My career goals within the trades are to become a master automotive technician, with a specialization in electric and high-performance German vehicles. I’m currently attending Universal Technical Institute, where I’m studying Automotive Technology, Electric Vehicles, and the BMW FastTrack program. This education is giving me hands-on experience with modern diagnostic tools, advanced vehicle systems, and specialized training that will prepare me for a successful future in the industry. One of my biggest dreams is to be accepted into Porsche’s PTAP program and eventually work with their motorsport team, where performance and innovation come together. What inspired me to pursue this path was my love for cars, especially German engineering. Growing up, I was always fascinated by engines, how they work, how they sound, and the power they produce. But beyond just a passion for cars, it was my parents who truly inspired me. As a first-generation Mexican-American, I watched them work tirelessly to give my siblings and me a better life. Their sacrifices taught me the value of hard work and staying committed, even when things get difficult. I wanted to take that same work ethic and apply it to something I love, which is why I chose to pursue a career in the automotive field. I’ve also made it a point to give back to my community. I've volunteered at my local church, helping clean and prepare the space every week before mass. During the holidays, I’ve helped give out food bags and Christmas gifts to families in need, and I’ve also prepared sandwiches for the homeless that were delivered to local food banks. These experiences have humbled me and reminded me that giving back is just as important as moving forward. In the future, I hope to support and mentor students who are interested in the trades but may not know where to start. I know what it feels like to be unsure of your direction, especially when you don’t have anyone in your family who’s taken that path before. I want to be someone who others can turn to for advice, encouragement, and knowledge. Whether it’s through volunteering at schools or just simply sharing my story. My ultimate goal is not just to succeed for myself, but to help others along the way. The Automotive Trade gave me direction and purpose, and I want to be a part of offering that same opportunity to the next generation.

My name is Israel, and I am a graduating senior from South High School in Bakersfield, CA. I will be pursuing automotive technology at UTI Long Beach. I have already been enrolled since August 2024, which shows how dedicated I have been to the automotive field. I chose UTI Long Beach because I want to specialize in areas that others aren't. I am not only taking Auto Technology, but I am also included in EV Technology and will be taking specialized training from BMWFastTrack. German engineering has always fascinated me, but that's not entirely what I'm going for. I want to be a part of being in their Motorsport teams as a lead technician, whether it be Audi, BMW, or Porsche. I want to be in those innovative teams that always change, always advance much quicker than others, and that just intrigues my ambitions to learn and be a part of that class. Along those lines, Porsche offers their PTAP program for graduates from UTI who stand out from their class, and I know that I'll be at their door knocking before they even know it. I didn't pursue this trade just because I like cars, I have been in my Automotive Technology program here at the Regional Occupational Center since my Junior year. These past two years, I not only joined as someone who had never worked on cars before, but I also came out as a high-entry-level technician. I recently graduated from ROC on May 21, earning a Most Outstanding Student Plaque from all the Automotive classes. These and many more achievements I'm incredibly proud of didn't just fall into my hands. They came to me with dedication, perseverance, resilience, and, nonetheless, the support of my family, friends, and community around me.

Being a first-generation Mexican-American has shaped how I see the world and my place in it. I grew up watching my parents work hard to give us a better life, even without having gone to college themselves. When my dad got injured and couldn’t work, my mom took on two jobs to support our family. I got my first job to help out, and that experience made me realize how quickly life can change—and how important it is to stay strong and keep pushing forward. As the oldest of four siblings, I’ve always needed to lead by example. That responsibility taught me to stay focused, humble, and look for ways to improve. It also made me value every opportunity, especially in my education. My background reminds me daily not to take anything for granted. That’s why I volunteer at my church and during the holidays, giving back to needy families. I know what it feels like to struggle, and I want to be someone who brings hope and support to others. My identity has made me who I am—motivated, hardworking, and proud of my roots. It drives me to chase my dreams in the automotive field and to one day give back to my community even more.

