Ever since I was a little girl, reading a book was like entering a whole new world. It was as though I was living and experiencing the things happening to the characters. It was as if I was able to live and experience multiple lives. As I grew older, I read books that invoked more and different emotions. My experience began to shift as I grew to admire and relate to characters when they were confronted with certain challenges. I would admire how certain characters would overcome their difficulties with academia, friends, and moral events and try to apply those to my situations. Or I would relate to characters feeling left out and unable to make new friends. From the moment I started to read books with more understanding and depth I began to see new lessons. One of my favorite books is The Hunger Games. I first read it when I was in middle school. It was one of the first books that truly made me evaluate my life. In middle school, I read the book with more of a rose-colored filter. I enjoyed it for the story it told, but I understood some of the harsh and unimaginable challenges facing the main characters. It made me realize that although we cannot always choose our path, we must make the most of it. Katniss was a fighter from the beginning. Even when she was faced with impossible circumstances, she remained focused on her only goal, to get back to her sister. And I took superficial lessons from the first book such as determination, strength, overcoming one's limits but it wasn't until I reread the series this summer that it shaped and influenced my goals today. Given my young age when I first read it, I wasn't able to truly grasp the criticism of modern-day society. Reading about the over-the-top extravagant parties and the social scene made me realize how easily we can and have lost focus. Society does not send kids to fight each other to death, but when children are neglected in certain demographics and they in turn resort to violence and crime and waste their lives, it makes me think that we are doing nothing to stop it. There is an endless cycle of poverty, addiction, and crime that passes through generations today. And society is focused on what the latest celebrity is wearing, doing, eating, etc. The priorities of our generations have changed and we do nothing. Because sometimes it feels like we can't do anything. Social media in its positives can be an encouraging place but it can just as much if not more be damaging. It influences so much of everyday lives, that it sometimes feels like a trap you can't escape. Katniss's strength, determination, compassion, and defiance have ultimately shaped my personal and career goals. Despite everything she faced, she chose to have compassion for her adversaries. Compassion is scarce in today's society, negatively impacting children and adults alike. This has shaped my career goals. When I am an architect, I will volunteer my time and resources to help improve impoverished neighborhoods. My goals are to build community centers where both kids and adults can feel supported through their struggles, and hopefully help break any harmful generational cycles. I plan to help mentor aspiring architects as well so that they can receive guidance and make positive impacts on the world around us. And I know that obstacles will arise but nothing will stop me from achieving my goals and doing something to change the world, even if it's just one person.

I'm a proud Hispana, the eldest child of 5, and a full-time architecture student! I'm an academically driven student and enjoy many hobbies, from baking to reading. I love to sketch and render in my free time as well as spend quality time with my friends and family. I am currently pursuing my bachelor's degree of science in Architecture. I plan to obtain my Master's in Architecture and become licensed to be a practicing architect. One of my passions is doing community service. I am heavily involved with my church and we do many community-focused events that help the surrounding areas. We periodically do food drives to give to anyone who wants or needs food. We do annual toy drives around Christmas and hand the toys out to the community. This past year we were able to give more than 150 children toys for Christmas. Through my career, I plan to expand on the opportunities to positively impact the world around me. Once I graduate with my Master's degree and obtain licensure, I will donate my time and skills to communities that are in need. For example, I will work with corporations and nonprofits that help those in need build and improve homes. Along with that, I will strive to make housing affordable in underserved and low-income communities. Sadly many times Hispanas fall under that category. I will also be involved with other projects, such as community centers, food banks, and even hospitals. With community centers, I would be able to cater to the needs of a variety of communities. Being able to create an atmosphere where experiences are shared and memories are created would only fuel the dreams of people of all ages. Not only would this help the children pursue their dreams but help the parents as well. Parents would have access to resources such as childcare, tutoring, networking connections, etc. that would help them succeed in their careers while ensuring their children are on their paths to success. Additionally, I would like to mentor aspiring architecture students specifically women. Creating a program that sponsors young women would help grow our representation in the architecture and STEM fields which are currently predominantly held by men. I want to make sure that they have the support and guidance needed, making sure they are not alone on their educational journey. I want to teach the future generation of architects the endless possibilities they have to impact the world, to impact even one person. Girls will see all the representation in the architecture field and will hopefully be inspired to make the field even better. This scholarship would help me achieve that by alleviating my financial burden. Being a full-time architecture student comes with a heavy workload. Winning this scholarship would allow me to focus more on my studies without having to worry about making the money to cover college-related expenses.

