
Hobbies and interests
Community Service And Volunteering
Criminal Justice
Coffee
English
Ethics
Government
Law
Liberal Arts and Humanities
Mock Trial
National Honor Society (NHS)
Orchestra
Politics and Political Science
Psychology
Public Policy
Public Relations
Public Speaking
Speech and Debate
Reading
Romance
I read books multiple times per week
Izabellah Reynoso
1x
Nominee1x
Finalist1x
Winner
Izabellah Reynoso
1x
Nominee1x
Finalist1x
WinnerBio
My name is Izabellah Reynoso, I am a rising junior at Northeastern University studying a combined major of Criminal Justice and Political Science. I am currently completing a six month internship at the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York within the Violent and Organized Crime unit. This internship has been extremely rewarding as I have always dreamed of becoming an attorney, specifically handling either criminal, family, or immigration cases. This experience has allowed me to assist paralegals and AUSA’s through hands-on tasks and assignments such as preparing evidence, subpoenas, and more. I plan to find more internships that will help me narrow down what my specialty will be prior to law school. I am a first generation student and have always worked tremendously hard to open doors for not only myself, but to lead my younger siblings along the right path. In my free time I enjoy reading, cooking, and spending quality time with friends and family.
Education
Northeastern University
Bachelor's degree programMajors:
- Criminal Justice and Corrections, General
- Political Science and Government
North Rockland High School
High SchoolMiscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Bachelor's degree program
Graduate schools of interest:
Transfer schools of interest:
Majors of interest:
- Law
- Behavioral Sciences
- Criminal Justice and Corrections, General
- Political Science and Government
- English Language and Literature, General
- Psychology, General
Career
Dream career field:
Law Practice
Dream career goals:
Attorney
Receptionist
Rockland Urgent Care2021 – 20243 yearsIntern
U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York2026 – Present5 monthsIntern
Rockland County District Attorney’s Office2025 – 2025Office Assistant
Northeastern University School of Law2025 – 20261 yearSales Associate
Sunglass Hut2025 – Present1 yearStudent Aide-Internship
New York State Unified Court System2024 – 2024
Arts
Orchestra
Music2015 – Present
Public services
Volunteering
St. Peter's Church — Teacher.2022 – 2023
Future Interests
Advocacy
Politics
Volunteering
Entrepreneurship
Tawkify Meaningful Connections Scholarship
“Relax, Iza. No te ahogue en un vaso de agua.” My mother’s refrain, “don’t drown yourself in a cup of water”, lives in my mind as a constant reminder. My entire life, Mami has always taught me to find the good in things, to not let minor inconveniences set me back.
As a first-generation citizen and student, I've always felt the weight of my family's sacrifices on my shoulders. A constant reminder to keep pushing forward and make their efforts worth it. For as long as I can remember, I've made it clear that my family could always rely on me as we had learned to rely on mami. However, as things around me began to change, maintaining this strong image became more difficult.
To me, being a parent seemed simple and I just couldn’t understand why it proved to be so difficult for my dad. Before my mom moved us away from my dad and into my grandparents home, I spent countless nights wondering where he was, what could be more important than taking care of his family. I wondered why he spoke to my mom so poorly and, as the oldest, I intervened often. I felt it was my responsibility to be outspoken, set standards, and defend her. We would argue about almost anything and everything. It bothered me how imperfect he was. This led me to search for perfection in other aspects of my life. In school, I worked for the best grades I could achieve. Whether it was reading to extend my vocabulary, keeping my room tidy and organized, or taking extra time out of my mornings to make sure my hair and outfits were perfect, but the pressure I put on myself didn’t go unnoticed by Mami.
"No te ahogue en un vaso de agua." A silly phrase, but one that has helped me in almost every situation. By reminding myself of it, I remind myself of my mom. The woman who has been my rock throughout my life. The best qualities of mine are the ones I’ve learned from her. Though she is still learning all the processes of higher education and did not have the resources or knowledge to guide me as I make my journey to becoming an attorney; she has never wavered in her support. Every opportunity I have found, whether it be an internship, a youth council, or after school programs; she has been the one to push me to put myself out there and take those leaps of faith. To apply even when I was uncertain about my chances. She has seen my value long before I have, and for that I am forever indebted to her.
