Hello! My name is Jillian, and I am a high school student with big dreams. I love traveling and English, and both these passions overlap to create my dream career. Ever since my most recent trip to the Philippines, I haven't stopped thinking of becoming an ESL teacher. Last December, during my three-week trip to the Philippines, I was able to stay in the house my mother grew up in. As the days passed, I would see the neighborhood children go out to play soccer or tag on the street. Watching them dressed almost in rags, yet still able to experience unwavering happiness, brought tears to my eyes. Whenever I stepped out of the house, a group of around fifteen children would come running up to me with their deflated soccer balls and ask me to play with them. As each day passed, I was able to get to know each child personally. We would play hopscotch, sing Christmas carols, and chase after stray cats. I would teach them English words and phrases, and they would teach me Tagalog words and phrases. At the end of my trip, I had learned all of their names and ages. The children were also able to speak basic English with each other, proud of mastering my short-term lessons for them. The day I had to leave, a five-year-old girl named Hanna asked if I would ever come back. It was then and there that I knew I had to return someday. Since then, I've dreamed of teaching English to children in Asia. Even if I move to a poorer country, I know it will be worth it. I can never forget the children's dirt-streaked smiling faces and their satisfaction after mastering a new English word. I believe that teaching English to foreign speakers is such a fulfilling job, as it is an opportunity to inspire and bring joy to others. Not only do I love meeting new people, but I also love learning about new cultures and languages. Teaching ESL is a two-way endeavor: as you aim to teach students English, you will also be taught by them. Teacher-student relationships like that are so beautiful! I want to make an inspiring impact on my students, coworkers, and friends once I move abroad. At the moment, I am working on graduating high school early while simultaneously getting my Associate's Degree in English at my local community college. Next year, I am transferring as a junior to California Baptist University, where I will pursue a B.A. in English and a minor in TESOL. Once I finish my TESOL certification, I hope to attend UCLA for a M.Ed. After this, my main goal is to be accepted as an eligible teacher candidate for the Department of Defense Education Activity, where there are military bases all over the globe. At these military bases, children of military families need access to an education. The US government provides these children with an opportunity to attend school even while in a foreign country - but in order for DoDEA to do this, they need teachers. I believe that I have been called to be a teacher, specifically, a teacher who travels the world to bring education to needy children. Although there are many teaching positions here in the United States, I want to step out of my comfort zone and use my gifts as an educator internationally. Even if that means leaving family, friends, and ease of life. To me, success not only means being able to pursue my passion but to do so even while overcoming difficult challenges. Saying this, the biggest challenge for me is the fact that I will have to leave my home in order to do what I love. This will be the ultimate challenge, even more than repaying back student loans or earning my Master's Degree at 20. I look forward to that day because I know that I will have to say goodbye to the people and places I love. I will have to make a decision, even though I have worked all my life to get to that point. Even though my passion is somewhat unconventional, it is still my passion. And I will do everything I can to get there. To put this scholarship in perspective, I am applying simply because I know I will need financial support to get to my final destination. Although my family is lower middle class, we are single-income, and my parents have to support seven people. Winning this scholarship would bring me one step closer to my dream. Thank you so much for considering my application! I am so excited to see what the future holds for me.

Hello! My name is Jillian, and I am a high school student with big dreams. I love to travel, and I love English, and both these passions overlap to create my dream career. Ever since my most recent trip to the Philippines, I haven't stopped thinking of becoming an ESL teacher. Last December, during my three-week trip to the Philippines, I was able to stay in the house my mother grew up in. As the days passed, I would see the neighborhood children go out to play soccer or tag on the street. Watching them dressed almost in rags, yet still able to experience unwavering happiness, brought tears to my eyes. Whenever I stepped out of the house, a group of around fifteen children would come running up to me with their deflated soccer balls and ask me to play with them. As each day passed, I was able to get to know each child personally. We would play hopscotch, sing Christmas carols, and chase after stray cats. I would teach them English words and phrases, and they would teach me Tagalog words and phrases. At the end of my trip, I had learned all of their names and ages. The children were also able to speak basic English with each other, proud of mastering my short-term lessons for them. The day I had to leave, a five-year-old girl named Hanna asked if I would ever come back. It was then and there that I knew I had to return someday. Since then, I've dreamed of teaching English to children in Asia. Even if I move to a poorer country, I know it will be worth it. I can never forget the children's dirt-streaked smiling faces and their satisfaction after mastering a new English word. I believe that teaching English to foreign speakers is such a fulfilling job, as it is an opportunity to inspire and bring joy to others. Not only do I love meeting new people, but I also love learning about new cultures and languages. Teaching ESL is a two-way endeavor: as you aim to teach students English, you will also be taught by them. Teacher-student relationships like that are so beautiful! I want to make an inspiring impact on my students, coworkers, and friends once I move abroad. At the moment, I am working on graduating high school early while simultaneously getting my Associate's Degree in English at my local community college. Next year, I am transferring as a junior to California Baptist University, where I will pursue a B.A. in English and a minor in TESOL. Once I finish my TESOL certification, I hope to attend UCLA for a M.Ed. After this, my main goal is to be accepted as an eligible teacher candidate for the Department of Defense Education Activity, where there are bases all over the globe. I am so excited to see what the future holds for me. Thank you so much for considering my application!

