Adversity, in my life, has come in many forms, but one of the most defining challenges I have faced was balancing my education while helping support my family at a young age. As a first-generation college student from a low-income household, I had to grow up quickly and take on responsibilities that often felt overwhelming. During my senior year of high school, I struggled not only with uncertainty about my future, but also with stress from my home life. My mom was unable to work due to injuries, which left my dad as the primary provider. As the oldest child, I felt a strong responsibility to help. I started working at sixteen, and over time, that responsibility increased. By my senior year and into my first year of college, I was helping pay for my own education while also contributing to household expenses. Balancing school, work, and financial pressure took a toll on me. I often felt mentally drained and overwhelmed, trying to keep up with everything at once. At the same time, I was dealing with personal health challenges that made it even harder to stay motivated and focused. There were moments when I questioned whether I could handle it all. One of the hardest parts was feeling like I had to navigate everything alone. As a first-generation student, I had to figure out the college process on my own, including financial aid and applications. Even when help was available, it did not always meet my needs, and I often felt like I was expected to already understand things that were completely new to me. The turning point came when I realized I needed to advocate for myself. I had a difficult but important conversation with my dad. I explained that while I understood the importance of responsibility, the pressure of working and contributing financially was making it harder to focus on school. I showed him how much I was managing and how it was affecting me. That conversation was not easy, but it helped us reach a better understanding, and I was able to focus more on my education. Through this experience, I learned the importance of communication, balance, and self-advocacy. I also learned that setting boundaries does not make you weak. It shows strength and commitment to your goals. Although I still face challenges, I now feel more confident in my ability to manage them. This adversity has shaped me into someone who is resilient, independent, and determined. It has also influenced my goal of becoming an educator. I want to support students who may be facing similar struggles, especially those who feel like they have to handle everything on their own. I want to be someone who listens, understands, and provides guidance. If I could give advice to someone facing a similar situation, I would tell them not to be afraid to speak up for themselves. Your goals matter, and your future is worth protecting. It may feel difficult, but advocating for yourself can make a difference. You are not meant to carry everything alone. My journey has not been easy, but it has made me stronger. It has shown me that growth can come from difficult situations and that I am capable of overcoming challenges. Most importantly, it has reminded me that my education is not just a goal, but a path toward creating a better future for myself and my family.

My decision to pursue a career in education, especially in supporting students with intellectual disabilities, comes from both my personal experiences and the people closest to me. Through my work with students and my relationship with my younger brother, I have developed a deep understanding of the importance of patience, support, and advocacy in education. As someone studying elementary education at Lesley University, I have already had the opportunity to work with children from a variety of backgrounds and learning needs. Many of the students I have worked with have required additional support, including those with special needs and intellectual disabilities. These experiences have shown me how important it is for educators to be prepared, compassionate, and flexible. Every student learns differently, and it is the responsibility of a teacher to meet them where they are and help them grow. However, my biggest inspiration comes from my younger brother. He is currently in kindergarten and will soon be entering first grade. He is on the autism spectrum and was born prematurely at just six months old. From the very beginning, he has faced challenges, but he continues to grow and surprise everyone around him. He is incredibly bright, kind, and full of potential. Watching him learn new things, interact with others, and develop his own personality has been one of the most meaningful experiences in my life. Having a close relationship with him has changed the way I see education. I have become more aware of the barriers that students with intellectual disabilities can face, as well as the importance of having the right support systems in place. I think about his future often and hope that he will always have teachers who believe in him, support him, and push him to reach his full potential. That hope is what motivates me to become that kind of educator for other students. I want to be someone who not only teaches, but also advocates. I want to make sure that students with intellectual disabilities are given the same opportunities to succeed as anyone else. This includes creating inclusive classroom environments, adapting instruction to meet individual needs, and working closely with families to ensure that students are supported both in and out of school. I also hope to continue my education in the future by pursuing a degree in special education so that I can better serve this community. My goal is to make a difference not only in the lives of my students, but also in the lives of their families. I understand how important it is for caregivers to feel confident that their child is in a safe and supportive environment. I want to be an educator who builds trust with families and helps them feel reassured about their child’s growth and progress. Most importantly, I believe that every student has the ability to succeed. Students with intellectual disabilities are often underestimated, but I have seen firsthand how capable they are when given the right support. My brother reminds me of that every day. He continues to grow, learn, and show everyone around him what he is capable of, and I carry that belief with me into my future career. Through my work in education, I hope to create a more inclusive and understanding environment where all students feel valued. I want to be a part of a system that recognizes potential instead of limitations. Inspired by my brother and my experiences, I am committed to supporting students with intellectual disabilities and helping them build meaningful, successful lives.