My mom came to this country at young age with nothing, but raising me she has made sure I never felt that I lacked anything. My mom has taught me the necessity for hard work, strength, and most importantly, to have fun. She has single-handedly molded me into the person I am today. She’s always had my back. She's been all these things whilst doing it all on her own not just for myself, but for my two younger brothers as well. Being raised this way, I feel that I have learned to be kinder to people because you truly never know what someone may be going through. The relationships and friendships I have built, throughout my lifetime, have always been ones rooted in support, respect, and understanding.
Growing up in a single-parent household, I never felt that I was missing anything. My mom was enough to play the roles of mom, dad, best friend, and my number one cheerleader. Everything I do, I do to make her sacrifices worthwhile. For these reasons, I am confident that I will be the first in my family to graduate with a college degree and the first attorney in my family.
Dinakara Rao Memorial Scholarship
When college applications rolled around, as embarrassing as it is to admit, I felt so behind and utterly unprepared. I had longed for years to attend college and finally study what I am passionate about, so it came as a surprise to me when the time finally came around and I felt lost. Little moments like going for college tours made me feel so alienated when I spoke to students in the tour groups. However, I am currently enrolled and studying at my dream school, Northeastern University with a combined major in Criminal Justice and Political Science. While of course I am proud of this feat, I have found myself battling the imposter syndrome I feel whenever I step into a new space. Both on campus, as well as in my endeavors outside of class. I have found myself constantly having to remind myself that I have worked to be in these spaces. What I lack in connections or legacy, I make up for with my work ethic and pure determination.
While being a first generation student comes with immense pride, it has without a doubt made my journey slightly different from that of those around me. Regardless, I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. My journey can be summarized as that of a sailor navigating uncharted waters. There have been obstacles throughout my educational and professional career where I have felt the difference between myself compared to those who weren't first generation or had connections. But, these obstacles have not stopped me from reaching my dream school. Nor have they stopped me from obtaining my dream internship at the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of NY. I have worked through my doubt, and taken leaps of faith to force my seat at the table and work my way into the spaces I could only dream of as a little girl.
This is thanks to my family who, from a young age, instilled in me the idea that I could accomplish anything I set my mind to. I remind myself time and time again that it is because of their sacrifices and their work that I am even privileged enough to choose my career and pursue a higher education. I refuse to let these privileges go unused.
By utilizing all the opportunities granted to me and becoming an attorney, I am determined to bring about a positive impact and tackle pressing issues either from within the courtroom, case by case, or ultimately through legislation, where there is real ability to positively impact my community. Specifically, I have found a deep passion for immigration law. Only 37% of immigrants nationwide receive legal counsel at their trials. Countless immigrants end up going against experienced attorneys and a complex legal system all on their own. Inequities like this are what drive my passion for law and to one day bring change. I strive to fight for social justice throughout my career and hope to use my education to combat so many injustices and systematic issues that plague our nation. My passion for law came from my desire to help people. However, I knew I didn't have the willingness to do this through the medical field; I found law to be the perfect area for me. Whether it is through the courtroom or through legislation, I know I have the power to help people through our legal system and make influential change.
Kristinspiration Scholarship
From a young age, my family instilled in me the idea that I could accomplish anything I set my mind to. As a first-generation citizen and the first in my family to attend college, I am filled with the utmost pride to be in this position and gratitude for the privileges I hold. I am privileged enough to be able to bring about change by utilizing the endless opportunities available to me, with access to a college education and being able to pursue whatever career path I desire. I refuse to let these privileges go unused. By becoming an attorney, I intend to use this privilege for positive change. I will have the voice to speak for those who have been silenced and give them a chance to accomplish the American dream the same way my grandparents did.