Hello! My name is Jillian, and I am a high school student with big dreams. I love to travel, and I love English, and both these passions overlap to create my dream career. Ever since my most recent trip to the Philippines, I haven't stopped thinking of becoming an ESL teacher. Last December, during my three-week trip to the Philippines, I was able to stay in the house my mother grew up in. As the days passed, I would see the neighborhood children go out to play soccer or tag on the street. Watching them dressed almost in rags, yet still able to experience unwavering happiness, brought tears to my eyes. Whenever I stepped out of the house, a group of around fifteen children would come running up to me with their deflated soccer balls and ask me to play with them. As each day passed, I was able to get to know each child personally. We would play hopscotch, sing Christmas carols, and chase after stray cats. I would teach them English words and phrases, and they would teach me Tagalog words and phrases. At the end of my trip, I had learned all of their names and ages. The children were also able to speak basic English with each other, proud of mastering my short-term lessons for them. The day I had to leave, a five-year-old girl named Hanna asked if I would ever come back. It was then and there that I knew I had to return someday. Since then, I've dreamed of teaching English to children in Asia. Even if I move to a poorer country, I know it will be worth it. I can never forget the children's dirt-streaked smiling faces and their satisfaction after mastering a new English word. I believe that teaching English to foreign speakers is such a fulfilling job, as it is an opportunity to inspire and bring joy to others. Not only do I love meeting new people, but I also love learning about new cultures and languages. Teaching ESL is a two-way endeavor: as you aim to teach students English, you will also be taught by them. Teacher-student relationships like that are so beautiful! I want to make an inspiring impact on my students, coworkers, and friends once I move abroad. At the moment, I am working on graduating high school early while simultaneously getting my Associate's Degree in English at my local community college. Next year, I am transferring as a junior to California Baptist University, where I will pursue a B.A. in English and a minor in TESOL. Once I finish my TESOL certification, I hope to attend UCLA for a M.Ed. After this, my main goal is to be accepted as an eligible teacher candidate for the Department of Defense Education Activity, where there are bases all over the globe. I am so excited to see what the future holds for me. Thank you so much for considering my application!

Hello! My name is Jillian, and I am a high school student with big dreams. I love to travel, and I love English, and both these passions overlap to create my dream career. Ever since my most recent trip to the Philippines, I haven't stopped thinking of becoming an ESL teacher. Just December, during my three-week trip to the Philippines, I was able to stay in the house my mother grew up in. As the days passed, I would see the neighborhood children go out to play soccer or tag on the street. Watching them dressed almost in rags, yet still able to experience unwavering happiness, brought tears to my eyes. Whenever I stepped out of the house, a group of around fifteen children would come running up to me with their deflated soccer balls and ask me to play with them. As each day passed, I was able to get to know each child personally. We would play hopscotch, sing Christmas carols, and chase after stray cats. I would teach them English words and phrases, and they would teach me Tagalog words and phrases. At the end of my trip, I had learned all of their names and ages. The children were also able to speak basic English with each other, proud of mastering my short-term lessons for them. The day I had to leave, a five-year-old girl named Hanna asked if I would ever come back. It was then and there that I knew I had to return someday. Since then, I've dreamed of teaching English to children in Asia. Even if I move to a poorer country, I know it will be worth it. I can never forget the children's dirt-streaked smiling faces and their satisfaction after mastering a new English word. I believe that teaching English to foreign speakers is such a fulfilling job, as it is an opportunity to inspire and bring joy to others. Not only do I love meeting new people, but I also love learning about new cultures and languages. Teaching ESL is a two-way endeavor: as you aim to teach students English, you will also be taught by them. Teacher-student relationships like that are so beautiful! I want to make an inspiring impact on my students, coworkers, and friends once I move abroad. At the moment, I am working on graduating high school early while simultaneously getting my Associate's Degree in English at my local community college. Next year, I am transferring as a junior to California Baptist University, where I will pursue a B.A. in English and a minor in TESOL. Once I finish my TESOL certification, I hope to attend UCLA for a M.Ed. After this, my main goal is to be accepted as an eligible teacher candidate for the Department of Defense Education Activity, where there are bases all over the globe. I am so excited to see what the future holds for me. Thank you so much for considering my application!

Hello! My name is Jillian, and I am a senior high school student with big dreams. When my mother and I immigrated from the Philippines to California, times were rough, especially during the cultural transition. We moved for my mom to find a job with the degree she had in Information Technology, and to have a better life than the one we had in the Philippines, where we lived near slums and where there were fewer job opportunities. We would never have been able to come to America if my mom wasn't as hardworking as she was. Without her degree, she would not have been able to take on a stable job that would provide enough for us. My mom was the one who taught me that "Education is something no one can take away from you". For years, she has shared stories with me of how hard it is to get an education in the Philippines, compared to in America. To travel to the nearest high school, my mom had to wake up at 5 AM, squeeze into a jeepney (a Filipino vehicle) every day with sweaty strangers, commute for an entire hour each way, and arrive home hungry at 7 PM. As a college student, she had to work and study from sun up to sun down, without time to hang out with friends or family. Even after graduating, she didn't get much of a break and had to work night shifts during her pregnancy with me. My mom would tell me these stories whenever I complain about my workload. Instead of complaining about school, my mom tells me to remember that millions of other kids don't have the opportunity that I have, as a citizen living comfortably in America with access to education. Thankfully, I have a family who understands the importance and rarity of education, and I've been taught to not take it for granted. Although there are times when I am tempted to give up, I ask my mom to tell me a story from her life, and it instantly makes me so grateful to be able to go to school. Pursuing college is not just something I have been encouraged to do by friends and family, but it is also something I'm extremely passionate about. Academics has always been my biggest strength, and I best excel when I am intellectually challenged. For example, I started taking high-school courses in middle school, and college courses in eighth grade. Now, I currently plan on graduating with my Associate's Degree in English by the time I graduate high school. This scholarship would provide an opportunity for me to transfer to a four-year university after I graduate from my local community college. Afterwards, I hope to earn my TESOL certification. As English is a universal language and is related to an incredible amount of job opportunities, being able to teach this language to children who might use it in their future careers greatly inspires me to pursue this field. English is rapidly becoming a valuable skill that is required for employment at many companies. People around the globe have no access to an English education, which greatly impacts their access to a stable job. By being an ESL teacher, I will be able to share my love for reading and experience a new culture. This is the main goal I want to accomplish if I am blessed with the opportunity to go to college. I am so excited to see what the future holds for my education and career. Thank you so much for considering my application!