The person I am today has been shaped by the people who took the time to believe in me, especially my teachers. Their support went beyond academics. They created environments where I felt comfortable, understood, and capable. Because of those experiences, I realized that education is not just about learning material, but about building confidence and helping students feel seen. That realization is what led me to pursue a career in education. I am currently studying elementary education at Lesley University, and I have already begun gaining hands-on experience working with children. What stands out to me the most is the relationships I have built. The students I work with recognize me, ask about me when I am not there, and show genuine excitement when I return. Those small moments mean a lot to me because they show that I am making an impact, even in ways that are not always visible on paper. Working with students from low-income backgrounds has also deepened my understanding of the role educators play in students’ lives. For many of them, having someone who listens, supports, and encourages them can make a real difference in how they see themselves. I try to be that person. Whether I am helping with schoolwork or simply being present, I want my students to feel like they have someone in their corner. At the same time, these experiences have pushed me to grow. Every student is different, and learning how to support a variety of personalities and learning styles has challenged me in the best way. I have become more patient, more adaptable, and more aware of how important it is to meet students where they are. In many ways, the students are helping me develop into the educator I hope to become. As I continue my journey in education, my goal is to create spaces where students feel both supported and motivated. I want my classroom to be a place where students are not afraid to ask questions, take risks, and be themselves. I also hope to grow beyond the classroom by stepping into leadership roles where I can help improve opportunities for students on a larger scale. My desire to make a positive impact comes from what I have experienced myself. I know what it feels like to be encouraged by someone who believes in you, and I want to pass that feeling on to others. Through my career, I hope to support students not only academically, but personally, helping them build confidence and recognize their own potential. In the end, I want my work to matter. If I can be a steady source of support for even a few students and help them feel more confident in themselves and their future, then I know I am making a difference.

Education has played a major role in shaping both my goals and my sense of direction. As a sophomore at Lesley University majoring in elementary education, I have begun to understand not only what I want to do in the future, but also the kind of person I want to become. My journey has not been perfect or easy, but it has been meaningful. Through support, challenges, and personal growth, I have learned how powerful education can be when combined with determination. One of the biggest influences on my path was a teacher I had in high school. She constantly encouraged me and told me that I had a natural ability to work with children and that I would be a great teacher someday. At the time, I did not fully believe her. I had never seriously considered teaching as my future, and I was unsure of my own strengths. However, her words stayed with me. Everything began to change when I started working directly with children. Whether it was helping them learn something new or simply supporting them, I realized how much I genuinely enjoyed it. For the first time, I could clearly see myself in a role where I was making a difference. That experience helped me connect my strengths to a purpose, and it gave me the confidence to pursue elementary education as my major. Now, as a college student, I am focused on building my skills in any way I can. I actively look for opportunities to gain experience, whether that means working in schools, helping at learning centers, or finding other ways to engage with students. I understand that becoming a strong educator requires more than just classroom learning. It requires patience, adaptability, and real-world experience. Every opportunity I take brings me one step closer to becoming the teacher I hope to be. While my journey has been rewarding, it has also come with challenges. One of the biggest obstacles I have faced is managing an overwhelming workload. My schedule is often packed, and balancing school, responsibilities, and personal life has not always been easy. When I first started college, the pressure felt constant. I was used to always working and pushing myself without stopping, and I believed that taking breaks meant falling behind. Over time, that mindset began to take a toll on me. I felt mentally drained and started to question whether I could keep up with everything. There were moments when I felt like giving up because it all seemed like too much. However, those moments forced me to reflect and make changes. One of the most important lessons I learned was the value of balance. I began to understand that taking breaks is not a weakness, but a necessity. I started developing better time management strategies, finding small ways to stay organized, and giving myself permission to rest when needed. These changes did not happen overnight, but with consistency, I began to feel more in control of my responsibilities. Through this experience, I discovered something important about myself. If I can face challenges that once felt overwhelming and find a way through them, then I am capable of more than I initially believed. That realization has strengthened my confidence and motivated me to keep pushing forward, even when things feel difficult. Looking ahead, I hope to use my education to create a positive impact on others. As a future educator, I want to do more than just teach academic subjects. I want to support my students as individuals and help them grow both inside and outside the classroom. I want to be the kind of teacher who encourages students the way my teacher once encouraged me. In the long term, I also hope to expand my role beyond the classroom. I am interested in taking on leadership opportunities where I can help improve educational environments and support both students and teachers. I want to contribute to my community by creating spaces where students feel valued, supported, and motivated to succeed. Education, to me, is more than just earning a degree. It is a tool for growth, opportunity, and change. It has helped me discover my strengths, overcome challenges, and define my purpose. My journey has shown me that success is not about avoiding difficulties, but about learning how to navigate them. The challenges I have faced have shaped me into a more determined and self-aware individual. They have taught me resilience, time management, and the importance of self-care. Most importantly, they have reinforced my belief that I am capable of achieving my goals. As I continue my education, I carry with me the lessons I have learned and the support that helped guide me along the way. I am committed to using my experiences to inspire others, just as I was once inspired. I believe that through education, I can not only build a better future for myself, but also help others do the same.

