For DonorsFor Applicants
user profile avatar

Julian Prieto

5,979

Bold Points

Bio

Hi! My name is Julian Prieto, and I am an Electrical Engineering major at Knox College. I am a passionate and driven person with a deep-seated enthusiasm for electrical engineering. My aspiration to major in this field stems from a profound love for math and science, which have always been my strongest subjects and greatest interests. I firmly believe that through the pursuit of electrical engineering, I can not only sharpen my skills as a scholar but also contribute significantly to my community by innovating and improving the technology that surrounds us. In addition to my academic passions, I am dedicated to bettering myself physically. Weightlifting and sports are integral parts of my life, helping me maintain a balanced and healthy lifestyle. These activities instill discipline and perseverance, qualities I apply to all areas of my life. Family and friendships are incredibly important to me. As a first-generation college student in a family of six, I understand the challenges and responsibilities that come with pursuing a higher education. My journey through college so far has been a new and exciting experience but has also proven to be quite financially demanding, which has only strengthened my resolve to succeed. I am grateful for the opportunity to apply for scholarships that will help alleviate the financial burdens of college and allow me to focus on my studies and aspirations. Thank you for considering my application and for supporting students like myself in our academic and professional journeys.

Education

Knox College

Bachelor's degree program
2023 - 2025
  • Majors:
    • Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering
  • Minors:
    • Computer Science

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Master's degree program

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

    • Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering
    • Computer Science
    • Engineering Science
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Test scores:

    • 1320
      SAT
    • 1200
      PSAT

    Career

    • Dream career field:

      Mechanical or Industrial Engineering

    • Dream career goals:

      To Become an Electrical Engineer

    • Server

      Sugar Shack
      2019 – 20201 year

    Sports

    Football

    Intramural
    2023 – Present1 year

    Soccer

    Intramural
    2023 – Present1 year

    Weightlifting

    Intramural
    2018 – Present6 years

    Basketball

    Intramural
    2023 – Present1 year

    Volleyball

    Junior Varsity
    2019 – 20201 year

    Research

    • Behavioral Sciences

      American Phycological Organization — Researcher
      2022 – 2023

    Arts

    • Thomas Kelly College Prep

      Music
      2019 – 2021
    • Knox College

      Art Criticism
      2023 – 2024
    • Knox College

      Photography
      2023 – 2024
    • Knox College

      Film Criticism
      2023 – 2024
    • Knox College

      Cinematography
      2023 – 2024
    • Knox College

      Design
      2023 – 2024

    Public services

    • Volunteering

      Boys and Girls Clubs of America — Took orders from staff. Included cleaning, leading and looking over activities, bringing and handing out food, making sure kids were behaving and solving any issues between them if any came up.
      2021 – 2023
    • Volunteering

