I am first generation immigrant student and a re-entry adult student. I grew up in Los Angeles. I was undocumented up until the age of 30. My immigration status was an enormous obstacle for me. I learned about what it means to be human and dignity. In addition, my brother is disabled and very ill for most of his life. These two severe circumstances made attending college an impossible feat. It is only now, that both my brother's health has improved and I am a US citizen; that an academic path is a fortunate possibility for me. I feel eternally grateful as I know this is not an opportunity for much of my immigrant family. My life experiences have led me to cultivate great resilience. Simply put this scholarship will help me afford my academic path as an undergraduate student and eventually a grad student. Scholarships like this one helps me invest in art workshops, material and technical training. In addition to my cultural study abroad ambitions. These cultural academic experiences are essential to my academic path and as an artist. Immersing myself in culture-rich experiences, help me understand humanity and Art within a global context. The exposure to various cultural values and global history of art; is an essential piece of my art education as a whole. In addition, aside from being a first generation college student, I am a single person with no family or outside support, which significantly adds to the financial pressure. My college experience so far, has been filled with great challenges; and each scholarship I receive is a continued sign of support! I decided to re-enter college as an adult to pursue an academic path in Fine Arts. I will develop my own practice and body of work as a sculpture and installation artist. A Fine Arts degree, will be the backbone to a career in public art sculptures for community parks and cultural centers within Los Angeles. Creating both art installations and interactive sculptures from sustainable and recyclable materials for our local communities to interact and engage with. I aim to create pieces and installation experiences that are interactive and free to the public. Creating installations that expand curiosity and by which we can explore our physical relationship to our environment. Adding cultural elements from around the world, is essential to my work. I aim to foster a sense of connectedness through an understanding of a shared humanity; while challenging 'over-consumption' with cultural art that seeks to enrich vs exploit. I aim to foster a sense of connectedness through an understanding of a shared humanity.

As a first-generation immigrant from Mexico who arrived in the US at the age of 5, I was raised in a household where my parents worked tirelessly, often holding multiple jobs. They instilled in me the values of gratitude, empathy, family, and a strong work ethic. These values became the cornerstone of my character. As the eldest of three, I took on the responsibility of caring for my siblings while my parents worked, often sacrificing my own ambitions for our family's well-being. This became even more crucial as my brother battled various illnesses throughout his life, leading to numerous hospitalizations. This came in and out of my whole life, abruptly pulling me from any opportunity of a stable academic path. These experiences provided me with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by immigrant families and those with children with disabilities. I've developed a strong sense of empathy and an ability to relate to global communities; in particular, the immigrant communities that shape the tapestry of Los Angeles life. Over the years, I volunteered with an organization serving the housing insecure, distributing meals and gaining valuable insights into the lives of those less fortunate. Both as a personal moral obligation and also as a way to remain connected to all aspects of society. I believe this is essential for me as an artist. I also have a passion for exploring different cultures and experiences outside my own. These experiences provide a broader perspective on the shared human experience. In the last two years I have studied in Bali, Indonesia and most recently Montpellier, France studying sustainability and ecology. I decided two years ago to go back to school and pursue an education in Fine Arts, specializing in sculpture work. I am a strong advocate for public art and believe art is essential to our humanity. Art is and should be accessible to all communities. This scholarship would be instrumental in my journey to improve community arts in Los Angeles, as it aligns with my commitment to art and empathy as tools for positive change. Art can evoke emotion and emotion of possibility and can be a vehicle to shift cultural narratives. I believe art is an ally to progress and change; where I can explore gender, sexuality, linguistics, sustainability, race and nuanced human emotions. Art, is essential to the our community and I look forward to exploring these concepts through my sculpture work!