Growing up, I was first introduced to Sabrina Carpenter through her role as Maya Hart on Girl Meets World. I remember being drawn to her immediately, not just because of her beauty, but because of her confidence, humor, and the way she brought her character to life. At the time, I did not realize that this was just the beginning of her journey and that I would continue to be inspired by her in so many different ways. As Sabrina’s career evolved, I saw her step beyond acting and fully embrace music. Watching her grow into a singer showed me a completely different side of her talent. Songs like Espresso highlight not only her voice but also her creativity and individuality as an artist. It was inspiring to see someone I once knew only as a TV character become a powerful voice in the music industry. Her ability to succeed in multiple areas made me realize that people are not limited to just one path. I also admired her performances in projects like Adventures in Babysitting, where she continued to prove her versatility as an actress. Whether on screen or on stage, Sabrina consistently shows dedication and passion for her craft. She does not stay in one box. She explores, grows, and challenges herself. That is what inspires me the most about her. Sabrina Carpenter represents the idea that you do not have to limit yourself to one identity or career. You can explore your interests, develop new skills, and evolve into something greater than you initially imagined. This mindset has influenced how I view my own future. I am passionate about education and hope to become a teacher, but I do not want to stop there. Like Sabrina, I want to expand my impact beyond just one role. I aspire to take on leadership positions, support my community, and create meaningful change in the lives of others. Her journey reminds me that it is okay to dream bigger and to pursue multiple passions. Sabrina Carpenter’s growth as an artist and individual has shown me the importance of ambition, versatility, and self-belief. She has inspired me to step outside of my comfort zone and to embrace every opportunity for growth. Because of her example, I am motivated to become not only a dedicated educator but also a leader who makes a lasting difference.

Losing a sibling is a type of grief that is difficult to put into words. In my life, I have experienced the loss of three siblings. Two of them passed away during pregnancy before they had the chance to be born. Even though I never got to meet them, their loss was still felt within our family. However, the loss that affected me the most was when my little sister passed away during birth. I had always wanted a sister. After I was born, my mom experienced pregnancy losses, and later my younger brother was born. When we found out that my mom was expecting a baby girl, I remember feeling excited about finally having a sister. I imagined what it would be like to grow up together, share memories, and have that special bond. I still remember the day she was supposed to be born. I had just gotten out of school and went to pick up my brother. My grandfather told us that our mom was at the hospital and that she was going to give birth. At first, we were excited. It felt like a big moment for our family. But during the drive to the hospital, something felt different. Instead of excitement, there was a quiet sadness that I couldn’t fully understand at the time. When we arrived at the hospital, my parents told us the news that our baby sister had passed away during birth. I remember asking where the baby was, confused and trying to understand what had happened. She had been healthy during the pregnancy, but something went wrong during the birth. Hearing that news was incredibly difficult. Growing up in a household where emotions were not always openly expressed made that moment even harder. I remember feeling overwhelmed with sadness, but I struggled to show those emotions in front of everyone. I held everything inside until I got home, where I could finally process the grief on my own. Even though I was young, the experience left a deep emotional impact on me. For a long time, I thought about what life might have been like if my sister had grown up with us. I wondered what kind of person she would have been and what our relationship might have looked like. Losing a sibling can leave you with many unanswered questions and “what if” moments that stay with you over time. Eventually, our family was blessed with what many people call a “rainbow baby,” my youngest brother. His arrival brought joy and healing after such a painful loss. Today he is growing, learning, and thriving. He has autism, and watching him grow into such a smart and unique child reminds me every day how precious life truly is. The experience of losing my sister and my other siblings has shaped the way I see the world. It has made me more empathetic toward others who are dealing with grief and loss. It has also helped me understand the strength families must find in order to continue moving forward after tragedy. Even though my sister was only here for a brief moment, her presence and memory have had a lasting impact on my life. She taught me the importance of compassion, resilience, and appreciating the people we love while we have them.

Mental health is something that has shaped many parts of my life, from the way I understand the world to the goals I have for my future. Growing up, I saw the impact that stress and emotional struggles could have on the people around me, even when those struggles were not openly discussed. When I was younger, my parents worked incredibly hard to support our family. They were often living paycheck to paycheck while raising two children and trying to make sure we had everything we needed. At the time, I did not fully understand the amount of pressure they were under, but as I grew older, I began to recognize the stress and emotional weight they were carrying. Watching them struggle financially and emotionally helped me realize how much mental health can be affected by life’s challenges. In my household, conversations about mental health were almost nonexistent. Like many families, especially within Hispanic communities, mental health was not always viewed as something that needed attention or support. Because of that, many feelings were ignored or pushed aside rather than talked about. As I grew older, I began to realize that I had my own struggles with anxiety and depression. Learning to face those feelings without always having guidance or understanding from others was difficult. There were times when I felt alone in trying to understand my own emotions. It can be especially challenging when the people you hope will support you do not always recognize what you are going through. However, those experiences pushed me to start finding my own ways to cope and take care of my mental health. Over time, I have learned the importance of self-reflection and self-care. Practices like journaling, meditation, and simply taking time to breathe and slow down have helped me better understand myself and manage difficult moments. My journey with mental health has also changed the way I view relationships and the people around me. I have learned that not everyone will understand your struggles, but that does not mean your experiences are not valid. I have also learned the value of surrounding myself with people who support and uplift me. While my circle of friends is small, the friendships I do have are meaningful and built on trust and understanding. Most importantly, my experiences have shaped my goals and the way I want to contribute to the world. I want to pursue a career in education, where I can support young people not only academically but emotionally as well. Many students face challenges that others cannot see, and having a teacher who understands the importance of mental health can make a difference. I want to help create an environment where students feel safe, supported, and comfortable talking about their struggles. My journey with mental health has not always been easy, but it has taught me resilience, empathy, and the importance of caring for both ourselves and others. Through my experiences, I have learned that while life can be challenging, growth and hope are always possible when we choose to keep moving forward.

