasurer, and during my senior year, I served as president to keep the club’s legacy alive and create a safe environment for all. Another important activity was the Roller Skating Club I founded in my freshman year. The club hosted a number of fundraisers to support our low-income members. Several students could not attend our meetings at the skating rink due to the entrance fee. Partnering with a local boba shop to sell drinks on campus and making our own keychains to sell allowed us to raise hundreds of dollars and pay for all our members to attend our end-of-the-year event. Unfortunately, I had to quit the club in my junior year due to my disability. Doing so was upsetting, but I am proud of what I built and will channel that energy into my future work. I also took on other roles that allowed me to give back outside of volunteering and extracurriculars. When I first became disabled, asking for help was a challenge. However, my teachers supported me when I finally did speak up, motivating me to serve as a teacher’s assistant for several staff members in my junior and senior years. In doing so, I got to give back directly to those who helped me and saw how important one-on-one connections can be. Although my service took many forms, it all helped ensure others did not face the same challenges. Completing my political science degrees will allow me to work for a nonprofit. I hope to conduct research that influences public policy by working with lawmakers and activist groups. For instance, I would like to help draft legislation to expand financial aid programs and simplify the FAFSA process. Convoluted processes disproportionally affect first-generation students without parental guidance, and rigid financial aid criteria ignore the extra medical costs many disabled students face. Having dealt with these exact struggles myself, I want my work to prevent future generations from facing them. The same determination behind these achievements will drive my policy work. My limited job options mean this scholarship would not just provide financial relief, but a bridge over economic and physical hardships. Receiving this scholarship would let me focus on research and internships. With this scholarship, I can complete my education and help build a world where birth circumstances do not determine outcome.

Despite filing a FAFSA, I received no aid from the college I will be attending. However, my parents’ income on paper is not necessarily indicative of their ability to support me financially. They have significant debt and are nearing retirement age, which means their resources are limited. While they will give what they can, there is a large gap between the cot of college and what they can provide. My situation may be difficult, but I did not end up here without strategic planning. Choosing to attend a public rather than a private school lowers the overall cost and ensures I can transfer the most possible credits. I have already taken numerous college courses and am now on track to complete three associate degrees, reducing the number of classes I have to pay for at university. Selecting a college close to home means I will have support, even if that help is not financial. UCSD is also one of the best political science schools in the nation, creating career and networking opportunities. Because of what I have gone through, I feel I have an increased responsibility to complete my degree. Due to my disability and first-generation status, college is more than just a natural stepping-stone on my educational journey. Rather, it is a tool I have overcome many hardships to access. Having worked so hard previously, even graduating as salutatorian, I want to see my efforts come to fruition. Additionally, finishing my degree would show other marginalized and first-generation students that they too can accomplish great things. In college, I plan to continue sharing my story and join related organizations. For instance, UCSD has a Triton Firsts program for first-generation students where I plan to serve as a peer coach. As a disabled person, college enables my independence. College opens new career opportunities and allows me to achieve my goals not in spite of my circumstances, but through working with them. By living on my own, I can build independent living and financial skills in a safe environment. For many, the transition to adulthood can be extremely difficult. In college, I can develop money management skills while having support. I have already started a cookie business, saving hundreds of dollars, and I hope to develop more strategies to manage my finances. My journey has inspired me to help future generations avoid these struggles. In my career, I would like to work for a nonprofit organization and continue helping those in need. I hope to lead projects and conduct research that influences public policy, such as working with lawmakers and activist groups to expand access to higher education for low-income students. The struggles of marginalized communities are especially important to me due to my own identities and experiences. College will also provide me with additional opportunities. For instance, I have applied for the College Corps and TRIO programs, which will allow me to volunteer and build community. Through my work, I hope to alleviate the financial burden of college for future students. While the FAFSA may not have given me the support I needed, I am entering college with a full understanding of the financial burden and how to overcome it. Receiving this scholarship would affirm the choices I have made and bring me closer to my goal of making a difference. By continuing my education, I hope to build a better future for myself and show others they can do the same.

When I finally committed to pursuing college in my junior year, I fully realized the challenges I would face for the first time. Because of my identities, including being a first-generation student and Latino, college is more than just a natural stepping-stone on my educational journey. Going to college means navigating a difficult transition without the guidance of my parents that so many other students have. Yet, my parents had always instilled the importance of education in me, and I wanted to go to college for the opportunity to build an independent future. Knowing how hard this transition can be makes me want to guide other first-generation students. Currently, I have contributed over 300 hours to community service, and I found that working directly with those in the community was most fulfilling. During my time volunteering for local elementary schools, I was able to connect with children from many different backgrounds. For instance, being a native Spanish speaker, I helped a non-English-speaking child participate fully in the activities I was running. I hope my work inspired all of them to pursue their goals regardless of their circumstances. College provides me with additional opportunities to uplift first-generation students. My school has a Triton Firsts program for first-generation students, which I will join in the fall. As I have done previously, I plan to hold leadership positions and mentor other students, such as being a coach in the Student Success Coaching Program hosted through Triton Firsts. Additionally, I have applied for the TRIO program which supports disabled, low-income, and first-generation students. In this program, I can meet other students who share my identities and build a community. I plan to use that community as a foundation for mentoring others, helping inspire them to continue their education. Outside of these programs, I will continue sharing my story, such as how I graduated as salutatorian and am on track to complete three associate degrees, to show others that they too can achieve great things regardless of their background. Being Latino and first-generation may have made my journey harder, but it did not stop me from reaching my goals. Through my work, I want to ensure other Latine and first-generation students are not held back from pursuing college by their identities either. Because of its emphasis on the struggles of marginalized communities and my interest in the subject, I am pursuing a bachelor’s and master’s degree in political science. These degrees will allow me to work for a nonprofit organization and continue helping those in need. I hope to lead projects and conduct research that influences public policy, such as working with lawmakers and activist groups to expand access to higher education for low-income students. Through these actions, I hope to break down barriers that prevent marginalized and first-generation students from pursuing higher education. The legacy I want to leave is being the guide I did not have during my transition to college. I want to show other first-generation students that they can achieve whatever they have set out to do, especially other Latine students, by volunteering and building community. For the next generation of Latine and first-generation students, I hope to make their path easier than mine was.

For as long as I can remember, I have loved exercising and playing sports. I was an avid runner and even started a roller-skating club at my school. At 16, I developed chronic pain and severe fatigue due to a genetic condition, which forced me to quit these activities. Suddenly, I could no longer participate in several clubs or complete my schoolwork in the same way. Despite how upset this made me, I was determined to continue pursuing my passions and reach my goals. Rather than focusing on what I lost, I shifted to what I could build. Education has always been important to me as it provides the opportunity to create an independent future, and I began taking online college classes. Because of my dedication, I am on track to complete three associate degrees by the fall in law, political science, and sociology. As a first-generation student, completing these degrees is even more meaningful to me. Saving money is one of my top priorities due to my limited options for work, so I also started a small business selling cookies. Now, I have saved a few hundred dollars for college. Realizing that I could still do great things despite my disability helped me keep going. Though I knew there were other passions I could explore, I still wanted to regain my mobility and get back to what I loved. Physical therapy and diet changes provided a chance to do so. Working with a nutritionist, I made significant dietary changes and lost 35 pounds. Losing this weight put less strain on my joints and improved my confidence. Combining physical therapy with my weight loss, I am now able to work out several days a week. My ability to walk also improved, helping me spend more time with my friends and navigate school more easily. Although I am not yet back to running and skating, I am determined to continue increasing my strength by trying new exercises and resources. Support became crucial for me to continue excelling in this manner. My teachers provided me with accommodations even when I was struggling to get official ones from the school. Being unable to handwrite my assignments or take the stairs to class initially caused setbacks in several classes. However, being able to use the elevator and type my assignments helped me catch up. Without their assistance, I would not have graduated as salutatorian. To support them in the same way they supported me, I served as a teacher’s assistant for multiple teachers and staff members. Additionally, connections at UCSD's disability office gave me confidence that I will have an accessible experience. For example, they have ensured that I will have a dorm room large enough for my wheelchair. Everyone who has supported me has shown that I do not have to navigate this alone and made my journey much easier. Another thing that made my journey easier was remembering my grandma for the resilient woman she was. Though she passed away when I was nine, I look back on our time together fondly. She was an incredibly strong woman who raised six children on her own after my grandfather died of leukemia. Her perseverance in the face of adversity shows me that I too can overcome what I am facing. With my actions, I hope to make her proud and honor her legacy. My experiences as a disabled person and desire to honor my grandma have reinforced my passion for helping others. In my career, I would like to use my political science background to work for a nonprofit organization. I hope to conduct research and lead projects to help marginalized groups, especially other people with disabilities. For instance, I would like to work with lawmakers to decrease the cost of healthcare. Additionally, I have dedicated over 300 hours to community service, and I plan to continue volunteering. To do so, I have applied for College Corps, which requires students to complete 450 hours of service during the academic year. As I move into college, I will take advantage of the resources it provides me to reach my goals. For example, I would like to join the Disabled Student Empowerment Group to fight for my community and continue being a leader. No matter what challenges I am facing, my past struggles show I can persevere and achieve what I have set out to do. Being a first-generation student, my transition to college will not be easy, but I am confident in my resilience. Now, I see that becoming disabled had a silver lining by revealing opportunities I may not have taken advantage of otherwise. My disability has shown me that community is often the most important part of reaching my goals. Most notably, it showed me that progress, not perfection, is what truly matters.

My whole life I have struggled with making friends due to my autism. When I started high school, I felt I had a unique opportunity to not only meet new people but make connections based on my interests. One of my favorite activities was rollerblading, as I had done it since I was a kid. To solve my problem of struggling to build relationships, I decided to start the Roller Skating Club in my freshman year. Here, I was able to connect with other students and learn new tricks, but the club had a larger impact on me than I could have ever anticipated, providing me with lessons I will carry throughout my life. The club I built to help myself make friends did far more than just that. Many students benefited in ways I never could have imagined. Throughout the club’s three years, we had a vice president, treasurer, and social media manager, allowing these students to earn leadership experience. Advanced skaters, such as myself, took the time to teach beginner skaters the basics. Through these experiences, we gained connections with other students and learned how to mentor others. My leadership also helped encourage participation in school events, with several students walking in our homecoming game’s halftime parade on behalf of the club. Lastly, we developed a relationship with our local rink, which benefited us when the owner generously allowed us to use a party room for free during our end-of-the-year event. These small actions helped everyone feel more included. Most notably, the club hosted a number of fundraisers to support our low-income members. Several students could not attend our meetings at the skating rink due to the entrance fee. Partnering with a local boba shop to sell drinks on campus and making our own keychains to sell allowed us to raise hundreds of dollars and pay for all our members to attend our end-of-the-year event. These fundraisers were meaningful to me as they allowed me to spread the joy of skating and give other students a chance to earn community service hours. They also taught me valuable organization skills, which I used in other leadership positions. I believe my work allowed everyone in the club to feel cared for regardless of their situation. Unfortunately, I had to quit the club after a genetic condition left me physically disabled in my junior year. However, my disability will not hold me back from continuing my work in helping others. Another organization I would like to create is a Project Linus Club. Every year, my high school hosted a campus-wide service project. During my freshman year, this project was to make blankets for displaced children. The project carried over into a club, and I joined because of the impact I could make. In college, I plan to create a similar club to help even more children and share the love of crafting these blankets. Here, I would be able to recruit even more students, providing additional comfort items for these children. Fundraising skills I have learned previously are imperative to raise money for materials. My leadership is not yet over, and I believe strongly in the impact a simple organization like this can make.