@isabeljs_04

When I was a little girl, I would walk around my community and notice the different types of architecture. Every building created memories for different generations and stood the test of time. This is where my passion for architecture began. I started to realize the tremendous impact architecture has on the world. It’s in a sense what the world is built upon. I also began to notice that I didn't see many Latinas. When I decided I wanted to become an architect, it was not because someone I knew was an architect. I knew a few well-known architects and yet none of them were Latino. I did find it a bit discouraging as I did not know of an architect that shared the same culture as me. However, I thought I could be one of the firsts. I vowed to make a difference in the younger Latina generations and encourage them to explore architecture. I know there are many minority communities where they may not have the same opportunities nor be presented with such careers. I want to make that change where the Latina population is well represented in the architecture field. I believe that ethnicity should have no impact on being able to pursue your dreams. Everyone as a human being has the potential to be great. Representation is vital for others to lead in their footsteps. As a Latina, I want my future generations to be able to see other Latinas in the field as much as any other race. I have thankfully already begun to see this movement. As a freshman in college, I am proud to say that about a third of the class are Latinas. Being a Latina in architecture and seeing others like me means that the Latino community, and even more specifically Latinas, will be positively impacted like never before. I am hoping to be one of those impactors. Once I graduate with my Master's degree and obtain licensure, I will donate my time and skills to communities that are in need. For example, I will work with corporations and nonprofits that help those in need build and improve homes. Along with that, I will strive to make housing affordable in underserved and low-income communities. Sadly many times Latinas fall under that category. I will also be involved with other projects, such as community centers, food banks, and even hospitals. With community centers, I would be able to cater to the needs of the Latino community. Being able to create an atmosphere where experiences are shared and memories are created would only fuel the dreams of Latinos of all ages. Not only would this help the children pursue their dreams but help the parents as well. Parents would have access to resources such as childcare, tutoring, networking connections, etc. that would help them succeed in their own careers while ensuring their children are on their own paths to success. Finally, I would like to mentor aspiring architecture students, specifically Latinas. Creating a program that sponsors young Latinas, would fuel this movement even more. I want to make sure that they have the support and guidance needed, making sure they are not alone on their educational journey. I want to teach the future generation of architects the endless possibilities they have to impact the world, to impact even one person. Latina girls, and just girls in general, will see all the representation in the architecture field and will hopefully be inspired to make the field even better. That way, the world will continue to be a better place, beyond physicality.

As an active member of my church, I look for many ways to give back to the surrounding community. Even though I'm only 18, a full time student and don't have a job, I still try to find areas in which I can help my community. One case in which I was able to impact was our recent toy drive. Every year we gather toys to give to children in our surrounding neighborhood and community. There is absolutely nothing like seeing those kids light up when they recieve their gift. We collect toys about a month in advance. This year I got to purchase two gifts, one for a girl and one for a boy. I am pleased to say that each year we recieve more and more toys and get even more children come to our christmas service to recieve them. But when we arrived early at church to start setting up, I would have never expected the amount of cars linining up. We usually receive around 40-50 kids. But this year, we had 150 kids and their families show up at our church. I was assingened to help the girls pick out their gifts. Sure enough one of the first gifts that got picked was mine. It filled my heart with so much joy knowing how much that little girl was going to treasure that toy. As I helped each girl pick out their gift I saw the same reaction: joy and gratitude, not just from the kids but also from the parents. With inflation and the cost of toys going up, those toys were going to be the only gift some kids were going to get. We were even blessed enough to give toys to the children of our congregation as well! The best part for me was knowing that I helped create a special moment for that child. From experience, I know how much those children's lives were impacted by my church's act of service. So once I graduate with my Master's degree and obtain lisencsure, I I will continue to donate my time and skills to communities that are in need. One way will be by working with corporations and non-profits, one of those being Habitat for Humanity. I will be able to offer my services and time to help those in need build and improve homes. Knowing the importance of a home, I intend to lift the burden for those struggling with homes that need structural repair. Along with that, I will strive to make housing affordable in underserved and low-income communities. Many of those living in them are the ones that are truly impacted the most by home, so to be able to help in that area will impact lives in more than just the physical and material. I will also be involved with other projects as well, such as community centers, food banks, and even hospitals. Something else I would like to do is offer my time and expertise to small local churches. My church has been an essential factor in pursuing my dream career, making giving back to churches important. Finally, I would like to mentor aspiring architecture students. I want to make sure that they have the support and guidance needed, making sure they are not alone on their educational journey. I want to teach the future generation of architects the endless possibilities they have to impact the world, to impact even one person. That way, the world will continue to be a better place, not just physically, but beyond that.