Cancer has affected my family in several ways, and those experiences have taught me how fragile life can be and how important it is to support the people we care about. Unfortunately, cancer has been something that appears often in my family history. I have lost great-grandparents to cancer, and watching older family members face serious illness has always been difficult. Seeing people you love go through pain and uncertainty leaves a strong emotional impact, especially when you are young and trying to understand why something so difficult happens. One experience that affected me deeply happened more recently. About a year ago, one of my close friends was diagnosed with throat cancer. At the time, we were both young and had just graduated from high school and were beginning the transition into college. It was a moment in our lives that should have been filled with excitement about the future, but instead it became a time filled with worry and fear. Hearing that someone so close to me was facing such a serious illness was incredibly hard to process. Watching my friend go through treatments showed me how challenging cancer can be, not only for the person diagnosed but also for the people around them. There were many moments of uncertainty, and it was difficult to see someone I cared about go through such a physically and emotionally exhausting process. At the same time, the experience also showed me how strong people can be during the most difficult times in their lives. Thankfully, my friend’s treatments have been working, and he has recovered significantly. Seeing him regain his health has been incredibly relieving and inspiring. His resilience and determination during such a difficult experience reminded me how powerful hope and perseverance can be. Through these experiences, I have learned how important it is to support the people around us, especially during their hardest moments. When someone is dealing with illness, even small gestures—checking in, listening, or simply being present—can mean a lot. I have also learned not to take time with loved ones for granted, because life can change unexpectedly. Cancer is a difficult and painful disease that affects many families, including mine. While it has brought sadness and worry at times, it has also taught me empathy, compassion, and the importance of being there for others. These lessons have shaped the way I care for the people in my life and reminded me how important it is to appreciate every moment we have with the people we love.

Thank you for the opportunity to apply for the Star Farm scholarship. I am currently studying education because I have always been passionate about working with young people and helping them grow into confident individuals. My goal is to become a teacher and eventually continue building spaces that support youth development. I believe education is one of the most powerful tools we have to create positive change, and I want to be someone who helps students feel encouraged, supported, and capable of achieving their goals. Growing up, conversations around the LGBTQ+ community were very limited in my household and often surrounded by strong negative opinions. Because of that environment, I spent a lot of time questioning and reflecting on why people were judged simply for who they loved or how they identified. As I have gotten older, I have continued to think deeply about these issues and form my own understanding of acceptance and respect. I truly believe that everyone deserves the freedom to be themselves without fear of judgment or discrimination. Every person is unique, and that diversity is something that should be valued rather than criticized. My experiences growing up have shaped the way I want to approach my future career in education. I want to create a classroom environment where students feel safe being who they are. Many young people struggle with identity, acceptance, and belonging, and having even one adult who makes them feel seen and respected can make a huge difference. As a future educator, I want to be that supportive presence for my students. I want them to know that they can express themselves, ask questions, and grow without feeling ashamed of who they are. While I am still learning and discovering parts of my own identity and perspective, I know that I want to be someone who supports and uplifts the LGBTQ+ community. I hope to give back by creating inclusive spaces for students, supporting friends and family members who may come out in the future, and continuing to educate myself so I can be a better ally and advocate. Even small actions—listening, encouraging others, and creating safe environments—can have a lasting impact on someone’s life. Financially, pursuing higher education has not always been easy for me or my family. Like many students, I am working hard to balance school, responsibilities, and planning for my future. Scholarships like this one make a meaningful difference because they help reduce the financial stress that can come with pursuing a degree. Receiving support would allow me to stay focused on my education and my goal of becoming an educator who positively impacts young people. Ultimately, my hope is to use my education and experiences to build communities where students feel respected, supported, and inspired to be themselves. I want to help create environments where acceptance is the norm and where young people feel confident about who they are and who they are becoming.