By first obtaining a bachelor's degree in political science and later attending law school, I will gain profound knowledge of our legal system as well as professional experience in a field I am deeply passionate about. By utilizing all the opportunities granted to me, I am determined to bring about a positive change and tackle pressing issues either from within the courtroom, case by case, or ultimately through legislation, where there is real ability to positively impact my community. Specifically, I have found a deep passion for immigration law. Only 37% of immigrants nationwide receive legal counsel at their trials. Countless immigrants end up going against experienced attorneys and a complex legal system all on their own. Inequities like this are what drive my passion for law and to one day bring change. I strive to fight for social justice throughout my career and hope to use my education to combat so many injustices and systematic issues that plague our nation. My passion for law came from my desire to help people. However, I knew I didn't have the willingness to do this through the medical field; I found law to be the perfect area for me. Whether it is through the courtroom or through legislation, I know I have the power to help people through our legal system and make influential change. Finally, through civic and community engagement, I have found an even better idea of what I want to do with my life. From a young age, I always dreamed of becoming an attorney. However, it wasn’t until my experiences with Senator Skoufis’ Youth Council, Youth and Government, and the Puerto Rican-Hispanic Youth Leadership Institute that I knew I wanted to go into politics and policymaking. Through all three programs, I had the opportunity to discuss and debate a multitude of proposed legislation and even propose my own at each YAG annual conference held in our state capitol. These programs have had an immeasurable impact on my goals and have solidified my passion for public policy.
In a society that has become increasingly polarized, it is our responsibility as citizens to work together for the betterment of our atmosphere. Citizenship is not simply being a constituent of your community; it is actively engaging and doing what you need to do to better it. I hope to be able to foster this growth throughout my career. This scholarship will help me manage the overwhelming costs of college as I continue this journey, and I hope you will consider me for this award.
First-Gen Futures Scholarship
From a young age, my family instilled in me the idea that I could accomplish anything I set my mind to. As a first-generation citizen and the first in my family to attend college, I am filled with the utmost pride to be in this position and gratitude for the privileges I hold. I am privileged enough to be able to bring about change by utilizing the endless opportunities available to me, with access to a college education and being able to pursue whatever career path I desire. I refuse to let these privileges go unused. By becoming an attorney, I intend to use this privilege for positive change. I will have the voice to speak for those who have been silenced and give them a chance to accomplish the American dream the same way my grandparents did.
By first obtaining a bachelor's degree in political science and later attending law school, I will gain profound knowledge of our legal system as well as professional experience in a field I am deeply passionate about. By utilizing all the opportunities granted to me, I am determined to bring about a positive change and tackle pressing issues either from within the courtroom, case by case, or ultimately through legislation, where there is real ability to positively impact my community. Specifically, I have found a deep passion for immigration law. Only 37% of immigrants nationwide receive legal counsel at their trials. Countless immigrants end up going against experienced attorneys and a complex legal system all on their own. Inequities like this are what drive my passion for law and to one day bring change. I strive to fight for social justice throughout my career and hope to use my education to combat so many injustices and systematic issues that plague our nation.
In order to prepare myself for college, I did my research on all the opportunities that I wanted to take advantage of during my undergraduate years. I knew how privileged I was to be able to pursue a higher education and did not want to let any opportunities pass me by simply because I was not aware of them beforehand. Knowing no one would be able to guide me through this process, I’ve spent hours upon hours researching programs such as fellowships, co-ops, and study-abroad programs. I know that as a first-generation student I must work harder than someone who isn’t first-gen and has access to more opportunities just by the network they have inherited. This has only motivated me and driven me to work harder. On the social aspect, I found cultural groups such as the Dominican Student Association at my school in order to find somewhere I felt I belonged. Being surrounded by like-minded students who share many of the same experiences I do helped ease my nerves as I felt like an outsider at my school. The most important part of preparing for college was reminding myself that I deserved to be there. As a first-generation student, I remind myself daily that I have worked tremendously hard to be in the spaces I am in and am standing atop the shoulders of my family who came before me and allowed for me to be in this position in the first place. Along with this club, I’ve joined Phi Alpha Delta a legal fraternity to expand my network, work a part-time job while still being a Dean’s list student, and have secured a summer internship at my local district attorney’s office back home. I am proud to be a first-generation student and will keep working hard towards my goals.
