Love Served on a Plate The first time I truly fell in love, it wasn’t with a person—it was with the smell of garlic sizzling in butter. That moment changed everything. I was just a kid standing on a step stool, helping my Lola cook sinangag (garlic fried rice), and I remember thinking, this is magic. The heat, the aroma, the sound of the pan—it was like the kitchen came alive. From that day on, I’ve been chasing that feeling. Cooking isn’t just something I do; it’s who I am. My dream is to attend culinary school and turn that passion into a lifelong career, and this scholarship would bring me one step closer to that reality. I don’t come from a family of chefs, but I come from a family that loves food. Our kitchen has always been the heart of our home, filled with stories, laughter, and the clatter of pans. As I grew older, I started experimenting with recipes on my own. I’d remix family classics or throw together new fusion dishes using what we had in the fridge. Whether I was making Filipino spaghetti for my cousins or creamy chicken Alfredo for my parents, I noticed something: when I cooked, people came together. That power—to bring comfort, connection, and joy through food—is what keeps me cooking every day. Culinary school isn’t just a dream to me—it’s my next step. I want to sharpen my skills, explore global cuisines, and understand the science and art behind every dish. I want to learn from chefs who have spent their lives mastering techniques and telling stories through flavor. I don’t just want to be a good cook—I want to be a great one. One who respects tradition, experiments fearlessly, and creates meals that make people feel something. I’ve also learned that food is more than taste—it’s culture, history, identity. Cooking has taught me about my roots and helped me celebrate where I come from. At the same time, it’s opened my eyes to the world beyond my own kitchen. I’m fascinated by the way food travels, evolves, and brings people from different walks of life together. Culinary school will give me the tools to dive deeper into those connections and eventually create a restaurant that honors diverse backgrounds—something modern, inclusive, and full of heart. Outside of the kitchen, I’ve worked hard to be a well-rounded student. I balance academics with creative projects and volunteer work, often using food as a way to give back—whether that’s baking for school fundraisers or helping cook at community events. But I know there’s so much more I can do with the right training and resources. This scholarship would mean more than financial support. It would be an investment in my purpose. I’m not just applying for money—I’m asking for a chance to grow, to learn, and to share what I love with the world. I’m ready to work hard, stay humble, and absorb everything culinary school has to offer. I want to walk into a professional kitchen and feel like I belong—not just because I love food, but because I’ve earned my place there. In the end, my goal is simple: to cook meals that tell stories, heal hearts, and make people feel at home. I believe that’s what great chefs do. And with your help, I hope to become one.