When I think about leaving a legacy, I think about the impact I can have on the lives of young people. My dream is to become a teacher and educator, and I want my legacy to be the way I help students believe in themselves. I want the children I work with to remember that they had someone who supported them, encouraged them, and made them feel confident in their abilities. Even years later, I hope they can look back and say that I helped them grow, feel safe, and see their own potential. To me, a legacy is not just about personal success—it is about the positive change you leave in the lives of others. One day, I also hope to create a business that focuses on supporting youth and building strong communities. I am especially inspired by the place where I currently work. The founder created a learning center that has become more than just a workplace or a place to study—it is a true community. Many people who grew up attending the center still come back to visit, which shows how meaningful that environment has been in their lives. Seeing that kind of lasting impact motivates me to create something similar in the future. My goal is to build a space where young people feel welcomed, supported, and excited to spend their time. In many communities, especially low-income communities like the one I grew up in, there are not enough safe and positive spaces for youth to gather. I would love to open either a daycare or a youth community center that helps fill that gap. If I opened a daycare, my goal would be to make it affordable and accessible for low-income families so parents can work knowing their children are in a safe and nurturing environment. Another dream of mine is to create a youth space where kids and teenagers can spend time with their friends in a safe and positive environment. This space could include areas to complete homework, access to computers for learning, and fun activities like games or small recreational spaces. I imagine it as a place that is not as strict as school or as quiet as a library, but still encourages learning, creativity, and connection. Young people deserve places where they can feel comfortable being themselves while also growing and developing important skills. I believe I shine my light by caring deeply about others and wanting to make a difference in my community. Whether through teaching, volunteering, or my future business, my goal is always to uplift the people around me. I try to lead with kindness, encouragement, and a belief that every young person deserves support and opportunity. In the future, I hope my legacy will be the community I help build and the young people I inspire. If even a few students grow up believing in themselves because of the support I gave them, then I will know I truly made a difference.

As a big fan of Love Island, one of the things that makes the show so entertaining is the drama, the humor, and the challenges that reveal how islanders really feel about each other. If I could create a brand new challenge for the show, it would be called “Dress to Impress… or Dress to Diss.” This challenge would combine fashion, humor, and a little bit of playful drama. In this challenge, each islander would be randomly assigned another islander in the villa. Their task would be to create an outfit that represents that person. However, the twist is that they can choose to either “impress” the person or “diss” them. If they choose to impress them, they should design an outfit that highlights the person’s best traits, personality, or style. If they choose to diss them, they would create a funny or exaggerated outfit that playfully roasts the person’s habits, personality, or iconic moments in the villa. Once the outfits are ready, the islanders would walk down a mini runway wearing the outfit that was made for them. The person who designed the outfit would then read a short message explaining why they created it. This message could either be a compliment if they chose to impress them, or a playful roast if they chose to diss them. The goal is to keep it funny and entertaining without being genuinely mean. After everyone has walked the runway, the rest of the villa would vote on different categories such as Funniest Diss, Best Outfit, and Most Accurate Representation. The winning islander would get a special reward, such as choosing the next date in the villa or winning a romantic private dinner with their partner. This challenge would add excitement to the show because it would reveal how islanders truly see each other. It would create funny moments, spark conversations, and maybe even cause a little drama. At the same time, it keeps the playful and entertaining spirit that makes Love Island so fun to watch.

Mental health is very important to me as a student because when your mental health is not in a good place, it affects every part of your life. I always think about it like this: if you do not take care of your mental health, it can start controlling you. When your mind is overwhelmed or struggling, it becomes very hard to focus on school, relationships, or even basic daily routines. I learned this the hard way during my senior year of high school. That year is supposed to be one of the most exciting times for students because you are graduating and preparing for college. However, for me it was one of the hardest years of my life. I was dealing with a lot of physical health problems, and that eventually affected my mental health as well. I felt extremely stressed and overwhelmed, and instead of enjoying the experiences that came with my final year of high school, I felt like I was just trying to get through each day. During that time, I struggled with depression and anxiety. I often felt exhausted and unmotivated, and there were days where I would sleep most of the day because I just did not have the energy to do anything else. Looking back, it sometimes feels like parts of my high school experience are blurred because I was not mentally present enough to truly enjoy them. Eventually, I realized that I needed to start taking better care of myself. I began focusing more on improving my physical health, which helped my mental health as well. I started exercising more, trying to stay active, and looking for ways to motivate myself. I also began watching motivational videos and listening to advice from professionals online who talk about mental health and personal growth. Those small steps helped me slowly rebuild my confidence and my mindset. Even now, I still experience anxiety sometimes. There are moments when it can come unexpectedly, even when I am just walking into school. It can feel scary when it happens, but I have learned ways to manage it and remind myself that those feelings will pass. One challenge I faced growing up is that mental health is not always openly discussed in many Hispanic households. Sometimes it can feel like your family does not fully understand what you are going through. Because of that, I learned to lean on my friends and trusted people in my life for support. Having people who listen and care can make a big difference. As a student and future educator, I try to advocate for mental health by being open about these experiences and encouraging others to talk about how they are feeling. Sometimes simply listening to someone or reminding them that they are not alone can make a big difference. I believe mental health should be treated with the same importance as physical health, and creating supportive environments in schools and communities can help students feel safer asking for help when they need it.

