I came into this world with an incomplete heart – three chambers where there should have been four. Five times, surgeons opened my chest and stilled my fragile heart, each time bringing me back from the quiet edge of death. These past events echo softly as they shape my present and propel me toward the future. Sometimes they move calmly, like ripples on still water, and other times they rush forward, unpredictably and wild like a mountain stream in the Alps. It’s in these moments that I remember my greatest achievements: the resilience, strength, and adaptability I carry within. Growing up with a rare and complex congenital heart condition has defined me in ways I never could have foreseen. The first heart surgeries shortly after birth provided only a temporary solution and resulted in feeding difficulties, leaving me dependent on a g-tube for nutrition for years. Those years were marked by a slow and determined process of overcoming severe texture aversions and gradually building a relationship with food, that eventually allowed the removal of the g-tube five years later. In addition, my oxygen saturation remained in the upper 70’s to low 80’s significantly limiting my physical endurance and energy levels. Everyday activities that others might have taken for granted often required extraordinary effort on my part. Despite these obstacles, and against all odds, I defied the doctors’ prognosis of only a 20% chance of surviving beyond the age of two. As I grew older, the challenges I faced began to evolve, particularly in social settings. Connecting and fitting in became increasingly difficult. Keeping up with my peers was often a struggle, and I often chose not to explain why. I was determined not to stand out or be seen as different. With each passing year, outpatient appointments, procedures, and additional surgeries became a larger part of my life, I learned to quietly navigate my world and very few were allowed to see the real me. Those that did, often failed the friendship test but taught me the value of genuine connections and the strength that comes from surrounding myself with people who truly understand and support me. Amid these difficulties, high school became a place where I could find space to thrive and communities to call my own. I feel immense gratitude for the opportunities and connections that have encouraged my growth. One of the most impactful experiences has been my involvement in the drama and theater community. This inspiring group of people has not only helped me grow socially but also taught me to push beyond my comfort zone and explore new facets of myself. Through performing, I’ve gained confidence in myself and discovered the value of collaboration. Being a part of something larger than myself has also shown me the importance of teamwork, as every successful production depends on everyone working together toward a common goal. Another community that has impacted on my growth is the Early College Program. This program has not only challenged me academically but has equipped me with the tools needed to succeed in the future. Maintaining a 3.8 GPA requires dedication, time management, and adaptability—skills I’ve honed through both my academic pursuits and my life experiences. I also work part-time at JcPenney and regularly volunteer helping with social activities (Bingo, nail painting, or flower arranging etc.) at a senior rehabilitation home. These achievements have given me the confidence to embrace the demands of college life and the knowledge that I can overcome any obstacle that comes my way. Looking to the future, I find myself drawn to the world of architecture design because of its profound impact on how we live, work and connect in our daily lives. To me, it’s not just about aesthetics - it’s about how spaces function, the emotions they evoke, and the meaningful change they inspire. A thoughtfully designed room can uplift someone’s mood, spark creativity, or even foster better health. With sustainability becoming increasingly vital, I see design as a powerful tool to address pressing societal challenges. My dream is to create sustainable, accessible spaces that improve lives —whether it’s a community center that fosters connection or affordable housing that blends beauty and function or incorporating accommodations for individuals with disabilities. By merging creativity with problem solving and the resilience I’ve gained through life’s challenges, I aim to make a meaningful impact in this field. Though my heart was incomplete when I came into this world, my future dreams are anything but. I am determined to turn my challenges into opportunities, my aspirations into action, and my education into a platform for change. I see this scholarship as not just an investment in my future but a partnership in building a brighter, more inclusive world.