I was born in a small town in Vietnam. The place where I was brought up was far away from the city; it was also poor and neglected. There, is a deeply ingrained mindset among parents for many generations: The only way to escape poverty is education. Parents firmly believed that if their children weren’t educated well, children’s future would be plagued by unemployment, debt, gambling, or involvement in many horrific social evils. That’s why I was exposed to early education; I went to kindergarten when I was 2 years old. Although every class I attended from kindergarten, primary, secondary, and high school wasn’t free, my parents still worked hard to pay for all those classes. Moreover, my parents including mine in my town also wanted their children to attend evening classes to help them have better grades since grades are a standard for ranking students. I usually spent 9-12 hours per day in school and self-studied, making many of me suffer from stress, anxiety, mental illness, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). To gain a better future for me, my parents decided to apply for a visa for the whole family to move to America. However, because of the COVID-19, our visa was late for 3 years. I was disappointed and scared because my parents were being laid off. Even though my family had some financial burden, my parents still tried their best to make sure I would be in school. Nevertheless, I turned that unlucky event into an opportunity for self-development. As Viviane Greene said, “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass. It’s about learning how to dance in the rain.” I created a detailed schedule that included study periods for each subject. My determination to succeed fueled my late-night study sessions and early mornings spent catching up on missed work. On the other hand, my family’s visas were finally approved after everything returned to normal in Vietnam since the post-effects of COVID-19. However, new challenges came to me at I was starting the new chapter of my life. Before my first college semester started, I was shocked and frustrated when I discovered that I was being charged an out-of-state tuition fee. The out-of-state fees were significantly higher than I had anticipated, and I didn’t have enough ability to afford them. At that moment, every plan for my college journey just seemed to slip away. I reached out to Bakersfield College's Admissions and Records Department in the hope of a solution. They informed me that if I could provide evidence of living in California for at least one year and one day, I might be qualified for in-state tuition. At first, I felt a sense of despair, as I did not have a comprehensive collection of documentation to prove my family's residency in the state for the required time. We had just relocated, and it was hard to gather sufficient evidence. Luckily, my friends were with me all the time and encouraged me not to give up prematurely. As a result, I took a chance by submitting whatever evidence I had, no matter how incomplete it might seem. Their belief in me made me realize I had nothing to lose by trying to provoke my determination. I diligently gathered every piece of documentation I could find–utility bills, rental agreements, employment records– and submitted them to the Admissions and Records Department. For the first time in my life, I agreed with Emporio Ivankov when he said, “Miracles only happen to those who never give up.” It was exactly one year and one day before the semester started, and other evidence was sufficient: I was finally approved for in-state tuition. This experience taught me a profound lesson about the power of perseverance and the importance of taking chances, even when the world seems to be fighting against you. I would have missed a valuable opportunity simply because I assumed the outcome would be impossible. I have carried this lesson with me, approaching challenges and opportunities with a more open and determined mindset. Instead of allowing self-doubt or perceived barriers to hold me back, I have learned to assess situations objectively and take calculated risks. This shift in perspective has served me well in various aspects of my life, from academic pursuits to personal growth. I take a step back and consider alternative paths forward, rather than immediately surrendering to defeat whenever I face seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Moreover, this experience has taught me the value of surrounding myself with a supportive network of friends and mentors who can offer encouragement and alternative perspectives. On the other hand, my academic journey faced some obstacles. My journey toward higher education was marked by a significant transition from Vietnam to the United States. This move was not merely a change in location but a profound shift in culture, language, and lifestyle. From navigating the intricacies of daily life in a new country to mastering English as a second language, I faced numerous challenges along the way. However, I approached each obstacle with determination and a commitment to learning. Through diligent effort and perseverance, I not only adapted to my new environment but thrived academically, achieving a 4.0 GPA and earning a place on the Honor Roll consistently. Beyond academics, I am deeply committed to giving back to my community. Inspired by the opportunities afforded to me through education, I am passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of others. Whether through volunteering with organizations such as "Be the Match", mentoring students in mathematics and writing, or volunteering at Kern Medical as an auxiliary, I find fulfillment in contributing to the well-being of those around me. These experiences have not only enriched my life skills but have also shaped my aspirations for the future. My ultimate goal is to transfer to UCLA and pursue a career as a Physician Assistant. My experience overcoming challenges has instilled in me the empathy and resilience necessary to thrive as a Physician Assistant. Growing up in Vietnam with limited resources, I witnessed firsthand the struggles of those facing healthcare disparities. This experience ignited my passion for medicine and a commitment to serving underserved communities. Driven by a passion for healthcare, I am committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of patients My journey toward higher education has been characterized by a relentless pursuit of excellence in the face of adversity. By embracing challenges and keeping an optimistic attitude, I have overcome obstacles that once seemed impassable. As I continue on my path toward higher education and beyond, I am committed to driving positive change and achieving greatness both for myself and for those around me. This journey is not just about obtaining a degree; it's about embracing the challenges, learning from them, and ultimately becoming the best version of myself. Finally, as a first-generation college student, I recognize the significance of financial support in pursuing my academic aspirations, especially when I plan to apply to UCLA and PA school after graduation. This scholarship would not only alleviate the financial burden associated with tuition fees and living expenses but also allow me to fully focus on my studies and extracurricular pursuits.