My first step toward my vision for a better world did not begin with activism. Rather, I took a shy, yet eager approach and decided to join my school’s Gender and Sexuality Alliance (GSA) in my freshman year. As the years went on, I slowly became more confident. From attending an LGBTQ+ art contest on behalf of the club or participating in campus clean-ups, these events built the skills needed to take on official leadership positions, such as communicating with others. In my junior year, I became the club’s treasurer, and during my senior year, I served as president to keep the club’s legacy alive and create a safe environment for all. Through these roles, I began to solidify my vision: a world where people felt just as accepted anywhere as they did in these spaces. My newfound goal motivated me to serve outside of the club, especially with marginalized communities. Currently, I have contributed over 300 hours to community service, including 60 for Rise Against Hunger and 21 for Luv Michael, a company that provides jobs for autistic adults. Working for Luv Michael was particularly important to me as an autistic person myself. I also held positions in other student organizations, further developing my leadership skills. One example is arranging volunteer events with a local animal sanctuary when serving as Interact Club’s Secretary of Community Service in my junior year. While my individual impact may be limited, I believe my actions helped those I served feel understood. Another important activity was the Roller Skating Club I founded in my freshman year. The club hosted a number of fundraisers to support our low-income members. Several members could not attend our meets at the skating rink due to the entrance fee. Partnering with a local boba shop to sell drinks on campus and making our own keychains to sell allowed us to raise hundreds of dollars and pay for all our members to attend our end-of-the-year event. My organizational skills allowed me to do this, and I will continue to utilize them in the future. Unfortunately, I had to quit the club after a genetic condition left me physically disabled in my junior year. However, I believe my work allowed everyone in the club to feel cared for regardless of their situation. My educational and career goals directly reflect my desire to continue helping others. Because of my identities, including being a first-generation student, college is more than just a natural stepping-stone on my educational journey. Rather, it serves as a tool to build an independent future, a tool I have overcome many hardships to access. To achieve my goal of creating a more equitable world, I plan to join organizations such as College Corps, which requires students to complete 450 hours of service during the academic year. Additionally, I will continue participating in activities related to my identities, such as the Disabled Student Empowerment Group, where I can advocate for my community. Because of its emphasis on the struggles of marginalized communities and my interest in the subject, I would like to pursue a bachelor’s and master’s degree in political science. These degrees will allow me to work for a nonprofit organization and continue helping those in need. I hope to lead projects and conduct research that influences public policy, such as working with lawmakers and activist groups to expand access to college for low-income students. By doing so, I hope to expand my impact to a global scale. With my past and future actions, I hope to build a more equitable, safe, and welcoming future for all.

“So Jacob was left alone, and a man wrestled with him till daybreak. When the man saw that he could not overpower him, he touched the socket of Jacob’s hip so that his hip was wrenched as he wrestled with the man. Then the man said, ‘Let me go, for it is daybreak.’ But Jacob replied, ‘I will not let you go unless you bless me.’ The man asked him, ‘What is your name?’ ‘Jacob,’ he answered. Then the man said, ‘Your name will no longer be Jacob, but Israel, because you have struggled with God and with humans and have overcome.’ Jacob said, ‘Please tell me your name.’ But he replied, ‘Why do you ask my name?’ Then he blessed him there. So Jacob called the place Peniel, saying, ‘It is because I saw God face to face, and yet my life was spared.’ The sun rose above him as he passed Peniel, and he was limping because of his hip.” -Genesis 32:22 Biblical passages can serve as meaningful pieces of literature, whether viewing them from a religious standpoint or otherwise. In this story, Jacob’s wrestle serves as a culmination of events requiring him to face his past. However, it also provides a message that is still relevant in the modern age, and to virtually everyone. I am no exception, and my own life closely mirrors Jacob’s story. The story of Jacob’s struggle represents how adversity and triumph can result from the same event, and that uncertainty when facing conflict does not prevent growth. Jacob leaves the battle undoubtedly changed, but the story poses contrasting results. On the one hand, Jacob receives the blessing he has been seeking his whole life and is given a new name to capture his struggle. Yet, he also develops a permanent limp. All of these factors result in life-long changes and permanent reminders of what he has faced. In real life, these permanent changes may not be so obvious but still leave lasting impressions on those who face it. Jacob’s limp is noticeable to others, but the difference he feels after being blessed is not. Despite the passage’s mix of blessing and injury, it still serves as a story of perseverance and growth. In doing so, it reflects the idea that such challenges can have good and bad results while ultimately serving as a positive. Not every aspect of a struggle must end well for it to be beneficial in some manner. Change may not always be positive, but Jacob emerges a better man despite his new disability. In its ambiguity, Jacob’s struggle allows the reader to sit with the unknown that he faces. Originally, he is said to have wrestled with a man, but later he states that he faced God. Whether he was truly facing God, a man, or even himself, he emerges from the battle permanently changed, showing how fully understanding a challenge is not necessary for it to have an effect. Because of this uncertainty, the reader is forced to focus on its impact instead, allowing this message to be demonstrated clearly. Aside from not knowing the other figure’s identity, Jacob does not know if the stranger will bless him as he is hoping. His struggle despite not knowing the outcome, even when the stranger asks him to let go, is what makes his persistence meaningful. Eventually, his work pays off, and he is granted his blessing. By including this ending, the story shows that conflict can provide a benefit that may be unseen during the challenge. The story represents the nature of struggle in the way many face it: beginning with the unknown and ending with growth. Jacob’s blessing, limp, and new name have all changed him for good. My own life experiences help me to better understand the meaning behind the passage. At 16, I developed permanent chronic pain and severe fatigue. There were many negatives, such as difficulties with school and having to quit several of my activities. However, I emerged from this not just physically changed, but mentally, too. The challenges I faced with accessibility allowed me to better understand what other disabled people go through, and I have built many connections with other disabled people that I value greatly. Jacob’s story reflects what I have gone through, and his own experience mirrors mine. Both of us faced positive and negatives because of our challenges, and we were both stepping into the unknown. I did not know I would become disabled, nor did I know how it would affect me. By making these connections, the message suddenly becomes deeply personal and easy to understand, rather than an abstract or complex idea. Not everyone will have an identical experience, but connecting personal challenges to Jacob’s story helps to provide insight. In describing an uncertain challenge with both good and bad outcomes, the story reflects what most people have experienced at some point in their life. By making this connection, its message comes across most effectively. Perseverance despite the unknown is possible and often beneficial, and contrasting outcomes are a likely result of these challenges. Yet, a key takeaway for the reader is the potential for growth in one of these situations. Through Jacob's new name, blessing, and injury, readers can see a reflection of their own life in his story.

For as long as I can remember, I loved exercising and playing sports. I was an avid runner and even started a roller-skating club at my school. At the age of 16, I developed chronic pain and severe fatigue, which forced me to quit these activities. A year later, I was finally diagnosed with a genetic disorder. Though a lot has changed, I am determined not to give up on my goals. My health issues impacted my education, as I struggled with getting proper accommodations from my school. I could no longer hand-write my assignments or take the stairs to class, and my pain made it difficult to focus. These struggles also affected my ability to volunteer. By that time, I had already contributed hundreds of hours to community service. Though I did what I could to continue helping others, my options became limited. Becoming disabled also gave me new concerns about the future. Getting a job was even more worrying as I was unsure where I would be able to work. College also raised new questions. Housing accommodations are particularly important as I now use a wheelchair. Despite these challenges, my past experiences of overcoming barriers and advocating for myself will help me get through them. Having support from those around me helped significantly. My teachers understood my issues and provided me with accommodations even when I was struggling to get official ones from the school. Without their help, I would not have graduated as salutatorian. Connections at UCSD's disability office gave me confidence that I will have a safe and accessible experience. They assured me that I would receive proper assistance, such as a room large enough for my wheelchair. To me, providing support to someone who is facing a life-altering situation is one of the most important ways to help them thrive. Pivoting to new opportunities also helped me overcome these challenges. As I had to give up some of my hobbies, such as skating, I moved to others that were still accessible to me. Baking has always been something I enjoyed, and I decided to start a small business selling cookies. I began taking online college classes as they were more accessible to me than in-person classes and provided me with a way to pursue my passions. Being online, I did not have to worry about getting to class or hand-writing my assignments. Because of my dedication, I am on track to complete three associate degrees by the fall. My disability has caused many challenges, but I have worked hard to overcome them by utilizing the resources around me. While I may never be cured, I am confident in my ability to live a happy and successful life. Going to college is an exciting experience that will provide me with great opportunities. However, cost poses a barrier to my education. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to afford tuition while focusing on my studies, bringing me one step closer to my goals. As I move into my career, I plan to use my political science background to work for a nonprofit organization conducting research that influences public policy. The struggles of disabled people are especially important to me because of my past experiences. My disability changed my life, but I am thriving nonetheless.