Hello! My name is Jillian, and I am a senior high school student with big dreams. When my mother and I immigrated from the Philippines to California, times were rough, especially during the cultural transition. We moved for my mom to find a job with the degree she had in Information Technology, and to have a better life than the one we had in the Philippines, where we lived near slums and where there were fewer job opportunities. We would never have been able to come to America if my mom wasn't as hardworking as she was. Without her degree, she would not have been able to take on a stable job that would provide enough for us. My mom was the one who taught me that "Education is something no one can take away from you". For years, she has shared stories with me of how hard it is to get an education in the Philippines, compared to in America. To travel to the nearest high school, my mom had to wake up at 5 AM, squeeze into a jeepney (a Filipino vehicle) every day with sweaty strangers, commute for an entire hour each way, and arrive home hungry at 7 PM. As a college student, she had to work and study from sun up to sun down, without time to hang out with friends or family. Even after graduating, she didn't get much of a break and had to work night shifts during her pregnancy with me. My mom would tell me these stories whenever I complain about my workload. Instead of complaining about school, my mom tells me to remember that millions of other kids don't have the opportunity that I have, as a citizen living comfortably in America with access to education. Thankfully, I have a family who understands the importance and rarity of education, and I've been taught to not take it for granted. Although there are times when I am tempted to give up, I ask my mom to tell me a story from her life, and it instantly makes me so grateful to be able to go to school. Pursuing college is not just something I have been encouraged to do by friends and family, but it is also something I'm extremely passionate about. Academics has always been my biggest strength, and I best excel when I am intellectually challenged. For example, I started taking high-school courses in middle school, and college courses in eighth grade. Now, I currently plan on graduating with my Associate's Degree in English by the time I graduate high school. This scholarship would provide an opportunity for me to transfer to a four-year university after I graduate from my local community college. Afterwards, I hope to earn my TESOL certification. As English is a universal language and is related to an incredible amount of job opportunities, being able to teach this language to children who might use it in their future careers greatly inspires me to pursue this field. English is rapidly becoming a valuable skill that is required for employment at many companies. People around the globe have no access to an English education, which greatly impacts their access to a stable job. By being an ESL teacher, I will be able to share my love for reading and experience a new culture. This is the main goal I want to accomplish if I am blessed with the opportunity to go to college. I am so excited to see what the future holds for my education and career. Thank you so much for considering my application!

Hello! My name is Jillian, and I am a senior high school student with big dreams. My mother was the one who taught me that "Education is something no one can take away from you". For years, she has shared stories with me of how hard it was for her to get an education in the Philippines. To travel to the nearest high school, my mom had to wake up at 5 AM, squeeze into a jeepney (a Filipino vehicle) every day with sweaty strangers, commute for an entire hour each way, and arrive home hungry at 7 PM. As a college student, she had to work and study from sun up to sun down, without time to hang out with friends or family. Even after graduating, she didn't get much of a break and had to work night shifts during her pregnancy with me. My mom tells me these stories whenever I complain about my workload and the busyness of my life. Instead of complaining about school, my mom tells me to remember that millions of other kids don't have the opportunity that I have, as a citizen living comfortably in America with access to education. Thankfully, I have a family who understands the importance and rarity of education, and I've been taught to not take it for granted. Although there are times when I am tempted to give up, I ask my mom to tell me a story from her life, and it instantly makes me so grateful to be able to go to school. Pursuing college is not just something I have been encouraged to do by friends and family, but it is also something I'm extremely passionate about. Academics has always been my biggest strength, and I best excel when I am intellectually challenged. For example, I started taking high-school courses in middle school, and college courses in eighth grade. Now, I currently plan on graduating with my Associate's Degree in English by the time I graduate high school. This scholarship would provide an opportunity for me to transfer to a four-year university after I graduate from my local community college. Afterwards, I hope to earn my TESOL certification. As English is a universal language and is related to an incredible amount of job opportunities, being able to teach this language to children who might use it in their future careers greatly inspires me to pursue this field. English is rapidly becoming a valuable skill that is required for employment at many companies. People around the globe have no access to an English education, which greatly impacts their access to a stable job. By being an ESL teacher, I will be able to share my love for reading and experience a new culture. This is the main goal I want to accomplish if I am blessed with the opportunity to go to college. I am so excited to see what the future holds for my education and career. Thank you so much for considering my application!

Hello! My name is Jillian, and I am a senior high school student with big dreams. My mother was the one who taught me that "Education is something no one can take away from you". For years, she has shared stories with me of how hard it was for her to get an education in the Philippines. To travel to the nearest high school, my mom had to wake up at 5 AM, squeeze into a jeepney (a Filipino vehicle) every day with sweaty strangers, commute for an entire hour each way, and arrive home hungry at 7 PM. As a college student, she had to work and study from sun up to sun down, without time to hang out with friends or family. Even after graduating, she didn't get much of a break and had to work night shifts during her pregnancy with me. My mom tells me these stories whenever I complain about my workload and the busyness of my life. Instead of complaining about school, my mom tells me to remember that millions of other kids don't have the opportunity that I have, as a citizen living comfortably in America with access to education. Thankfully, I have a family who understands the importance and rarity of education, and I've been taught to not take it for granted. Although there are times when I am tempted to give up, I ask my mom to tell me a story from her life, and it instantly makes me so grateful to be able to go to school. Pursuing college is not just something I have been encouraged to do by friends and family, but it is also something I'm extremely passionate about. Academics has always been my biggest strength, and I best excel when I am intellectually challenged. For example, I started taking high-school courses in middle school, and college courses in eighth grade. Now, I currently plan on graduating with my Associate's Degree in English by the time I graduate high school. This scholarship would provide an opportunity for me to transfer to a four-year university after I graduate from my local community college. Afterwards, I hope to earn my TESOL certification. As English is a universal language and is related to an incredible amount of job opportunities, being able to teach this language to children who might use it in their future careers greatly inspires me to pursue this field. English is rapidly becoming a valuable skill that is required for employment at many companies. People around the globe have no access to an English education, which greatly impacts their access to a stable job. By being an ESL teacher, I will be able to share my love for reading and experience a new culture. This is the main goal I want to accomplish if I am blessed with the opportunity to go to college. I am so excited to see what the future holds for my education and career. Thank you so much for considering my application!