One of the most valuable life lessons I have learned is you will never know what can happen unless you give it a chance. This hint came during a memorable moment before my first semester at Bakersfield College started, an experience that has profoundly shaped my outlook and approach to challenges. Before my first college semester started, I was shocked and frustrated when I discovered I was being charged out-of-state tuition fees. The out-of-state fees were significantly higher than I anticipated, and I couldn't afford them. At that moment, every plan for my college journey seemed to slip away. I, then, reached out to Bakersfield College's Admissions and Records Department in the hope of a solution. They informed me that if I could provide evidence of living in California for at least one year and one day, I might be qualified for in-state tuition. At first, I felt a sense of despair, as I did not have a comprehensive collection of documentation to prove my family's residency in the state for the required time. We had just relocated, and it was hard to gather sufficient evidence. The easiest path for me at that time appeared to be taking a gap year, postponing my educational plans, and reapplying the following year. Luckily, my friends were there and encouraged me not to give up prematurely. As a result, I took a chance by submitting whatever evidence I had, no matter how incomplete it might seem. Their belief in me made me realize I had nothing to lose by trying to provoke my determination. I diligently gathered every documentation I could find–utility bills, rental agreements, employment records– and submitted them to the Admissions and Records Department. For the first time in my life, I agreed with Emporio Ivankov when he said, “Miracles only happen to those who never give up.” It was exactly one year and one day before the semester started one day, and other evidence was sufficient: I was finally approved for in-state tuition. This experience taught me a profound lesson about the power of perseverance and the importance of taking chances, even when the world seems to be fighting against you. I would have missed a valuable opportunity simply because I assumed the outcome would be impossible. From that point forward, I have carried this lesson with me, approaching challenges and opportunities with a more open and determined mindset. Instead of allowing self-doubt or perceived barriers to hold me back, I have learned to assess situations objectively and take calculated risks. This shift in perspective has served me well in various aspects of my life, from academic pursuits to personal growth. Moreover, This life lesson has seeded inside me a greater sense of resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace uncertainty. It has empowered me to approach challenges not with trepidation but with curiosity and determination. I believe that as long as I keep improving and developing myself every day with a proactive and optimistic mindset, I can shape my academic journey in many ways that I could have never imagined. Furthermore, this experience has prepared me to be a positive role model for any future children I may have. By teaching them the importance of perseverance and determination to succeed, I can equip them with the tools they need–the mindset of trying their best to look for the lightning in the darkness and try their best to overcome every challenge–to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, knowing that even when things seem impossible, there's always a chance for a positive outcome if you keep trying.

From GPA to Growth “My parents don’t press it but, you know, they’re into good grades.”–Lucy Deakins. As I was born in Vietnam and grew up in an environment where the grade is a standard for ranking a student’s academic excellence, the notion of a 4.0 GPA became the ultimate definition of academic success. However, as I moved to America with my family at the age of 18, I realized that academic excellence is not just about performing well in scholastic activities and achieving a 4.0 GPA, but also embracing challenges and seeking out opportunities for personal and professional growth. I used to think that academic excellence was nothing more than a 4.0 GPA or a certification, failing to appreciate the broader aspects of learning and growth. However, I realized the educational system in America seems less focused on grades but rather on fostering comprehensive development. My initial perception of academic excellence is expanding. My definition of academic excellence is not solely defined by perfect scores or high GPA, but also involved in the development of critical thinking skills, allowing me to engage in meaningful discussions and contributing to the growth unique perspective. At the beginning of my first college semester, I felt inferior compared to my peers. Even though I understood English words being spoken, I struggled to comprehend the meaning behind their conversations due to their application of vast knowledge and critical thinking. I couldn’t stop asking myself while I had a high GPA, why I couldn’t understand their conversations. As a result, I discovered that academic success is not decided based on how much certification I possess, but by the depth of understanding and the ability to apply knowledge with critical thinking in diverse conversations. On the other hand, in my first English class at community college, I got the first D grade for the very first time in my academic journey. My emotions storm at that time were complicated; I was sad, frustrated, furious, and defeated. I kept blaming myself for not pushing a little bit more, for not spending more time studying, and for not grasping the lecture quickly enough. However, as I reflected on my experiences, I realized the existence of a gap between me and my peers: English is not my first language, and I was born in a different culture, leading to the difference in my perspective compared to my peers. I've overlooked the fact that academic excellence is not a destination, but a journey of recognizing my weaknesses and finding opportunities for personal and professional self-development. By applying to become a Peer Mentor at Bakersfield College, who offers tutoring, academic advice, and help with career planning, I show my commitment to stepping outside my comfort zone and pushing myself to overcome my fear of public communication due to bad English skills and gain more valuable experiences that will contribute to my academic and personal growth. Although I understand that I will face numerous challenges as I become a Peer Mentor, I believe that I will wholeheartedly engage in a process of self-development. My journey to achieve academic excellence will shine brightly with resilience and willingness to embrace challenges and learn from failures. Looking back through the 2023-2024 academic years, my journey to achieve academic excellence has become more meaningful. It’s not just about gaining high scores but also recognizing the importance of critical thinking and personal and professional growth. As I embark on the next chapter of my academic journey, my definition of academic excellence will continue to expand, and I will grow through overcoming upcoming obstacles and failures.