Architecture has so much influence on our daily lives. Ever since I was a little girl, I loved seeing old real castles in Europe. The stories they told and the memories created in them always resonated with me. Then I would walk around my neighborhood and look at the small houses that would do the same thing. Those houses created memories and stood the test of time, each time becoming a home for a new family every time it was sold. That is why I am currently attending the University of Texas at Arlington in the fall to pursue a Master's in Architecture. My dream is to become an Architect at a more established firm and eventually own a private firm. Once I graduate with my Master's degree in Architecture and obtain liscensure, I will donate my time and skills to communities that are in need. One of the many ways I will be making a positive impact is by working with corporations and non-profits, one of those being Habitat for Humanity. I will be able to offer my services and time to help those in need build and improve homes. Knowing the importance of a home, I intend to lift the burden for those struggling with homes that need structural repair. Along with partnering with non-profits, I will donate time and skills to make housing affordable in underserved and low-income communities. Many of those living in them are the ones that are truly impacted the most by home, so to be able to help in that area will impact lives in more than just the physical and material. Not only do I want to have a positive impact in my community regarding homes, but with other projects as well, such as community centers, food banks, and even hospitals. Recognizing the importance those buildings have in a community, I want to make sure that I volunteer my services in any projects or establishments where the people of the said area are helped to advance in life. Something else I would like to do is offer my time and expertise to small local churches. My church has been an essential factor in pursuing my dream career, making giving back to churches important. Finally, I would like to mentor aspiring architecture students. I want to make sure that they have the support and guidance needed, making sure they are not alone on their educational journey. I want to teach the future generation of architects the endless possibilities they have to impact the world, to impact even one person. That way, the world will continue to be a better place, not just physically, but beyond that.

Many people know the phrase "Hakuna Matata." They may have heard it in a particular lion movie perhaps. The one and only Simba is my favorite Disney character. And you may wonder why a cartoon character from a movie for small children is my favorite character. There are many reasons why Simba has always resonated with me and has always been my favorite. Since I was little, the Lion King has always been my favorite movie. From the bright colorful scenes to the intense plot twists, I loved every aspect of the film. But what I found most interesting wasn't the strikingly realistic scenery or the very catchy songs. What I found most interesting was Simba. I got to see Simba's childhood and how much he enjoyed life. I got to see how in one second his life changed forever. Being young I was only able to see the superficial aspects of his situation. As I got older I started to see the complexity and overall, the resistance of his character. Simba lost his father, got "banished" from his home, had guilt, and was separated from his family. And yet through all that he still persevered and fulfilled his responsibility to his family, but even more importantly to himself. We learn when he talks to Rafiki that he was missing a part of himself. He was choosing to ignore his past which ultimately made him lose himself. In the end, he did go back to his family and well as we all know, became King. As a girl, I always admired that even through excruciating circumstances Simba chose his family and responsibility over everything. He went back even though he believed his father died because of him to give them a better future. And even though I never went through anything like that I always saw the example he gave. In my mistakes, I owned up to myself and continued my responsibility. A big part of this movie was about one's past. Now I apply this movie in the sense of remembering where I came from, what values I was brought up with, and the responsibility I have, especially to myself. Simba was the gatekeeper to his destiny. In the same way, I hold the future in my hands. It is up to me of what I make of myself and what my life will look like.

As a child whose parents came from a low-income background, viewing college education as a way to succeed in life has been instilled in me from a young age. Given that my parents are first-generation US citizens, they did not have that guidance to view college as an option. From a young age, I have always wanted to go to college to have even more opportunities career-wise. I have heard from countless people who wish they could have gone to college and heard from people who were turned down from jobs and promotions due to them not having a college education. In turn, I have always had the mindset that a college education would help me advance in life and help me obtain a more comfortable lifestyle. I have also seen and continue to see countless people who have the opportunity to go to college for almost free and don't go, and yet aren't aware of how much harder it is in the workforce without a college education. I see how hard people who don't have a college education have to work to advance within jobs and companies. And although post-secondary education is hard in itself, I know it will set me on the right path once I enter the workforce. I know that all the knowledge and skills I need to start my career await me at college. That is why I am proud to say I am a first-generation college student. I am incredibly blessed to have the opportunity my parents didn't get when they were my age. I recently graduated high school with my associate's degree, something my younger self could never even being to imagine I would do. I am now enrolled in university and am majoring in architecture. Going into college without any tips or even knowledge of how it would be has been difficult. I have had to learn many things for myself and experience some hardships to find what works best for me. I have had to learn to advocate for myself and find resources to support me in my education. At times it has felt like I've been on my own, overwhelemd by everything. But even just the opportunity to be the first in my immediate and extended family, which is a very big Hispanic family, to go to college has changed many perceptions I had of life. Going to college is a key to a whole new world, one that will empower me in many different ways. And although it will beneficial to me, I also want it to be beneficial to the world. I want my education and ultimately my experience to empower others. I want to mentor others who are and will be in the same position I was in. Helping others embark on this new chapter is something I believe in strongly. I believe that everyone should be given the chance to go to college. I know that college isn't for everyone and that ultimately most people don't go for all kinds of reasons, but lack of experience or knowledge or guidance of college shouldn't stop someone from going. I truly want people to understand the privelege it is to go to college but even more the reward it has in the end. Being a first-generation college student has helped me see that the experience and hardships are what make the reward so much sweeter.