Harry & Mary Sheaffer Scholarship
From a young age, my family instilled in me the idea that I could accomplish anything I set my mind to. As a first-generation citizen and the first in my family to attend college, I am filled with the utmost pride to be in this position and gratitude for the privileges I hold. I am privileged enough to be able to bring about change by utilizing the endless opportunities available to me, with access to a college education and being able to pursue whatever career path I desire. I refuse to let these privileges go unused. By becoming an attorney, I intend to use this privilege for positive change. I will have the voice to speak for those who have been silenced and give them a chance to accomplish the American dream the same way my grandparents did.
By first obtaining a bachelor's degree in political science and later attending law school, I will gain profound knowledge of our legal system as well as professional experience in a field I am deeply passionate about. By utilizing all the opportunities granted to me, I am determined to bring about a positive change and tackle pressing issues either from within the courtroom, case by case, or ultimately through legislation, where there is real ability to positively impact my community. Specifically, I have found a deep passion for immigration law. Only 37% of immigrants nationwide receive legal counsel at their trials. Countless immigrants end up going against experienced attorneys and a complex legal system all on their own. Inequities like this are what drive my passion for law and to one day bring change. I strive to fight for social justice throughout my career and hope to use my education to combat so many injustices and systematic issues that plague our nation. My passion for law came from my desire to help people. However, I knew I didn't have the willingness to do this through the medical field; I found law to be the perfect area for me. Whether it is through the courtroom or through legislation, I know I have the power to help people through our legal system and make influential change. Finally, through civic and community engagement, I have found an even better idea of what I want to do with my life. From a young age, I always dreamed of becoming an attorney. However, it wasn’t until my experiences with Senator Skoufis’ Youth Council, Youth and Government, and the Puerto Rican-Hispanic Youth Leadership Institute that I knew I wanted to go into politics and policymaking. Through all three programs, I had the opportunity to discuss and debate a multitude of proposed legislation and even propose my own at each YAG annual conference held in our state capitol. These programs have had an immeasurable impact on my goals and have solidified my passion for public policy.
In a society that has become increasingly polarized, it is our responsibility as citizens to work together for the betterment of our atmosphere. Citizenship is not simply being a constituent of your community; it is actively engaging and doing what you need to do to better it. I hope to be able to foster this growth throughout my career.
Ryan T. Herich Memorial Scholarship
My name is Izabellah Reynoso and I am currently a freshman at Northeastern University studying Criminal Justice and Political Science. This scholarship will help my mom and I mitigate the overwhelming financial burdens of college tuition as I strive towards my dream of a career in the legal field. Much like Ryan, my family knows me as the eldest daughter who is always ready to engage, and will often provoke, an argument about topics that interest me especially politics. Thank you in advance for your consideration for this generous scholarship.
From a young age, my family instilled in me the idea that I could accomplish anything I set my mind to. As a first-generation citizen and the first in my family to attend college, I am filled with the utmost pride to be in this position and gratitude for the privileges I hold. I am privileged enough to be able to bring about change by utilizing the endless opportunities available to me, with access to a college education and being able to pursue whatever career path I desire. I refuse to let these privileges go unused. By becoming an attorney, I intend to use this privilege for positive change. I will have the voice to speak for those who have been silenced and give them a chance to accomplish the American dream the same way my grandparents did.
By first obtaining a bachelor's degree in political science and later attending law school, I will gain profound knowledge of our legal system as well as professional experience in a field I am deeply passionate about. By utilizing all the opportunities granted to me, I am determined to bring about a positive change and tackle pressing issues either from within the courtroom, case by case, or ultimately through legislation, where there is real ability to positively impact my community. Specifically, I have found a deep passion for immigration law. Only 37% of immigrants nationwide receive legal counsel at their trials. Countless immigrants end up going against experienced attorneys and a complex legal system all on their own. Inequities like this are what drive my passion for law and to one day bring change. I strive to fight for social justice throughout my career and hope to use my education to combat so many injustices and systematic issues that plague our nation. My passion for law came from my desire to help people. Whether it is through the courtroom or through legislation, I know I have the power to help people through our legal system and make influential change. Finally, through civic and community engagement, I have found an even better idea of what I want to do with my life. From a young age, I always dreamed of becoming an attorney. However, it wasn’t until my experiences with Senator Skoufis’ Youth Council, Youth and Government, and the Puerto Rican-Hispanic Youth Leadership Institute that I knew I wanted to go into politics and policymaking. Through all three programs, I had the opportunity to discuss and debate a multitude of proposed legislation and even propose my own. These programs have had an immeasurable impact on my goals and have solidified my passion for public policy.