The trade I’m passionate about pursuing is automotive technology. I’ve always been fascinated by cars, even before I knew what was under the hood. I used to stare at them as they passed, wondering how they worked and what made them move quickly. But at that time, it was just curiosity. I didn’t know that I’d want to make a career out of it someday. What sparked that passion was my dad. Growing up, I’d see my dad working on our family car in the driveway. He didn’t have a fancy garage or a complete set of tools—just enough to finish the job. After working long shifts, he’d come home, change out of his work clothes, and start working on the car, whether it was an oil change or trying to fix something that broke. I’d sit outside with him, sometimes handing him tools and watching quietly. I didn’t always understand what he was doing, but I loved those moments. He made it look special, like even fixing a car was an act of care. He never complained. He gave it his all, even if it was hot outside or I was tired. That inspired me most, not just the work, but his attitude. He always kept going. That showed me what real dedication looks like. I realized I wanted to be like him. I wanted to do something with my hands that involved solving problems and helping others, just like he did for our family. When I finally got the chance to take an automotive class, I didn’t know what to expect. I was nervous because I was placed in a second-year class by mistake and felt like I didn’t belong. But I kept thinking about my dad and all the times I watched him figure things out, even when he didn’t have all the answers. So I stayed in the class. I asked questions, studied harder than ever before, slowly started getting better, became one of the top students in the class, and even got to compete with the school’s race team. That moment made me feel like I was really on the right path. Now, I’m excited to keep learning and growing in this trade. I want to specialize in working on German cars one day—maybe even Porsches—and be part of a motorsports team. But no matter how far I go, I’ll always carry those early memories: my dad in the driveway, the smell of motor oil in the air, and the feeling of wanting to make him proud. That’s where my passion came from, so I’m chasing this dream.

Why have you chosen your career path? I chose my career path in the automotive field out of curiosity and a need to overcome. I've always been fascinated by how things work—whether machines, electronics, or anything else I could get my hands on, I'd eventually take it apart to see what was inside. That curiosity wasn't just about breaking things down and getting scolded by my parents. It was about understanding, learning, and putting them back together. Cars especially caught my attention. The way engines roared and parts move in perfect rhythm sparked something in me. Over time, that spark became a fire in my engine, pushing me to chase more profound knowledge of automotive technology. How did you choose which school to attend or who to apprentice under? My final decision to attend school to get a higher education was UTI Long Beach. I never thought I would go to a trade school until I learned about the skills and time there compared to a typical college. However, I would say that trade school is more expensive than college because it's a short period and is considered a "For-profit" school. I come from a low-income family of 6, so the financial burden will be heavily on me and my parents during my time there. However, I chose UTI Long Beach specifically because they offer manufacturer-specific training. I have been accepted into the Auto II & EV Technology and BMW FastTrack. Acquiring this specific training will give me an advantage in German vehicles and enable me to find a job in this area of expertise. Who was your biggest inspiration? My biggest inspiration was my parents. Why? My parents gave up everything they had to immigrate to this country, to give their children a better life, and to be able to show that their sacrifice would make a change in the world. They have always worked hard and supported me and my siblings, even though they had little. I am the oldest child of 4 and have constantly been reminded that I am the role model for my siblings, and I take that with pride. Being the oldest means I've experienced everything firsthand before them and always take advantage of it. Because I might struggle, but it will allow me to learn and pass it on to my siblings in hopes that even they can become better than I. But it doesn't stop within my family, I also love helping others, specifically with students who also want to learn about the automotive field and those who are curious. My parents' sacrifices and resilience have brought me here to this point in my life, where I will overcome and become the future of my family and the future of the automotive industry. Is there anything else you want us to know? Additional information about me is that I come from a low-income family of 6. My dad doesn't have a consistent job due to certain limitations of the injuries he sustained recently from work, and his job also changes along with the seasons. Trade school tuition is expensive because FAFSA covers only a certain amount of tuition. I also do not have housing yet, and I don't have relatives nearby. UTI doesn't have on-campus housing like dorms, but is affiliated with housing services. However, those also come at a hefty price due to the location. I am currently trying to get into work-study to pay off my tuition promptly and apply to as many scholarships and opportunities as possible to relieve my financial burden.