From a young age, I realized the tremendous impact STEM has on the world. Without it, we would be greatly less advanced in medicine, technology, architecture and infrastructure, and everything that involves math. I also noticed that I didn't see many women in STEM careers. I didn't see many Engineers, Architects, IT, Computer Engineers, or mathematicians who were women. When I decided I wanted to become an architect, it was not because of a female in my family being one. Nor did I have any family friends I knew who were architects. I knew a few well-known architects and yet none of them were women. I did find it a bit discouraging as I did not know of an architect that was the same gender as me. However, I thought I could be one of the firsts. Though I know there are architects and people in STEM who are women, I want to make a difference in the younger generations and encourage them to explore STEM. I know there are many minority communities where some are underrepresented and may not have the same opportunities nor be presented with such careers. I want to make that change where the female population is very represented in STEM. I believe that gender has nothing to do with your dream career. Everyone as a human being has the potential to be great and some more than others can be geniuses in STEM. One thing I will do as a professional in STEM is going to schools to encourage female elementary and middle schoolers about the possibilities they have in STEM. I will try to excite them about all the wonders and fascinating jobs the field has to offer. I will tell them about all the discoveries that this field has made. I will also go to many high schools. Knowing that is when most all teenagers seriously consider their career options, I would encourage them to explore non-traditional "women" jobs. I will tell them to be courageous and become the firsts in their families to go into STEM fields. Representation is vital for others to lead in their footsteps. I will also help up-and-coming college students and professionals in mentorship. Having a mentor is something that fuels success. Knowing that I will have the power to help those who need guidance is how I will make sure women who are actively pursuing careers in STEM see it through. I want my future generations to be able to see other women in the STEM field as much as any other gender. Representation is key to a more advanced, better world as we have only scratched the surface of what the STEM field could be. Once I graduate with my Master's degree in Architecture I plan to donate my time and skills to communities that are in need. One of the many ways I will be serving my community is by working with non-profits such as Habitat for Humanity. I will be able to help those in need build and improve homes. Knowing the importance a home has, I intend to lift the burden for those who are struggling with homes that are in need of structural repair. Not only do I want to have a positive impact in my community regarding homes, but with other projects as well, such as community centers, food banks, and even hospitals. Recognizing the importance those buildings have in a community, I want to make sure that I volunteer my services in any projects or establishments where the people of said area are helped to advance in life.

Being a parliamentarian in my school's National Honor Society allowed me to fulfill leadership roles in different circumstances. For one, I was able to be part of the creation process of two senior scholarships, providing relief for those continuing their education. Just recently, we partnered with our school's Student Council to raise money for those NHS scholarships and collect toys for kids in Cook Children's hospital. With that, I also help organize group events in which our group volunteers in designated locations and events. In turn, this helps our community and brings awareness to overlooked issues. Being a Sunday School teacher at my church allows me to form relationships with children in our community. Given that my church is in a low-income area, there is a great need that is prevalent among children. Sometimes children are going through issues at home and don't have support. Other times children face problems at school and in those issues they feel alone. That is where I have the privilege and blessing to help those children. I have the opportunity to speak to them and guide them on what they can do when going through tough times. I am able to offer them hope and a friend who will always be there for them. I remember being in Sunday School and going through friendship issues in school. My teachers were always there to lend an ear and encourage me when I felt down. Now I am privileged to have that same opportunity to help children through difficult times. A couple of months ago, two young girls came to our church. I learned that one of their fathers had recently passed. I could see the grief in the girl's eyes. Though she was smiling and was very amicable I could see that a part of her was still sad. I did everything in my power to make her feel loved and consoled. And though I knew she still felt a little sad as nothing could bring her dad back, I knew she felt better when she hugged me goodbye. Two weeks ago, we had a church event where we gave toys to the children of the community. For some kids, that was the only toy they were going to receive for Christmas. This year we were blessed with an abundance of gifts for all ages. We were able to give a tablet to a girl whose mother had just lost her job. I could see the immense gratitude that the girl and her family had. Now, as I begin college, leadership and service become ever so more important to me. Everyone talks about wanting to change the world, but it is equally as important to start small. That is why as I start college I will be continuing to serve and lead in my community. I have already seen the difference and change around the community where my church is placed. Not only did the church itself bring value to the community but has brought resources as well. Being a part of that change is vital to making a difference in the world, one step at a time. Once I get my degree, I will be able to make an even bigger difference in more extensive areas.