As a first-generation college student, one of the biggest things I’ve learned is how important empathy and understanding are when working with people from different backgrounds. Growing up in a Salvadorian household where Spanish was my first language, I experienced what it felt like to navigate school while also helping my family understand systems that were unfamiliar to them. My parents worked extremely hard to support our family, but like many immigrant parents, they didn’t always have the resources or knowledge about how schools worked in the United States. Because of this, I often had to learn things on my own and help translate information for my family. These experiences shaped my perspective and helped me develop strong empathy for others who may be facing similar situations. I understand what it feels like to grow up between two cultures and to sometimes feel like you have to figure things out without guidance. That perspective is something I carry with me as I pursue my goal of becoming an educator. My biggest talent is my ability to connect with people, especially young students. I currently work with children at a learning center, and through that experience I have seen how important it is for students to feel understood and supported. Many students, especially those from immigrant or low-income families, sometimes struggle with confidence or feel like they do not belong in academic spaces. I try to use patience, encouragement, and understanding to help them feel more comfortable and confident in their learning. In the future, as a teacher, I want to create classrooms where students from all backgrounds feel seen and valued. Education is one of the most powerful ways to build a more empathetic and understanding global community. When students learn in environments that respect different cultures, languages, and experiences, they grow up with a better understanding of the world around them. I also hope to serve as an advocate for families who may face language barriers or who feel disconnected from the education system. As someone who grew up in that situation, I understand how important it is for families to feel supported by schools. By building strong relationships with students and their families, I hope to help create a sense of community where everyone feels welcome. Being a first-generation college student has not always been easy, but it has taught me resilience, independence, and empathy. These are qualities that I will continue to use throughout my career. Through education, mentorship, and community support, I hope to contribute to a more understanding and compassionate society where people from all backgrounds have the opportunity to succeed.

I first discovered TXT around 2019 or 2020 when they were still a newer group. The first song I heard from them was “Blue Hour,” and I immediately liked it. The song has such a fun and bright vibe that it made me curious to listen to more of their music. Since then I’ve continued listening to them and following their releases. I also started listening to them even more once BTS began going to the military. I’m a big BTS fan too, so when their group activities slowed down, TXT became another group I really enjoyed listening to. They didn’t replace BTS for me, but they definitely became a group that I grew to appreciate more over time. “Blue Hour” is still my favorite TXT song. It was the first song I heard from them, so it feels special to me. It also reminds me of my baby brother because he likes TXT too, so whenever I hear that song I think about him and the times we’ve listened to music together. Another song I really enjoy is “LO$ER=LO♡ER.” There’s something about that song that feels nostalgic to me. I also like “Anti-Romantic,” which has a very different and emotional vibe. “Good Boy Gone Bad” is another one I like because it’s powerful and memorable. TXT honestly has so many good songs that it’s hard to name them all. One of the most important characteristics of being a MOA, in my opinion, is being supportive and respectful. TXT often shows how grateful they are for their fans, so I think it’s important for fans to show that same positive energy back. Being part of a fandom should mean supporting the group while also respecting other fans. My biases in TXT are Yeonjun and Beomgyu. I don’t have one specific reason why they became my favorites, but they’ve always stood out to me. I like their personalities and the way they interact with the other members. They seem genuine and fun, and I enjoy watching their performances and other content. If I had to choose an ult bias from any group, Yeonjun would probably be one of my top choices. I haven’t had the chance to see TXT live in concert yet, but I would really love to someday. As a college student it’s difficult to afford concert tickets and travel, but hopefully in the future I’ll get the opportunity to see them perform live. One of my favorite album concepts from TXT is The Chaos Chapter era. I liked the emotional tone of the music and how it showed a deeper and more mature side of the group. Right now I’m paying for college mostly through student loans and working part time. I try to work as many hours as I can, but it’s challenging to balance work while being a full-time student. I’m currently majoring in elementary education, which also requires internships and volunteer work that are unpaid, so it limits how many hours I can work. This scholarship would help me a lot financially. It would help cover things like textbooks, school supplies, and part of my tuition. My tuition is increasing next year, and I’m not sure how much financial aid I will receive, so additional support would make a big difference and reduce some of the stress that comes with paying for school. TXT has influenced me positively by bringing happiness during stressful times. I started listening to them during my high school years, and their music brings back good memories from that time. When I feel overwhelmed, listening to their songs helps me relax. I’m currently studying elementary education because I want to become a teacher. My goal is to support students and help them feel confident in themselves and their abilities. I want to create a classroom where students feel comfortable learning and asking questions. For the image I chose, I picked a picture of all the members together making a heart. I chose it because it shows their bond as a group and the warm energy they give off. Looking at it makes me feel happy and reminds me why I enjoy supporting them as a fan.