In a society that has become increasingly polarized, it is our responsibility as citizens to work together, looking back at history as a guide to learn from past mistakes. Citizenship is not simply being a constituent of your community; it is actively engaging and doing what you need to do to better it. I hope to be able to foster this growth throughout my career.
Special Delivery of Dreams Scholarship
To me, being a parent always seemed simple, and I just couldn’t understand why it proved to be so difficult for my dad. I spent countless nights wondering where he was and what could be more important than taking care of his family. I wondered why he spoke to my mom so poorly, and as the oldest, I intervened often. I felt it was my responsibility to be outspoken, set standards, and defend her. It strained my relationship with my dad; everything he did would frustrate me. We would argue about almost anything and everything. It bothered me how imperfect he was. This led me to search for perfection in other aspects of my life. In school, I worked for the best grades I could achieve. Whether it was reading to extend my vocabulary, keeping my room tidy and organized, or taking extra time out of my mornings to make sure my hair and outfits were perfect. I placed an overwhelming amount of pressure on myself to be perfect. As I grew older, I understood that I could not deflect my feelings and hyperfixate in other areas. I had to accept the fact that my father’s lack of parenting was not my fault; it was only his. As soon as I could understand this concept, I could also understand that I didn’t need to be a sheltered, “perfect” person. I was able to let myself wear new clothes, try new things, and truly come out of my shell. I aspire to be able to help others who come from broken households, specifically through our legal system as an attorney. By practicing family law, I know I will be able to make a difference. By becoming an attorney, I intend to use this privilege for positive change. I will have the voice to speak for those who have been silenced and give them a chance to accomplish the American dream the same way my grandparents did. I feel I should be considered for this award because I am deeply invested in politics and bringing about positive change to my community through policy and law. By first obtaining a bachelor's degree in Political Science and later attending law school, I will gain a profound knowledge of our legal system as well as professional experience in a field I am deeply passionate about. By utilizing all the opportunities granted to me I am determined to bring about a positive change in the courtroom. This scholarship will help me manage the costs of college as I continue on my journey.
I feel that philately is not very common hobby and therefore social media platforms can be used to directly target young people by educating them on this subject. By utilizing social media to showcase the historical, cultural, and artistic value of stamps, it connects them to the world’s stories in a tangible way. Other methods to grasp peoples attention to this topic can include programs such as themed collections, workshops, and contests that make this hobby interactive and hands on. Furthermore, if we focus on students, starter kits and field trips to museums or post offices can spark initial interest. Additionally, associating philately with other school subjects like science fosters deeper engagement. By emphasizing its educational and rewarding aspects, philately can become a gateway to curiosity, patience, and creativity for young minds.
Dr. Christine Lawther First in the Family Scholarship
As we drove along the rocky, unpaved road and arrived at my grandfather's land, I savored the sweet taste of the air and admired the vibrant colors of the wildlife before me. We were immediately greeted by an old wooden house, its turquoise paint now faded, while the memories and stories shared by my grandpa remained vivid and bright. Standing in the humble beginnings of my grandparents' lives made me realize how far they had come and how far we, as a family, have progressed.
Like thousands of other hard working immigrant families who come here in search of a better life, my family arrived in America in the '90s with the same goal. They instilled in me the virtues of hard work and determination. My grandparents, especially, have always motivated me and, from a young age, taught me that I can accomplish anything I set my mind to. Within my family, I have always been the golden girl. They regard me with pride and have full faith that I will succeed. As a first-generation citizen, I have every opportunity to do so. Visiting the Dominican Republic for the first time put into perspective how privileged I truly am. With endless opportunities, access to education, and freedom — all things I do not take for granted. After seeing my family’s homeland for the first time, I felt these emotions tenfold; I felt so grateful for the life I lead and knew I had no choice but to succeed.
