user profile avatar

Jonael Lantigua

1,135

Bold Points

3x

Nominee

1x

Finalist

1x

Winner

Bio

I am a highly motivated individual with a passion for serving my community and a strong desire to make a positive impact in the world. My ultimate life goal is to become an FBI agent, and I am currently working towards this goal by pursuing a degree in criminal justice, STEM, and or international affairs. I. I have a strong commitment to serving others and have been a volunteer firefighter for several years. Through this experience, I have developed important skills such as leadership, teamwork, and quick thinking under pressure. These skills, combined with my academic achievements, make me an excellent candidate for this scholarship. I am dedicated to using my education and experiences to make a positive impact in the world and am grateful for the support of those who share in this vision

Education

Laboratory School of Finance and Technology Middle School/High School 223

High School
2019 - 2023

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Bachelor's degree program

  • Majors of interest:

    • Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Firefighting and Related Protective Services, Other
    • Criminology
    • Foreign Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, Other
    • Law
    • International Relations and National Security Studies
    • International/Globalization Studies
    • Computer Science
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Law Enforcement

    • Dream career goals:

    • Intern

      Brooklyn District attorney
      2023 – 2023
    • Law intern

      Gensys works
      2022 – 2022
    • Volunteer firefighter

      Sleepy hallow fire department
      2022 – Present2 years
    • Welder

      Skd mechanical
      2016 – 20226 years

    Sports

    Track & Field

    Varsity
    2016 – 20193 years

    Awards

    • icahn stadium runner of the year

    Boxing

    Club
    2016 – Present8 years

    Awards

    • silver gloves champion, Johns boxing gym Outstanding boxer

    Baseball

    Varsity
    2019 – Present5 years

    Awards

    • league MVP, captain, Most stolen bases, Award for leadership

    Research

    • Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness

      Eagle express.org — Writer
      2022 – Present

    Arts

    • Photography
      not yet
      2016 – Present
    • School theater

      Acting
      The round table
      2018 – 2020

    Public services

    • Volunteering

      SEO SCHOLARS — Mentor
      2019 – Present
    • Volunteering

      Sleepy Hallow fire department — Volunteer firefighter
      2022 – Present

    Future Interests

    Advocacy

    Politics

    Volunteering

    Philanthropy

    Entrepreneurship

    Goobie-Ramlal Education Scholarship
    Growing up as the son of a Dominican immigrant, I have always been inspired by my parents' determination and hard work. Despite facing numerous challenges and obstacles, they have worked tirelessly to provide a better life for our family. This experience has instilled in me a deep appreciation for education and a desire to make a positive impact on the world through my own experiences and education. As a college-bound student, I am grateful for the opportunities that have been made available to me through my participation in the SEO Scholar program. This program has provided me with invaluable resources and support, helping me to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in my future academic and professional endeavors. Through my experiences as an SEO Scholar, I have been inspired to give back to my community and make a positive impact on the world. In order to achieve my goal of making a positive impact on the world, I plan to use my education and experiences to advocate for underrepresented communities and work towards creating a more equitable and just society. As someone who understands the challenges that immigrant families face, I am passionate about advocating for immigrant rights and working to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for immigrant communities. In addition to my advocacy work, I also plan to use my education to pursue a career in a field that allows me to make a positive impact on the world. Whether it is through working in a non-profit organization, starting my own business, or pursuing a career in public service, I am committed to using my education and experiences to make a positive difference in the lives of those around me. I am also committed to giving back to my community by volunteering and mentoring other students. Through my experiences as a mentor, I hope to inspire and encourage other students to pursue their own passions and make a positive impact on the world. By sharing my experiences and knowledge, I hope to help others find the courage and confidence to overcome the challenges they face and make their own mark on the world. In conclusion, as a college-bound student of an immigrant family and an SEO Scholar, I am eager to use my education and experiences to make a positive impact on the world. Through my advocacy work, career pursuits, and volunteer efforts, I am committed to creating a more equitable and just society for all. I am grateful for the opportunities and support that I have received and I am eager to repay this kindness by giving back to my community and making a positive difference in the lives of those around me.
    J.R. McMasters Memorial Scholarship