Hello! My name is Jillian, and I am a senior high school student with big dreams. When my mother and I immigrated from the Philippines to California, times were rough, especially during the cultural transition. We moved for my mom to find a job with the degree she had in Information Technology, and to have a better life than the one we had in the Philippines, where we lived near slums and where there were fewer job opportunities. We would never have been able to come to America if my mom wasn't as hardworking as she was. Without her degree, she would not have been able to take on a stable job that would provide enough for us. My mom was the one who taught me that "Education is something no one can take away from you". For years, she has shared stories with me of how hard it is to get an education in the Philippines, compared to in America. To travel to the nearest high school, my mom had to wake up at 5 AM, squeeze into a jeepney (a Filipino vehicle) every day with sweaty strangers, commute for an entire hour each way, and arrive home hungry at 7 PM. As a college student, she had to work and study from sun up to sun down, without time to hang out with friends or family. Even after graduating, she didn't get much of a break and had to work night shifts during her pregnancy with me. My mom would tell me these stories whenever I complain about my workload. Instead of complaining about school, my mom tells me to remember that millions of other kids don't have the opportunity that I have, as a citizen living comfortably in America with access to education. Thankfully, I have a family who understands the importance and rarity of education, and I've been taught to not take it for granted. Although there are times when I am tempted to give up, I ask my mom to tell me a story from her life, and it instantly makes me so grateful to be able to go to school. Pursuing college is not just something I have been encouraged to do by friends and family, but it is also something I'm extremely passionate about. Academics has always been my biggest strength, and I best excel when I am intellectually challenged. For example, I started taking high-school courses in middle school, and college courses in eighth grade. Now, I currently plan on graduating with my Associate's Degree in English by the time I graduate high school. This scholarship would provide an opportunity for me to transfer to a four-year university after I graduate from my local community college. Afterwards, I hope to earn my TESOL certification. As English is a universal language and is related to an incredible amount of job opportunities, being able to teach this language to children who might use it in their future careers greatly inspires me to pursue this field. English is rapidly becoming a valuable skill that is required for employment at many companies. People around the globe have no access to an English education, which greatly impacts their access to a stable job. By being an ESL teacher, I will be able to share my love for reading and experience a new culture. This is the main goal I want to accomplish if I am blessed with the opportunity to go to college. I am so excited to see what the future holds for my education and career. Thank you so much for considering my application!

Hello! My name is Jillian, and I am a senior high school student with big dreams. When my mother and I immigrated from the Philippines to California, times were rough, especially during the cultural transition. We moved for my mom to find a job with the degree she had in Information Technology, and to have a better life than the one we had in the Philippines, where we lived near slums and where there were fewer job opportunities. It was only years later that I realized we would never have been able to come to America if my mom wasn't as hardworking as she was. Without her degree, she wouldn't have been able to get a job that would provide enough for a family. My mom was (and still is!) my biggest educational supporter. She was the one who taught me that "Education is something no one can take away from you". For years, she has shared stories with me of how hard it is to get an education in the Philippines, compared to in America. To travel to the nearest high school, my mom had to wake up at 5 AM, squeeze into a jeepney (a Filipino vehicle) every day with sweaty strangers, commute for an entire hour each way, and arrive home hungry at 7 PM. As a college student, she had to work and study from sun up to sun down, without time to hang out with friends or family. Even after graduating, she didn't get much of a break and had to work night shifts during her pregnancy with me. My mom would tell me these stories whenever I complained about how "hard" my school was, or why I don't have any free time. Instead of complaining about school, my mom tells me to remember that millions of other kids don't have the opportunity that I have, as a citizen living comfortably in America with access to and education. Thankfully, I have a family who understands the importance and rarity of education, and I've been taught to not take it for granted. Although there are times when I am tempted to give up, I ask my mom to tell me a story from her life, and it instantly makes me so grateful to be able to go to school. Now, fifteen years later after immigrating, I have three new siblings and an amazing dad. However, we are now a single-income family, and after moving to help plant a church, we live in one of the most expensive cities in the nation, San Diego. Winning this scholarship would provide my family an opportunity to transfer me to a private four-year university after I graduate from my local community college. Afterwards, I hope to earn my TESOL certification. Since I love to travel, I'd love to move to Japan one day to become an ESL teacher for young children. As English is a universal language and is related to an incredible amount of job opportunities, being able to teach this language to children who might use it in their future careers greatly inspires me to pursue this field. English is rapidly becoming a valuable asset that is required for employment at many companies. By being an ESL teacher, I will be able to share my love for reading, and experience a new culture and language! I am so excited to see what the future holds for my education and career. Thank you so much for considering my application!

Hello! My name is Jillian, and I am a senior high school student with big dreams. When my mother and I immigrated from the Philippines to California, times were rough, especially during the cultural transition. We moved for my mom to find a job with the degree she had in Information Technology, and to have a better life than the one we had in the Philippines, where we lived near slums and where there were fewer job opportunities. It was only years later that I realized we would never have been able to come to America if my mom wasn't as hardworking as she was. Without her degree, she wouldn't have been able to get a job that would provide enough for a family. My mom was (and still is!) my biggest educational supporter. She was the one who taught me that "Education is something no one can take away from you". For years, she has shared stories with me of how hard it is to get an education in the Philippines, compared to in America. To travel to the nearest high school, my mom had to wake up at 5 AM, squeeze into a jeepney (a Filipino vehicle) every day with sweaty strangers, commute for an entire hour each way, and arrive home hungry at 7 PM. As a college student, she had to work and study from sun up to sun down, without time to hang out with friends or family. Even after graduating, she didn't get much of a break and had to work night shifts during her pregnancy with me. My mom would tell me these stories whenever I complained about how "hard" my school was, or why I don't have any free time. Instead of complaining about school, my mom tells me to remember that millions of other kids don't have the opportunity that I have, as a citizen living comfortably in America with access to and education. Thankfully, I have a family who understands the importance and rarity of education, and I've been taught to not take it for granted. Although there are times when I am tempted to give up, I ask my mom to tell me a story from her life, and it instantly makes me so grateful to be able to go to school. Now, fifteen years later after immigrating, I have three new siblings and an amazing dad. However, we are now a single-income family, and after moving to help plant a church, we live in one of the most expensive cities in the nation, San Diego. Winning this scholarship would provide my family an opportunity to transfer me to a private four-year university after I graduate from my local community college. Afterwards, I hope to earn my TESOL certification. Since I love to travel, I'd love to move to Japan one day to become an ESL teacher for young children. As English is a universal language and is related to an incredible amount of job opportunities, being able to teach this language to children who might use it in their future careers greatly inspires me to pursue this field. English is rapidly becoming a valuable asset that is required for employment at many companies. By being an ESL teacher, I will be able to share my love for reading, and experience a new culture and language! I am so excited to see what the future holds for my education and career. Thank you so much for considering my application!