At the age of 16, I became physically disabled after a genetic condition began to manifest. My condition made walking difficult and exercising almost impossible. Because I had always loved running and roller skating, this was devastating. I had to quit the Roller Skating Club I had started and felt that I was abandoning something I loved. However, I was determined to regain my mobility and continue pursuing my passions. Fitness had played a monumental part in my life up to this point. Not only was it a hobby of mine, but it allowed me to build a community and develop leadership skills. I started the Roller Skating Club in my freshman year of high school and took on the role of president. As the club grew, other students served on the board, and we hosted numerous fundraisers to support our low-income students. Advanced skaters, such as myself, helped teach beginner skaters new skills, bringing us closer and allowing us to build mentorship skills. Having to give this up was extremely hard for me, which is why I wanted to do anything I could to get better. When my doctors recommended physical therapy, I felt that it was a chance for me to get back to what I loved. The weekly sessions were demanding, but I continued in the hopes that it would help me improve. In these sessions, I realized just how much my physical abilities had declined. Going from running five miles multiple times a week to barely being able to do even the most basic exercises was a difficult transition. I found it hard not to blame myself for my situation, even though it wasn’t my fault. Still, I continued working towards my goal. Every day, I made sure to complete the exercises I had been assigned. Despite my persistence, my first 12-week session yielded few results. Discouraged, but not ready to give up, I knew I had to make additional changes. Working with a nutritionist, I made significant dietary changes and lost 35 pounds. Losing this weight put less strain on my joints and improved my confidence. In the past, I had tried to lose weight and never fully succeeded. Achieving something I had struggled with before meant a lot to me and showed me that I could overcome other challenges as well, physical, social, or mental. With my body and mindset in a better place, I decided to go back to physical therapy. Finally, I started to see real results. Completing my second 8-week program helped me significantly. Now, I am able to work out at home several days a week, lifting weights and doing calisthenics. My ability to walk also improved, helping me spend more time with my friends and navigate school more easily. Fitness had become one of my passions again, and I had a renewed appreciation for exercise. Although I am not yet back to running and skating, I am determined to continue increasing my strength by trying new exercises and resources. My journey has shown my resilience and ability to adapt despite setbacks, and I am grateful for my restored ability to exercise.

Altruism is a characteristic I value greatly, which is why I hope to build a legacy of selflessness and helping others. One of the ways I have tried to achieve this is through volunteering. Completing my school’s 40-hour requirement wasn’t enough for me, so I set a goal of 200 hours to maximize impact and earn an award. Now, I have contributed over 300 hours to community service. These hours include 60 for Rise Against Hunger and 21 for Luv Michael, a company that provides jobs for autistic adults. My service for Luv Michael was especially rewarding as an autistic person myself. As I move into college, I will continue working towards building this legacy. College will present new opportunities and ways to help. I plan to join multiple organizations focused on volunteering to maximize my impact. For example, I have applied for College Corps, which requires students to complete 450 hours of service during the year. Additionally, I will continue holding leadership positions to make a difference in my community. In high school, I served on the board of five clubs, including Interact Club. These experiences improved my communication and organization skills, which will benefit me greatly in my future work. Finally, college will equip me with the knowledge to pursue a career that helps those in need. In my career, I would like to use my political science background to work for a nonprofit organization. I hope to lead projects and conduct research that influences public policy. For example, initiatives to provide low-cost therapy for those with mental health challenges. The struggles of disabled and LGBTQ+ people are especially important to me as someone who is part of those communities. Pursuing a career that benefits others would help me build this legacy and allow me to feel fulfilled. My education and community service have set me up for this path, and my future experiences will as well. Receiving this scholarship would bring me one step closer to leaving this legacy by allowing me to afford tuition and focus on my studies.

Reading non-fiction is one of my most important hobbies. The books I read encompass a wide range of topics, such as biology, history, and social justice. What I have learned from books, especially as it relates to social problems, motivated me to volunteer. Currently, I have contributed over 300 hours to community service. These hours include 60 for Rise Against Hunger and 21 for Luv Michael, a company that provides jobs for autistic adults. My service for Luv Michael was especially rewarding as an autistic person myself. Academically, I also benefited from reading, as I was able to connect concepts I learned in books to assignments in class. Books have also served as a refuge when I was dealing with challenges. As a physically disabled, LGBTQ, and Latino person, my academic journey has not been without hardships. However, I have worked to overcome them through the support of those around me, namely my teachers. My disability has impacted my access to education, but my teachers understood and provided me with accommodations, even as I struggled to get official ones from the school. Without the help of my club advisors, such as the advisor for the Gender and Sexuality Alliance, I would have continued struggling to find a place where I could be myself. Because of my different identities, as well as my autism, I was often bullied and struggled with making friends. These challenges led me to develop severe depression and nearly commit suicide. Having teachers who I could turn to and clubs where I was accepted helped me to overcome these mental health challenges. Though my path has not been without difficulties, I am proud to be who I am. Another part of who I am is someone who is academically inclined and values education, which is why I worked hard to be valedictorian. Being just two months away from graduation, I was shocked to learn they were recalculating the top 5 students' GPAs. Suddenly, I no longer had a 4.56, but a 4.48. To some, this may seem like a small difference, but it was enough to change my ranking to number two. The title I had thought was mine now belonged to someone else. While I could perceive this as a failure, I prefer to focus on the positives. I know I tried my hardest, and being salutatorian still reflects my academic talents. Because of how much I enjoy learning and value education, I have decided to attend UCSD in the fall. In college, I will continue my dedication to pursuing my passions and giving back. I plan to join several student organizations related to hobbies, activism, and culture. For example, the Disabled Student Empowerment Group and Anime Club. In my career, I would like to use my political science background to work for a nonprofit organization. I hope to lead projects and conduct research that influences public policy. The struggles of disabled and LGBTQ+ people are especially important to me as someone who is part of those communities. As I move forward, I will continue to view my uniqueness as a way for me to reach my goals, not something that hinders my journey.

The importance of mental health is something I learned far too early. At the age of 8, I began developing depression. At the age of 12, I attempted to take my own life. Despite these struggles, I am glad to be here today, and I want to show others who are suffering that their lives can also improve. My mental health challenges have resulted from my LGBTQ identity and disability. As an autistic person, I was often excluded and bullied as a child. Because I did not know I was autistic, I was left confused and made to feel like something was wrong with me. When I came out as transgender at the age of 12, I faced pushback from my parents. They were in disbelief and assumed something must have made me “confused.” In school, I faced similar discrimination from staff and students. Eventually, I was able to improve my mental health, though my experiences will never leave me. Building a support system and finding an understanding therapist had the biggest impact on my recovery. Not only are my friends there when I need them, but I do my best to be there for them as well. Over time, my relationship with my parents has also improved as they have become more understanding of my identity. Now, I have aspirations I would have never thought possible as someone who did not plan to survive to be an adult. Because of my struggles with mental health, I have realized the importance of community support and resources. In my career, I would like to use my political science background to work for a nonprofit organization leading projects and conducting research that influences public policy. For example, initiatives to provide low-cost therapy for those with mental health challenges. The struggles of disabled and LGBTQ+ people are especially important to me because of my own experiences. My education and community service have set me up for this path. Currently, I have contributed over 300 hours of community service and plan to continue in college. I have applied for College Corps, which requires students to complete 450 hours of community service during the academic year. Though it was not pleasant, my past has given me unique insight into how crucial mental health resources really are. I believe there is always hope for those who are struggling. That hope is not always visible, and I hope my career, volunteering, and personal life help more people see it. Community, not just willpower, is necessary for recovery. My education will set me up for this path, but cost poses a barrier. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to afford tuition while focusing on my studies, bringing me one step closer to achieving my goals.

Having a support system has been, and will continue to be, the key to my success. Without the encouragement of my friends, family, and teachers, I would not have been able to accomplish all I have today. Through all of the challenges I faced, they have stepped up to help me. As I move into college, I will continue fostering these connections and working to help others in the same way others have helped me. One of the most significant challenges I have faced is becoming physically disabled at the age of 16. As a genetic condition began to manifest itself, I could no longer handwrite assignments or take the stairs to class, which impacted my access to my education. However, support from my teachers allowed me to continue excelling academically. My teachers provided me with accommodations, despite my struggle to get official ones from the school. Because of their support, I have achieved my goal of becoming salutatorian and am on track to complete three associate degrees by the fall. Their help was crucial to my success, and this experience also taught me how to advocate for myself. Communicating my needs became essential for me to ensure I could continue having an equal education. Help from my teachers allowed me to continue my academic journey with the confidence that I could succeed despite my disability, and I will carry that confidence through college. Mental health has been something I have struggled with my whole life. As an autistic person, I was bullied and struggled with making friends. As a result, I developed severe depression and nearly committed suicide. When I got to high school, things finally started to change. I joined clubs and worked hard to make connections. Many of these clubs gave me a place to be myself, such as the Gender and Sexuality Alliance. Through these organizations, I managed to find a wonderful group of friends and a girlfriend who accept me as I am. With their support, I was eventually able to overcome my depression. Now that I am starting college, I plan to continue joining clubs and fostering these relationships. There are many students out there who are struggling with the same things I did, and I want to show them that they can succeed despite these challenges. For this reason, I will continue sharing my story and reaching out to those in need. My connections with students in other organizations also became extremely important to fulfill my goals. Altruism is a characteristic I value greatly, which is why I have currently contributed over 300 hours of community service. However, the impact I can make as an individual is limited. As a result, I decided to become Interact Club’s Secretary of Community Service in my junior year. Holding this position allowed me to expand my impact by encouraging other students to volunteer. Additionally, I served as president of the Roller Skating Club. Because some students could not afford to attend our meetings at the roller-rink, we hosted several fundraisers. Without the cooperation of our club members, these would not have been possible. Through these experiences, I was able to connect with students in the clubs and make a difference in my community. From a professional standpoint, the importance of networking is hard to overstate. My ultimate goal is to use my political science background to work for a nonprofit organization. I hope to conduct research and lead initiatives that influence public policy. The struggles of disabled and LGBTQ+ people are especially important to me because of my past experiences. Connections with my professors, other students, and current professionals will be extremely important to work in this field. In college, I plan to join several organizations that will allow me to gain experience and connect with these individuals. For example, I have applied for College Corps, which requires students to complete 450 hours of service during the academic year. Additionally, I will take advantage of the research and internship opportunities my school offers to develop these connections. Moving into college and my career, I will develop new relationships and continue fostering previous ones. While my relationships will change, the support I have from others, and the support I ive, back will not. For all of my goals, connection is crucial to my success.