    Growing up in the Bronx, I was exposed to the challenges that communities face and the positive impact that law enforcement can have on people's lives. This experience, combined with my passion for serving others, has inspired me to pursue a career in law enforcement. I believe that my unique qualities and experiences will allow me to make a positive impact on the world and bring hope to those around me. One of the defining experiences of my life has been my work as a volunteer firefighter. Through my experiences on the fire line, I have learned the importance of teamwork, leadership, and the value of putting the needs of others before my own. I have also developed a deep appreciation for the sacrifices that firefighters make every day to keep our communities safe. These experiences have not only made me a better firefighter, but they have also equipped me with the skills and qualities that I will need to succeed in my future career in law enforcement. In addition to my work as a firefighter, I have always been passionate about serving others and making a positive impact on the world. I believe that a career in law enforcement is the perfect opportunity for me to do just that. Whether it is through working to solve complex problems, protecting and serving my community, or simply being a listening ear, I am eager to use my unique qualities and skills to make a difference in the lives of those around me. My vision for the future is to become a source of hope for those in my community by making a positive impact through my law enforcement career. I aspire to bring positive change to communities and make a difference in the lives of those around me. Through my hard work, dedication, and persistence, I hope to become a respected and trusted member of the law enforcement community, one who is known for his integrity, honesty, and compassion. In order to achieve my vision for the future, I plan to pursue a career in law enforcement that will allow me to use my skills and experiences to make a difference in the lives of those around me. I plan to become a well-rounded and knowledgeable law enforcement professional who can handle any situation with professionalism and grace. I will work hard to gain the trust and respect of my peers and community by always acting with integrity and putting the needs of others before my own. Furthermore, I plan to give back to my community through volunteering and mentorship programs. I believe that by sharing my experiences and knowledge, I can inspire and encourage others to follow their dreams and make a positive impact on the world. By serving as a mentor, I hope to help others find the courage and confidence to pursue their own passions and make a difference in the lives of those around them. In conclusion, I believe that my unique qualities and experiences, combined with my passion for serving others and making a positive impact on the world, make me a strong candidate for a career in law enforcement. I am eager to use my skills and experiences to bring hope and positive change to my community, and I am committed to using my law enforcement career to make a positive impact on the world.
    Blaine Sandoval Young American Scholarship
    Throughout my life, I have always strived to go above and beyond in everything that I do. Whether it is in my personal life, in my community, or in my future aspirations, I am driven by a desire to make a positive impact on the world. One of the ways I have demonstrated this is through my work as a volunteer firefighter and mentor. As a volunteer firefighter, I have learned the importance of selflessness and putting the needs of others before my own. I have also developed a deep appreciation for the sacrifices that firefighters make every day to keep our communities safe. Through my experiences on the fire line, I have learned the value of teamwork, leadership, and the importance of staying calm and focused in high-pressure situations. These experiences have not only made me a better firefighter, but they have also given me the skills and qualities that I will need to succeed in my future career as a FBI Special Agent. In addition to my work as a firefighter, I have also been a mentor to young people in my community. I have seen firsthand the impact that positive role models can have on the lives of young people, and I am eager to use my experiences and knowledge to help guide and support the next generation. Whether it is through offering guidance and advice, or simply being a listening ear, I believe that I can make a positive difference in the lives of those around me. My ultimate goal is to become a FBI Special Agent, where I can use my skills, experience, and passion to make a positive impact on the world. I am driven by a desire to protect and serve my country, and I believe that my experiences as a volunteer firefighter and mentor have prepared me well for this career. Whether it is working on complex investigations, dealing with high-pressure situations, or simply putting the needs of others before my own, I am eager to use my unique qualities and skills to make a difference in the lives of others. In the future, I see myself making a positive impact on the world by using my skills and experiences to help solve complex problems, protect and serve my country, and support and guide others. Whether it is through my work as a FBI Special Agent, or through my continued work as a volunteer firefighter and mentor, I am eager to use my unique qualities and skills to make a positive difference in the world. In conclusion, my experiences as a volunteer firefighter and mentor have taught me the importance of selflessness, teamwork, and leadership. These experiences have also prepared me well for my future career as a FBI Special Agent, where I can use my skills and experiences to make a positive impact on the world. Whether it is through solving complex problems, protecting and serving my country, or supporting and guiding others, I am committed to using my unique qualities and skills to make a difference in the lives of those around me.