My name is Janeth, Im a second year studio arts student at Glendale Community College. Im a first-generation college student, re-entering after 20 years. It has taken a lifetime of experience and courage to return to school to forge a new academic path in Fine Arts. My parents, siblings and I are a first-generation immigrant family. I have been in this country since I was 5 years old. After a lifetime of making it work, I've decided to give myself the gift of an education. I grew up in a Mexican household that emphasized Mexican- Catholic values. In school, I was immersed in American culture. It was admittedly a very confusing time for me. Over time, I learned how to braid these two cultures together in a way that can help me better understand myself and others. I have learned about weaving cultures together in a way that yields harmony and meaning. Moving fluidly through cultural narratives is at the core of who I am. Growing up I was fortunate enough to have parents who exposed me to different cultures through food. As a first-generation immigrant family living in an under-resourced part of Los Angeles, our only way of travel was through food. I believe we found a connection in other family-owned immigrant restaurants. Eating at Oaxacan, Thai, Lebanese, Chinese, Spanish, Argentinian helped our family cope with not being able to travel outside the US. It was essential to a global connection. Sharing in these meals we found a connection to other immigrant communities, who also had left their home. I'm delighted to learn about culture, art, history, food, and daily life when given the opportunity and understand how meaningful they are in building a world with more compassion. I became a Naturalized American Citizen at 35 and I have a great appreciation for any opportunities afforded to me. It was then that the opportunities afforded to others, seemed like they were finally afforded to me. Education, and a path to a fulfilling career is an example of these new possibilities. I have been going to school fulltime since Fall 2022. Last year, I received the Gillman Scholarship and had an opportunity to travel to BALI for a summer study abroad experience. It was an opportunity that helped me understand a part of the world I have never been too. The smells, food, religion, sarongs, sounds of motorbikes, kacek dances, traditional puppet shoes, Hindu/Buddhist temples and their hypnotic Gamelan music was an experience that is now woven into the fabric of my human experience. I am a better, more understanding human because of that experience. This scholarship will help me fund my educational goals and a Study Abroad Program in Montpellier, France. I just received a letter of acceptance to this program! I am happy to provide the acceptance letter at your request. This program focuses on 'Sustainability practices and Ecology'. I am pursuing a degree in Fine Arts with a focus on Sculpture. I am fluent in Spanish and English and decided Id like to study French. Im in my level 4 class now and will earn a French Certificate by the end of Spring. This trip will help me further advance in my language goals in being Tri-lingual. This Montepellier program will inform my art and art practices. Helping me better understand our human impact on the planet and incorporate sustainable practices into my art. I hope to exchange ideas and conversations and build relationships with a compassionate ripple effect that can extend beyond the trip.

My name is Janeth, Im a second year studio arts student at Glendale Community College. Im a first-generation college student. Last year, I received the Gillman Scholarship and had an opportunity to travel to BALI for a summer study abroad experience. It was an opportunity that helped me understand a part of the world I have never been too. The smells, food, religion, sarongs, sounds of motorbikes, kacek dances, traditional puppet shoes, Hindu/Buddhist temples and their hypnotic Gamelan music was an experience that is now woven into the fabric of my human experience. I am a better, more understanding human because of that experience. I am currently looking into transfer universities and private art colleges to attain a Bachelors of Fine Arts. Cultural understanding is essential to my work as an Artist which is in part why study abroad experiences are deeply valuable to my academic path and practice as an artist. Within travel I am able to contemplate cultural context. These experiences help me form more colorful definitions of our human experience. It is similar to me as the experience of looking through a kaleidoscope. One simple turn and the entire pattern and colors look different. I grew up in Mexican household that emphasized Mexican- Catholic values. In school, I was immersed in American culture. It was admittedly a very confusing time for me. Over time, I learned how to braid these two cultures together in a way that can help me better understand myself and others. I have learned about weaving cultures together in a way that yields harmony and meaning. Moving fluidly through cultural narratives is at the core of who I am. Growing up I was fortunate enough to have parents who exposed me to different cultures through food. As a first-generation immigrant family, I believe we found a connection in small family-owned immigrant restaurants. We ate at Oaxacan, Thai, Lebanese, Chinese, Spanish, Argentinian and many other places. For a family who at the time, could not travel outside the US; eating at these local restaurants was essential to a global connection. We found great food, and also felt uplifted by sharing meals with other immigrant communities, who too left their home. I'm delighted to learn about culture, art, history, food, and daily life. I hold these opportunities with deep gratitude. I approach travel experiences as an opportunity to be a guest at someone's home. I am immensely curious by nature. As a Mexican Born, American Naturalized Citizen, I have a great appreciation for any opportunities afforded to me. This scholarship will help me fund the Study Abroad Program in Montpellier, France. I just received a letter of acceptance to the program for this SUMMER 2023. I was hesitant to apply for scholarships until I had formal confirmation. I am happy to provide the acceptance letter at your request. This program focuses on 'Sustainability practices and Ecology'. I am pursuing a degree in Fine Arts with a focus on Sculpture. I am fluent in Spanish and English and decided Id like to study French. Im in my level 4 class now and will earn a French Certificate by the end of Spring. This trip will help me further advance in my language goals in being Tri-lingual. This Montepellier program will inform my art and art practices. Helping me better understand our human impact on the planet and incorporate sustainable practices into my art. I hope to exchange ideas and conversations and build relationships with a compassionate ripple effect that can extend beyond the trip.