Growing up in school, my favorite subject had always been math and science. These school subjects always fascinated me growing up and I always thought they were fun to learn. They came pretty easy to me and received fairly good grades. When I reached sixth grade, I entered my first science fair. I got to choose my project and decided to make a marble roller coaster. I thought it would be fun as it required math, science, and engineering/architecture to design it all out. I began building and loved every second of it. I began to think that some lucky people got to use STEM subjects for their jobs. I continued with my project and my newfound passion for architecture began. In the end, I won second place in my category and my newfound passion only grew from there. From then on, I began to admire the architecture in historic places. From the vintage, intricate designs of French chateaus to the serene Italian villas, I was mesmerized by the beauty architecture can possess. Being an architect would allow me to take one step closer to following my dream of making my mark on the world with unique designs. I started to realize the tremendous impact STEM has on the world. Without it, we would be greatly less advanced in medicine, technology, architecture and infrastructure, and everything that involves math. I also began to notice that I didn't see many Hispanics in STEM careers. I didn't see many Doctors, Engineers, Architects, IT and Computer Engineers, or mathematicians who were Hispanic. When I decided I wanted to become an architect, it was not because of someone in my family. Nor did I have any family friends I knew who were architects. Though I know there are architects and people in STEM who are Hispanic, I want to make a difference in the younger generations and encourage them to explore STEM. I know there are many minority communities where some are underrepresented and may not have the same opportunities nor be presented with such careers. I believe that race has nothing to do with being able to be anything you want to be. Everyone as a human being has the potential to be great and some more than others can be geniuses in STEM. As a STEM professional, I will go to schools in minority communities and talk to elementary and middle schoolers about their possibilities in STEM. I will try to excite them about all the wonders and fascinating jobs the field has to offer. I will tell them about all the discoveries that this field has made. I will also go to many high schools. Knowing that is when most all teenagers seriously consider their career options, I would encourage them to explore non-traditional "Hispanic" jobs. I will them to be courageous and become the firsts in their families to go into STEM fields. Representation is vital for others to lead in their footsteps. I will also help up-and-coming college students and professionals in mentorship. Having a mentor is something that fuels success. Knowing that I will have the power to help those who need guidance is how I will make sure Hispanics actively pursuing careers in STEM see it through. As a Hispanic, I want my future generations to be able to see others Hispanics in the STEM field as much as any other race. Representation is key to a more advanced, better world as we have only scratched the surface of what the STEM field could be.

Growing up in school, my favorite subject had always been math and science. These school subjects always fascinated me growing up and I always thought they were fun to learn. They came pretty easy to me and received fairly good grades. When I reached sixth grade, I entered my first science fair. I got to choose my project and decided to make a marble roller coaster. I thought it would be fun as it required math, science, and engineering/architecture to design it all out. I began building and loved every second of it. I began to think that some lucky people got to use STEM subjects for their jobs. I continued with my project and my newfound passion for architecture, which was recently labeled as STEM, began. I began to see how people designed not only roller coasters but commercial buildings and skyscrapers as well. In the end, I won second place in my category and my newfound passion only grew from there. From then on, I began to admire the architecture in historic places. From the vintage, intricate designs of French chateaus to the serene Italian villas, I was mesmerized by the beauty architecture can possess. Being an architect would allow me to take one step closer to following my dream of making my mark on the world with unique designs. I started to realize the tremendous impact STEM has on the world. Without it, we would be greatly less advanced in medicine, technology, architecture and infrastructure, and everything that involves math. I also began to notice that I didn't see many women in STEM careers. I didn't see many Engineers, Architects, IT, Computer Engineers, or mathematicians who were women. When I decided I wanted to become an architect, it was not because of a female in my family being one. Nor did I have any family friends I knew who were architects. I knew a few well-known architects and yet none of them were women. I did find it a bit discouraging as I did not know of an architect that was the same gender as me. However, I thought I could be one of the firsts. Though I know there are architects and people in STEM who are women, I want to make a difference in the younger generations and encourage them to explore STEM. I know there are many minority communities where some are underrepresented and may not have the same opportunities nor be presented with such careers. I want to make that change where the female population is very represented in STEM. I believe that gender has nothing to do with being able to be anything you want to be. Everyone as a human being has the potential to be great and some more than others can be geniuses in STEM. Schooling to become an architect is the first battle. It will take me at least six years to be credited with the necessary education to start an internship. Going through school will not be easy. I have already felt the obstacles arise and the workload increase. Having to spend the next six years in school will be hard and expensive. That won't stop me. In the end, I know all my hard work and dedication will pay off. From there I will need 3-4 years of internship experience to finally be able to take the architect licensing exam. That will prove the hardest challenge of all. My hard work leading up to that moment will all be worth it.