Since I was a kid, I have always been fascinated by cars. I loved how they looked, how their engines sounded. At the time, I didn’t understand how they worked, but I knew I wanted to learn. As I got older, my curiosity grew, and I found myself wanting to take things apart just to see how they worked. But, I never consider a career in the automotive field until high school, when I had the opportunity to join my school’s Auto Technology program. Coming from a first-generation Mexican-American family, I learned the value of hard work and perseverance from my parents. They came to the U.S. with little but worked tirelessly to provide for our family. Their sacrifices motivated me to find a career that I was passionate about and that could also give me a stable future. When I joined my high school’s automotive program, I was determined to make the most of it. At first, it was challenging. I was placed in a second-year class with students who already had experience, while I was starting from zero. I had to work harder than everyone else just to keep up. But instead of giving up, I pushed myself. I spent extra time studying, asking questions, and practicing every chance I got. Over time, I became one of my teacher’s best students and even earned a spot on our program’s Competition Team. Through competitions, I was able to prove my skills, winning first place in precision measuring, tools and parts identification, and second place in electrical systems, also including that I qualified for state conference for SkillsUSA. These experiences gave me the confidence that this was the right career for me. What I love most about automotive technology is the challenge of diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Every car is different, and every problem requires patience and problem-solving. Whether it’s working on an engine, troubleshooting electrical issues, or learning how to use specialty tools, I enjoy every part of the process. There is always something new to learn, and that excites me. My goal is to specialize in high-performance and luxury cars, especially German brands like Porsche. I plan to continue my education at UTI, where I will be part of the Automotive and BMW FastTrack program. In hopes of being accepted into Porsches PTAP program and eventually to work for Porsche’s motorsport team and be part of something bigger than myself. Choosing automotive technology has been one of the best decisions I have made. It’s a field that excites me, challenges me, and pushes me to keep learning. I look forward to turning my passion into a lifelong career and making my family proud.

For me, college is more than just an education; it’s an opportunity to redefine my future and push beyond the limits set before me. As a first-generation student, I have always understood the weight of this journey. My parents, both from Mexico, worked tirelessly to give me and my siblings a better life, sacrificing their own educational opportunities so that we could have ours. Their sacrifices have become my motivation, and attending college is my way of honoring their hard work while making my own path. Going to college means gaining the knowledge and skills that will help me turn my passion for cars into a lifelong career. From the moment I entered my Auto Technology program at ROC, I knew that this field was where I belonged. Through dedication, I not only excelled in my studies but also earned a spot on my program’s competition Team, where I won first place in precision measuring during competitions. These experiences solidified my love for automotive technology and pushed me to work harder. Now, I am preparing to attend UTI Long Beach, where I have been accepted into the Auto Technology and BMW FastTrack program. This is just the beginning of my journey toward mastering high-performance automotive modification. My ultimate goal is to work for Porsche’s motorsport team, where I can push the limits of innovation and performance. I have always admired Porsche for its engineering excellence, and the idea of working on race cars, fine-tuning engines, and being part of a team that competes at the highest level is a dream that fuels my ambition. To achieve this, I plan to absorb everything I can during my time at UTI, build industry connections, and continuously improve my skills. Beyond my personal career goals, I also want to give back. I know what it’s like to face challenges and uncertainty when pursuing a trade, and I want to help future students who are in the same position I once was. Whether it’s mentoring others, sharing my experiences, or helping them explore opportunities in the automotive field, I want to contribute to the next generation of skilled technicians. Going to college isn’t just about securing a job, it’s about growth, opportunity, and proving that hard work and determination can turn dreams into reality. I refuse to settle for less, and I will continue pushing forward until I achieve everything I have set out to accomplish.