Hello! My name is Jillian, and I am a high school student with big dreams. I have always loved to read, and it has been my favorite thing to do when I am not working or in school. Since I am the oldest in my family, my parents had a lot of time to teach me things as a young kid, and one of those things was to read. My dad mainly took over this role and taught me at the early age of two how to read a book cover to cover. He would sit with me each night, and we would go through phonetic flashcards and simple vocabulary words. By the time I was three, I could easily read and comprehend what I was reading on my own. From that point, I have never stopped loving books and all forms of literature. This love my parents instilled within me for books has really shaped who I am now as a person. I cannot stress enough how literature has healed me emotionally and shaped me mentally through different seasons of my life. I am incredibly grateful for my parents' dedication to teaching me such an important gift. Talented English teachers who love their job have absolutely been the biggest influence on how I approach and experience reading. They have always emphasized the importance of literature and have helped me see how I, a simple high school student, can relate to Scout from To Kill a Mockingbird, Edmond Dantès from the Count of Monte Cristo, or Jo March from Little Women. These teachers have helped shape my goals in becoming an English and ESL teacher. My mother, who is also named Barbara, is from the Philippines. I recently was able to visit the home she grew up in, and meet the people who live around her family. I ended up teaching the neighborhood children common English words and phrases, and in return, they would teach me Tagalog words and phrases. At the end of my trip, these children were able to speak basic English with one another, proud of mastering the short-term lessons I gave them. Since then, I've dreamed of teaching English to children in Asia. Even if I move to a poorer country, I know it will be worth it. I can never forget the children's dirt-streaked faces, and how they brightened immediately after mastering a challenging new English word. I believe that teaching English to foreign speakers is an incredibly fulfilling job, as it is an opportunity to inspire and bring joy to others. Teaching ESL is a two-way endeavor: as you aim to teach students English, you will also be taught by them. Teacher-student relationships like that are so beautiful. This cultural experience taught me that English is worth fighting for. Words are worth fighting for. Books are too. By investing my time, effort, and energy into teaching others the power of words and literature, I know I will truly be able to impact the people around me. I want to be an inspiring influence on my future students, coworkers, and friends, especially once I move abroad. At the moment, I am working on graduating high school a year early while simultaneously earning my associate degree in English at my local community college. Afterward, I plan to transfer to a four-year university, and continue studying English. Once I finish my TESL certification, I can become an ESL teacher, and continue sharing my love for books with others. I'm so excited to see what the future holds for me. Thank you so much for considering my application!

When my mother and I immigrated from the Philippines to California, times were rough, especially during the cultural transition. We moved for my mom to find a job with the degree she had in Information Technology, and to have a better life than the one we had in the Philippines, where we lived near slums and where there were fewer job opportunities. It was only years later that I realized we would never have been able to come to America if my mom wasn't as hardworking as she was. Without a degree, she most likely wouldn't have been able to get a job that would provide enough for a family. My mom was (and still is!) my biggest educational supporter. She was the one who taught me that "Education is something no one can take away from you". For years, she has shared stories with me of how hard it is to get an education in the Philippines, compared to America. To travel to the nearest high school, my mom had to wake up at 5 AM, squeeze into a jeepney (a Filipino vehicle) every day with sweaty strangers, commute for an entire hour each way, and arrive home hungry at 7 PM. As a college student, she had to work and study from sun up to sun down, without time to hang out with friends or family. Even after graduating, she didn't get much of a break and had to work night shifts during her pregnancy with me. My mom would tell me these stories whenever I complained about how "hard" my school was, or why I don't have any free time. Instead of complaining about school, my mom tells me to remember that millions of other kids don't have the opportunity that I have, as a citizen living comfortably in America with access to school. Thankfully, I have a family who understand the importance and rarity of education, and I've been taught to not take it for granted. Although there are times when I am tempted to give up on that one math problem, or the heavy dual college and high school workload, or even waking up early every morning to head to school, I ask my mom to tell me a story from her life, and it instantly makes me so grateful to be able to go to school. Now, fifteen years later after immigrating, I have three new siblings and an amazing dad. However, we are now a single-income family, and after moving to help plant a church, we live in one of the most expensive cities in the nation, San Diego. Winning this scholarship would provide my family an opportunity to transfer me to a private four-year university after I graduate from my local community college. My future dreams and goals include getting my A.A. in English, and my B.A. in Humanities. Afterward, I hope to earn my TESOL certification. Since I love to travel, I'd love to move to Japan one day to become an ESL teacher for young children. As English is a universal language, and is related to an incredible amount of job opportunities, being able to teach this language to children who might use it in their future careers greatly inspires me to pursue this field. In addition, I will be able to experience a new culture and learn a new language! Last but not least, thank you for considering my application. I'm so excited to see what the future holds for my education and career. Maraming Salamat! (Thank you!)

Hello! My name is Jillian, and I am a high school student with big dreams. I love to travel, and I love English, and both passions overlap to create my dream career. Since my most recent trip to the Philippines, I haven't stopped thinking of becoming an ESL teacher. Just last year, during my three-week trip to the Philippines, I was able to stay in the house my mother grew up in. As the days passed, I would see the neighborhood children go out to play soccer or tag on the street. Watching them dressed almost in rags, yet still able to experience happiness brought tears to my eyes. It's a sight you would never see in the US, and a sight you would never forget. Whenever I stepped out of the house, a group of around fifteen children would come running up to me with their deflated soccer ball and ask me to play with them. Although the language barrier stood heavily between us, I could understand them through their gestures and a few common phrases. As each day passed, I would play with the children outside. We would play hopscotch, sing carols, and chase after stray cats. I would teach them English words and phrases, and they would teach me Tagalog words and phrases. At the end of my trip, I had learned all of their names and ages. The children were also able speak basic English with each other, proud of mastering my short-term lessons for them. The day I had to leave, a five-year-old girl named Hanna asked if I would ever come back. It was then and there that I knew I had to return someday. Since then, I've dreamed of teaching English to children in Asia. Even if I move to a poorer country, I know it will be worth it. I can never forget the dirt-streaked smiling faces, and how they brighten immediately after mastering a new English word. I believe that teaching English to foreign speakers is such a fulfilling job, as it is an opportunity to inspire and bring joy to others. Not only do I love meeting new people, but I also love learning about new cultures and languages. Teaching ESL is a two-way endeavor: as you aim to teach students English, you will also be taught by them. Teacher-student relationships like that are so beautiful! I want to make an inspiring impact on my students, coworkers, and friends once I move abroad. At the moment, I am working on graduating high school early while simultaneously getting my associate degree in English at my local community college. Afterward, I plan to transfer to a four-year university. Once I finish my TESL certification, I can become an ESL teacher! I'm so excited to see what the future holds for me. Thank you so much for considering my application!