Architecture has so much influence on our daily lives. Ever since I was a little girl, I loved seeing old real castles in Europe. The stories they told and the memories created in them always resonated with me. Then I would walk around my neighborhood and look at the small houses that would do the same thing. Those houses created memories and stood the test of time, each time becoming a home for a new family every time it was sold. Anyone can have a house but to have a home is something special. This way of thinking is what fuels my desire to divulge into philanthropy and make the world a better place. Once I graduate with my Master's degree in Architecture I will donate my time and skills to communities that are in need. One of the many ways I will be serving my community is by working with corporations and non-profits, one of those being Habitat for Humanity. I will be able to offer my services and time to help those in need build and improve homes. Knowing the importance of a home, I intend to lift the burden for those struggling with homes that need structural repair. Along with partnering with non-profits, I will donate time, talents, and skills to make housing affordable in underserved and low-income communities. Many of those living in them are the ones that are truly impacted the most by home, so to be able to help in that area will impact lives in more than just the physical and material. Not only do I want to have a positive impact in my community regarding homes, but with other projects as well, such as community centers, food banks, and even hospitals. Recognizing the importance those buildings have in a community, I want to make sure that I volunteer my services in any projects or establishments where the people of the said area are helped to advance in life. Something else I would like to do is offer my time and expertise to small local churches. My church has been an essential factor in pursuing my dream career, making giving back to churches important. Finally, I would like to mentor aspiring architecture students. I want to make sure that they have the support and guidance needed, making sure they are not alone on their educational journey. I want to teach the future generation of architects the endless possibilities they have to impact the world, to impact even one person. That way, the world will continue to be a better place, not just physically, but beyond that.

My best back-to-school tip is to always get as much sleep as possible! Having good sleep determines how your school year will go. If you get minimal to low sleep your work will reflect it. You won't be able to give 100% to school not just in academia but in sports and extracurriculars as well. Getting good sleep allows you to focus more and increases your work ethic. Plus it makes school a bit more enjoyable to be able to have good rest and not feel tired counting down the hours to dismissal. @isabeljs_04

I recently graduated salutatorian of my high school with an associate's degree. I am now attending the University of Texas at Arlington in the fall to pursue a Master's in Architecture. My dream is to become an Architect and eventually own a private firm. Growing up in school, my favorite subject had always been math. This school subject always fascinated me and I always thought it was fun to learn. When I reached sixth grade, I entered my first science fair. I got to choose my project and decided to make a marble roller coaster. I began building and loved every second of it. I continued with my project and my newfound passion for architecture began. Architecture has so much influence on our daily lives. Ever since I was a little girl, I loved seeing old real castles in Europe. The stories they told and the memories created in them always resonated with me. Then I would walk around my neighborhood and look at the small houses that would do the same thing. Those houses created memories and stood the test of time, each time becoming a home for a new family every time it was sold. Anyone can have a house but to have a home is something special. This way of thinking is what fuels my desire to divulge into philanthropy and make the world a better place. Once I graduate with my Master's degree in Architecture I will donate my time and skills to communities that are in need. One of the many ways I will be serving my community is by working with corporations and non-profits, one of those being Habitat for Humanity. I will be able to offer my services and time to help those in need build and improve homes. Knowing the importance of a home, I intend to lift the burden for those struggling with homes that need structural repair. Along with partnering with non-profits, I will donate time, talents, and skills to make housing affordable in underserved and low-income communities. Many of those living in them are the ones that are truly impacted the most by home, so to be able to help in that area will impact lives in more than just the physical and material. Not only do I want to have a positive impact in my community regarding homes, but with other projects as well, such as community centers, food banks, and even hospitals. Recognizing the importance those buildings have in a community, I want to make sure that I volunteer my services in any projects or establishments where the people of the said area are helped to advance in life. Something else I would like to do is offer my time and expertise to small local churches. My church has been an essential factor in pursuing my dream career, making giving back to churches important. Finally, I would like to mentor aspiring architecture students. I want to make sure that they have the support and guidance needed, making sure they are not alone on their educational journey. I want to teach the future generation of architects the endless possibilities they have to impact the world, to impact even one person. That way, the world will continue to be a better place, not just physically, but beyond that.