Cars have always caught my attention, but I never really understood them until I started learning about how they work. At first, I didn’t know anything about engines, transmissions, or even basic maintenance, but as I spent more time around cars, I realized how much I enjoyed working on them. There’s something about using my hands, taking things apart, and putting them back together that just feels right. Engines, especially, amaze me. The way they sound, the way they create power, and how every little part plays a role in making a car move—it all interests me. What I love most about this trade is that there’s always more to learn. Every car brand builds their vehicles differently, and I find it exciting to see how each one approaches engineering. My biggest goal is to work on high-performance cars, especially Porsche, because I admire their design, technology, and success in racing. I know getting to that level will take a lot of effort, but I enjoy the challenge. Hard work doesn’t scare me because I’ve seen how my parents worked hard to support our family, and I want to do the same for myself. Beyond just working on cars, I also want to give back to my community. One of the biggest ways I plan to do this is by helping future students who are interested in the automotive trade. I know what it feels like to start with no experience, feeling unsure about whether you’re good enough or if you’ll ever understand everything. I want to be someone who helps guide students through that stage, whether it’s by mentoring, sharing advice, or even just encouraging them to keep going. If I can make it easier for someone else to get into this field, I want to do that. I also want to keep volunteering. I’ve helped at food banks, given out presents during Christmas, and helped clean my church before mass, and these experiences have shown me how much small actions can mean to people. Life is unpredictable, and I’ve seen firsthand how things can change overnight. My dad got hurt at work and couldn’t work for almost a year, so my mom had to work two jobs to keep us stable. That situation taught me that you never know what someone else is going through, which is why I want to keep helping whenever I can. In the end, my passion for cars is more than just a career—it’s something I truly enjoy, and I want to use what I learn to help others in the future. Whether it’s through my job, helping students, or volunteering, I want to make a difference, just like others have helped me along the way.

Growing up as the oldest of four in a Hispanic family, I’ve always felt the responsibility to set an example. My parents immigrated from Mexico with little to nothing , but they worked hard to give us a better life. Seeing their dedication taught me that success doesn’t come easy, you have to work for it. At first, I didn’t know what I envisioned myself to do as a career. But when I joined my high school’s automotive program, everything changed. I had never worked on cars before, other than simple maintenance at home, but I was eager to learn. I was placed in a 2nd year class as a 1st year student. I felt left out due to the fact that everyone had the knowledge they needed to advance in this class but I didn’t. However, I didn't let that stop me from trying to be better. I asked for extra jobs even if it had nothing to do with working on cars, just by showing that I am eager to work or keep myself busy can demonstrate that you're dedicated. During that time I worked on certifications that others already had , and I was given the chance to work on actual customer cars. The knowledge that I gained, applied towards those projects and I excelled. It seemed as though I was naturally able to remove, replace and correct the problems and it seemed all so smooth. Through my hard work, I became one of my programs top students and earned a spot on our Competitions Team. Competing against other local schools and winning first place in precision measuring proved to me that I had found my passion. I’ve also had the chance to gain real experience, from working on customer cars in my school’s shop to interning at a Ford dealership. Something that not every student can get the chance to do. Opportunities like this really made my desires to work as a technician grow. These were actual customer cars that come through a dealership and it just felt so cool. In addition to working at a dealership all the technicians have their experiences and it's nice to have all these connections and be able to know what pathway would fit for me. These opportunities pushed me to grow, not just in skill but in confidence. I’ve learned that no matter how difficult something seems at first, if I put in the effort, I can figure it out. My goal is to specialize in German cars, and one day, I hope to work for Porsche’s motorsport team. I know it won’t be easy, but I’m ready to keep learning and pushing forward. My journey so far has taught me that challenges aren’t roadblocks, they’re just part of the process. Through everything, I’ve also learned the importance of giving back. My family has gone through tough times, especially when my dad got hurt and couldn’t work. But we found a way to keep going. That’s why I volunteer, whether it’s helping at church or giving food to those in need because I know how much a little help can mean. I’m proud of how far I’ve come, but I know this is just the beginning. I want to keep learning, keep improving, and one day, help others who are just starting their journey, just like I once was.