One person who inspires me is my grandma, who unfortunately passed away when I was nine. My grandma valued resilience and strength and instilled these in me by overcoming the challenges she faced. When she was just 40, my grandpa died of leukemia, leaving her to raise 6 children alone. With my actions, I hope to mirror her resilience and make her proud, which has motivated me to give my full effort towards everything I do. Currently, I have dedicated over 300 hours to community service. With how important family and my heritage are to me, I decided to volunteer for BillionGraves, helping approximately 650 people find lost or unknown family members. Additionally, I will graduate as salutatorian and complete three associate degrees by the fall. Seeing my grandma’s struggles motivated me to work towards a better life for myself by pursuing higher education. Though she has passed away, I keep her in mind as I work towards my goals. To prepare for college, I decided to join several extracurricular activities. Joining my school’s speech and debate club was another way for me to further my skills, but I did not anticipate the major impact it would have on me. Not only did my speech skills improve, but so did my connections with other students and knowledge about many subjects. These skills translated to better work in my other student organizations. For example, my improved communication allowed me to connect with community organizations as Interact Club’s Secretary of Community Service to set up volunteering events. Without what I learned in the club, I may not have had the confidence to do this. Additionally, my increased knowledge benefited me in my classes, as I was able to excel academically. Because of the benefits it has provided me, I plan to continue with debate in college. As I move into college, I will continue serving my community and participating in student organizations. For example, I have applied for College Corps, which requires students to complete 450 hours of service during the academic year. In my career, I would like to use my political science background to work for a nonprofit organization conducting research that influences public policy. I hope to lead projects to help those in need. The struggles of disabled and LGBTQ+ people are especially important to me as someone who is part of those communities. Pursuing a career that benefits others would honor the legacy of my grandma. My time in speech and debate has provided me with skills that prepare me for this path. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to afford tuition while focusing on my studies, bringing me one step closer to my goals.

As I walked into the classroom for the first time, I knew it would become a monumental part of my life. The people there welcomed me with open arms and encouraged me to be myself. Now in my senior year of high school, I am the president of my school’s Gender and Sexuality Alliance club, hoping to welcome others in the same way. Joining the club was one of the best decisions I made during my time in high school. As a transgender and bisexual person, I worried about how my identity would affect my social and academic life. In middle school, I was frequently bullied and believed the club would provide a safe space for me. The club allowed me to make friends without worrying about discrimination and provided a retreat from the busy life of school. Every Wednesday I would meet with other students to volunteer, play games, discuss LGBTQ+ issues, and relax without the pressures of the outside world. In my junior year, I began my leadership journey by becoming the club’s treasurer. I was motivated to do this because of my previous experiences with discrimination, and wanting to ensure no student had to face that again. When the presidents graduated the next year, I took on their role. My goal was to continue creating a welcoming environment for others and spreading awareness about LGBTQ+ issues. Although I will graduate soon, I look back on my time in the club fondly. As I move into college and my career, I continue my focus on altruism. My next step is to complete my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in political science. I have chosen this because it will allow me to work for a nonprofit and conduct research that influences public policy. For example, providing low-cost therapy for those with mental health issues. Because of my identity, I plan to focus primarily on the struggles of LGBTQ+ people. My education will allow me to pursue this career path. In college, I will continue being an advocate and leader for the community. During previous visits to UCSD, I connected with the LGBT Resource Center and looked at their internship opportunities. However, cost poses a barrier to my education, and my options for work are limited as a disabled person. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to afford tuition, bringing me one step closer to being a Chi Changemaker.

Hi, my name is Goose. I am Venezuelan-American, and I will be attending UCSD as a political science major in the fall. I consider myself to have two first languages, both Spanish and English. For as long as I can remember, I have spoken Spanish and English. Being able to speak Spanish connected me to my Venezuelan heritage and family, even when I could not visit the country anymore. When I started high school, I noticed how the required language classes brought students together. In those classes, students who could speak a second language were often drawn to each other, and those who had a first language other than English felt more included. I often felt more comfortable around those who also spoke Spanish, as I did not have to worry about being judged for my culture. Being bilingual allowed me to make connections with these students and excel in my Spanish classes. I have also faced challenges related to my heritage and language. In middle school, racism and bullying were extremely prevalent, and school staff offered little support. While I was not targeted as much as my darker-skinned peers, I still felt the effects of this hate. Often, I found myself being ashamed of my culture and trying to hide it. Gradually, I found a supportive community and I am now able to embrace my heritage. Because of my past struggles, I am passionate about helping immigrants, people of color, and the Latine community. Being bilingual also presents unique career opportunities. Many employers prefer bilingual candidates, increasing my chances of getting hired. In the political science field, being bilingual is especially valuable as it allows me to access sources in Spanish and English. Doing so increases the validity of my work and expands my knowledge. Finally, speaking Spanish provides me the opportunity to do fieldwork in Spanish-speaking countries, and interview people who do not speak English. My Spanish-speaking background will support my career, making me grateful to be bilingual. In my career, I would like to use my political science background to work for a nonprofit organization conducting research that influences public policy. For instance, providing free education for those preparing to take their citizenship test. The struggles of immigrants are especially important to me as a second-generation American. Volunteering and my previous classes have given me many skills that will benefit me in my career, such as understanding social problems. College will provide the resources needed for me to follow this path, and I will take advantage of every opportunity I am given. I plan to join several cultural organizations to connect with my heritage and make even more connections.

As I walked into the classroom for the first time, I knew it would become a monumental part of my life. The students there welcomed me with open arms and provided me with a place to be myself, and so did the club advisor. Though we had never met before, he ensured that every student felt included. Now in my senior year of high school, I am the president of my school’s Gender and Sexuality Alliance club, hoping to welcome others in the same way I was. Joining the club was one of the best decisions I made during my time in high school. As a transgender and bisexual person, I worried about how my identity would affect my social and academic life. The club allowed me to make friends without worrying about discrimination and provided a retreat from the busy life of school. Every Wednesday I would meet with other students to volunteer, play games, discuss LGBTQ+ issues, and relax without the pressures of the outside world. Without the club advisor’s assistance, our meetings would not have been possible. In my junior year, I began my leadership journey by becoming the club’s treasurer. I was influenced to do this after seeing how hard my teacher worked to support the students. Now, I wanted to do my part to support the club as well. When the presidents graduated the next year, I stepped up and took on their role. My main goal was to continue providing a safe space for others and spreading awareness about LGBTQ+ issues. Although I will graduate soon, I look back on my time in the club fondly, and plan to stay involved with the community in college. As I move into college and my career, I continue my focus on altruism. Mx. Sybrandy’s work in fostering inclusion profoundly impacted my desire to help others. My next step is to complete my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in political science. I hope to work for a nonprofit conducting research that influences public policy. Because of my identity and my teacher’s influence, I plan to focus primarily on the struggles of LGBTQ+ people. In college, I will also continue volunteering and leading others. Going to college is an exciting experience, and I am grateful to attend UCSD in the fall. However, cost poses a barrier, and my options for work are limited as a disabled person. I am extremely grateful for my teacher’s assistance, which is why I decided to become a teacher’s assistant for his class during my senior year. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to afford tuition and focus on my studies, bringing me one step closer to carrying on his legacy.

I initially had very little interest in photography. Other mediums always spoke to me more and seemed to require more effort. To me, anyone could take a photo, but painting and drawing required real skill. However, I found myself starting to be drawn towards beautiful photos and wanting to take them myself. Yet, every time I tried to capture a beautiful sunset or butterfly, it never seemed to turn out quite right. As I did more research, I realized that photography is an art form just as beautiful and complex as any other. Because of my new love for the subject, I decided to take a graphic design class and figure out how to make my photos pop the way I wanted. The work was very engaging and taught me skills I never thought I would be able to learn. Over time, I refined my technique to take better photos and polish them properly. I was no longer taking photos just to capture memories, but for the sake of making art. While I continued participating in other mediums, I suddenly found myself unable to do so. After developing a genetic disorder at 16, I lost the ability to write and draw. Several of my hobbies disappeared, which negatively impacted my mental health. Photography was one of the few art forms I could continue participating in despite my disability, renewing my love for artistic photos. Now, it is hard for me not to see the potential for a photo in a pretty scene. Each of the photos I take represents my artistic journey and captures a memory. In a way, my photos remind me of a diary, cataloging the various stages of my life. The photos I selected are both beautiful and meaningful, showing moments from prom, a memorable SeaWorld trip, and my favorite theme park. Every one of my photos reminds me of how far I have had to come to capture it.

Number one. One out of 806. That is what my transcripts have said for the past two years of high school. I was valedictorian, and so long as I kept my grades up, that would never change. At least, that’s what I always thought. Being just two months away from graduation, I was shocked to learn they were recalculating the top 5 students' GPAs. Suddenly, I no longer had a 4.56, but a 4.48. To some, this may seem like a small difference, but it was enough to change my ranking to number two. The title I had thought was mine now belonged to someone else. As a friend and I were called out of class, we were unsure of the reason for the meeting. When we arrived at the counseling office, we were greeted by several staff members who congratulated us on being tied for salutatorian. Despite my shock, I thanked them and remained courteous. At the time, the only positive I could see was that both of us got to accomplish our goal of being one of the top students. Walking back to class, I was overcome by disappointment. At first, I couldn’t help but be angry. Not only did my ranking change, but it was so close to graduation as well. Many of my friends and family had already heard that I was valedictorian, and I was embarrassed to tell them I was wrong. Though they had been nothing but supportive, I was worried about disappointing them. Even after returning to class, I hid the truth about the meeting from my classmates. I knew that being salutatorian was a huge honor, yet I still felt that I had failed in some way. The thought that I should have tried harder was difficult to deal with. Despite my anger, I never blamed the other student who took the number one spot. He was someone I had several classes with, and although we were not close, I knew he was an extremely hard worker and very smart. If anyone rivaled my academic achievements, it was certainly him. My anger was only directed at the school for not being more transparent in their policies and not informing us sooner. Eventually, I realized that the school was not going to budge. The ranks were settled, and I would be graduating as salutatorian. I would not get to speak at graduation, nor be announced as the number one student. My anger turned to sadness, as I felt that I had not achieved enough. Being hard on myself is something I have always struggled with, and this event was no exception. However, I slowly started to come to terms with the situation. Instead of focusing on what I had lost, I shifted my perspective toward what I had gained. Achieving the title of salutatorian was incredibly challenging and still demonstrates my commitment to education. I would still be recognized at graduation and have a special seat. As a way to memorialize my achievement, my name would go up on the banner to be hung in the multi-purpose room for years to come. The title of salutatorian is its own honor, not just the “runner-up” to the valedictorian. Having support from those around me also helped me realize my accomplishment. My friends and family knew I was disappointed and still congratulated me. When I called my parents to tell them the news, they made sure I knew how proud they were. Coming home from school that day, I was surprised with flowers and macarons. The gift was meaningful not just because of the physical items, but because it represented their support for me, and significantly improved my self-perception. Because of how upset I was, I knew I wanted to prevent another student from experiencing the same thing. Though it took immense courage, I was able to explain how I felt to the counselors and assistant principal who oversaw the recalculation. I did this not to contest my rank, but to show the importance of transparency. After our discussion, they agreed to list the policy in the student handbook for the following school years, allowing students to be fully informed. My experiences taught me that my worth is not tied to a title. What I have achieved stays just as impressive regardless of my class rank, and I should be incredibly proud of myself. If I had to go through this again, I would react with less anger and disappointment. However, I stand by my actions of advocating for transparency and focusing on what I have accomplished. In the future, I know I can handle a similar situation appropriately. I am excited about what I will achieve, regardless of how those achievements are viewed by others.