Cultural context is a phrase I contemplate often. I believe understanding cultural context can help strengthen our understanding and strengthen appreciation for our unique human experiences. My name is Janeth, Im a second year studio arts student at Glendale Community College. Im a first-generation college student. Last year, I received the Gillman Scholarship, and had an opportunity to travel to BALI for a summer study abroad experience. It was an opportunity that helped me understand a part of the world I have never been too. The smells, food, religion, sarongs, sounds of motorbikes, kacek dances, traditional puppet shoes, Hindu/Buddhist temples and their hypnotic Gamelan music was an experience that is now woven into the fabric of my human experience. I am a better, more understanding human because of that experience. Within travel I am able to contemplate cultural context. Studying abroad, helps form these definitions of our human experience from various vantage points. It is similar to me, as looking through a kaleidoscope, one simple turn and the entire pattern and colors look different. I grew up in Mexican household that emphasized Mexican- Catholic values. In school, I was immersed in American culture. It was admittedly a very confusion time for me. Over time, I learned how to braid these two cultures together in a way that can help me better understand myself and others. I have learned about weaving cultures together in a way that yields harmony and meaning. Moving fluidly through cultural narratives is at the core of who I am. Growing up I was fortunate enough to have parents who exposed me to different cultures through food. As a first-generation immigrant family, I believe we found a connection in small family-owned immigrant restaurants. We ate at Oaxacan, Thai, Lebanese, Chinese, Spanish, Argentinian and many other places. For a family who at the time, could not travel outside the US; eating at these local restaurants was essential to a global connection. We found great food, and also felt uplifted by sharing meals with other immigrant communities, who too left their home. I'm delighted to learn about culture, art, history, food, and daily life. I hold these opportunities with deep gratitude. I approach travel experiences as an opportunity to be a guest at someone's home. I come in humbly, grateful and with a willingness to see the world from a different lens. I am immensely curious by nature and eager to try food and rituals alike. As a Mexican Born, American Naturalized Citizen, I have a great appreciation for the opportunities afforded to me. This scholarship will help me fund the Study Abroad Program in Montpellier, France. I just received a letter of acceptance to the program for this SUMMER 2023. I was hesitant to apply for scholarships until I had formal confirmation. Im happy to provide the acceptance letter at your request. This program focuses on 'Sustainability practices and Ecology'. I am pursuing a degree in Fine Arts with a focus on Sculpture. I currently have a 3.8 GPA. I am fluent in Spanish and English and decided Id like to study French. Im in my level 4 class now and will earn a French Certificate by the end of Spring. This trip will help me further advance in my language goals in being Tri-lingual. This Montepellier program will inform my art and art practices. Helping me better understand our human impact on the planet and incorporate sustainable practices into my art. I hope to exchange ideas and conversations and build relationships with a compassionate ripple effect that can extend beyond the trip.