I got it! Here’s a more grounded and "manly" version of your story. Let me know if you want any changes. --- ### Built to Last The first time I saw my dad working on a car, it wasn’t some perfect, clean-cut repair—it was him underneath our beat-up truck, hands covered in grease, struggling to break loose a rusted bolt. It wasn’t pretty, but it was real work. No complaining, no shortcuts, just persistence. He wasn’t a mechanic, but he did what had to be done to keep our family moving. Watching him, I learned something important: if you want something done, you figure it out and get to work. Growing up as the oldest of four in a Mexican-American family, I knew early on that nothing was ever handed to you. My parents worked long hours to make sure we had food on the table, and college was never a guarantee. But one thing they always taught me was that skills matter—whether with your hands or your mind, knowing how to do something well would take you far. At first, I never thought I’d end up in the automotive field. I liked cars, but I wasn’t the type to be under the hood all the time. That changed when I joined my high school’s Auto Technology program. I was thrown into a second-year class with no experience while everyone around me already knew their way around engines. I had two choices: fall behind or put in the work. I stayed after class, asked questions, and took on jobs that others avoided. I learned how to diagnose problems, measure components precisely, and, most importantly, work under pressure. It wasn’t just about fixing cars—it was about proving to myself that I could take on any challenge and figure it out, just like my dad did with that rusted bolt. My hard work paid off when I earned a spot on my school’s Competition Team, competing against some of the other local schools in the city. At my first competition, I won first place in precision measuring. That moment proved something to me: I wasn’t just another kid in a trade class—I had the potential to be one of the best. The person who shaped my mindset the most is my father. He never got the chance to pursue higher education, but he showed me what it meant to be disciplined, reliable, and skilled. His work ethic pushed me to keep going when things got tough. He didn’t just teach me how to work hard—he taught me to take pride in what I do. Now, as I prepare to attend UTI and join BMW’s FastTrack program, I know this is just the beginning. I plan to push myself even further, aiming to work for Porsche’s motorsport team. But beyond my personal goals, I want to use my skills to make an impact. Helping others stay safe on the road, proving that skilled trades are just as valuable as any degree, and eventually mentoring young technicians who are just starting. In the end, I’m not just chasing a career. I’m building something real. In the trades, your work speaks for itself. Whether it’s a perfectly tuned engine or a car that’s back on the road after a tough repair, the results don’t lie. That’s the kind of work I want to do- work that lasts, work that matters.

Being Mexican-American has shaped me in ways that go beyond just culture-it has defined my work ethic, my resilience, and my dreams. My parents came to this country with nothing but the hope of giving their children a better life. They didn't have the chance to go to college, but they worked tirelessly to make sure my siblings and I never went without food, clothes, or a roof over our heads. Watching them struggle yet never complain taught me that success isn't just about talent-it's about perseverance, sacrifice, and taking pride in your work. That lesson has stuck with me, and it's why I push myself every day to become the best version of myself. I chose to pursue automotive technology because I love cars, but more than that, I want to be part of something bigger. My goal is to work for Porsche's motorsport team, where I can be at the forefront of high-performance engineering. This dream isn't just about me-it's about proving that someone from a first-generation, low-income background can make it in an industry where few people look like me. Through my education at UTI and the BMW FastTrack program, I'm taking the steps necessary to build the skills and connections that will get me there. However, pursuing this path comes with financial challenges. My family of six lives on a limited income, and while my parents support my dreams, they cant afford to pay for my education. I've worked hard to earn my place in trade school, but without scholarships, the cost of tuition, tools, and living expenses would be overwhelming. This scholarship would ease that burden, allowing me to focus on my training without constantly worrying about how to make ends meet. My heritage has taught me that hard work and determination can open doors. I'm ready to walk through those doors-I just need the opportunity to do so. This scholarship would bring me one step closer to achieving my goals, not just for myself but for my family and for the younger generation who will see that anything is possible with dedication and perseverance.