Taking community college classes in high school had a profound impact on my aspirations. I initially saw it as a way to fulfill my curiosity and earn credits, never expecting it to shape my academic, career, and personal goals. When I began my college classes, I focused on sociology, as it was a topic that interested me. These courses primarily discussed social issues and made me passionate about alleviating them. One example was writing a research paper about the Democratic Republic of Congo. Because the classes were so fascinating, I expanded into political science and law. My work in these subjects has put me on track to complete three associate degrees by the fall, giving me a significant head start on my bachelor’s degree. Having these degrees also presents options for jobs and internships. The classes I took also sparked my desire to major in political science. I have always wanted my career to help others, and political science is a field where I can make a meaningful difference. Without these courses, these accomplishments would not be possible, and I may never have considered majoring in political science. Furthermore, learning about these issues has encouraged me to volunteer. At this time, I have contributed over 300 hours to community service. These hours included 60 fundraising for Rise Against Hunger and 21 hours spent fundraising for Luv Michael, a company that provides jobs for autistic adults. Volunteering for Luv Michael was especially meaningful as an autistic person myself. My work for Rise Against Hunger was done through Interact Club, where we were able to fund an end-of-the-year event packaging meals for those in need. In college, I plan to continue my commitment to helping others by joining a number of clubs and organizations. For example, I am applying for College Corps, which requires students to complete 450 hours of service during the academic year. Taking college classes increased my knowledge of social problems, allowing me to understand the importance of community outreach. Though there were many positives, my academic journey also included several challenges. As an autistic person, I struggled with depression and bullying from a young age, causing issues in my social and academic life. At 16, I also became physically disabled due to Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and chronic fatigue, making accessibility a major concern. Pain and limited campus accessibility caused setbacks in multiple classes. Despite these obstacles, I worked hard to adapt by utilizing several techniques. Advocating for accommodations and reaching out for support were the most important steps I took. These skills will benefit me throughout college and my career by allowing me to maintain my own needs, such as negotiating accommodations at UCSD. Because of my dedication, I am graduating high school as the salutatorian. Having overcome barriers in the past shows my resilience and commitment to success. Being disabled makes education personally important. While most entry-level jobs are not accessible to me, earning a degree creates new opportunities and allows me to control my financial future. I have already taken several steps to do this outside of my education, such as building my credit. Education is essential for me to be independent and achieve my goals. Additionally, a degree allows me to pursue my interests despite my physical limitations. Community college has already helped fulfill my curiosity, and a 4-year university will likely do the same. These opportunities have solidified my desire to go to college. In my career, I would like to use my political science background to work for a nonprofit organization. I hope to lead projects and conduct research that influences public policy. For example, organizing initiatives to provide low-cost therapy for those with mental health challenges. The struggles of disabled and LGBTQ+ people are especially important to me because I am part of those communities. Pursuing a career that assists people would honor the legacy of those who inspire me. My educational background and challenges have influenced me to follow this path by reinforcing my commitment to helping others. Going to college is an exciting step, and I was grateful to be accepted to UCSD. However, the cost of attendance poses a barrier. Unfortunately, I did not receive any financial aid from the colleges I applied to, and my options for work are limited as a disabled person. Additionally, my parents’ ability to support me is reduced as they are nearing retirement age. Receiving this scholarship would help me afford tuition while focusing on my studies, bringing me closer to my goal of making an impact.

When I watched Wicked for the first time, I didn’t entirely know what to expect. My social media feed was buzzing with positive reviews and my friends raved about it, so I decided to take a trip to the theater. I enjoyed the film more than I expected. Even as someone who does not usually like musicals, I found myself captivated by the movie’s story, beautiful visual design, and messages. As someone who has often felt isolated from others due to my autism and being part of the LGBTQ+ community, I related to Elphaba’s struggles. Both of us have had to deal with ostracism and being underestimated because of traits we could not control. Seeing her embrace her true self and flourish despite those obstacles made me believe that I could overcome my own challenges. At a time in my life when I felt quite lonely, the film gave me a new sense of hope. The themes of friendship and acceptance also resonated with me. I have been lucky enough to find many kind and supportive friends since then. Watching Elphaba and Glinda’s relationship grow despite hardships made me appreciate my friends even more. Everyone has their own struggles, but being part of a community has made my own challenges significantly easier to bear. These experiences encouraged me to hold leadership positions in several clubs so I could provide others with the welcoming environment that had helped me so much. Altruism is a characteristic I value greatly, which is why I have contributed over 300 hours to community service. Elphaba taking the risk to help the animals and stand up to injustice was moving and reminded me of my own work. While I may not be saving talking animals from oppression, I always try my best to help others. Watching the movie fueled my commitment to generosity and my desire to continue volunteering in college. Now, I am applying for College Corps, which requires students to complete 450 hours of service during the academic year. Additionally, I would like my career to assist others by working for a nonprofit. Without the film, I may not have been inspired to take these actions. After seeing the first film, I eagerly awaited the sequel and was not disappointed. The themes resonated with me again and reignited my love for the story. Though I may not live in the world of Oz, the characters’ experiences are still relatable. As a Wicked fan, I appreciate the movie for its messages and the way it expresses them.

Altruism is a characteristic I value greatly, which is why I enjoy volunteering. By this time, I have contributed over 300 hours to community service. These hours include 60 for Rise Against Hunger and 21 for Luv Michael, a company that provides jobs for autistic adults. A significant portion of my service was conducted through one of my many clubs. For example, the Gender and Sexuality Alliance has hosted many campus clean-ups. Throughout high school, I have served as president of the Roller Skating Club, treasurer and president of the Gender and Sexuality Alliance, president of the Alternative Music and Fashion Club, vice president of Gardening Club, and Secretary of Community Service for Interact. Additionally, I have been a member of several others. My motivation was to expand my knowledge, meet new people, and volunteer. Holding leadership positions taught me many skills, such as mentoring others and organizing fundraisers. My hobbies have changed because I became disabled at 16. While I had to give up skating and running, I pivoted to other activities. Baking has always been something I enjoyed, and I decided to start my own small business selling cookies. I love crafting, music, fashion, makeup, and meeting new people. Though my disability has changed things, I am determined to live a fulfilling life. Education has always been important to me due to my upbringing. In high school, I took many advanced classes and passed with A’s. Additionally, I took several online college classes to get a head start and fulfill my curiosity. Because of my dedication, I am on track to graduate as valedictorian and complete three associate degrees by the fall. In my career, I would like to use my political science background to work for a nonprofit organization. I hope to lead projects and conduct research that influences public policy. For example, providing low-cost therapy for those with mental health challenges. The struggles of disabled and LGBTQ+ people are especially important to me as someone who is part of those communities. Volunteering has given me many skills that will benefit me in my career, such as understanding social problems. College will provide the resources needed for me to follow this path, and I will take advantage of every opportunity I am given. If I were to start a charity, it would focus on helping disabled people. Being disabled myself, I understand how important support is. My previous work has also shown me its importance. Our mission would be to provide the best quality of life possible. To achieve this, we would provide low-cost medical equipment and treatment, free transportation, and mental health services. In college, I will continue my focus on helping others. I plan to join many clubs and organizations that will educate me and allow me to volunteer. For example, I am applying for College Corps, which requires students to complete 450 hours of service during the academic year. Getting into UCSD made me very grateful, and I am excited to attend. However, cost poses a barrier. As a disabled person, finances have always been a concern for me because of my limited options for work. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to afford tuition while focusing on my studies.

Reading non-fiction is a hobby I greatly enjoy. Though many find it boring, I find it fun to learn more about topics that interest me. The books I read encompass a wide range of topics, such as biology, history, and social justice. While these books may vary greatly, they all expanded my knowledge of current issues. Because of what I have learned, especially as it relates to social problems, I was motivated to volunteer. Completing my school’s 40-hour requirement was not enough for me, and I decided to reach 200 hours. Now, I have contributed over 300 hours to community service. These hours include 60 for Rise Against Hunger and 21 for Luv Michael, a company that provides jobs for autistic adults. My schoolwork also benefited from my reading, as I was able to connect concepts I learned in books to assignments in class. Books have also served as a refuge when I was dealing with challenges. My mental health has been something I have always struggled with. These challenges have come because of my LGBTQ identity and disability. As an autistic person, I was excluded and bullied as a child. Because I did not know I was autistic, I was left confused and made to feel like something was wrong with me. When I came out as transgender at the age of 12, I faced pushback from my parents. They were in disbelief and assumed something must have made me “confused.” In school, I faced similar discrimination from staff and students. These experiences caused me to develop severe depression and nearly commit suicide. While going through this was certainly not pleasant, it does have a silver lining. I learned how to advocate for myself and have self-confidence despite what others think. After a long struggle, I overcame my depression. Finally, I am part of two wonderful communities that I am extremely grateful for. Because of my struggles with mental health, I have realized the importance of community support and resources. For this reason, I have decided to continue volunteering and focus my career on helping others. In my career, I would like to use my political science background to work for a nonprofit organization. I hope to lead projects and conduct research that influences public policy. For example, initiatives to provide low-cost therapy for those with mental health challenges. The struggles of disabled and LGBTQ+ people are especially important to me as someone who is part of those communities. Pursuing a career that benefits others would honor the legacy of those who inspire me and allow me to feel fulfilled. My education and community service have set me up for this path. Winning this scholarship would bring me one step closer to achieving my goals by allowing me to afford tuition and focus on my studies. Thank you for your consideration.