As the cost of living is rising and inflation making everything more expensive, many students are struggling to pay for college. Tuition is increasing at higher rates every year. Even in-state public universities are becoming more and more costly. That is why saving up for college is extremely important for me. I will be starting university full time in the fall and with obligations 4 days of the week outside of school, having a job is not realistic nor attainable for me. If I were to receive the $1,000 scholarship it would go straight to covering expenses for university. And though the many essays are likely to have the answer of the $1000 going to university expenses, I plan to use the $1000 in different ways. First off I plan to use $500 to go towards tuition. Second I plan to use $250 towards books and schools supplies. I plan to get higher quality school supplies because I know first hand the difference good school supplies make especially when studying. I know how good school supplies make a world of a difference when it comes to learning and grasping information in the classroom. Finally I plan to use the last $250 in gas money. As a commuter, I will be traveling to and from school. With the extremely high gas prices right now, commuting is becoming an extra expense that is burdening students even more. This $1000 would ease a burden and would help my education experience be less stressful.

Being a Texan is something I have been proud to call myself. Texas, and though I may be a bit biased, is the best state in the country for many reasons. From its beautiful landscapes to its historic landmarks, Texas has always represented a strong community. When a community is really in need, Texans step up to the plate for their neighbors. They don't ask for anything in return because it is their pleasure to help their community. From the Alamo to devastating recent natural disasters, Texans come together for the sole purpose to help. I've seen and experienced this kindness and generosity of all Texans alike. Texas has that effect on people. Being a Texan means my dreams can come true. There are so many people coming from different countries and even states in order to get a chance at a better life. My parents and family members are some of them. Because we moved to Texas, my parents don't have to worry about their kids growing up in low-income neighborhoods as they did. Because we moved to Texas, my parents won't be worrying about the quality or the place their children get their education in. Because we moved to Texas, I am the first one to go to college in my entire family. Being a Texas means I get to decide my future. Being a Texan means I can contribute to making the world a better place. Because being a Texan means my dreams will come true.

Being a parliamentarian in my school's National Honor Society has allowed me to fulfill leadership roles in different circumstances. For one, I was able to be part of the creating process of two senior scholarships, providing relief for those continuing their education. In December, we partnered with our school's Student Council to raise money for those NHS scholarships and collect toys for kids in Cook Children's hospital. With that, I also help organize group events in which our group volunteers in designated locations and events. In turn, this helps our community and brings awareness to overlooked issues. Being a Sunday School teacher at my church allows me to form relationships with children in our community. Given that my church is in a low-income area, there is a great need that is prevalent in children. Sometimes children are going through issues at home and don't have support. Other times children face problems at school and in those issues they feel alone. That is where I have the privilege and blessing to help those children. I have the opportunity to speak to them and guide them on what they can do when going through tough times. I am able to offer them hope and a friend who will always be there for them. A couple of months ago, two young girls came to our church. I learned that one of their fathers had recently passed. I could see the grief in the girl's eyes. Though she was smiling and was very amicable I could see that a part of her was still sad. I did everything in my power to make her feel loved and consoled. And though I knew she still felt a little sad as nothing could bring her dad back, I knew she felt better when she hugged me goodbye. In early December, we had a church event where we gave toys to the children of the community. For some kids, that was the only toy they were going to receive for Christmas. Thankfully, we were blessed with an abundance of gifts for all ages. We were able to give a tablet to a girl whose mother had just lost her job. I could see the immense gratitude that the girl and her family had. As I continue to have many leadership opportunities, the importance of leadership becomes ever so more important to me. Being a leader means that I can change a person's life, ease a burden and give hope to those who have lost it. Being a leader means that I can make things happen for people who need it. Being a leader is being able to see someone smile when you have taken charge of helping them out. It's what gives life meaning, knowing that what you did was able to make a difference in the world, and more importantly in someone's life. And although I may not be leading a group per se in Sunday School, I lead those children to happier and less stressful lives while simultaneously being a part of leadership to help kids in the community. Once I get my degrees, I will be able to take all the experience I have attained and apply it forward. More specifically, I plan to donate my time and skills to communities that are in need. I want to lead non-profit organizations to make housing affordable in underserved and low-income communities. Just as equally, I want to lead non-profits in building community centers, food banks, and even hospitals. As I move forward in my education, I will continue to lead in every chance I get.