By becoming an attorney, I intend to use this privilege for positive change. I will have the voice to speak for those who have been silenced and give them a chance to accomplish the American dream the same way my grandparents did. By first obtaining a bachelor's degree in political science and later attending law school, I will gain profound knowledge of our legal system as well as professional experience in a field I am deeply passionate about. By utilizing all the opportunities granted to me, I am determined to bring about a positive change and tackle pressing issues either from within the courtroom, case by case, or ultimately through legislation, where there is real ability to positively impact my community. My passion for law came from my desire to help people. However, I knew I didn't have the willingness to do this through the medical field; I found law to be the perfect area for me. Whether it is through the courtroom or through legislation, I know I have the power to help people through our legal system and make influential change. Finally, through civic and community engagement, I have found an even better idea of what I want to do with my life. From a young age, I always dreamed of becoming an attorney. However, it wasn’t until my experiences with Senator Skoufis’ Youth Council, Youth and Government, and the Puerto Rican-Hispanic Youth Leadership Institute that I knew I wanted to go into politics and policymaking. Through all three programs, I had the opportunity to discuss and debate a multitude of proposed legislation and even propose my own at each YAG annual conference held in our state capitol. These programs have had an immeasurable impact on my goals and have solidified my passion for public policy. I hope to be able to foster positive growth throughout my career. This scholarship will help me manage the costs of college as I continue this journey, and I hope you will consider me for this award.
Jose Prado Scholarship – Strength, Faith, and Family
From a young age, my family instilled in me the idea that I could accomplish anything I set my mind to. As a first-generation citizen and the first in my family to attend college, I am filled with the utmost pride to be in this position and gratitude for the privileges I hold. I am privileged enough to be able to bring about change by utilizing the endless opportunities available to me; with access to a college education and being able to pursue whatever career path I desire. I refuse to let these privileges go unused. By becoming an attorney, I intend to use this privilege for positive change. I will have the voice to speak for those who have been silenced and give them a chance to accomplish the American dream the same way my grandparents did.
By first obtaining a bachelor's degree in political science and later attending law school, I will gain profound knowledge of our legal system as well as professional experience in a field I am deeply passionate about. By utilizing all the opportunities granted to me, I am determined to bring about a positive change and tackle pressing issues either from within the courtroom, case by case, or ultimately through legislation, where there is real ability to positively impact my community. Specifically, I have found a deep passion for immigration law. Only 37% of immigrants nationwide receive legal counsel at their trials. Countless immigrants end up going against experienced attorneys and a complex legal system all on their own. Inequities like this are what drive my passion for law and to one day bring change. I strive to fight for social justice throughout my career and hope to use my education to combat so many injustices and systematic issues that plague our nation. My passion for law came from my desire to help people. However, I knew I didn't have the willingness to do this through the medical field; I found law to be the perfect area for me. Whether it is through the courtroom or through legislation, I know I have the power to help people through our legal system and make influential change. Finally, through civic and community engagement, I have found an even better idea of what I want to do with my life. From a young age, I always dreamed of becoming an attorney. However, it wasn’t until my experiences with Senator Skoufis’ Youth Council, Youth and Government, and the Puerto Rican-Hispanic Youth Leadership Institute that I knew I wanted to go into politics and policymaking. Through all three programs, I had the opportunity to discuss and debate a multitude of proposed legislation and even propose my own at each YAG annual conference held in our state capitol. These programs have had an immeasurable impact on my goals and have solidified my passion for public policy.
In a society that has become increasingly polarized, it is our responsibility as citizens to work together for the betterment of our atmosphere. I hope to be able to foster this growth throughout my career. This scholarship will help me manage the costs of college as I continue this journey, and I hope you will consider me for this award.