At the age of nine, I had no experience with death. Yet, that quickly changed as I was told that my grandma Judy had died. Sitting in a dark living room, I tried to keep myself composed. Though I knew she had not been doing well, it still came as a shock. We were extremely close, and I could not imagine going forward without her. When the day of her funeral came, I could no longer contain myself and broke down as the national anthem played. Now, nine years later, I still cherish the memories we made together. While she may be gone, her impact on me persists. Growing up, my grandma lived right next door to me, which is a unique experience I look back on fondly. She had lived nearly her whole life in the nearby town of Perris, California but moved to be close to me and my father after I was born. I spent many afternoons at her house playing games with her and eating her delicious food. Since she was a second-generation immigrant, I felt that spending time with her connected me to my Italian heritage. My nickname for her was nonna, or grandma in Italian. Now, I keep that ancestry alive by cooking the Italian recipes she used to make for me. Each bite reminds me of our time together and the effort she put into taking care of me. As her health declined, I knew my time with her was limited. When she suffered a stroke, my parents made the decision to move her to a care facility. I visited her as often as I could, making the most of the last days we had together. While I wish she could have been with us longer, she lived until the age of 92, and I am glad she had a long and fulfilling life. My grandma valued resilience and strength and instilled this in me by overcoming the challenges she faced. When she was just 40, my grandpa died of leukemia, leaving her to raise 6 children alone. With my actions, I hope to make her proud, which has motivated me to give my full effort towards everything I do. I have already dedicated over 300 hours to community service, which I consider one of my most significant contributions. Knowing how important family and my heritage are to me, I decided to volunteer for BillionGraves, helping approximately 650 people find lost or unknown family members. Additionally, I am on track to graduate as the valedictorian. She was also an incredibly generous woman, who influenced me to volunteer. As I move into college, I plan to continue my community service. In my career, I would like to use my political science background to work for a nonprofit organization and help alleviate social issues. The struggles of disabled and LGBT people are especially important to me as someone who is part of those communities. Pursuing a career that benefits others would honor the legacy of my grandma. Winning this scholarship would bring me one step closer to my goals. Throughout my journey, I remember the lessons my grandma taught me and how she pushed me to do my best. I wish she could be here to witness it, but I will have to be strong without her. By sharing my experience, I hope to commemorate my grandma while showing others that we can overcome challenges in the face of loss.

In a country with a long history of systemic racism and police brutality, it is no surprise that people of color are often weary of law enforcement. As someone who has studied sociology, political science, and law in college, this issue is often discussed. When it comes to fostering relationships between law enforcement and African Americans, options include expanding alternative resources, addressing issues that lead to crime, and providing additional education for police officers. Many scholars and people from marginalized communities have suggested expanding other resources rather than using police to deal with all issues. For example, trained social workers may respond to non-violent cases better than a police officer could. Unfortunately, there have been tragedies relating to police officers inappropriately reacting to non-violent situations, such as with Charleena Lyles. Because of this, many African Americans are concerned about calling the police when help is needed. Having alternate resources can help to prevent these tragedies and make those in need more comfortable. If the number of incidents like this goes down, fear of police will likely fall with it. Areas that have implemented these programs have found success. An overall reduction in crime would also reduce the need for police responses and therefore decrease negative interactions between police and civilians. In my opinion, solving social problems starts with understanding their root causes. Crime is driven by several factors, including poverty, domestic violence, and lack of opportunities. These issues are more likely to affect African Americans. People in these situations may commit crimes because they feel they have no other option. Resources for those struggling with financial insecurity, mental health resources, and increased funding for education are all viable options to address these problems. Law enforcement officials often do not understand the impact they can have on minority communities, especially with most police officers being white. Mandatory education on systemic racism and the drivers of crime can increase understanding and encourage officers to be more cautious when approaching a situation. Additionally, training with a focus on deescalation can reduce violent encounters and save lives. Education is not enough to fix the issue on its own, but it can be helpful when used in tandem with other solutions. An improved relationship between African Americans and law enforcement would be beneficial for both parties. Police officers could better perform their duties, while African Americans would be in less danger and feel safer. Many of these programs have the added benefit of alleviating additional issues, such as poverty. Although these problems will not be fixed overnight, these solutions can make a meaningful difference.

When I watched Wicked for the first time, I didn’t entirely know what to expect. My social media feed was buzzing with positive reviews and my friends raved about it, so I decided to go see it. I enjoyed it more than I expected. Even as someone who does not usually like musicals, I found myself captivated by the movie’s story, beautiful designs, and messages. As someone who has often felt isolated from others due to my autism and being LGBT, I related to Elphaba’s struggles. Both of us have had to deal with ostracism and being underestimated due to something we could not control. Seeing her be herself and succeed despite this made me feel that I could overcome these challenges as well. Additionally, the themes of friendship and acceptance resonated with me. I have been lucky enough to find many kind and supportive friends. Watching Elphaba and Glinda’s relationship grow despite hardships was very impactful and made me appreciate my friends even more. Everyone has their own struggles, but being part of community can make things much easier. Lastly, I have always valued altruism. Throughout my time in high school, I have completed over 300 hours of community service. Elphaba taking the risk to help the animals and stand up to injustice was inspiring to me and reminded me of my own work. While I may not be saving talking animals from oppression, I always try my best to help others. The value of selflessness is very important to me, and I love how the movie spreads that message. After seeing the first movie, I eagerly awaited the second one and was not disappointed. The themes resonated with me again and reignited my love for the story. Though I may not live in the world of Oz, the characters’ experiences are still relatable. As a Wicked fan, I appreciate the movie for its messages and the way it expresses them.

Far too often, those with intellectual disabilities are not given enough support. As someone with physical and developmental disabilities, I understand this struggle. I have continuously had to advocate for myself, and I would like my career to help others in the disabled community for this reason. My education and community service have furthered this desire. By working in political science, I hope to influence public policy that addresses these issues. My journey started when I began high school and joined my school’s Interact club. Focusing on helping disabled people, I dedicated 21 hours of service to Luv Michael, a company that provides jobs for autistic adults. Through this experience, I learned more about these struggles and ways to alleviate them. Volunteering reinforced my desire to help others and proved I could make an impact. In my junior year, I became the club’s Secretary of Community Service, which allowed me to help even more. As I approach graduation, I have completed over 300 hours of community service, which I consider one of my proudest achievements. During my sophomore year, I started taking community college classes in sociology. These classes were online, making them more accessible to me. Had this not been the case, I may not have been able to take these courses, which helped me understand the importance of accessibility even more. My passion for the subject only increased with my coursework, and I expanded into political science and law. Learning to connect concepts such as homelessness and disability was incredible to me and greatly developed my knowledge of these issues. Because of my dedication, I am on track to complete 3 associate’s degrees before the fall. Political science resonated with me the most, and it was where I felt I could make the biggest difference. For this reason, I have chosen to pursue a bachelor’s degree and career in political science. As I move into a 4-year university, I will continue my dedication to the disabled community. Going to college may present new accessibility challenges for me. While this may be difficult, I see it as an opportunity to learn more about existing barriers and how to fix them. Additionally, my classes will continue to fuel my interest and further my knowledge. I will continue volunteering to help those in need, especially those with intellectual disabilities. Advocating for myself has given me the skills and courage to advocate for others. Most importantly, I will keep my ultimate career goals in mind, so that my efforts can make the biggest possible contribution. The final step of my journey is finding a job at a non-profit organization. Here, I feel that I can do research on social issues that will have a lasting impact. My research will focus primarily on the struggles of disabled people and how to alleviate them. I plan to lead projects to carry out these initiatives and present my findings to lawmakers. Though it may be a long process, knowing that I have meaningfully helped many people will make it worth it. Keeping my goals in mind will allow me to push forward even when facing setbacks. Having faced many challenges in the past, I know I can be resilient and adapt to my situation. Winning this scholarship would bring me one step closer to accomplishing my goals. College is expensive, and my options for work are further limited by my disability. I would be truly honored to be chosen. Thank you for your consideration.

As I walked into the classroom for the first time, I knew it would become a monumental part of my life. The people there welcomed me with open arms and provided me with a place to be myself. Now in my senior year of high school, I am the president of my school’s Gender and Sexuality Alliance club, hoping to welcome others in the same way I was. Joining the club was one of the best decisions I made during my time in high school. As a transgender and bisexual person, I worried about how my identity would affect my social and academic life. The club allowed me to make friends without worrying about discrimination and provided a retreat from the busy life of school. Every Wednesday I would meet with other students to volunteer, play games, discuss LGBTQ+ issues, and relax without the pressures of the outside world. In my junior year, I began my leadership journey by becoming the club’s treasurer. When the presidents graduated the next year, I stepped up and took on their role. My main goal was to continue providing a safe space for others and spreading awareness about LGBTQ+ issues. Although I will graduate soon, I look back on my time in the club fondly, and plan to stay involved with the community in college. Outside of the club, I dedicated myself to my academics, other extracurriculars, and community. I started taking community college classes when I was in 10th grade. Even though it was not required, I was passionate about learning. Additionally, I took many advanced courses in high school, and completed them with straight As. Because of my efforts, I am on track to complete 3 associate’s degree before the fall, and graduate as Valedictorian. When I started school, I also joined Interact club and founded the Roller-Skating club. There I was able to further my leadership skills by serving as Interact club’s Secretary of Community Service in my junior year, and the Roller-Skating club president. Over 4 years of high school, I completed more than 300 hours of community service. The requirement was only 40 hours, but I wanted to help others as much as I possibly could. Aside from my identity, I have faced other challenges on the way to these achievements. My whole life I struggled with depression and social isolation due to my autism. In my junior year, I was diagnosed with chronic fatigue, as well as a genetic disorder called Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome which significantly impaired me. However, I was determined not to let these barriers hold me back. When facing challenges, I remained focused on my goals and was able to achieve great things with the support of others. As I move into college and my career, I continue my focus on altruism. My next step is to complete my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in political science. I have chosen this because it will allow me to work for a non-profit and research how to alleviate social issues. Because of my identity, I plan to focus primarily on the struggles of LGBTQ+ and disabled people. In college, I will also continue volunteering and leading others. College is expensive, and my options for work are limited as a disabled person. For these reasons, I would be honored to be chosen as a scholarship recipient, and it would help me significantly. Thank you for your consideration.