Writing, for me, is a sanctuary where I find solace, express emotions, and embrace the transformative nature of words. It's not just a skill; it's an art form. A canvas where emotions, thoughts, and experiences come alive, transcending spoken language. A place where my sensitivity can have a safe place to rest. A place of refuge from the rigidity of daily life. mI find that writing, like art, is a truth-telling medium. In the realm of the written page, I feel liberated to speak my truth unabashedly. Writing becomes an avenue where authenticity reigns supreme, allowing me to explore the depths of my vulnerabilities and confront the complexities of life with unwavering honesty. Natalie Goldberg, a guiding light in my writing journey, has profoundly influenced my perspective on the craft. I have attended three of her writing workshops on a generous scholarship offering. Her zen-based teachings on free-flow writing have been life-altering for me. She guides me in capturing the essence of a moment without self-censorship. Through her wisdom, I've learned that writing is about the journey of self-discovery that unfolds with every stroke of the pen. Recently, I've found inspiration in haiku, the ancient Japanese form of poetry. This art of distillation teaches me to convey profound emotions in a few carefully chosen words. Haiku has become a muse, guiding me to find beauty in brief moments and distill complex emotions into their essence. My aspiration to publish short essays and eventually write a book is fueled by the belief that words have the power to connect us on a profound level. I have found great solace in books and have traveled to different dimensions of being through them. Through my writing, I hope to bridge the gaps between hearts, sharing my experiences and insights to create a tapestry of understanding, and empathy; to intimately meet the reader with great warmth and presence. The page is a sacred space where I let myself fall apart and come together simultaneously. It's a refuge where the chaos of my thoughts finds order, and the fragments of my emotions coalesce into a cohesive narrative. It is a place of the practice of acceptance for what is. Writing is a journey of unraveling and understanding the layers of my own identity. I currently belong to Sari-Sari Co-op, a women of color writing group. The group provides a supportive community where we not only write but also engage in sitting meditation. In this space, I've learned to quiet my mind. In the quiet, I can hear more deeply. It's a place where diversity is celebrated, and the richness of our collective experiences becomes a source of inspiration. The impact of my recent English teacher on my pursuit of writing is beautiful. His encouragement has been a guiding force, instilling confidence in my voice and pushing me to explore new horizons in my writing. Their mentorship has been a beacon of light, illuminating the path of my writing journey ahead. Writing, for me, is a multidimensional. It is the warm company to my passion for fine arts. Writing encompasses truth, connection, and self-discovery. It's a powerful tool for expression and understanding. With influences like Natalie Goldberg, the beauty of haiku, and the support of a writing community, I embark on a path that leads not only to personal fulfillment but also to the possibility of sharing my unique perspective with the world through essays and, eventually, a book.

We are human; having a physical human experience. Sculpture, Architecture, and Design shape our experience when entering a museum, public park, community center or simply walking down our neighborhood street. From the moment we wake up and move through our day, we experience our home, neighborhood, work environment and all the spaces in between. These moments make up the whole of our human experience. I have hold the impact of these experiences with the highest regard. My name is Janeth, I moved to Los Angeles when I was 5 years old. A Mexican immigrant; living in a high-violence low income neighborhood in the 90s. My experience was that of chaos, loud noises and no access to safe public spaces. Fenced-in parks were a place to avoid. At times, sounds of bullets, running, and screaming; a high alert enviroment. My home, with my family, had its own chaos. Growing up with a brother who experienced many health issues and often was hospitalized for weeks at a time. In addition, I spent many years of my life not able travel outside of the US; particularly to my birthplace, Mexico City. Los Angeles is a very special place to me. It is a place I have made my home. I particularly connect with its fierce diversity. There is no other city quite like Los Angeles. Asian, Latin American, African American, European and Middle Eastern cultures, all come together in one sprawling landscape. I chose a path in Fine Arts and Spatial Experience design; where I can express my deep love for this city. In Spatial Experience Design, our physical experience of a space– be it a museum, public park or a cultural community event, is the focus. For many immigrants like myself, Los Angeles may be ‘our home away from home’. Coming from different neighborhoods and life experiences, uniting for a moment in public spaces. This moment in a park or a community event; is an opportunity to be inspiring and feel the expansiveness within our human experience. One magical moment can bring us to what is possible and help us feel connected. Sculpture art pieces in public spaces can be a vessel for this connection. Designing public interactive art pieces for everyone to enjoy, is my love note to this city. My dream is to see people gather from different cultures over a joyous interactive art installation, uniting people from all walks of life, and building points of inspiration to what is possible. In my opinion, Art should be for everyone, in all neighborhoods. A path in Fine Arts and Spatial experience design will help me build creative community experiences centered around the transcendent magic of art.

