As a first-generation immigrant and student, the obstacles I’ve faced have shaped me into a person who refuses to give up—not because the path has been easy, but because I’ve learned the value of perseverance and purpose. My journey has taught me that leadership is not about being the loudest voice in the room, but about being the one who shows up, listens, and acts with integrity—even when no one is watching. I moved to the United States at the age of eleven, speaking very little English. I was placed in middle school classrooms where I could barely understand what the teacher was saying. I recall the frustration of wanting to ask questions but struggling to find the words. That sense of isolation was painful, but it taught me the importance of having someone who will sit beside you, believe in you, and help you feel seen. Years later, when the COVID-19 pandemic shut down schools, I saw students across the country struggle with that same feeling of being lost and left behind. That’s when I joined a nationwide volunteer initiative called Yes Learn!, which provides free, Zoom-based tutoring in math and Mandarin for students whose families cannot afford extra help. At first, I was just a tutor. However, as more families signed up and the organization expanded, I stepped into a leadership role—helping other tutors develop lesson plans, coordinating schedules, and serving as a liaison between volunteers and parents. There were weeks when I tutored six days straight, juggling time zones and schoolwork. But I kept going—not because I had to, but because I knew how it felt to be on the other side of the screen. I had lived that struggle, and I wasn’t about to let these students fall through the cracks. To this day, I’ve tutored over 50 students from all backgrounds and even helped raise awareness and resources for other students who wanted to get involved. I wasn’t just teaching math—I was building confidence, creating consistency, and proving that even in a global crisis, we can lift each other up. Outside of tutoring, I’ve taken on leadership roles that combine compassion with action. I’ve helped organize Emery’s Big Climb—a fundraising initiative inspired by a close friend who battled leukemia. Through community outreach and event coordination, we’ve raised over $16,000 each year for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Leading this effort showed me how one person’s story can ignite a movement when others choose to care and act. Every challenge I’ve faced—whether it was adapting to a new language, managing school and work as a transfer student, or facing financial uncertainty—has made me more resilient. I’ve learned that leadership is not about waiting for the perfect opportunity. It’s about using what you have to make a difference now. This scholarship, in honor of Jimmy Cardenas, represents more than just financial aid—it reflects the spirit of service, strength, and community. I may not be in a criminal justice program, but I share Jimmy’s commitment to protecting others and building a better world. I hope to become a physician who uplifts underserved communities, breaks barriers in healthcare access, and leads with both skill and empathy. Thank you for considering my application. I will carry this opportunity with honor, and continue working toward a future where every obstacle becomes a chance to lead.

My name is Guanshu Liu, and I am an undergraduate student majoring in Sociology at Columbia University. As a woman of faith attending college with a 4.0 GPA, I am deeply committed to growing academically, spiritually, and personally so that I can use my future career to serve others with compassion and purpose. Studying at a rigorous university has been both a blessing and a challenge. While I feel honored to receive an education that pushes me intellectually and prepares me for a future in medicine, I also face significant financial burdens that require careful balancing of academic responsibilities with work and budgeting. This scholarship would be a tremendous support, allowing me to focus more fully on my studies, research, and service without the constant stress of financial pressure. As a female student at a prestigious institution, I strongly resonate with the message behind this scholarship. The verse, “For such a time as this” (Esther 4:14), speaks deeply to my own calling. I believe I have been placed on this path not just for personal achievement, but to be a witness through my actions—to offer healing, comfort, and dignity to those in need. Whether it’s in a hospital, a research lab, or on a global mission trip, my education is preparing me to serve with integrity and compassion. My academic and career path is shaped by my desire to help others, especially vulnerable populations. I’ve had the privilege of volunteering in pediatric oncology and working on cancer research projects at MD Anderson Cancer Center. These experiences have opened my eyes to the intersection of science and service, and confirmed my goal of becoming a physician who not only treats illness but also sees and supports the whole person. This scholarship would make a meaningful difference in my journey. It would help cover tuition and academic expenses, giving me more time to deepen my learning, engage in campus ministry, and pursue research that contributes to the well-being of others. It would also affirm my belief that faith and education can walk hand in hand—and that, as a woman with both ambition and purpose, I can thrive in higher education while preparing to be a force for good in the world. Thank you for investing in students like me. I hope to honor the mission of this scholarship by continuing to pursue excellence, serve others, and carry forward the spirit of Esther: bold, faithful, and ready for such a time as this.