Helping others starts with understanding the causes of their struggles. That belief is what drew me to political science. In 10th grade, I began working toward my associate's degree and discovered how much I enjoyed studying it. It helped me understand the importance of addressing issues from multiple angles, and I was inspired by the idea that I could make real change. I chose political science because of my passion for the subject, its connection to my volunteer work, and the ability to make a difference. When I first began my coursework, I was immediately drawn to intersectionality and the root causes of inequality. Learning to connect topics such as homelessness and racial inequality was incredible to me. As I learned more, I became especially interested in topics like disability policy and global inequality, which I hope to study further in my future research. Writing a paper on the history of the Democratic Republic of the Congo was a particularly eye-opening example, as the country's history exemplified many concepts I had studied. Through these assignments, I began to understand how political science uses research and historical analysis to explain why certain inequalities persist and how social institutions shape people’s lives. Even now, I continue to discover new ideas and find them just as interesting as those I learned early on. Altruism is a characteristic I value greatly. For this reason, I have dedicated over 300 hours of service to my community and plan to continue throughout college and beyond. My classes made me want to see these concepts in action, which is part of what led me to volunteer. Topics that stood out to me included the struggles faced by disabled people and those experiencing food insecurity, especially as a disabled person myself. This led me to spend many hours doing outreach and fundraising for a company called Luv Michael, which provides jobs for autistic adults. Luv Michael is just one example, and all of my volunteering was influenced by my studies. My education gave me the understanding needed to find ways to help address these issues. Political science has already allowed me to volunteer in my community, but I want my future research to do even more. I believe the only way to prevent social problems is to understand what causes them, which is why I want to study the root causes of social inequality and use that information to find solutions. Behind every statistic is a real person affected by these issues, which motivates me to study them. I intend for my research to influence public policy and give charitable organizations the information they need to combat these issues. While I may not be able to fix everything myself, I hope my work can help make progress. I chose political science because I enjoy studying it and because it allows me to make a difference. It has already helped me give back to my community, and I know my future research will do the same. These experiences have shaped the way I think about the problems around me and inspired me to continue studying social systems so I can apply that knowledge and make meaningful change in my community and beyond.

Growing up, I was just like any other child. I participated in sports, loved exercising, and was full of energy. I started a roller-skating club at school, leading me to meet new people who shared my passion for the sport. I contributed over 300 hours to helping my community, constantly challenging myself. When I was 16, I became disabled after a genetic condition started to manifest. This made it difficult for me to walk or do physical activity. While I had to give up some of my passions, I quickly adapted. I shifted my focus from skating to baking, another one of my interests, and even started my own small business selling cookies. I had to shut down the roller-skating club, but I focused on the other clubs I was involved in, such as the ones related to community service. School suddenly became difficult after being something that was never a struggle. It was not because of the material, but the accessibility. I frequently missed classes due to a broken elevator and could no longer handwrite my assignments. I struggled with focusing as I was in constant pain. Emotionally, the pain was taking a toll, but so was the lack of support from my school. Like my diagnosis, it took me a year to get accommodations. Despite this, I never stopped fighting, regardless of how many times the school told me it would take weeks to fix the elevator or that I could not get some of the necessary accommodations. The one thing I refused to do was give up after three years of diligence. This experience taught me a great deal about advocating for myself and being persistent. Nothing influenced me more to push myself than my education and passion for learning. In 10th grade, I began working towards my associate’s degree in sociology. Through my classes, I discovered a great deal about the struggles people face every day, including those faced by disabled people. On top of this, the thing that continuously inspires me to give back the most is wanting to carry on the legacy of everyone who has guided me in the past. So many people have selflessly spent time assisting me with my disability, in school, or with my mental health struggles. Now that I can, I want to assist others who are struggling with the same things I did and what I learned about in my classes. Becoming disabled also made me more aware of the challenges those with disabilities face and motivated me to try to prevent them. Without my disability, I would never have gained much of my knowledge about these issues. I may have learned about them in class, but experiencing them firsthand was completely different. As I move into pursuing my bachelor’s degree in political science, I plan to do research into the struggles of the disabled community that my previous volunteer work was intended to alleviate. My goal is to further our understanding of social problems and discover more solutions. This scholarship would allow me to achieve my dream of researching and addressing social problems and serving inside and outside of my community. While I do not know what the future holds for me, my experiences will guide my research, volunteering, and how I support others.

Leadership to me is about guiding others toward their goals, not just giving commands. This is a lesson I learned during my time in my school's Interact club. The club was dedicated to community service, and I joined to help those in need. During our meetings, I made peace cranes, letters, and breast cancer awareness ribbons to bring joy to those who needed it most. At this point, I mainly followed along but led where I could. When other club members needed support with activities, I offered to assist them. Gradually, I started looking for organizations and events that were relevant to the club and presented them to the board members. It wasn't required, but I chose to do it because it helped the people benefiting from the events and my fellow club members looking for opportunities. In my third year in the club, I became the secretary of community service. This gave me the ability to participate more directly and recruit even more volunteers. During meetings, I would present new events and encourage people to sign up. I did even more outreach and was able to facilitate events at elementary schools, animal sanctuaries, and campus clean-ups. Personally, I participated in events at over 10 different elementary schools for more than 60 total hours. Seeing happy children, veterans, and others showed me that even small moments of kindness can brighten someone's day. These experiences changed the way I think about leadership by making me realize it is more than just instructing others on what to do. Sometimes leadership is leading by example or working behind the scenes to give others the opportunity to achieve. As I continue my studies, I want to use what I learn to support more people facing inequality, especially those whose needs are often misunderstood or ignored. My degree will help me advocate more effectively, understand systemic issues, and contribute to solutions that improve people’s lives. I hope to give back by helping create a community where everyone has the support they deserve. I have already completed over 300 hours of community service, which I consider one of my greatest achievements. Whether it was at an elementary school, library, or elsewhere, each hour showed me the importance of hard work and empathy. Each one of these moments shaped my commitment to service. I was motivated to continue volunteering even after meeting my school's requirement, and I plan to keep volunteering in college and beyond. Overall, I am proud of the difference I have made and grateful for the lessons these experiences have taught me.

Helping others starts with understanding the causes of their struggles. That belief is what drew me to political science. In 10th grade, I began working toward my associate’s degree in the subject and discovered how much I enjoyed learning about the root causes of inequality and how intersectionality explains overlapping disadvantages. The more I learned, the more I wanted to pursue research as a career, focusing on social inequality and ways to address it. Volunteering reinforced this interest. Right when I started high school, I joined my school's Interact club to find opportunities to help my community. Eventually, I joined the board as secretary of community service so that I could gain valuable leadership experience and further help those in need. I spent hours doing outreach and fundraising for Luv Michael, which provides jobs for autistic adults, and more than 60 hours helping at events at over 10 different elementary schools. In total, I dedicated over 300 hours to community service, and I plan to continue. These experiences gave me firsthand knowledge of social challenges and strengthened my commitment to creating solutions through research and advocacy. My academic journey has not been without challenges. I have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and struggled with persistent depressive disorder from a young age. Not being diagnosed as autistic until age 16 made my social and academic life that much more challenging. At 16, I also became physically disabled due to hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and chronic fatigue syndrome, which made accessibility an even larger barrier. I struggled with physical limitations, missing classes, and obtaining accommodations. Despite these obstacles, I adapted by taking online courses, managing my time carefully, and advocating for myself. Through persistence and resilience, I am on track to graduate high school as Valedictorian with three associate degrees. Having overcome these barriers in the past makes me believe I can overcome more in the future. These experiences have shaped my long-term goal of working in political science research to study marginalized communities and social inequalities. I plan to pursue a bachelor’s degree in political science, followed by a master’s to gain the research skills necessary to contribute meaningful insights that influence policy and support charitable efforts. Receiving this scholarship would help fund my education, allowing me to focus on my studies and research rather than financial barriers. It would bring me one step closer to my dream of using research to address systemic social issues and make a real difference in the world, especially for others with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

My problem started slowly, with an ache in my knee or an inexplicable pain in my back. I figured I had just pushed myself a bit too hard, but gradually, I could no longer ignore it. Eventually, I could not even walk around school without a cane or go to events without a wheelchair. I was later diagnosed with two conditions called Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. It was an extremely difficult period of my life, but I slowly adjusted. Growing up, I participated in sports, loved exercising, and was full of energy. I started a roller-skating club at school, leading me to meet new people who shared my passion for the sport. I dedicated over 300 hours to community service. When I turned 16, everything started to change as my disability came to light. While I had to give up some of my passions, I adapted. I shifted my focus from skating to baking and even started my own small business selling cookies. I had to shut down the roller-skating club, but I focused on other clubs related to community service. I advocated for myself in school to ensure I got the necessary accommodations and kept my grades high. School suddenly became difficult. It was not because of the material, but because of the accessibility. I frequently missed classes due to a broken elevator and could no longer handwrite my assignments because of wrist pain. I struggled with focusing as I was in constant pain. Like my diagnosis, it took me a year to get accommodations. These experiences gave me a better understanding of the struggles disabled people go through and made me more compassionate. Despite these struggles, I never stopped fighting. I knew I would have to work much harder, and I did by communicating with my teachers and adjusting my schedule to suit my needs. The one thing I refused to do was give up after three years of dedication. This experience taught me a great deal about advocating for myself and being persistent. These experiences showed me just how much harder I would need to push myself to succeed. I knew I could still accomplish my goals with a lot of effort and a little bit of support. I achieved the status of Valedictorian and am ready to graduate high school with three associate degrees. My perseverance and resilience paid off. More than anything, having a community of people to help me and wanting to help them in return gave me the strength to continue. Through these experiences, I believe I have come to embody the same resilience, compassion, and commitment to others that defined Andrea Worden’s legacy. My disability may have held me back, but it also motivated me and taught me things I would never have known otherwise. I have always had a passion for learning, particularly about the different circumstances people have and how those issues can be alleviated. As I move into studying political science and sociology further, I want to dedicate my studies to understanding these issues and spreading awareness. In my career, I want to do more research so that real change can happen, especially for the disabled community. Even if my options are limited, I would like to continue volunteering as well. Above all, I am grateful to be part of an amazing community and connect with other disabled people. Regardless of their disability, we have a shared connection. Each person I meet brings a new perspective into my life and motivates me to continue my education. They are incredibly supportive. I am grateful to every one of my friends for their endless support. As I look toward the future, it is uncertain how my abilities will change. Regardless of what happens, my experiences have shaped me immensely. Even if a cure were discovered tomorrow, I would not be the same person I was before. My disability may have changed my path, but it gave me strength, empathy, and community, which I will carry proudly into the future. Whatever comes next, I move forward with a commitment to using what I have learned to uplift others, just as so many people have uplifted me.