In the gentle cadence of nature's seasons, I find a generous wellspring of inspiration for living an artful. Each season, like a different stroke of charcoal on a blank page, is a unique opportunity to observe and deepen presence. An opportunity to be fully in this world. Seasons are my teacher; if only Im wise enough to slow down and listen. Spring whispers renewal, with blossoms and vibrant colors; Summer resonates with warmth and abundance, inviting playful celebration. Autumn is a teacher of poignant reflection on impermanence and bravery that echoes through changing leaves. Winters serene landscapes become a teacher of endurance and prime for deep introspection. I grew up in low income community, where parks had fences and were a playground for adults rather than children. I made it a life goal to live in a place that evokes deep serenity where I could heal from past life traumas. I live near the mountains, with a window that faces the hillside. Living amidst the mountains has been transformative. The mountains symbolize rooted strength. The crisp air breathes life into my artistic pursuits. The dance of light and shadow inspires me to capture fleeting moments of beauty. My apartment home is a sanctuary of solitude; a therapeutic space for introspection and creativity. Living in the mountains, with access to a beautiful park with views of the mountains, has been an ideal stage to deepen my connection to a deeper self. My Sculpture, Life Drawings, and Still Drawings are shaped by the subtle sensitivity of the everyday symphony of the Natural world. In this alchemy, my art becomes visual poetry in which I hope to capture the essence of existence.

As a direct result of my first-generation immigrant experience, I am inspired to weave melodies of empathy and artistic expression into the rich fabric of Los Angeles. Enhancing our community through the transformative force of the arts and underrepresented voices. My name is Janeth, and Im a first-generation immigrant from Mexico who arrived in the US at the age of 5, I was raised in a household where my parents worked tirelessly, often holding multiple jobs. They instilled in me the values of gratitude, empathy, family, and a strong work ethic. These values became the cornerstone of my character. As the eldest of three, I took on the responsibility of caring for my siblings while my parents worked, often sacrificing my own ambitions for our family's well-being. This became even more crucial as my brother battled various illnesses throughout his life, leading to numerous hospitalizations. This came in and out of my whole life, abruptly pulling me from any opportunity of a stable academic path. This experience has provided me with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by those with special needs or family members who are unwell. Coupled with my parents' immigrant journey and my own struggles to balance my desires with my responsibilities, I've developed a strong sense of empathy and an ability to relate to global communities; in particular, the immigrant communities that shape the tapestry of Los Angeles life. In particular, the Mexican and Latin American communities. At 35, I met my long life goal of becoming an American Citizen. It has been an incredibly challenging journey growing up in a country without full citizenship. It is only after that point that I began to ask myself what my deepest desires truly are. Over the years, I've expressed my gratitude for the opportunities I've been given and for my brother's improved health through volunteering. For nearly a decade, I volunteered with an organization serving the housing insecure, distributing meals and gaining valuable insights into the lives of those less fortunate. I also have a passion for exploring different cultures and experiences outside my own. These experiences provide a broader perspective on the shared human experience. In recent years, I've cultivated mindfulness and empathy through meditation. It helps me remain present and aware in my experiences, strengthening my dedication to understanding and empathy. Despite numerous challenges, I've maintained my parents' gratitude-driven attitude. Now, after two decades and the setbacks caused by COVID-19, citizenship limitations, and an ill sibling, I decided to pursue the college education I've always desired. The timing is finally in my favor. I decided in Fall of 2022, to return to school in pursuit of a Fine Arts AA, and BFA. Im mid-way through completing my AA in Studio Arts; and I could not be any more proud of all the challenges I have had to overcome to get to this moment. In this journey, my values are resoundingly clear. To advocate for public art. I believe art is essential to our humanity. Art is and should be accessible to all communities. This scholarship would be instrumental in my journey to improve community arts in Los Angeles, as it aligns with my commitment to art and empathy for positive change within our most needed communities. My goal with a Fine Arts Degree is to create vibrant art in public parks, museums, and local recreation centers. Experiences and art installations that help stimulate the creative energy of neighborhoods and serve as inspiration for an inclusive world.