Redefining Victory Scholarship
Growing up, I wanted to be the best at everything I tried. I studied tirelessly and reviewed assignments until perfection. I’d frequently look for extra credit opportunities and argue with teachers for extra points on tests in order to achieve the best grades possible. I signed up for each club and activity that interested me without thinking about the repercussions. Debate, Mock Trial, Student Government, you name it, I joined. Balancing these clubs along with my responsibilities at home as well as my part time job has been the most challenging part of my high school career. A quote from my mom is what kept me going as I struggled to navigate through my duties, “No te ahogue en un vaso de agua'' which directly translates to, “don't drown yourself in a cup of water”. It is more important though, to read between the lines. Its indirect translation, its real meaning, is to not let myself get so caught up in the minuscule tasks of daily life. As much as I loved and enjoyed my extracurricular activities, at times I felt myself drowning in the pressure I placed on myself to be “well-rounded” as I would tell others, but in reality I was simply aiming to be perfect.
For a long time, I confused perfection for success. In my eyes, I could only succeed if I was perfect. Much of this had to do with the imperfection of my life at home. Being raised in a household that began with two parents and at a young age shifted to a single parent household made me grow up a lot earlier than I should have. I grew up embarrassed that I didn't live with my father, embarrassed to think about his actions that led to my parents' split, but most of all embarrassed to not have a “normal” family. As I grew older, I understood that I could not deflect my feelings and hyperfixate in other areas. I had to accept the fact that my father’s lack of parenting was not my fault; it was only his. As soon as I could understand this concept, I could also understand that I didn’t need to be a sheltered, “perfect” person. I was able to let myself wear new clothes, try new things, and truly come out of my shell. That to me is success.
Finding happiness in oneself, without trying to change or fit into a mold that we perceive as ideal is true success in my eyes. Being fulfilled with what you have, whether it be family, an education, or a career, is how I aim to be successful. I aspire to be able to help others who come from broken households, specifically through our legal system as an attorney. Family law is a specialty I am deeply interested in pursuing. By practicing family law, I know I will be able to make a difference and that is how I will be successful. This scholarship will help me work towards my ultimate goal by providing me with relief on the daunting amounts of college costs. I hope you will consider me for this scholarship and hope to have the opportunity to use this scholarship money as I pursue my passion for law and helping others.
Hispanic Achievement Scholarship
WinnerFrom a young age, my family instilled in me the idea that I could accomplish anything I set my mind to. They immigrated to the U.S. from the Dominican Republic in the 90s to provide me with the privileges I now hold as a first-generation citizen. I am filled with the utmost pride to be in this position and gratitude for the privileges I hold. I am privileged enough to be able to bring about change by utilizing the endless opportunities available to me; with access to a college education and being able to pursue whatever career path I desire. I refuse to let these privileges go unused. By becoming an attorney, I intend to use this privilege for positive change. I will have the voice to speak for those who have been silenced and give them a chance to accomplish the American dream the same way my grandparents and my mother did. In the wise words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., “We must all live together as brothers or perish alone as fools.” In a society that has become increasingly polarized, it is our responsibility as citizens to work together for the betterment of our atmosphere. By first obtaining a bachelor's degree in Political Science and later attending law school, I will gain a profound knowledge of our legal system as well as professional experience in a field I am deeply passionate about. By utilizing all the opportunities granted to me I am determined to bring about a positive change in the courtroom. Specifically, I have found a deep passion for immigration law. Only 37% of immigrants nationwide receive legal counsel at their trials. Countless immigrants end up going against experienced attorneys and a complex legal system all on their own. Inequities like this are what drive my passion for law, and to one day bring change. I hope to tackle this issue either through the courtroom, case by case, or ultimately through legislation. Where there is real ability to positively impact my community. Throughout my high school career, I have joined numerous clubs and organizations that help me as I work towards this goal. The most impactful club I have joined is the Angelo Del Toro Puerto Rican-Hispanic Youth Leadership Institute which gave me the opportunity to go to Albany and debate various bills alongside like-minded peers. Furthermore, I’ve also been a part of Mock Trial which allowed me to experience a trial simulation and advocate as an attorney. This opportunity has only furthered my interest in becoming an attorney and also has helped boost my confidence and public speaking skills. By utilizing all the opportunities granted to me I am determined to bring about a positive change in the courtroom. This scholarship will help me manage the overwhelming costs of college and I hope you will consider me for this award.