Hello! My name is Jillian, and I am a high school student with big dreams. I love to travel, and I love English, and both passions overlap to create my dream career. Since my most recent trip to the Philippines, I haven't stopped thinking of becoming an ESL teacher. Just last year, during my three-week trip to the Philippines, I was able to stay in the house my mother grew up in. As the days passed, I would see the neighborhood children go out to play soccer or tag on the street. Watching them dressed almost in rags, yet still able to experience happiness brought tears to my eyes. It's a sight you would never see in the US, and a sight you would never forget. Whenever I stepped out of the house, a group of around fifteen children would come running up to me with their deflated soccer ball and ask me to play with them. Although the language barrier stood heavily between us, I could understand them through their gestures and a few common phrases. As each day passed, I would play with the children outside. We would play hopscotch, sing carols, and chase after stray cats. I would teach them English words and phrases, and they would teach me Tagalog words and phrases. At the end of my trip, I had learned all of their names and ages. The children were also able speak basic English with each other, proud of mastering my short-term lessons for them. The day I had to leave, a five-year-old girl named Hanna asked if I would ever come back. It was then and there that I knew I had to return someday. Since then, I've dreamed of teaching English to children in Asia. Even if I move to a poorer country, I know it will be worth it. I can never forget the dirt-streaked smiling faces, and how they brighten immediately after mastering a new English word. I believe that teaching English to foreign speakers is such a fulfilling job, as it is an opportunity to inspire and bring joy to others. Not only do I love meeting new people, but I also love learning about new cultures and languages. Teaching ESL is a two-way endeavor: as you aim to teach students English, you will also be taught by them. Teacher-student relationships like that are so beautiful! I want to make an inspiring impact on my students, coworkers, and friends once I move abroad. At the moment, I am working on graduating high school early while simultaneously getting my associate degree in English at my local community college. Afterward, I plan to transfer to a four-year university. Once I finish my TESL certification, I can become an ESL teacher! I'm so excited to see what the future holds for me. Thank you so much for considering my application!

Hello! My name is Jillian, and I am a high school student with big dreams. I love to travel, and I love English, and both passions overlap to create my dream career. Since my most recent trip to the Philippines, I haven't stopped thinking of becoming an ESL teacher. Just last year, during my three-week trip to the Philippines, I was able to stay in the house my mother grew up in. As the days passed, I would see the neighborhood children go out to play soccer or tag on the street. Watching them dressed almost in rags, yet still able to experience happiness brought tears to my eyes. It's a sight you would never see in the US, and a sight you would never forget. Whenever I stepped out of the house, a group of around fifteen children would come running up to me with their deflated soccer ball and ask me to play with them. Although the language barrier stood heavily between us, I could understand them through their gestures and a few common phrases. As each day passed, I would play with the children outside. We would play hopscotch, sing carols, and chase after stray cats. I would teach them English words and phrases, and they would teach me Tagalog words and phrases. At the end of my trip, I had learned all of their names and ages. The children were also able speak basic English with each other, proud of mastering my short-term lessons for them. The day I had to leave, a five-year-old girl named Hanna asked if I would ever come back. It was then and there that I knew I had to return someday. Since then, I've dreamed of teaching English to children in Asia. Even if I move to a poorer country, I know it will be worth it. I can never forget the dirt-streaked smiling faces, and how they brighten immediately after mastering a new English word. I believe that teaching English to foreign speakers is such a fulfilling job, as it is an opportunity to inspire and bring joy to others. Not only do I love meeting new people, but I also love learning about new cultures and languages. Teaching ESL is a two-way endeavor: as you aim to teach students English, you will also be taught by them. Teacher-student relationships like that are so beautiful! I want to make an inspiring impact on my students, coworkers, and friends once I move abroad. At the moment, I am working on graduating high school early while simultaneously getting my associate degree in English at my local community college. Afterward, I plan to transfer to a four-year university. Once I finish my TESL certification, I can become an ESL teacher! I'm so excited to see what the future holds for me. Thank you so much for considering my application!

As a child, I have always been interested in various jobs and careers, but my interests have always passed and changed quickly. Throughout my life, I have met so many inspiring people who would tell me about their careers and how it has greatly changed their lives for the better. But it wasn't until last year, in December 2023, that I felt a compelling pull towards a specific career. Since my trip to the Philippines, I haven't stopped thinking of becoming an ESL teacher. I have always had a strong fascination for literature and words. Ever since my father taught me how to read at two, I have never stopped reading. From books to magazines and articles, reading has been a way for me to escape the world for a few hours (or days) and dive into a whole new universe. It wasn't until freshman year that I knew I wanted to pursue a career related to English or literature. Just recently, during my three-week trip to the Philippines, I was able to stay in the house my mother grew up in. As the days passed, I would see the neighborhood children go out to play soccer or tag on the street. Watching them dressed almost in rags, yet still able to experience happiness brought tears to my eyes. It's a sight you would never see in the US, and a sight you would never forget. Whenever I stepped out of the house, a group of around fifteen children would come running up to me with their deflated soccer ball and ask me to play with them. Although the language barrier stood heavily between us, I could understand them through their gestures and a few common phrases. As each day passed, I would play with the children outside. We would play hopscotch, sing carols, and chase after stray cats. I would teach them English words and phrases, and they would teach me Tagalog words and phrases. At the end of my trip, I had learned all of their names and ages. The children were also able speak basic English with each other, proud of mastering my short-term lessons for them. The day I had to leave, a five-year-old girl named Hanna asked if I would ever come back. It was then and there that I knew I had to return someday. Since then, I've dreamed of teaching English to children in Asia. Even if I move to a poorer country, I know it will be worth it. I can never forget the dirt-streaked smiling faces, and how they brighten immediately after mastering a new English word. I believe that teaching English to foreign speakers is such a fulfilling job, as it is an opportunity to inspire and bring joy to others. Not only do I love meeting new people, but I also love learning about new cultures and languages. Teaching ESL is a two-way endeavor: as you aim to teach students English, you will also be taught by them. Teacher-student relationships like that are so beautiful! I want to make an inspiring impact on my students, coworkers, and friends once I move abroad. At the moment, I am working on graduating high school early while simultaneously getting my associate degree in English at my local community college. Afterward, I plan to transfer to a four-year university internationally. Once I finish my TESL certification, I can become an ESL teacher! I'm so excited to see what the future holds for me. Thank you so much for considering my application!