My name is Janeth, and I am a first-generation immigrant from Mexico who arrived in the US at the age of 5, I was raised in a household where my parents worked tirelessly, often holding multiple jobs. They instilled in me the values of gratitude, empathy, family, and a strong work ethic. These values became the cornerstone of my character. As the eldest of three, I took on the responsibility of caring for my siblings while my parents worked, often sacrificing my own ambitions for our family's well-being. This became even more crucial as my brother battled various illnesses throughout his life, leading to numerous hospitalizations. This was one major component to abruptly pulling me from any opportunity of a stable academic path. This experience gave me a deep understanding of the challenges faced by those with special needs or family members who are unwell. Coupled with my parents' immigrant journey and my own struggles to balance my desires with my responsibilities, I've developed a strong sense of empathy and an ability to relate to global communities; in particular, the immigrant communities that shape the tapestry of Los Angeles life. Over the years, I've expressed my gratitude for the opportunities I've been given and for my brother's improved health through volunteering. For nearly a decade, I volunteered with an organization serving the housing insecure, distributing meals and gaining valuable insights into the lives of those less fortunate. I also have a passion for exploring different cultures and experiences outside my own. These experiences provide a broader perspective on the shared human experience. Adding to this, I was an undocumented immigrant for the first 30 years of my life. I loved many moments of dehumanization for a situation that was out of my control. I worked tirelessly to 'prove my worth' and worked up to prestigious positions within sales organizations. I eventually began my own business; did very well for 7 years. At 35 I became a US citizen. Despite numerous challenges, I've maintained my parents' gratitude-driven attitude. During COVID-19 my income was radically reduced by over 85%. This caused me to re-consider my values. I believe education is a fundamental human right. It is one that, for many reasons, was not afforded to me 20 years ago. Now, after two decades and the setbacks caused by COVID-19, I'm determined to pursue the college education I've always desired. It dawned on me that now, being a US citizen, I can explore opportunities I had put to the side for years. I'm re-entering college in pursuit of a BA Fine Arts Degree. Art brings me closest to the truth and essence of life. It allows for self-expression, which I believe is also our birthright. I am a strong advocate for public art and believe art is essential to our humanity. Art is and should be accessible to all communities. This scholarship would be instrumental in my journey to improve community arts in Los Angeles, as it aligns with my commitment to art and empathy as tools for positive change. My goal with a Fine Arts Degree is to create vibrant art in public parks, museums, and local recreation centers. Experiences that can help stimulate the creative energy of neighborhoods and serve as inspiration for an inclusive world. I come with tremendous determination and a deep appreciation for my parents. I understand their work paved the way for me to reach this consideration. I look forward to continuing their work and claim my human desire for an academic path. One that will resonate and positively shape public art in Los Angeles.

My name is Janeth, and Im a first-generation immigrant from Mexico who arrived in the US at the age of 5, I was raised in a household where my parents worked tirelessly, often holding multiple jobs. They instilled in me the values of gratitude, empathy, family, and a strong work ethic. These values became the cornerstone of my character. As the eldest of three, I took on the responsibility of caring for my siblings while my parents worked, often sacrificing my own ambitions for our family's well-being. This became even more crucial as my brother battled various illnesses throughout his life, leading to numerous hospitalizations. This came in and out of my whole life, abruptly pulling me from any opportunity of a stable academic path. This experience has provided me with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by those with special needs or family members who are unwell. Coupled with my parents' immigrant journey and my own struggles to balance my desires with my responsibilities, I've developed a strong sense of empathy and an ability to relate to global communities; in particular, the immigrant communities that shape the tapestry of Los Angeles life. Over the years, I've expressed my gratitude for the opportunities I've been given and for my brother's improved health through volunteering. For nearly a decade, I volunteered with an organization serving the housing insecure, distributing meals and gaining valuable insights into the lives of those less fortunate. I also have a passion for exploring different cultures and experiences outside my own. These experiences provide a broader perspective on the shared human experience. In recent years, I've cultivated mindfulness and empathy through meditation. It helps me remain present and aware of my experiences, strengthening my dedication to understanding and empathy. Despite numerous challenges, I've maintained my parents' gratitude-driven attitude. During COVID-19 my income was radically reduced by over 85%. It caused me to truly consider my values and ask myself if I am living in accordance to those values. I believe education is a fundamental human right. It is one that, for many reasons, was not afforded to me 20 years ago. Now, after two decades and the setbacks caused by COVID-19, I'm determined to pursue the college education I've always desired. I'm re-entering college in pursuit of a BA Fine Arts Degree. I am a strong advocate for public art and believe art is essential to our humanity. Art is and should be accessible to all communities. This scholarship would be instrumental in my journey to improve community arts in Los Angeles, as it aligns with my commitment to art and empathy as tools for positive change. My goal with a Fine Arts Degree is to create vibrant art in public parks, museums, and local recreation centers. Experiences that can help stimulate the creative energy of neighborhoods and serve as inspiration for an inclusive world. I come with tremendous determination and a deep appreciation for my parents. I understand their work paved the way for me to reach this consideration. I look forward to continue their work, and claim my academic path. One that will resonate and positively shape public art in Los Angeles.