My dream is to work in the political science field, specifically research. I am especially interested in the struggles marginalized communities face and how they can be alleviated. This is why I started working toward an associate’s degree in the subject in high school. Volunteering and seeing these issues firsthand pushed me toward this field. My work so far has already taught me skills in critical thinking and evaluating sources, and nothing influenced me more than my education and passion for learning. Growing up, my parents always made sure I understood the value of education. They encouraged me to learn and equipped me with the resources to do so, which made college feel like the natural next step in pursuing the subjects I care about. In 10th grade, I began working toward my associate’s degree in sociology. Naturally, I could not yet attend a four-year college, so community college gave me the opportunity to start studying what I was interested in early on. Along the way, I branched into political science and discovered it was something I greatly enjoyed. I enjoyed it so much that I decided to try and accomplish three associate degrees: political science, sociology, and law. While there was a benefit of transferring my credits and being able to get my bachelor’s degree earlier, I mainly did it because of my desire to learn. Because of this, college to me means getting to explore my passions in a way I could not do on my own and gaining the structure and guidance I needed to develop as a student and a future researcher. Aside from my passion for learning, community college was also accessible to me as someone with a disability. The courses I took were online and allowed me to prioritize my physical and mental health while still making progress toward my goals. Balancing my symptoms with coursework was often difficult, but college gave me a space where I could keep moving forward without compromising my well-being. Without this opportunity, I would have struggled with starting my education and had more barriers to worry about. To me, college represents independence and being able to achieve despite my disability. Being disabled has also made me want to be an activist for my community, and community college gave me the opportunity to learn how to accomplish this. Without community college and the influence of my parents, I may not have been motivated to achieve as much as I have or gotten the chance. As I move into studying for a bachelor’s degree in political science and sociology, I want to dedicate my studies to understanding social issues and spreading awareness. By continuing my studies, I want to contribute meaningful insight that addresses social inequality and influences public policy. Community college was the first step for me in my long-term goals, and it has brought me much closer to accomplishing them. Receiving this scholarship would help me continue pursuing my education without added financial stress, allowing me to stay focused on my goals and the work I hope to contribute.

Nothing influenced me more than my education and passion for learning. Growing up, my parents always made sure I understood the value of education. They encouraged me to learn and equipped me with the resources to do so. In 10th grade, I began working towards my associate’s degree in sociology. Naturally, I could not yet attend a 4-year college, so community college gave me the opportunity to start studying what I was interested in early on. Along the way, I branched into political science and discovered it was something I greatly enjoyed. I enjoyed it so much that I decided to try and accomplish three associate degrees: political science, sociology, and law. While there was a benefit of transferring my credits and being able to get my bachelor’s degree earlier, I mainly did it because of my desire to learn. If I had gained no degree, I still would have wanted to learn just as much. Aside from my passion for learning, community college was also accessible to me as someone with a disability. The courses I took were online and allowed me to prioritize my physical and mental health while still making progress towards my goals. Without this opportunity, I would have struggled with starting my education and had more barriers to worry about. Being disabled has also made me want to be an activist for my community, and community college gave me the opportunity to learn how to achieve this. The more I learned in my classes, the more I wanted to pursue political science as a career. Looking for options, I came across the idea of research and decided it was what I wanted to do as a career. Taking college courses and uncovering more about people’s struggles has greatly influenced me to commit myself to this path. Without this and the influence of my parents, I may not have been motivated to achieve as much as I have or gotten the chance. As I move into studying for a bachelor’s degree in political science and sociology, I want to dedicate my studies to understanding social issues and spreading awareness. Community college was the first step for me in my long-term goals, and it has brought me much closer to accomplishing them.

I was recently diagnosed with a genetic disability. The year before this, it had begun to impact my daily life. As someone who values financial stability, one of my biggest concerns was how I would save money without being able to work a traditional job. Combining the cost of tuition and living, having money saved was becoming more essential as I moved towards college. Although I was worried, I knew I had overcome other challenges relating to my disability before, such as struggles with accessibility at school. I was already able to graduate as Valedictorian and earn 3 associates degrees before finishing high school, so I knew I could overcome my financial barriers too. Baking had always been a hobby of mine, and I decided to take it a step further than just making cookies for my friends. I started a small business selling them around my school, and I dedicated hours each week to making and advertising them. This venture taught me valuable skills in promotion and networking, which will help with future jobs. It also gave me a source of income that was consistent and accessible because of the time flexibility and physical requirements. Every penny I earned went back into the business or directly to my savings, slowly building the money I had for the future. I believe building credit early is one of the best things college students can do to secure their financial futures. My parents have always instilled in me the importance of being smart with money, and they decided to get me a credit card while I was in high school. They believed it would help educate me on responsible spending, paying off my balance on time, and help build my credit for the future. It gave me a sense of independence as well as responsibility. I knew having a credit card was a big deal, and I needed to use it properly, only buying things I could afford. Going forward, I will remember what they have taught me to continue making good decisions with my money, whether it be a house, car, or college. As I move into the future, I will continue seeking money-making opportunities that are accessible to me, whether it be baking or something new. One of the ways I have been doing this is through my scholarship applications. Starting from the beginning of my senior year in school, I spent hours every week compiling and applying for scholarships, doing everything I could do to increase my chances of being selected. College costs are one of the biggest concerns for young people, and I am no exception. These scholarships help alleviate that pressure and allow me to focus my money on other important purchases, such as rent. When combining my efforts and what I have learned, I feel confident that I can have a successful financial future.

Growing up, I was just like any other child. I participated in sports, loved exercising, and was full of energy. I started a roller-skating club at school, leading me to meet new people who shared my passion for the sport. I contributed over 300 hours to helping my community, constantly challenging myself. When I was 16, I became disabled after a genetic condition started to manifest. A year later, I was diagnosed with Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. This made it difficult for me to walk or do physical activity. While I had to give up some of my passions, I quickly adapted. I shifted my focus from skating to baking, another one of my interests, and even started my own small business selling cookies. I had to shut down the roller-skating club, but I focused on the other clubs I was involved in, such as the ones related to community service. This experience taught me a great deal about what resilience means to me, which is pursuing goals despite challenges and overcoming barriers. I live this every day by pushing through my disability and doing what I can to move forward. Nothing motivates me more than my education and wanting to complete my degree. In my college courses, I had to balance doctor's appointments with the time I spent working on my homework. I communicated with my professors whenever I had an issue with accessibility and got to connect with other disabled students. I knew I would have to work much harder than before I became disabled, and I did. The one thing I refused to do was give up after years of diligence. Because of my hard work, I was able to complete 3 associate’s degrees in 3 years, all while dedicating myself to helping my community. Now as I go into the future and pursue a bachelor’s degree, I will continue striving to do my best and push past my disability. Resilience is a trait that is extremely important to me, and if I did not exemplify it, I would not have been able to complete as much as I have. I may have faced many barriers, but I consistently break them down and find a way to persevere. While I do not know what the future holds for me, my definition of resilience will guide my career, education, and how I complete my goals.

Growing up, I always felt excluded. I never connected with any of the other kids around me, despite my best efforts. Life at home was not much better. I never understood my parents, and they never understood me. I felt that I was constantly getting in trouble, and I never knew why. I was only doing what I thought was right. These struggles were extremely damaging to my mental health, and I ended up developing Persistent Depressive Disorder. As I got older, I learned more about what autism was, and met others who had it. Still, I never felt that I might have it until I turned 16 and really looked into it. When my mom found out I was trying to get a diagnosis, she told me she had known my whole life and never felt the need to do anything about it. I was angry, and I felt I was right to be. If I had been diagnosed earlier, I may not have had as many struggles as I did. I could have gotten the right support, been able to connect with others, and gotten along with my parents better. Yet, no one seemed to care enough to guide me there because I was doing well in school. “A good student surely does not need any extra help” was an unfortunate mindset held by a lot of adults in my life. However, I persevered despite the lack of help. I continued to excel in school, and was able to overcome my mental health struggles, including my depression. It was hard, but it also taught me a great deal about how strong I can be. If I start to struggle now, I know I can handle it because of everything I have faced in the past. When I received my diagnosis, I was very happy. After 16 years, I finally felt understood. It did not make my struggles go away, but it did give me an explanation for why I was dealing with these things. I was not broken or dumb, just different. Now that it has been almost two years since my diagnosis, a lot has changed for me. Since then, I have gained many opportunities to connect with others. I joined clubs and tried my hardest to make friends. My past experiences of being rejected were valuable in helping me learn how to interact with others. As much as I would have benefited from support as a child, I know now that I can figure things out on my own, while still having people around me who offer their help. This has shown me just how deep my resilience is. I am fortunate to have made many friends during my time in high school who support me and love me for who I am. These lessons will stick with me my whole life, and I am proud to be who I am, autism and all.

When I was 16, I became disabled after a genetic condition called Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome started to manifest. This made it difficult for me to walk or do physical activity. However, I am still dedicated to contributing in any way I can. Every day, I do something that furthers this goal, whether it be communicating with organizations to volunteer, dedicating time to my schoolwork, or just pushing through my disability. When I first began volunteering, I focused on opportunities that were close to me. I joined the Project Linus Club at my school and made blankets for children in need. These blankets gave children in unstable situations not only a useful item, but something to provide comfort in difficult times. In Interact Club, I made peace cranes, letters, and breast cancer awareness ribbons to bring joy and support to those who needed it most. In my third year in the club, I became the secretary of community service. This created the opportunity to assist those in need myself and recruit other volunteers for these important causes. Outside of the classroom, I assisted during events at over 10 different elementary schools for more than 60 total hours. As a child, I had always felt excluded, and I hoped to let these children have fun and create lasting memories so that they would not feel the same way. In one instance, a boy succeeded in a carnival game I was running. He beamed and thanked me. It showed me that even little moments of kindness can brighten someone's day. These moments were the most impactful to me because of my own childhood, and represent what leadership means to me: helping those who need it most, even when others do not step up. Participating in events run by others was not enough for me, and I decided I would start hosting my own. As president of the Roller-Skating Club and Gender and Sexuality Alliance, I facilitated campus clean-ups multiple times a semester, motivational sticky note exchanges once a semester, and encouraged participation in school events. All of these opportunities taught me the importance of compassion, dedication, and resilience. After completing 300 hours of community service, I want to continue giving back. Looking ahead, I will carry these lessons with me, and I know I can keep doing more to help, just as others have done for me. Through all of this, I never let my grades falter. I began pursuing an associate’s degree when I was in 10th grade, and I am on track to graduate with three degrees in law, sociology, and political science by the time I finish high school. On top of this, I achieved the status of Valedictorian with a 5.0 GPA for two years straight. These accomplishments took daily hard work and focus, traits I carry with me throughout my life. Becoming disabled made me more aware of the challenges those with disabilities face and motivated me to try to prevent them. As I move into pursuing my bachelor’s degree in political science, I plan to do research into social issues, such as homelessness and the struggles of disabled people, that my previous work was intended to alleviate. My goal is to further our understanding of these problems and discover more solutions. This scholarship would allow me to achieve my dream of researching and addressing social problems and serving inside and outside of my community. While I do not know what the future holds for me, my definition of leadership will guide my research, volunteering, and how I support others.