    Walking In Authority International Ministry Scholarship
    As a Dominican minority growing up in the Bronx, I have faced a unique set of challenges and obstacles in my life. Despite these challenges, I have been able to overcome them through my persistence, determination, and hard work. These experiences have not only shaped me into the person I am today, but they have also instilled in me a strong set of traits that will serve me well as I continue my journey. One of the most important traits that I have developed is persistence. Growing up as a minority in the Bronx, I have often felt like an outsider in my own community. This has made me stronger, as I have had to work harder and be more resilient in order to succeed. I have learned that success is not always easy to achieve, but with hard work and persistence, anything is possible. Another trait that I have developed is advocacy. I have learned the importance of advocating for myself and others who are marginalized and facing similar challenges. My experiences as a minority have made me acutely aware of the inequalities that exist in our society, and I believe that it is important to use my voice to bring about positive change. I am passionate about speaking out and using my platform to make a difference in the lives of others. In addition to persistence and advocacy, I have also developed a strong sense of scholarship. I am curious and always eager to learn and grow, both personally and professionally. I believe that education is the key to unlocking one's full potential, and I am determined to use my education to make a positive impact on the world. Whether I am studying for exams, conducting research, or learning about new and innovative solutions to problems, I am constantly driven by my passion for knowledge and my desire to make a difference. Along with scholarship, I am also disciplined in my approach to life. I understand that success does not come overnight, and that it takes hard work and dedication to achieve one's goals. Whether I am studying for exams, working on a project, or pursuing a new challenge, I am focused and determined in my approach, always striving to do my best and push myself to be better. Finally, I am eager to use my experiences as a minority to give back to my community and to help others who are facing similar challenges. Whether it is through volunteering at local organizations, mentoring young people, or participating in community service projects, I am committed to making a positive impact on the lives of those around me. I believe that it is important to use one's unique experiences and skills to make a difference in the world, and I am eager to do my part. In conclusion, my experiences as a minority in the Bronx have shaped me into the person I am today and have instilled in me a strong set of traits that will serve me well as I continue my journey. I am grateful for the challenges I have faced and am determined to use my persistence, advocacy, scholarship, curiosity, and discipline to make a positive impact on the world. Whether I am working to create a more just and equitable world, or helping others who are facing similar challenges, I am committed to using my unique perspectives and experiences to make a difference in the lives of those around me..
    Maverick Grill and Saloon Scholarship
    As a Dominican minority growing up in the Bronx, I have faced a unique set of challenges and obstacles in my life. Despite these challenges, I have been able to overcome them through my persistence, determination, and hard work. These experiences have not only shaped me into the person I am today, but they have also instilled in me a strong set of traits that will serve me well as I continue my journey. One of the most important traits that I have developed is persistence. Growing up as a minority in the Bronx, I have often felt like an outsider in my own community. This has made me stronger, as I have had to work harder and be more resilient in order to succeed. I have learned that success is not always easy to achieve, but with hard work and persistence, anything is possible. Another trait that I have developed is advocacy. I have learned the importance of advocating for myself and others who are marginalized and facing similar challenges. My experiences as a minority have made me acutely aware of the inequalities that exist in our society, and I believe that it is important to use my voice to bring about positive change. I am passionate about speaking out and using my platform to make a difference in the lives of others. In addition to persistence and advocacy, I have also developed a strong sense of scholarship. I am curious and always eager to learn and grow, both personally and professionally. I believe that education is the key to unlocking one's full potential, and I am determined to use my education to make a positive impact on the world. Whether I am studying for exams, conducting research, or learning about new and innovative solutions to problems, I am constantly driven by my passion for knowledge and my desire to make a difference. Along with scholarship, I am also disciplined in my approach to life. I understand that success does not come overnight, and that it takes hard work and dedication to achieve one's goals. Whether I am studying for exams, working on a project, or pursuing a new challenge, I am focused and determined in my approach, always striving to do my best and push myself to be better. Finally, I am eager to use my experiences as a minority to give back to my community and to help others who are facing similar challenges. Whether it is through