Throughout the entirety of the pandemic, I have had much time to self-reflect. One of the biggest impacts the pandemic has had on my life is helped me realize what my priorities are. I have become even closer to my family as I have learned that life is not guaranteed. Family is one of the most important things in my life and will always be. Another positive impact I have had is my new awareness of the importance of slowing down. Before the pandemic, it seemed as if it was all "go, go, go." Because of that, we missed the little things, which we live to regret. I have learned the importance of taking a mental break and resting as it has helped me achieve better grades in school and made me truly enjoy things more. Finally, the pandemic has helped me step closer to my career path. My dream is to become an architect one day. As everyone was lockdown for some time, I have found the importance a home has. I have become even more inspired to use that career and help underserved communities where homes have the potential to change someone's life for the better.

Being patient is one of the most prominent qualities a person can have. It influences the decisions they make, improves self-control, and overall demonstrates a person's character. To me, patience is a very important quality. Over the years, patience has helped me become who I am today and has gotten my through challenges and obstacles. One of the most enduring events I face is my current status as a dually enrolled student. Since the ninth grade, I have taken a total of 13 college classes. I am currently in three as of now. As a freshman, I entered a collegiate high school meaning I would be graduating as a senior with a high school diploma and an associate's degree. Starting high school, I took a dual credit class each semester. At the time, I did not know of anyone who was in a program like mine, so I was going in blind to the experience. Once I got to my junior year of high school, I was enrolled in four college classes. This was by far one of the hardest years of school I have ever had as it was a big transition. However, I was able to overcome the hardships, stress, and late nights. Being patience was key during this time. On the weeks where I had more than fifteen assignments due and asked myself why I was doing this, I reminded myself that the outcome would be worthwhile. I was able to excel in my grades at the end and took one step closer to saving myself two years of university. Overall, through the stress and hardship, patience has made me see the light at the end of the tunnel.

For a variety of differences, my favorite scientist is Marie Curie. Not only did she revolutionize radioactivity as a whole but further made other significant strides in physics and chemistry. Her efforts towards obtaining pure radium, stockpiling intense radioactive sources for illnesses and research, and X-radiography during World War II made her one of the most brilliant physicists and chemists in the modern era. On her journey to her two Nobel Prizes, she kept a balance between her work and her family, keeping them involved in her pursuit to change the world.

My parents grew up in the low-income areas of Los Angeles. Both of their parents immigrated from Mexico to the U.S. to give their children better lives. However, my grandparents were not well educated and could only obtain low-paying jobs. Therefore, they could only afford the bare minimum to buy food and clothes for their children. My mom and her siblings sometimes went without a birthday cake or small treat on their special days. For years my dad wore the same worn-out clothes for school every day because his parents nor he could afford anything else. Fortunately, I have always been very blessed to have food on the table and clothing that fits and is in good condition. My parents' and aunts' and uncles' experiences with food shortages helped me become aware of the ever-growing presence of hunger around the world as well as the always present need for clothing people face. With the pandemic still going on, the focus of the media and a great majority of the world population is on health issues. Everyone talks about issues in the healthcare system and other issues being presented on the news. However, one of, if not, the biggest issue in the world that is still raging today is hunger. There has always been an issue of children and adults alike going to sleep at night hungry, not knowing when their next meal will be. When people think of the regions facing hunger they tend to think of the poor countries in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. However, in the year 2020 thirty percent of the world lacked year-round access to adequate food. That is more than 2.63 billion people, that faced food matters. This statistic alone should cause a sense of urgency in people and start a want to change. The importance to act today in regards to the need for clothing is evergrowing. In 2018, only 28% of people donated used clothing while only 7% bought used clothing. Americans alone generate 16 million tons of textile waste a year. The focus society has is that plastic is the product filling up landfills. However, textile and apparel are going under the radar. While companies are trying to make clothes sustainable, the effort isn't affecting much. Companies often claim they are working towards increasing sustainability, but in reality, we are far from making any major improvement. Not only that but their focus is on reusing clothing when it should be to giving back to the underserved communities. There are many steps I take to make a difference in these issues. First of all, I donate canned goods to school. Throughout my school education, there have been canned food drives where I have almost always participated. The products collected went to food banks. Despite my young age, I knew that what I was doing was making a difference. In my freshman and sophomore years, my school help food canned drives where I donated as many cans as I could. I was able to see the impact it made on the community and heard from the food bank themselves that what we did made a big impact on the community. In regards to the clothing problem, I always donate any of my clothing that doesn't fit or get much use. Ever since I was little, my mother would donate our old unfitting clothing. She would always do it out of a generous heart so I learned to do the same. When I became older and realized the situation with sustainable clothing and the landfills filled with textile, I realized that there were multiple benefits to donating clothing. Now, every couple of months when I do some deep cleaning, I either donate it to an organization that gives it to sick children in the hospital or local thrift stores so that someone can get clothing in great condition for a very cheap price. This exercise kills two birds with one stone; it allows people in need access to good clothing while making sure it doesn't end up in landfills.