As a direct result of my first-generation immigrant experience, I am inspired to weave melodies of empathy and artistic expression into the rich fabric of Los Angeles. Enhancing our community through the transformative force of the arts and underrepresented voices. My name is Janeth, and Im a first-generation immigrant from Mexico who arrived in the US at the age of 5, I was raised in a household where my parents worked tirelessly, often holding multiple jobs. They instilled in me the values of gratitude, empathy, family, and a strong work ethic. These values became the cornerstone of my character. As the eldest of three, I took on the responsibility of caring for my siblings while my parents worked, often sacrificing my own ambitions for our family's well-being. This became even more crucial as my brother battled various illnesses throughout his life, leading to numerous hospitalizations. This came in and out of my whole life, abruptly pulling me from any opportunity of a stable academic path. This experience has provided me with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by those with special needs or family members who are unwell. Coupled with my parents' immigrant journey and my own struggles to balance my desires with my responsibilities, I've developed a strong sense of empathy and an ability to relate to global communities; in particular, the immigrant communities that shape the tapestry of Los Angeles life. Over the years, I've expressed my gratitude for the opportunities I've been given and for my brother's improved health through volunteering. For nearly a decade, I volunteered with an organization serving the housing insecure, distributing meals and gaining valuable insights into the lives of those less fortunate. I also have a passion for exploring different cultures and experiences outside my own. These experiences provide a broader perspective on the shared human experience. In recent years, I've cultivated mindfulness and empathy through meditation. It helps me remain present and aware in my experiences, strengthening my dedication to understanding and empathy. Despite numerous challenges, I've maintained my parents' gratitude-driven attitude. Now, after two decades and the setbacks caused by COVID-19, I'm determined to pursue the college education I've always desired. I'm re-entering college in pursuit of a BA Fine Arts Degree. I am a strong advocate for public art and believe art is essential to our humanity. Art is and should be accessible to all communities. My goal with a Fine Arts Degree is to create vibrant art in public parks, museums, and local recreation centers. Experiences that can help stimulate the creative energy of neighborhoods and serve as inspiration for an inclusive world. This scholarship would be instrumental in my journey to improve community arts in Los Angeles, as it aligns with my commitment to art and empathy as tools for positive change.