Giving back to my community has shaped my life by teaching me the value of gratitude, compassion, and hard work. Growing up in a low-income, first-generation family, I’ve always understood the importance of helping others. My parents worked tirelessly to provide for me and my siblings, and their example has inspired me to do the same for those in need. Through volunteering, I have learned that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference in someone’s life. One of the most meaningful experiences I’ve had was volunteering during the holiday season. I helped make sandwiches for the homeless during Thanksgiving and passed out presents and food bags for families in need during Christmas. Seeing the happiness and relief on people’s faces reminded me not to take anything for granted. I also volunteer at my church every Saturday, helping clean before mass. While these tasks may seem simple, they have shown me the importance of giving back, no matter how small the effort may seem. Giving back has also strengthened my determination to succeed. It has taught me that success isn’t just about what I achieve for myself, but also about how I can help others along the way. This mindset drives my educational goals as I prepare to attend Universal Technical Institute (UTI) in Long Beach. I have been accepted into their Automotive Technology program and the BMW FastTrack program, where I will gain hands-on experience with advanced vehicle diagnostics and repair. My goal is to become a highly skilled automotive technician, specializing in German vehicles. Eventually, I hope to work for Porsche’s motorsport team. UTI will provide the technical training and industry certifications I need to enter the workforce with confidence. Trade school is the best path for me because it allows me to focus directly on my passion without spending unnecessary years in a traditional college setting. Beyond my career, I hope to give back by mentoring future automotive students. I know how important it is to have guidance and support when pursuing a trade, and I want to help others the way my mentors and teachers have helped me. Whether through sharing my experiences, offering advice, or helping students explore their career options, I want to play a role in shaping the next generation of skilled technicians. Giving back to my community has shaped me into a person who values hard work, kindness, and the importance of education. It has motivated me to push forward, not only for my ouccess but also to be someone who can make a difference. As I pursue my education at UTI, I will carry these lessons with me, using them to build a future where I can support my family, achieve my career goals, and continue giving back to others.

I chose to pursue a trade career because I wanted to work with my hands, solve complex mechanical problems, and be part of an industry that keeps the world moving. Automotive technology has always fascinated me, especially the precision and innovation behind German engineering. My admiration for cars, particularly brands like Porsche, has driven me to learn everything I can about vehicle systems, diagnostics, and repairs. Unlike traditional academic paths, the trades offer a direct, hands-on approach to mastering a skill, and I knew this was the right path for me. As a first-generation Mexican-American student from a low-income family, I’ve had to work hard for every opportunity. My parents, who immigrated to the U.S. for a better life, instilled in me the values of perseverance and dedication. They never had the chance to pursue higher education, so I’ve made it my goal to not only gain the technical knowledge needed for my career but also to set an example for my younger siblings. Choosing the trades allows me to build a stable and rewarding future without the heavy financial burden of a four-year degree, and it allows me to do what I love—working on cars. Beyond my personal career goals, I care deeply about education accessibility and poverty alleviation. I’ve seen firsthand how limited resources can hold people back from reaching their full potential. That’s why I believe in making education—whether through trade schools, apprenticeships, or traditional institutions—more accessible to those who need it most. I want to help break the cycle of financial struggle by encouraging more people to explore careers in skilled trades, which provide stability and opportunities for growth. Giving back to my community has always been important to me. I’ve volunteered in various ways, including making sandwiches for the homeless, cleaning my church every Saturday before mass, and distributing food and gifts to families in need during the holiday season. These experiences have shown me the importance of compassion and service. In the future, I hope to mentor students interested in automotive technology, offering them the guidance and support I wish I had when I first started. Ultimately, my journey in the trades is about more than just fixing cars—it’s about using my skills to make a difference. Whether it’s ensuring a vehicle runs safely for a family, helping a struggling student find their path, or giving back to my community, I want my work to have a lasting impact. By continuing to learn, grow, and support others, I hope to contribute not just to the automotive industry but to the world around me.

