What happens when history is written by the victors? When there are unseen powers in control, do we truly have free will? In a world where society is losing its empathy, I would have everyone read The Assassination of Brangwain Spurge. The story is set in a world with two races- the elves and goblins. They have been at war for generations when the elves send Brangwain Spurge, a scholar, to deliver a treasure to the goblin king. On his diplomatic mission, Spurge is hosted by a goblin archivist, Werfel. The book chronicles their mishaps and the conflict between the elves and goblins; both strong parables to modern issues. Between the lighthearted humor and tragedy, events from the real world are mirrored in the book. In a world where society is quick to judge and even quicker to condemn, there is much we can learn from this fantastical realm. In my opinion, the most important lesson can be taken from the heartwarming friendship of Spurge and Werfel. They believe they are working towards peace, yet are both prejudiced against the other’s race. Their stubbornness gets them into ridiculous situations, but they slowly bond over shared interests. By the time their leaders destroy each other, only Spurge and Werfel can spread the true version of events to the rest of the world. This allegory is hidden in plain sight and as the story unfolds, it serves a deeper purpose. I would have everyone in the world read this book because it is very entertaining, which makes the heavy themes easy to digest. Nevertheless, it is a story of adventure and companionship. There is something to learn in every page of The Assassination of Brangwain Spurge.

I am a naturally curious person. My parents embraced this trait in many ways. They brought me to libraries, encouraged my studies, and told me stories about their childhoods. Their stories about their lives usually contained a similar phrase: "Because we didn't have a lot." My parents were born in different countries, but both lived in poverty. They suffered through hardships that I will never have to endure, and that has given me gratitude for everything I have. They have inspired me to work hard, not just in academics but also in setting an example for others. My parents did not escape poverty because of luck or solely because they worked hard. They have become successful because they know the importance of education. They continue to teach my brother and me and are now trying to teach others. My father is working towards becoming a science teacher, while my mother is looking for a job as a kindergarten teacher. I am incredibly proud of my mother. She was raised in the Philippines and could not pursue higher education until she came to the U.S. much later. She struggled because English is her second language, and she was not used to the environment, but she persevered and became a teacher. I also admire my father for helping me with schoolwork and answering any questions I have. When I talk with my parents, I know from whom I get my inquisitive nature. Because of my parent's support, I have continuously pushed myself to improve throughout high school. I have taken multiple dual enrollment and AP classes and maintained a GPA of 3.9. They encouraged me to follow my interests, so I am on my school's chess team, UIL Academic team, and I plan to join the robotics team for my final year of high school. I am also the historian of my class; I document my class's activities and events. In my last year of high school, I look forward to expanding my list of achievements. Taking advanced and college-level classes has prepared me for my future and set me apart from my peers. By maintaining the balance between academics and my interests, I have made friendships and developed skills. Receiving an education is important to me because I never stop learning. I want to grow intellectually as well as character-wise. I want to contribute to the world what my parents have given me; stability and knowledge. With my education, I want to provide the world with a well-rounded individual who helps others and believes in her ability to choose the right. While my family will do their best to help me, I want to be as secure as possible when paying for college. I want to support myself in college, so I will most likely have a job while studying. Receiving this scholarship will reduce the tuition burden and allow me to focus on my studies. It will motivate me to pursue my goals and explore other ways I can grow as an individual, such as providing for my community and stepping out of my comfort zone. Receiving this scholarship will help me to pursue higher education. I appreciate the opportunity this scholarship has given me. I appreciate your consideration.