Hi! My name is Janeth, and today I celebrate my 39th. I re-enrolled into Glendale community college this past fall 2022, after 20years of being away from an academic path. Im a daughter of Mexican immigrants, who came to this country at 5. My parents raised me to work three times harder than anyone around me. I grew up with my parents modeling a strong work ethic, working 10+hrs a day, 6 days a week. Throughout their lives they juggled several jobs to ensure we lived in safe neighborhoods. My parents' example helped me build the resilience and a strong work ethic. My younger brother had many illnesses since birth. I spent most up my life, up until about 28, in and out of the hospital with my parents. Growing up with a special needs brother came with its own set of responsibilities and from a young age I cared for him like a parent. Out of highschool, my brothers illnesses reached a peak. Continuing school, was not an option. I had many family responsibilities to tend to and withdrew from College mid semester. My parents also believed at the time, that as an immigrant we are meant to work and that school was not for people like us. I worked, very hard for years; eventually, I owned my own business. It was a huge accomplishment for me. For the last 7. years, I had a short term rental property management business, which I did very well at. In the last several years I had grown restless, wanting to do something that felt more fulfilling. Covid-19, affected my business greatly. Immeadiately my income dropped by 85%, and the reserves I had were exhausted over the last couple of years. I closed my business in 2022 and decided to use this as an opportunity to give myself the education I had set aside and always desired. Im actively writing a different narrative for immigrants like myself. Im a first generation college student. My brother now is in good health and its time to take an enormous leap of faith. I teared up when I went to re-enroll this past fall. This is the same campus I walked out of defeated 20 years ago. Everyday I get to spend in College; a younger part of myself gets healed. Im in my second semester. I love being in school and I engage with such gratitude. When you spend most of your life in survival mode, "ART" is not something there is much time for. In examining my entire life, there are clear threads of artistic expression that have been yearning to be expressed. Im on a path for a Studio Arts AA. I intend to transfer to ART CENTER for a BA in 'Spatial Experience' design. My goal is to design community driven art experiences that bring joy and a sense of expansiveness to the community. I believe art should be available to EVERYBODY, not simply in wealthy areas. Coming from an immigrant family with a very ill brother, I know how hard life can feel. Arr has the ability to transport and inspire us. I want to create this experiences for people that fill us with human possibility; creating art events and interactive sculpture installations in community parks and spaces. Always, free and accessible to all. This grant will make it possible for me to continue to give myself the education Ive always desired and achieve my academic goals. Covid has left huge financial devastation; though Im hopeful it will all come together with financial support from generous grants like yours.

An international sculpture artist that creates public art experiences that feel expansive and deepens our sense of human interconnectedness both in our direct communities and globally.

Empathy, I believe, is cultivated from our direct experiences, our influences and our personal dedication to it. I am a first-generation immigrant, coming to the US from Mexico at the age of 5. I grew up in a household where my parents worked 1-3 jobs at once. They woke up every day with gratitude for the opportunities around them. An opportunity to work and provide a higher quality of life than they grew up with. In my household, our values were very clear. Gratitude, Empathy, Family and a strong work ethic. My parents were great models through their actions. Being the eldest of 3, I had the early responsibility to make sure my siblings were cared for. While my parents were working, I had to take on the responsibility to make sure my brother, sister and the household were cared for. I had to make tough choices between my ambitions and drive to extracurricular activities and the wellness of our family. Oftentimes, I had to forgo a personal interest of mine, to support our family's needs. The need for my help became stronger, as my brother battled with several illnesses, and was in and out of the hospital his whole life. From birth, my brother Eduardo has battled with many illnesses and has had to be hospitalized for months at a time. Reaching a critical mass, when he was on life support. All this happened on/off for my whole life, making it tough to focus on any personal ambitions. Thankfully, he has been healthy for almost 10 years. This ongoing experience helps me understand anyone living with a special needs child or family member. Anyone with a family member who is ill in some way, I understand the toll that takes on relationships, our lives and the financial stress of it all. Between this, my parents journey as immigrants, and my own experience with navigating my desires with my reality-- I have had a lifetime of training in empathy and understanding global communities. Through the years, I've chosen to show my gratitude for the opportunities afforded to me, my family and gratitude for my brother's health, by volunteering. For years I volunteered for a housing insecure organization handing out meals every Sunday for close to 10 years. I learned a lot during this time about people more vulnerable than myself. In general, I enjoy seeking out paths for me to experience different cultures and paths outside of my own. It provides me with a 'wider-lense' in which to view the human experience we are all on. In the last couple of years, I began a meditation practice. This is my own way of settling myself and gathering my focus. When I feel anchored and centered, I can be more present and aware with my experiences. This is my own dedication to cultivating a mind and heart of deeper understanding and empathy. My experiences have been challenging. Though I have managed to maintain the grateful attitude of my parents through it all; I had to forgo an education out of highschool and tend to my brother and family's needs. After 20 years, and COVID-19 devastating my business; Im choosing to view this as an opportunity to give myself the college education I always desired. I'm re-entering college after 20 years. This scholarship will help me pay for the formal education I have always desired and be the first in my family to attend college. It's a very tender time for me, and I'm choosing to meet it with the same determination and gratitude that has carried me this far.