Embarking on the path of higher education is often fraught with challenges, yet it is within these challenges that we find the seeds of growth and determination. My journey toward pursuing higher education has been marked by various obstacles, each presenting an opportunity to overcome, learn, and thrive. Hailing from a background where educational opportunities were limited, I have navigated through financial, linguistic, and cultural barriers to pursue my dreams. Before my first college semester started, I was shocked and frustrated when I discovered that I was being charged an out-of-state tuition fee. The out-of-state fees were significantly higher than I had anticipated, and I didn’t have enough ability to afford them. At that moment, every plan for my college journey just seemed to slip away. I, then, reached out to Bakersfield College's Admissions and Records Department in the hope of a solution. They informed me that if I could provide evidence of living in California for at least one year, I might be qualified for in-state tuition. At first, I felt a sense of despair, as I did not have a comprehensive collection of documentation to prove my family's residency in the state for the required time. We had just relocated, and it was hard to gather sufficient evidence. The easiest path for me at that time appeared to be taking a gap year, postponing my educational plans, and reapplying the following year when I would undoubtedly meet the residency requirements. Luckily, my friends were with me all the time and encouraged me not to give up prematurely. As a result, I took a chance by submitting whatever evidence I had, no matter how incomplete it might seem. Their belief in me made me realize I had nothing to lose by trying to provoke my determination. I diligently gathered every piece of documentation I could find–utility bills, rental agreements, employment records– and submitted them to the Admissions and Records Department. For the first time in my life, I agreed with Emporio Ivankov when he said, “Miracles only happen to those who never give up.” It was exactly one year before the decision on my status was made, and other evidence was sufficient: I was finally approved for in-state tuition. This experience taught me a profound lesson about the power of perseverance and the importance of taking chances, even when the world seems to be fighting against you. I would have missed out on a valuable opportunity simply because I assumed the outcome would be impossible. From that point forward, I have carried this lesson with me, approaching challenges and opportunities with a more open and determined mindset. Instead of allowing self-doubt or perceived barriers to hold me back, I have learned to assess situations objectively and take calculated risks. This shift in perspective has served me well in various aspects of my life, from academic pursuits to personal growth. I take a step back and consider alternative paths forward, rather than immediately surrendering to defeat whenever I face seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Moreover, this experience has taught me the value of surrounding myself with a supportive network of friends and mentors who can offer encouragement and alternative perspectives. On the other hand, my academic journey faced some obstacles. My journey toward higher education was marked by a significant transition from Vietnam to the United States. This move was not merely a change in location but a profound shift in culture, language, and lifestyle. From navigating the intricacies of daily life in a new country to mastering English as a second language, I faced numerous challenges along the way. However, I approached each obstacle with determination and a commitment to learning. Through diligent effort and perseverance, I not only adapted to my new environment but thrived academically, achieving a 4.0 GPA and earning a place on the Honor Roll consistently. Beyond academics, I am deeply committed to giving back to my community. Inspired by the opportunities afforded to me through education, I am passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of others. Whether through volunteering with organizations such as "Be the Match" or mentoring students in mathematics and writing, I find fulfillment in contributing to the well-being of those around me. These experiences have not only enriched my life but have also shaped my aspirations for the future. My ultimate goal is to transfer to UCLA and pursue a career as a Physician Assistant. Driven by a passion for healthcare and a desire to help others, I am committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of patients. Looking ahead, I am committed to driving change both within my field and for myself. I aim to challenge conventional thinking and push the boundaries of what is possible. Through continuous learning and personal development, I strive to become a leader in my field, empowering others to pursue their aspirations and overcome obstacles with resilience and determination. My journey toward higher education has been characterized by a relentless pursuit of excellence in the face of adversity. By embracing challenges and maintaining a steadfast determination, I have overcome obstacles that once seemed insurmountable. As I continue on my path toward higher education and beyond, I am committed to driving positive change and achieving greatness, both for myself and for those around me. This journey is not just about obtaining a degree; it's about embracing the challenges, learning from them, and ultimately becoming the best version of myself. Finally, as a first-generation college student, I recognize the significance of financial support in pursuing my academic aspirations. This scholarship would not only alleviate the financial burden associated with tuition fees and living expenses but also allow me to fully focus on my studies and extracurricular pursuits.