volunteering at local organizations, mentoring young people, or participating in community service projects, I am committed to making a positive impact on the lives of those around me. I believe that it is important to use one's unique experiences and skills to make a difference in the world, and I am eager to do my part. In conclusion, my experiences as a minority in the Bronx have shaped me into the person I am today and have instilled in me a strong set of traits that will serve me well as I continue my journey. I am grateful for the challenges I have faced and am determined to use my persistence, advocacy, scholarship, curiosity, and discipline to make a positive impact on the world. Whether I am working to create a more just and equitable world, or helping others who are facing similar challenges, I am committed to using my unique perspectives and experiences to make a difference in the lives of those around me.
    Richard Neumann Scholarship
    The problem I have identified and created a solution for is the lack of accessible transportation for individuals with disabilities in my community. As someone who has a family member with a disability, I have seen firsthand the challenges they face when trying to get around and access essential services. Many public transportation options are not equipped to accommodate wheelchairs, making it difficult for people with disabilities to get around and live independently. My solution to this problem is a fleet of fully accessible vehicles equipped with the latest technology to make transportation for individuals with disabilities safe, convenient, and efficient. These vehicles would be equipped with ramps and lifts, as well as secure seating for wheelchairs and other mobility devices. Additionally, the vehicles would be equipped with GPS tracking, allowing for real-time updates on the location and estimated arrival time of each vehicle. This information would be accessible through a mobile app, making it easy for individuals with disabilities to plan their trips and get the transportation they need. If I had the money and resources to create this solution, I would start by conducting market research to understand the specific transportation needs of individuals with disabilities in my community. This research would include surveys and focus groups to gather information on the types of trips people with disabilities need to make, their preferred mode of transportation, and their experiences with current transportation options. Based on the results of this research, I would create a detailed plan for the fleet of vehicles, including the number of vehicles needed, the types of vehicles required, and the technology and equipment that would be included in each vehicle. Once the plan is in place, I would secure funding for the project through grants, loans, and private investment. I would also collaborate with local government agencies, non-profit organizations, and community groups to ensure that the transportation service is integrated into the existing transportation network and is accessible to as many people with disabilities as possible. To ensure that the transportation service is sustainable and cost-effective, I would establish partnerships with local businesses, such as car rental companies, to provide vehicles and equipment. I would also establish a pricing structure that is affordable for individuals with disabilities, and seek support from local government and private organizations to provide subsidies for those who cannot afford the full cost of the service. Finally, I would hire a team of experienced and trained drivers and dispatchers, who would be responsible for providing safe, efficient, and reliable transportation services to individuals with disabilities. This team would receive training on the safe operation of the vehicles and the proper handling of wheelchairs and other mobility devices. They would also receive training on customer service and accessibility, to ensure that all customers are treated with dignity and respect. In conclusion, my solution to the lack of accessible transportation for individuals with disabilities would provide a much-needed service to a population that is often overlooked and marginalized. With the right resources and support, I believe that this solution could make a real difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities and help to improve their independence and quality of life. By creating a fleet of fully accessible vehicles and providing a convenient and efficient transportation service, I believe I can help to solve one of the biggest challenges facing individuals with disabilities in my community. If given the opportunity, I am confident that I can make this solution a reality and make a positive impact on the lives of many.
    Big Picture Scholarship
    The film "Zorro" has left a lasting impact on me and my understanding of justice and equality. This classic tale of bravery and heroism demonstrated the power of one person to make a difference and the importance of standing up against oppression. The story of a masked vigilante who fought against the injustices inflicted on the people of California by the Spanish colonial government was both captivating and inspiring. As I watched the film, I was deeply moved by the courage and determination of the title character, who was willing to risk everything to defend the rights of others. This message of standing up for what is right, no matter the cost, has stayed with me throughout my life and has driven me to advocate for justice and equality in my own way. Whether it's volunteering at a local homeless shelter, working to raise awareness about environmental degradation, or participating in