      Intrinsic Highschool Downtown Campus — Arranging Desks
      2022 – 2023

    Future Interests

    Advocacy

    Politics

    Volunteering

    Philanthropy

    Entrepreneurship

    Dr. Andy Nieto Memorial First Generation Opportunity and Excellence Scholarship
    Becoming a first-generation college student is not just a personal achievement; it is a milestone that signifies hope, perseverance, and the potential for transformative change. For me, this journey is intertwined with my passion for electrical engineering and my unwavering commitment to using education as a tool for self-improvement and community betterment. This opportunity to pursue an engineering degree holds profound significance, not only for me but for my family and community as well. Growing up, my family faced numerous challenges. My parents, who did not have the opportunity to attend college, worked tirelessly to provide for us. Despite their limited educational background, they instilled in me the values of hard work, resilience, and the belief that education is the key to a better future. Their sacrifices have shaped my journey, fueling my determination to break the cycle of limited opportunities and to pave the way for future generations. The impact of advanced education on a family is profound. As a first-generation college student, I am not only pursuing my dreams but also carrying the aspirations of my family. This achievement represents a collective victory, showcasing the power of education to uplift entire families and communities. It is a testament to the idea that with determination and access to education, one can overcome socio-economic barriers and create a brighter future. My desire to pursue a degree in electrical engineering stems from a deep-seated curiosity and a passion for understanding how things work. From a young age, I was fascinated by the inner workings of electronic devices, often dismantling household gadgets to explore their components. This curiosity evolved into a profound interest in engineering, particularly in the field of electrical engineering. The prospect of harnessing electricity to create innovative solutions that improve lives is both exhilarating and motivating. Electrical engineering, with its broad applications and potential for innovation, offers a platform to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time. The advent of renewable energy, the development of smart grids, and the integration of advanced technologies in everyday life are just a few areas where electrical engineers are making a significant impact. By pursuing this field, I aim to contribute to these advancements, driving progress and fostering sustainable development. Moreover, my interest in material science complements my passion for electrical engineering. The study of materials and their properties is fundamental to the development of new technologies. Understanding how materials can be manipulated at the atomic level to create more efficient and sustainable electronic components is a thrilling aspect of engineering. This interdisciplinary approach not only broadens my knowledge base but also enhances my ability to innovate and solve complex problems. The journey to becoming an electrical engineer is rigorous and demanding, but it is a challenge I am eager to embrace. I am committed to sharpening my skills as a scholar, continuously seeking knowledge and pushing the boundaries of what is possible. The opportunity to study at a reputable institution will provide me with the resources, mentorship, and environment necessary to excel in this field. It will enable me to learn from leading experts, engage in cutting-edge research, and collaborate with like-minded peers. Beyond personal and academic growth, this opportunity holds the potential to drive meaningful change in my community. As a first-generation college student, I have a unique perspective on the struggles faced by those in underrepresented and underserved communities. I am acutely aware of the transformative power of education and the ripple effects it can create. My goal is to leverage my education to develop innovative solutions that address the specific needs of my community, whether it be through sustainable energy projects, improved access to technology, or educational initiatives that inspire future generations. Furthermore, this scholarship would alleviate the financial burden on my family, allowing me to focus entirely on my studies and research. It represents more than just financial aid; it symbolizes recognition of my potential and the trust in my ability to succeed. By receiving this support, I will be better equipped to pursue internships, engage in extracurricular projects, and participate in conferences that will further enhance my education and professional network. This comprehensive development will prepare me to tackle future challenges with confidence and ingenuity, reinforcing my commitment to making a positive impact through engineering. In conclusion, being a first-generation college student is a powerful testament to the resilience and aspirations of my family. It is an opportunity to break barriers, create new possibilities, and contribute to the betterment of society through the pursuit of electrical engineering. This journey is not just about personal achievement; it is about honoring the sacrifices of my parents, inspiring others in my community, and driving progress through innovation. With the support of this scholarship, I am confident that I can achieve my goals, making a lasting impact on both a personal and community level.
    Aktipis Entrepreneurship Fellowship
    Stelios possessed an entrepreneurial spirit, a passion for innovation, deep scholarly engagement, fundamental curiosity about the world, and academic excellence. I strive to embody these qualities in my journey toward becoming an electrical engineer. My passion for electrical engineering drives my academic and personal pursuits, motivating me to excel in my studies and contribute to my community through technological advancements. From a young age, I have been fascinated by how things work, especially electronic devices. This curiosity led me to dismantle and reassemble gadgets, igniting my interest in electrical engineering. My entrepreneurial spirit emerged as I began creating small projects, such as building a simple radio transmitter and developing a basic home automation system. These projects not only deepened my understanding of electrical engineering principles but also demonstrated the impact of innovation on everyday life. In high school, I took every opportunity to expand my knowledge in STEM fields. I excelled in mathematics and science courses, often seeking additional challenges through advanced placement classes and independent study. My commitment to academic excellence is evident in my consistently high grades. I believe that a strong academic foundation is essential for innovation, as it provides the necessary tools and knowledge to tackle complex problems. Deep scholarly engagement is crucial for staying at the forefront of technological innovation. I regularly read scientific journals, attend seminars, and participate in online courses to stay updated on the latest developments in electrical engineering. This proactive approach to learning ensures that I am well-equipped to contribute to the field and adapt to its evolving nature. I believe that continuous learning and staying informed are key to maintaining academic excellence and fostering innovation. As I pursue a degree in electrical engineering, I am committed to sharpening my skills as a scholar and innovator. I aspire to use my knowledge and expertise to develop technologies that improve the quality of life in my community. Whether it's through creating more efficient energy systems, designing advanced communication devices, or developing smart infrastructure, I want to make a positive impact. In summary, I display the qualities of an entrepreneurial spirit, a passion for innovation, deep scholarly engagement, fundamental curiosity about the world, and academic excellence through my dedication to electrical engineering. My journey so far has been driven by a desire to understand and improve the technology around us. I am eager to continue this journey in college, where I can further develop my skills and contribute to technological advancements that benefit society.