Growing up in a Salvadoran immigrant family shaped who I am today and deeply influenced my goals for the future. Spanish was my first language, and for most of my childhood it was the primary language spoken at home. When I started school, I was classified as an English as a Second Language (ESL) student, which came with its own challenges. Learning English while adjusting to school expectations was not always easy, but it helped me develop resilience and determination at a young age. As the first child in my family, I often found myself navigating situations that my parents were unfamiliar with. My parents immigrated to the United States with the hope of creating better opportunities for their children, but like many immigrant parents, they did not have much experience with the American education system. There were many moments when I had to help translate documents, understand school forms, and figure out how to access resources on my own. While this responsibility sometimes felt overwhelming, it also taught me independence and helped me realize how important education and access to information can be. Seeing how hard my parents worked to support our family has been one of my biggest motivations to pursue higher education. My parents took whatever jobs they could find in order to provide stability for our family. Even though they did not have the opportunity to pursue higher education themselves, they always encouraged me to do well in school and build a future that would open doors for me. Their sacrifices remind me every day why I work hard toward my goals. My experiences growing up in an immigrant household inspired my desire to pursue a career in education. I want to become an elementary school teacher because I believe educators play an important role not only in the lives of students but also in the lives of their families. Many families, especially immigrant families, may not always know how to navigate the school system or access resources that could support their children’s success. I want to be the kind of educator who helps bridge that gap by providing guidance, encouragement, and support. In my current work with children at a learning center, I have already begun to see how meaningful that support can be. Many of the students I work with come from backgrounds similar to mine, and I understand how powerful it can be when a student feels seen, supported, and believed in. Helping students gain confidence in their abilities and celebrate their achievements reminds me why I want to dedicate my life to education. Through my education and future career, I hope to make a positive impact by advocating for students and their families. I want to create classrooms where students feel encouraged to learn, express themselves, and believe in their potential. I also want parents to feel welcomed and supported, knowing that they have someone who understands their experiences and is willing to help guide them through their child’s educational journey. Being the child of immigrant parents has taught me resilience, empathy, and determination. These experiences continue to shape my goals and inspire me to give back to my community. By becoming an educator, I hope to use my experiences to empower the next generation of students and help create opportunities that allow them to succeed both inside and outside the classroom.

I come from a Salvadoran background, and Spanish was my first language. Growing up, I primarily spoke Spanish, so when I started school, I was classified as an ESL student. Learning English while adjusting to a new school environment was challenging, and it wasn’t always easy to navigate both languages at the same time. Being the first child in my family also came with its own set of responsibilities and challenges. My parents worked incredibly hard, taking any job they could to support our family, but they didn’t have the educational resources or knowledge about how to navigate the school system in the United States. There were many times when I had to help them understand school forms, resources, and opportunities, which made me grow up quickly and take on responsibilities that other kids my age didn’t have. Despite these challenges, my upbringing shaped my perspective and my goals. I realized early on that education is not just about learning academics—it’s about access, support, and opportunity. Because my parents had limited experience with the U.S. school system, I saw firsthand the difficulties immigrant families face when trying to provide the best opportunities for their children. These experiences inspired my desire to become an educator. I want to help students succeed academically, but I also want to support their families so that they feel empowered to advocate for their children. I know how meaningful it is when a student has a teacher or mentor who not only teaches in the classroom but also helps families access resources, understand the system, and feel included in their child’s education. Working with children in my current role at a learning center has strengthened this desire. Many of the students I work with come from families that face similar challenges as my own. I understand the importance of providing both academic guidance and emotional support. Helping students gain confidence in their abilities, celebrate their achievements, and see possibilities for their future is incredibly rewarding. I want to be a teacher who is not only a guide in the classroom but also a trusted resource for families who may feel uncertain about how to support their child’s education. I want parents to know that they have someone they can turn to, someone who sees their child’s potential and can help provide the tools and opportunities to achieve it. Being an educator, to me, is about creating a positive impact that goes beyond academics. It is about serving the community, providing guidance, and helping students and their families feel supported and empowered. I want to use my experiences as a child of immigrant parents and as someone who navigated language barriers to inspire students and advocate for families. I hope to create classrooms where students feel encouraged, seen, and capable of reaching their full potential, and where parents feel included and confident in their ability to help their children succeed. By doing this, I can help build a foundation for future generations to thrive academically and personally, giving them access to opportunities that my parents didn’t always have when raising me.

I have always been passionate about working with children, and my experiences both in school and in my current work at a learning center have confirmed that teaching is the path I want to follow. I enjoy helping students learn new skills, gain confidence, and discover what they are capable of. Working with kids, especially those from diverse backgrounds and low-income families, has shown me how important it is to have teachers who believe in you, advocate for you, and guide you toward success. I want to be that kind of teacher—someone who not only teaches academics but also empowers students to believe in themselves and their potential. One of the most important influences in my life has been my high school teacher, Miss Antoine. She is one of the best teachers I have ever had, and she had a tremendous impact on both my academic and personal growth. I have always been a student who did well in school, but sometimes I didn’t fully see my own potential. Miss Antoine always reminded me that I was capable, intelligent, and deserving of success. She went out of her way to support me in ways that went far beyond the classroom. One of the things I will always be grateful for is that she nominated me for many scholarships in high school, all of which I ended up winning. These scholarships helped me purchase materials for school, books, and other resources that were essential for my education. Without her encouragement and advocacy, I may never have received that support, and my confidence in my abilities might not have grown as much as it did. Miss Antoine not only believed in my potential but also inspired me to pursue my own goals with determination. Because of her, I learned the importance of advocating for myself and seeking out opportunities that will help me grow. She changed my mindset, encouraging me to stay positive and focused even when life felt challenging. Her dedication and care showed me the kind of teacher I want to be—someone who notices the strengths in students, celebrates their successes, and helps them overcome obstacles in their learning and in life. These experiences, along with my work at the learning center, have solidified my desire to pursue a career in teaching. I want to create a classroom environment where every student feels valued and heard, where they are supported academically and emotionally, and where they can develop confidence in their abilities. I want to be an advocate for my students, especially those whose voices might otherwise go unheard. I hope to inspire my students the way Miss Antoine inspired me—by believing in them, challenging them to do their best, and showing them that they are capable of achieving their goals. Teaching is more than a career for me; it is a way to make a lasting difference in the lives of others, just as Miss Antoine made a lasting difference in mine.