community service projects, I am passionate about using my resources and abilities to make a positive impact in the world. One of the reasons I was so drawn to the film "Zorro" was its portrayal of the struggle against oppression. Growing up poor and Dominican in the Bronx, I saw firsthand the limitations that poverty and discrimination can impose. However, "Zorro" showed me that it is possible to overcome these challenges and make a difference, no matter your circumstances. The film inspired me to use my voice and actions to fight for what is right, and to always stand up for justice. I was also struck by the film's message of hope and resilience. The character of Zorro was relentless in his pursuit of justice, even in the face of overwhelming odds. This resilience and determination inspired me to never give up, even in the face of adversity. I have learned that with perseverance, dedication, and a strong sense of purpose, it is possible to achieve great things, even in the most challenging of circumstances. In conclusion, the film "Zorro" has had a profound impact on my life and my values. The story of a masked vigilante who fought against injustice and oppression inspired me to use my voice and actions to make a difference in the world. The film has taught me the importance of standing up for what is right, no matter the cost, and the power of hope and resilience. This lesson will continue to guide me as I navigate the world and work towards creating a more just and equitable society.
    James Allen Crosby & William Edward Huff Scholarship
    Growing up poor and Dominican in the Bronx, I faced numerous obstacles that threatened to hold me back from achieving my goals. However, through determination and hard work, I was able to overcome these challenges and accomplish something truly great in my life. One of the biggest obstacles I faced was a lack of resources. Coming from a low-income household, I didn't have access to the same resources and opportunities as many of my peers. Despite these setbacks, I was determined to succeed and worked tirelessly to overcome these challenges. One of the strategies I employed was setting realistic and achievable goals for myself. I knew that I couldn't change my circumstances overnight, but I was determined to make the most of what I had. I focused on small wins, like doing well in my classes and getting involved in extracurricular activities, which helped me build confidence and develop the skills I needed to succeed. Another important aspect of my success was the support of my family and community. My parents were always there to encourage me and provide guidance, and I was lucky to have teachers and mentors who believed in me and provided me with the tools I needed to succeed. I also joined a youth development program, which gave me access to resources and opportunities that I wouldn't have otherwise had. Through these experiences, I learned the value of teamwork and the importance of supporting others in their own journeys. I also developed a strong work ethic and a dedication to excellence. I knew that in order to succeed, I needed to be the best version of myself and work harder than anyone else. I spent countless hours studying, practicing, and perfecting my craft, and was always looking for new ways to improve. Through this hard work and determination, I was able to achieve great things in my life. One of the greatest achievements of my life was being accepted into a top university. This was a huge accomplishment for me, especially considering my background and the obstacles I faced along the way. It was a testament to all of the hard work and dedication I had put into my education and proved to me that anything was possible with the right mindset and effort. In conclusion, my journey to achieve something great in my life was filled with hardships, but I was able to overcome these obstacles through determination, hard work, and a strong support system. These experiences taught me the importance of setting achievable goals, working hard, and supporting others in their own journeys. I am proud of what I have accomplished and grateful for the lessons I have learned along the way.
    Hispanic Climb to Success Scholarship
    Winner
    I am a motivated individual who has set high goals for my future, and I believe that I am a deserving candidate for this scholarship. I am currently pursuing a degree in Criminal Justice, with the ultimate goal of becoming an FBI Special Agent. This scholarship would greatly aid me in reaching this goal and help me overcome the financial challenges that come with pursuing higher education. Growing up, I was always fascinated by the idea of serving my country and helping to make a difference in my community. This curiosity led me to explore careers in law enforcement, and I soon discovered my passion for the FBI. I have since dedicated myself to reaching this goal, and I am confident that with hard work and determination, I will succeed. My educational goals are to obtain a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, and then go on to complete the necessary training and education required to become an FBI Special Agent. This is a challenging career path, but I am eager to face these challenges and prove to myself and others that I have what it takes to succeed. I am also aware that being bilingual will be an asset in this line of work, and I am actively working to improve my Spanish language skills. One of the biggest challenges I face in reaching my goals is the cost of higher education. I come from a low-income family, and paying for college has been a struggle. The Hispanic Climb to Success Scholarship would provide much-needed financial support and help to ease the