Hello! My name is Jillian, and I am a high school student with big dreams. I love to travel, and I love English, and both passions overlap to create my dream career. Since my most recent trip to the Philippines, I haven't stopped thinking of becoming an ESL teacher. Just last year, during my three-week trip to the Philippines, I was able to stay in the house my mother grew up in. As the days passed, I would see the neighborhood children go out to play soccer or tag on the street. Watching them dressed almost in rags, yet still able to experience happiness brought tears to my eyes. It's a sight you would never see in the US, and a sight you would never forget. Whenever I stepped out of the house, a group of around fifteen children would come running up to me with their deflated soccer ball and ask me to play with them. Although the language barrier stood heavily between us, I could understand them through their gestures and a few common phrases. As each day passed, I would play with the children outside. We would play hopscotch, sing carols, and chase after stray cats. I would teach them English words and phrases, and they would teach me Tagalog words and phrases. At the end of my trip, I had learned all of their names and ages. The children were also able speak basic English with each other, proud of mastering my short-term lessons for them. The day I had to leave, a five-year-old girl named Hanna asked if I would ever come back. It was then and there that I knew I had to return someday. Since then, I've dreamed of teaching English to children in Asia. Even if I move to a poorer country, I know it will be worth it. I can never forget the dirt-streaked smiling faces, and how they brighten immediately after mastering a new English word. I believe that teaching English to foreign speakers is such a fulfilling job, as it is an opportunity to inspire and bring joy to others. Not only do I love meeting new people, but I also love learning about new cultures and languages. Teaching ESL is a two-way endeavor: as you aim to teach students English, you will also be taught by them. Teacher-student relationships like that are so beautiful! Not only am I passionate about the impact ESL teachers have all over the world, but I am also excited to watch how future women educators will bring their talents to transform the classroom, as each year brings new opportunities to send out teachers both abroad and domestically. I am always in awe of the bravery female-educators hold, as many are willing to leave their home and move to a completely new state or country for their career. This requires quick assimilation into a new culture, and this journey can often seem daunting and intimidating if alone in an unfamiliar environment. These bold women stand as an inspiration to me, and I look up to them greatly as they reflect my goals. I want to make an inspiring impact on my students, coworkers, and friends once I move abroad. At the moment, I am working on graduating high school early while simultaneously getting my associate degree in English at my local community college. Afterward, I plan to transfer to a four-year university. Once I finish my TESL certification, I can become an ESL teacher! I'm so excited to see what the future holds for me. Thank you so much for considering my application!

As a child, I have always been interested in various jobs and careers, but my interests have always passed and changed quickly. Throughout my life, I have met so many inspiring people who would tell me about their careers and how it has greatly changed their lives for the better. But it wasn't until last year, in December 2023, that I felt a compelling pull towards a specific career. Since my trip to the Philippines, I haven't stopped thinking of becoming an ESL teacher. I have always had a strong fascination for literature and words. Ever since my father taught me how to read at two, I have never stopped reading. From books to magazines and articles, reading has been a way for me to escape the world for a few hours (or days) and dive into a whole new universe. It wasn't until freshman year that I knew I wanted to pursue a career related to English or literature. Just recently, during my three-week trip to the Philippines, I was able to stay in the house my mother grew up in. As the days passed, I would see the neighborhood children go out to play soccer or tag on the street. Watching them dressed almost in rags, yet still able to experience happiness brought tears to my eyes. It's a sight you would never see in the US, and a sight you would never forget. Whenever I stepped out of the house, a group of around fifteen children would come running up to me with their deflated soccer ball and ask me to play with them. Although the language barrier stood heavily between us, I could understand them through their gestures and a few common phrases. As each day passed, I would play with the children outside. We would play hopscotch, sing carols, and chase after stray cats. I would teach them English words and phrases, and they would teach me Tagalog words and phrases. At the end of my trip, I had learned all of their names and ages. The children were also able speak basic English with each other, proud of mastering my short-term lessons for them. The day I had to leave, a five-year-old girl named Hanna asked if I would ever come back. It was then and there that I knew I had to return someday. Since then, I've dreamed of teaching English to children in Asia. Even if I move to a poorer country, I know it will be worth it. I can never forget the dirt-streaked smiling faces, and how they brighten immediately after mastering a new English word. I believe that teaching English to foreign speakers is such a fulfilling job, as it is an opportunity to inspire and bring joy to others. Not only do I love meeting new people, but I also love learning about new cultures and languages. Teaching ESL is a two-way endeavor: as you aim to teach students English, you will also be taught by them. Teacher-student relationships like that are so beautiful! I want to make an inspiring impact on my students, coworkers, and friends once I move abroad. At the moment, I am working on graduating high school early while simultaneously getting my associate degree in English at my local community college. Afterward, I plan to transfer to a four-year university. Once I finish my TESL certification, I can become an ESL teacher! I'm so excited to see what the future holds for me. Thank you so much for considering my application!