Success is not just about reaching goals; it's about growing, making a difference, and achieving dreams through hard work. I see success in how much I learn, help others, and the legacy I will leave behind. I'm the eldest of four siblings in a low-income family and the first to attend and complete a technical school. My success is a big thank you to my parents, who sacrificed so I could have these chances. With my family's support and my dedication they always assure me that I will excel in the automotive field and anywhere I dedicate myself to. That's how my love for cars went from a dream to a reality with a purpose. I came in with very little knowledge about cars. But I learned that with the right mindset, you can do anything. Through hard work in ROC's Auto Technology program, I became one of the top students, joined the Competition Team, and won first place in Precision Measuring. What these experiences have taught me is discipline, working in a team, and always doing my best. They motivated me to continue my education at Universal Technical Institute (UTI) to focus on high-performance cars, especially BMW FastTrack or Porsche's motorsport training. However, success doesn’t come without some challenges. Money problems have always been close to our family. As the child of immigrant parents from Mexico who worked hard to support us, I’ve learned how important it is to be strong and clever. With all these challenges, the strong support of my parents and sacrifices have inspired me to aim high. My main goal is to work with Porsche's motorsport team in helping with advanced technology that will push progress in the car industry. This scholarship would help relieve some of the financial stressors that come along with pursuing higher education and will enable me to focus entirely on developing my skills and laying a foundation for a great career. More than the financial support it offers, this scholarship represents an opportunity to invest in my future and give back to the betterment of others. I have learned a lot from mentors and advice during my journey, so I want to help future students in the automotive trade. I hope to inspire others to follow their dreams and show that success can be achieved with hard work and determination. One of my dreams is to help young people in the automotive field—giving them the same kind of support and encouragement that helped me grow. Along with my goals for school and jobs, I spent time helping others. Some experiences that showed me the importance of gratitude and community are making sandwiches for the homeless, cleaning my church every week, and giving out food at Christmas. They bring home the point that success is truly gained through one's relationships with people, not solely by what one attains in life. This scholarship means more than just monetary aid; it's a requirement for me to fulfill my dreams and become an example. It will strengthen my education, enabling me to build up the skills and network that will be necessary to succeed. That is the support to attend SEMA shows, buy tools, and take advanced training to be able to work with leading automotive brands. Success is a learning journey, combined with giving back to the community, marked by milestones that celebrate the tireless efforts of my parents and the aspirations that lie ahead. This scholarship will go a long way in helping me achieve my goals and will encourage others to pursue their dreams with renewed vigor.