burden of tuition and other expenses. This scholarship would allow me to focus on my studies and not worry about how I will pay for my education. Aside from my educational goals, I am also actively involved in my community. I volunteer at local schools, mentoring students and encouraging them to pursue their dreams. I also volunteer at a local homeless shelter, helping to provide meals and other necessities to those in need. I believe that giving back to my community is an important part of my journey and helps to create a positive impact in the lives of others. In conclusion, I believe that I am a deserving candidate for the Hispanic Climb to Success Scholarship. My commitment to education, my dedication to serving my community, and my passion for law enforcement make me a strong candidate for this scholarship. Receiving this scholarship would greatly aid me in reaching my goal of becoming an FBI Special Agent and make a difference in my life and the lives of those around me. Thank you for considering my application.
    Adam Montes Pride Scholarship
    Growing up poor and Dominican in the Bronx, I faced numerous obstacles that threatened to hold me back from achieving my goals. However, through determination and hard work, I was able to overcome these challenges and accomplish something truly great in my life. One of the biggest obstacles I faced was a lack of resources. Coming from a low-income household, I didn't have access to the same resources and opportunities as many of my peers. Despite these setbacks, I was determined to succeed and worked tirelessly to overcome these challenges. One of the strategies I employed was setting realistic and achievable goals for myself. I knew that I couldn't change my circumstances overnight, but I was determined to make the most of what I had. I focused on small wins, like doing well in my classes and getting involved in extracurricular activities, which helped me build confidence and develop the skills I needed to succeed. Another important aspect of my success was the support of my family and community. My parents were always there to encourage me and provide guidance, and I was lucky to have teachers and mentors who believed in me and provided me with the tools I needed to succeed. I also joined a youth development program, which gave me access to resources and opportunities that I wouldn't have otherwise had. Through these experiences, I learned the value of teamwork and the importance of supporting others in their own journeys. I also developed a strong work ethic and a dedication to excellence. I knew that in order to succeed, I needed to be the best version of myself and work harder than anyone else. I spent countless hours studying, practicing, and perfecting my craft, and was always looking for new ways to improve. Through this hard work and determination, I was able to achieve great things in my life. One of the greatest achievements of my life was being accepted into a top university. This was a huge accomplishment for me, especially considering my background and the obstacles I faced along the way. It was a testament to all of the hard work and dedication I had put into my education and proved to me that anything was possible with the right mindset and effort. In conclusion, my journey to achieve something great in my life was filled with hardships, but I was able to overcome these obstacles through determination, hard work, and a strong support system. These experiences taught me the importance of setting achievable goals, working hard, and supporting others in their own journeys. I am proud of what I have accomplished and grateful for the lessons I have learned along the way.
    Scorenavigator Financial Literacy Scholarship
    Growing up poor and Dominican in the Bronx, I faced numerous obstacles that threatened to hold me back from achieving my goals. However, through determination and hard work, I was able to overcome these challenges and accomplish something truly great in my life. One of the biggest obstacles I faced was a lack of resources. Coming from a low-income household, I didn't have access to the same resources and opportunities as many of my peers. Despite these setbacks, I was determined to succeed and worked tirelessly to overcome these challenges. One of the strategies I employed was setting realistic and achievable goals for myself. I knew that I couldn't change my circumstances overnight, but I was determined to make the most of what I had. I focused on small wins, like doing well in my classes and getting involved in extracurricular activities, which helped me build confidence and develop the skills I needed to succeed. Another important aspect of my success was the support of my family and community. My parents were always there to encourage me and provide guidance, and I was lucky to have teachers and mentors who believed in me and provided me with the tools I needed to succeed. I also joined a youth development program, which gave me access to resources and opportunities that I wouldn't have otherwise had. Through these experiences, I learned the value of teamwork and the importance of supporting others in their own journeys. I also developed a strong work ethic and a dedication to excellence. I knew that in order to succeed, I needed to be the best version of myself and work harder than anyone else. I spent countless hours studying, practicing, and perfecting my craft, and was always looking for new ways to improve. Through this hard work and determination, I was able to achieve great things in my life. One of the greatest achievements of my life was being accepted into a top university. This was a huge accomplishment for me, especially considering my background and the obstacles I faced along the way. It was a testament to all of the hard work and dedication I had put into my education and proved to me that anything was possible with the right mindset and effort. In conclusion, my journey to achieve something great in my life was filled with hardships, but I was able to overcome these obstacles through determination, hard work, and a strong support system. These experiences taught me the importance of setting achievable goals, working hard, and supporting others in their own journeys. I am proud of what I have accomplished and grateful for the lessons I have learned along the way.