As a child, I have always been interested in various jobs and careers, but my interests have always passed and changed quickly. Throughout my life, I have met so many inspiring people who would tell me about their careers and how it has greatly changed their lives for the better. But it wasn't until last year, in December 2023, that I felt a compelling pull towards a specific career. Since my trip to the Philippines, I haven't stopped thinking of becoming an ESL teacher. I have always had a strong fascination for literature and words. Ever since my father taught me how to read at two, I have never stopped reading. From books to magazines and articles, reading has been a way for me to escape the world for a few hours (or days) and dive into a whole new universe. It wasn't until freshman year that I knew I wanted to pursue a career related to English or literature. Just recently, during my three-week trip to the Philippines, I was able to stay in the house my mother grew up in. As the days passed, I would see the neighborhood children go out to play soccer or tag on the street. Watching them dressed almost in rags, yet still able to experience happiness brought tears to my eyes. It's a sight you would never see in the US, and a sight you would never forget. Whenever I stepped out of the house, a group of around fifteen children would come running up to me with their deflated soccer ball and ask me to play with them. Although the language barrier stood heavily between us, I could understand them through their gestures and a few common phrases. As each day passed, I would play with the children outside. We would play hopscotch, sing carols, and chase after stray cats. I would teach them English words and phrases, and they would teach me Tagalog words and phrases. At the end of my trip, I had learned all of their names and ages. The children were also able speak basic English with each other, proud of mastering my short-term lessons for them. The day I had to leave, a five-year-old girl named Hanna asked if I would ever come back. It was then and there that I knew I had to return someday. Since then, I've dreamed of teaching English to children in Asia. Even if I move to a poorer country, I know it will be worth it. I can never forget the dirt-streaked smiling faces, and how they brighten immediately after mastering a new English word. I believe that teaching English to foreign speakers is such a fulfilling job, as it is an opportunity to inspire and bring joy to others. Not only do I love meeting new people, but I also love learning about new cultures and languages. Teaching ESL is a two-way endeavor: as you aim to teach students English, you will also be taught by them. Teacher-student relationships like that are so beautiful! I want to make an inspiring impact on my students, coworkers, and friends once I move abroad. At the moment, I am working on graduating high school early while simultaneously getting my associate degree in English at my local community college. Afterward, I plan to transfer to a four-year university internationally. Once I finish my TESL certification, I can become an ESL teacher! I'm so excited to see what the future holds for me. Thank you so much for considering my application!

When I first started listening to K-pop, it wasn't because someone told me about a particular group or because I saw a specific song rise on Billboard. I first became familiar with it on a vacation, where the entertainment team was blasting BTS' *extremely* popular English songs: Dynamite and Butter. As I heard these songs played on repeat at the resort, I was amazed at how catchy and uplifting these songs were. I was also surprised at the deeper meaning behind the lyrics of Dynamite: Even when the world is a bit dark, it's okay to get up and dance - as it helps spread the light and joy to the people around you. As soon as I got home from vacation, I watched a few of BTS' music videos on YouTube, and I was immediately hooked. Although I now listen to a wide variety of K-pop artists, BTS (which was the very first group I loved!) is by far my favorite. Their songs and lyrics have always stayed with me because I can relate the most to them emotionally. Their lyrics heavily focus on introspection, the problems in life, and mental awareness - which are the things I look for most in the music I choose to listen to. In addition, BTS' songs have always felt the most genuine and expressive out of the other hundreds of K-pop songs. This helps me as the audience respond both emotionally and mentally to their messages. My favorite BTS song is by far their heartbreaking ballad 'Spring Day'. This song was written after and in honor of the people who drowned in the Sewol Ferry Tragedy in 2014. More than three hundred people died in this accident, including two hundred and fifty high school students who were on their way on a school field trip. Only seventy-five students survived. 'Spring Day' pays tribute to the families and friends of those students who died in the accident. The message of the song is centered around the feeling of missing someone, but being unable to meet. Their powerful lyrics capture this essence perfectly: ~ "I miss you Saying this makes me miss you all even more I miss you... Time's so cruel... I could've reached you faster... How long do I have to wait How many nights do I have to pass To see you?... The morning will come again No darkness, no season can last forever... Until the spring day comes again Until the flowers bloom again Please stay, please stay there a little longer" ~ With just these few lines, one can see how talented this group is at capturing the essence of human emotion into music. I love to listen to this song when I'm feeling low, and every time I hear it, a little piece of me breaks - but the small glimmer of hope nestled into these lyrics helps me to look forward to the future. BTS not only makes touching music, but the group is no doubt greatly talented. Because of their talents, this group has been able to reach people all around the world with their powerful anthem of hope. Music has been known to heal people in many different stages of life and difficult circumstances, and BTS has been able to reach these people in dark places. Their uniqueness is the reason why they have the largest fanbase in the world! BTS are truly the "Bulletproof Boy Scouts" of our time, and they continue to perform and make impacting music with meaningful global messages. Be sure to give them a listen!

When my mother and I immigrated from the Philippines to California, times were rough, especially during the cultural transition. We moved for my mom to find a job with the degree she had in Information Technology, and to have a better life than the one we had in the Philippines, where we lived near slums and where there were fewer job opportunities. It was only years later that I realized we would never have been able to come to America if my mom wasn't as hardworking as she was. Without a degree, she most likely wouldn't have been able to get a job that would provide enough for a family. My mom was (and still is!) my biggest educational supporter. She was the one who taught me that "Education is something no one can take away from you". For years, she has shared stories with me of how hard it is to get an education in the Philippines, compared to America. To travel to the nearest high school, my mom had to wake up at 5 AM, squeeze into a jeepney (a Filipino vehicle) every day with sweaty strangers, commute for an entire hour each way, and arrive home hungry at 7 PM. As a college student, she had to work and study from sun up to sun down, without time to hang out with friends or family. Even after graduating, she didn't get much of a break and had to work night shifts during her pregnancy with me. My mom would tell me these stories whenever I complained about how "hard" my school was, or why I don't have any free time. Instead of complaining about school, my mom tells me to remember that millions of other kids don't have the opportunity that I have, as a citizen living comfortably in America with access to school. Thankfully, I have a family who understand the importance and rarity of education, and I've been taught to not take it for granted. Although there are times when I am tempted to give up on that one math problem, or the heavy dual college and high school workload, or even waking up early every morning to head to school, I ask my mom to tell me a story from her life, and it instantly makes me so grateful to be able to go to school. Now, fifteen years later after immigrating, I have three new siblings and an amazing dad. However, we are now a single-income family, and after moving to help plant a church, we live in one of the most expensive cities in the nation, San Diego. Winning this scholarship would provide my family an opportunity to transfer me to a private four-year university after I graduate from my local community college. My future dreams and goals include getting my A.A. in English, and my B.A. in Humanities. Afterward, I hope to earn my TESOL certification. Since I love to travel, I'd love to move to a country in Asia one day to become an ESL teacher for young children. As English is a universal language, and is related to an incredible amount of job opportunities, being able to teach this language to children who might use it in their future careers greatly inspires me to pursue this field. In addition, I will be able to experience a new culture and learn a new language! Last but not least, thank you for considering my application. I'm so excited to see what the future holds for my education and career. Maraming Salamat! (Thank you!)