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs has serious consequences. It’s a dangerous choice that puts the driver at risk and endangers the lives of others on the road. DUIs are a leading cause of traffic accidents. When a person drives under the influence, their reaction time is slowed, their coordination is reduced, and their ability to make decisions is compromised. These impairments make it significantly more likely for an accident to occur, which can lead to devastating outcomes. From a moral standpoint, preventing DUIs is a matter of recognizing our responsibility toward others. Driving while impaired demonstrates a disregard for the safety and well-being of others. Choosing to stay off the road if you’ve been drinking or using drugs is a rational decision that shows respect for other people’s lives. It is essential to understand that one careless decision can lead to unrepairable harm. Educating people on the consequences of impaired driving can encourage them to make responsible choices that keep themselves and others safe. Family and friends can remind each other of the moral obligation to drive sober, reinforcing the idea that it is not just about the law but about doing what’s right for everyone. On the technical side, some various tools and strategies can help prevent DUIs. Technology like IIDs can prevent a car from starting if the driver has alcohol in their system. These devices are especially helpful for individuals with prior DUI convictions. Additionally, portable breathalyzers allow individuals to measure their blood alcohol content and make informed decisions before getting behind the wheel. DUI checkpoints are another effective technical strategy. These checkpoints serve as a stop, making it more likely that impaired drivers will be caught and held accountable. Furthermore, the availability of carpooling services and public transportation provides a safe alternative to driving under the influence. By making it easier for people to access these services, we can reduce the number of possible DUIs. The effects of DUI's aren't just with the driver; it impact family, friends, and loved ones. Seeing someone close involved in a DUI situation can be heartbreaking, especially if they have a passion for cars. For those who love working on cars, like myself, the thought of getting into a DUI incident is painful. Cars are more than transportation, and they represent childhood, skill, passion, and love. Getting involved in a DUI is one of the worst possible things a car enthusiast could face, as it destroys the respect and love for driving. Family members often worry about the safety of their loved ones, just like my parents, and a DUI incident can shatter the trust they feel. Friends and family members can experience anxiety, disappointment, and shame, knowing that someone they care about made such a reckless decision and endangered the lives of others. In conclusion, driving under the influence has severe effects, but there are ways to prevent it. Approaching the issue from both moral and technical perspectives allows us to better understand and address the risks. Preventing DUIs is not only about obeying the law but also about taking care of those we love. By making responsible choices and using available resources, we can protect ourselves, our families, and our communities from the tragic consequences of impaired driving.

Higher education is the next step in my journey, both for personal growth and to honor my parents' sacrifices. My parents came to the United States with little, hoping to build a better life for us. They always reminded me that education could open doors and connections they never had. Watching them work hard for our family, I realized I have a chance to build a stable career that will make them proud. They don't want to see me suffer like they do, but I also don't want to see them suffer anymore. I want to pursue higher education because it will give me the skills and knowledge to achieve my goals and set an example for my younger siblings. Being the first in my family to go to college has challenges, but I’m committed to overcoming them. My parents weren’t familiar with how to research schools, understand financial aid, and fill out forms. I leaned on my high school counselors and teachers for guidance. They helped me with deadlines, explained scholarships, and encouraged me to apply for every opportunity. This support helped me stay focused and prepared, even when it felt overwhelming. I’ve also prepared for college by joining programs and clubs that helped me develop new skills. I joined my school’s Auto Technology program, where I learned about cars and how they work. Even though I was placed in a second-year class, I pushed myself to learn. At first, I felt behind compared to my classmates, but I stayed after class to practice, asked questions, and worked hard. Eventually, I earned a spot on our program’s Race Team and won first place in precision measuring at a competition. This experience taught me the value of hard work and showed me I could succeed when things are tough. As a first-generation student, I’ve also learned to be independent. I've had to become resourceful without family members who have gone through this process. I’ve learned to budget my time and manage my responsibilities, knowing college will require even more discipline. I’ve also learned to seek out resources and ask for help, whether from a teacher, classmate, or mentor. These experiences have prepared me for the challenges of college and given me the confidence to take on whatever comes next. I believe I’m a strong candidate for higher education because I’m determined to make the most of this opportunity. My parents worked hard to give me a better future, and I want to make them proud by pursuing a career in automotive technology. I’m excited to keep learning and develop my skills. I know college will help me reach my goals, and I’m ready to put in the work. I’m committed to pushing myself and using my education to create a better future for myself, my family, and my community. Higher education isn’t just a pathway to a job, it’s a way for me to grow and make a positive impact. By going to college, I’m investing in my future and showing my family that hard work and determination lead to success. I’m ready to take on the challenges of being a first-generation college student, and I’m excited for all the possibilities ahead.