    Frantz Barron Scholarship
    Growing up poor and Dominican in the Bronx, I faced numerous obstacles that threatened to hold me back from achieving my goals. However, through determination and hard work, I was able to overcome these challenges and accomplish something truly great in my life. One of the biggest obstacles I faced was a lack of resources. Coming from a low-income household, I didn't have access to the same resources and opportunities as many of my peers. Despite these setbacks, I was determined to succeed and worked tirelessly to overcome these challenges. One of the strategies I employed was setting realistic and achievable goals for myself. I knew that I couldn't change my circumstances overnight, but I was determined to make the most of what I had. I focused on small wins, like doing well in my classes and getting involved in extracurricular activities, which helped me build confidence and develop the skills I needed to succeed. Another important aspect of my success was the support of my family and community. My parents were always there to encourage me and provide guidance, and I was lucky to have teachers and mentors who believed in me and provided me with the tools I needed to succeed. I also joined a youth development program, which gave me access to resources and opportunities that I wouldn't have otherwise had. Through these experiences, I learned the value of teamwork and the importance of supporting others in their own journeys. I also developed a strong work ethic and a dedication to excellence. I knew that in order to succeed, I needed to be the best version of myself and work harder than anyone else. I spent countless hours studying, practicing, and perfecting my craft, and was always looking for new ways to improve. Through this hard work and determination, I was able to achieve great things in my life. One of the greatest achievements of my life was being accepted into a top university. This was a huge accomplishment for me, especially considering my background and the obstacles I faced along the way. It was a testament to all of the hard work and dedication I had put into my education and proved to me that anything was possible with the right mindset and effort. In conclusion, my journey to achieve something great in my life was filled with hardships, but I was able to overcome these obstacles through determination, hard work, and a strong support system. These experiences taught me the importance of setting achievable goals, working hard, and supporting others in their own journeys. I am proud of what I have accomplished and grateful for the lessons I have learned along the way.
    Linda "Noni" Anderson Memorial Music & Arts Scholarship
    I am deeply passionate about the creative arts and have been fascinated by them for as long as I can remember. Growing up in New York City, I was surrounded by a rich and diverse cultural landscape that inspired me to pursue my own creative interests. In particular, I am passionate about photography, which I believe is one of the most powerful and evocative art forms. What first drew me to photography was the ability to capture moments and memories that would otherwise be lost forever. Through the lens of a camera, I can freeze time and preserve the beauty and wonder of the world around me. Whether it is the bustling energy of the city streets or the quiet stillness of a sunset, photography allows me to capture and share the things that move and inspire me. I am also drawn to photography because it is a form of self-expression. As a photographer, I have the ability to communicate my perspective and share my story with the world. Whether it is through my composition, lighting, or editing, I am able to convey my thoughts and feelings in a unique and personal way. Photography is a way for me to connect with others and share my vision of the world. The most important piece of art or music to me is a photograph that I took of the New York City skyline. This photograph is meaningful to me because it captures the essence of the city that I love and calls home. The city is known for its fast-paced energy and dynamic atmosphere, and this photograph captures these qualities in a way that is both powerful and captivating. The photograph is also significant because it represents my own growth and development as a photographer. When I first started taking photographs, I struggled to find my voice and create images that truly reflected my own vision. However, as I continued to practice and hone my skills, I was able to develop my own style and find my own voice as an artist. What sets this photograph apart is the composition, which is both simple and striking. The photograph features the skyline of the city, with the towering skyscrapers and bright lights that are so iconic of New York. However, the photograph also captures the energy and movement of the city, with the swirling clouds and the movement of the water in the foreground. This combination of stillness and movement creates a sense of dynamism that truly captures the essence of New York. In conclusion, my passion for the creative arts is driven by my love of photography and my connection to New York City. Photography allows me to capture and preserve the moments and memories that are important to me, and to express my own vision of the world. The photograph of the New York City skyline is the most important piece of art or music to me because it represents my journey as an artist and my love for the city that I call home