What inspired me to become a teacher is a combination of my experiences growing up and the incredible educators I had in my life. In high school, I participated in a Career and Technical Education (CTE) program in early childhood education, and it was there that one of my teachers truly shaped my path. She worked tirelessly to make sure her students got the help they needed, advocating for each one individually. I remember watching how much she cared about every student’s growth and confidence. She believed in me and encouraged me to pursue teaching, which gave me the belief that I could make a real difference in children’s lives. Her dedication inspired me to choose elementary education as my focus and motivated me to want to be that kind of advocate for students who sometimes might feel unheard or overlooked. Seeing her passion and care taught me that teaching is not just about academics—it’s about building trust, listening, and helping students feel empowered. Currently, I work at a learning center with children of all ages, many from low-income families. This experience has strengthened my passion for teaching and shown me the importance of providing students not only with knowledge but also with confidence and encouragement. I can relate to some of the challenges these students face, and I understand how meaningful it is when someone believes in them. I have seen firsthand how small moments of support and guidance can transform a child’s confidence in their learning and in themselves. Whether it’s helping a student grasp a concept they struggled with or celebrating their small achievements, these moments remind me every day why I want to become a teacher. Watching children grow, develop independence, and feel proud of what they’ve accomplished is one of the most rewarding experiences, and it reinforces my commitment to this career path. My goal as a teacher is to be a strong advocate for my students, just like my high school teacher was for me. I want to ensure that children have a voice in their learning and feel empowered to succeed, regardless of the obstacles they face outside the classroom. I also want to create an environment where students feel safe to ask questions, explore new ideas, and take risks in their learning. Beyond academics, I hope to inspire students to believe in themselves and to understand that their dreams are valid. I want them to know that someone in their corner believes in them, and that encouragement can help them overcome challenges. In the future, I hope to continue expanding my impact, possibly by pursuing leadership roles in education such as administration, while still remaining connected to students and their growth. I want to use my experiences to inspire others, showing students that with support, encouragement, and perseverance, they can overcome challenges and reach their potential. My passion for working with youth, combined with my experiences at the learning center and the lessons I learned from my high school teacher, have solidified my commitment to helping children succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. I hope that by being an educator who truly advocates for students, I can make a lasting difference in their lives, just as my teacher did in mine. Ultimately, I want every student I work with to feel seen, heard, and capable, and I hope to inspire them to believe in themselves as much as I have learned to believe in the power of education.

Pursuing higher education is very important to me because of my parents and the sacrifices they made for our family. My parents immigrated from El Salvador when they were in their early twenties, around the same age I am now. When they came to the United States, they didn’t really have the opportunity to choose a career path or pursue higher education. Their focus had to be on working hard and building a stable life in a new country. Because of their sacrifices, I now have the privilege of going to college and choosing a career that I am passionate about. Being a first-generation college student motivates me to take advantage of opportunities that my parents never had. Growing up, I saw how hard my parents worked to support our family. Even though they did not have the chance to continue their education, they always encouraged me to work hard in school and pursue something that would make me happy and successful. Their support has pushed me to stay focused on my education and continue moving forward, even when things feel challenging. What inspired me to pursue a major in education started when I was in high school. I participated in a Career and Technical Education (CTE) vocational program in early childhood education. That experience opened my eyes to how meaningful working with children can be. One of my teachers in the program truly believed in me and encouraged me to continue in the field of education. Hearing someone say they saw potential in me motivated me a lot and helped me realize that teaching could truly be the right path for me. I am currently a student at Lesley University, where I am majoring in Elementary Education. Being in this program has helped me continue developing the skills and knowledge needed to become an effective educator. After completing my bachelor’s degree, I hope to continue my education and pursue a master’s degree in educational leadership and administration. While my immediate goal is to become a classroom teacher, I also hope that one day I can take on leadership roles that allow me to support both students and teachers in my community. I currently work at a learning center where I support students of different ages, and that experience has only strengthened my passion for working with youth. It is incredibly rewarding to see students learn something new or gain confidence in themselves. Even small moments, like helping a child understand a concept they were struggling with, can make a big difference. Those moments remind me why I want to become a teacher and why education is such an important part of shaping the future. As someone who grew up in Massachusetts, my goal is to become a teacher in a public school and give back to the community that helped shape me. I want to create a classroom where students feel supported, encouraged, and confident in their ability to learn. I hope to be the kind of teacher who inspires students the way my teachers once inspired me. As a first-generation college student, pursuing higher education also comes with financial challenges. My family does not have many financial resources, which means I often have to search for scholarships and other opportunities to help pay for my education. Despite these challenges, I work hard in my studies and remain dedicated to my goals. Receiving scholarship support would allow me to continue focusing on my education and my passion for teaching, rather than worrying about financial barriers that can sometimes stand in the way of achieving my dreams.