    Uplifting Latino Leaders Scholarship
    Growing up poor and Dominican in the Bronx, I faced numerous obstacles that threatened to hold me back from achieving my goals. However, through determination and hard work, I was able to overcome these challenges and accomplish something truly great in my life. One of the biggest obstacles I faced was a lack of resources. Coming from a low-income household, I didn't have access to the same resources and opportunities as many of my peers. Despite these setbacks, I was determined to succeed and worked tirelessly to overcome these challenges. One of the strategies I employed was setting realistic and achievable goals for myself. I knew that I couldn't change my circumstances overnight, but I was determined to make the most of what I had. I focused on small wins, like doing well in my classes and getting involved in extracurricular activities, which helped me build confidence and develop the skills I needed to succeed. Another important aspect of my success was the support of my family and community. My parents were always there to encourage me and provide guidance, and I was lucky to have teachers and mentors who believed in me and provided me with the tools I needed to succeed. I also joined a youth development program, which gave me access to resources and opportunities that I wouldn't have otherwise had. Through these experiences, I learned the value of teamwork and the importance of supporting others in their own journeys. I also developed a strong work ethic and a dedication to excellence. I knew that in order to succeed, I needed to be the best version of myself and work harder than anyone else. I spent countless hours studying, practicing, and perfecting my craft, and was always looking for new ways to improve. Through this hard work and determination, I was able to achieve great things in my life. One of the greatest achievements of my life was being accepted into a top university. This was a huge accomplishment for me, especially considering my background and the obstacles I faced along the way. It was a testament to all of the hard work and dedication I had put into my education and proved to me that anything was possible with the right mindset and effort. In conclusion, my journey to achieve something great in my life was filled with hardships, but I was able to overcome these obstacles through determination, hard work, and a strong support system. These experiences taught me the importance of setting achievable goals, working hard, and supporting others in their own journeys. I am proud of what I have accomplished and grateful for the lessons I have learned along the way
    Mark Caldwell Memorial STEM/STEAM Scholarship
    Growing up poor and Dominican in the Bronx, I faced numerous obstacles that threatened to hold me back from achieving my goals. However, through determination and hard work, I was able to overcome these challenges and accomplish something truly great in my life. One of the biggest obstacles I faced was a lack of resources. Coming from a low-income household, I didn't have access to the same resources and opportunities as many of my peers. Despite these setbacks, I was determined to succeed and worked tirelessly to overcome these challenges. One of the strategies I employed was setting realistic and achievable goals for myself. I knew that I couldn't change my circumstances overnight, but I was determined to make the most of what I had. I focused on small wins, like doing well in my classes and getting involved in extracurricular activities, which helped me build confidence and develop the skills I needed to succeed. Another important aspect of my success was the support of my family and community. My parents were always there to encourage me and provide guidance, and I was lucky to have teachers and mentors who believed in me and provided me with the tools I needed to succeed. I also joined a youth development program, which gave me access to resources and opportunities that I wouldn't have otherwise had. Through these experiences, I learned the value of teamwork and the importance of supporting others in their own journeys. I also developed a strong work ethic and a dedication to excellence. I knew that in order to succeed, I needed to be the best version of myself and work harder than anyone else. I spent countless hours studying, practicing, and perfecting my craft, and was always looking for new ways to improve. Through this hard work and determination, I was able to achieve great things in my life. One of the greatest achievements of my life was being accepted into a top university. This was a huge accomplishment for me, especially considering my background and the obstacles I faced along the way. It was a testament to all of the hard work and dedication I had put into my education and proved to me that anything was possible with the right mindset and effort. In conclusion, my journey to achieve something great in my life was filled with hardships, but I was able to overcome these obstacles through determination, hard work, and a strong support system. These experiences taught me the importance of setting achievable goals, working hard, and supporting others in their own journeys. I am proud of what I have accomplished and grateful for the lessons I have learned along the way