Higher education, often a path paved with opportunity, can be particularly challenging for immigrants. My journey reflects this, a testament to resilience as I faced financial, linguistic, and cultural hurdles. Before my first college semester commenced, I encountered a significant setback when I discovered that I was being charged out-of-state tuition fees. The unexpected financial burden threatened to derail my college aspirations, casting a shadow of uncertainty over my future endeavors. The easiest path for me at that time appeared to be taking a gap year, postponing my educational plans, and reapplying the following year when I would undoubtedly meet the residency requirements. Luckily, my friends were with me all the time and encouraged me not to give up prematurely. As a result, I took a chance by submitting whatever evidence I had, no matter how incomplete it might seem. Their belief in me made me realize I had nothing to lose by trying to provoke my determination. I diligently gathered every piece of documentation I could find–utility bills, rental agreements, employment records– and submitted them to the Admissions and Records Department. For the first time in my life, I agreed with Emporio Ivankov when he said, “Miracles only happen to those who never give up.” It was exactly one year before the decision on my status was made, and other evidence was sufficient: I was finally approved for in-state tuition. On the other hand, my academic journey faced some obstacles. My journey toward higher education was marked by a significant transition from Vietnam to the United States. This move was not merely a change in location but a profound shift in culture, language, and lifestyle. From navigating the intricacies of daily life in a new country to mastering English as a second language, I faced numerous challenges along the way. However, I approached each obstacle with determination and a commitment to learning. Through diligent effort and perseverance, I not only adapted to my new environment but thrived academically, achieving a 4.0 GPA and earning a place on the Honor Roll consistently. Beyond academics, I am deeply committed to giving back to my community. Inspired by the opportunities afforded to me through education, I am passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of others. Whether through volunteering with organizations such as "Be the Match" or mentoring students in mathematics, I find fulfillment in contributing to the well-being of those around me. These experiences have not only enriched my life but have also shaped my aspirations for the future. My ultimate goal is to transfer to UCLA and pursue a career as a Physician Assistant. Through continuous learning, I strive to be a trailblazer, empowering others to chase their dreams with resilience. In conclusion, my journey towards higher education exemplifies the power of perseverance in the face of adversity. As I navigate my future, I remain steadfast in my commitment to driving positive change and reaching my full potential. This journey is not just about a degree; it's about embracing challenges, learning from setbacks, and becoming the best version of myself. Finally, as a first-generation college student, I understand the profound impact financial support can have. A scholarship wouldn't just ease the financial burden but also allow me to fully dedicate myself to academics and extracurriculars.

Higher education, often a path paved with opportunity, can be particularly challenging for immigrants. My journey reflects this, a testament to resilience as I faced financial, linguistic, and cultural hurdles. Before my first college semester commenced, I encountered a significant setback when I discovered that I was being charged out-of-state tuition fees. The unexpected financial burden threatened to derail my college aspirations, casting a shadow of uncertainty over my future endeavors. The easiest path for me at that time appeared to be taking a gap year, postponing my educational plans, and reapplying the following year when I would undoubtedly meet the residency requirements. Luckily, my friends were with me all the time and encouraged me not to give up prematurely. As a result, I took a chance by submitting whatever evidence I had, no matter how incomplete it might seem. Their belief in me made me realize I had nothing to lose by trying to provoke my determination. I diligently gathered every piece of documentation I could find–utility bills, rental agreements, employment records– and submitted them to the Admissions and Records Department. For the first time in my life, I agreed with Emporio Ivankov when he said, “Miracles only happen to those who never give up.” It was exactly one year before the decision on my status was made, and other evidence was sufficient: I was finally approved for in-state tuition. On the other hand, my academic journey faced some obstacles. My journey toward higher education was marked by a significant transition from Vietnam to the United States. This move was not merely a change in location but a profound shift in culture, language, and lifestyle. From navigating the intricacies of daily life in a new country to mastering English as a second language, I faced numerous challenges along the way. However, I approached each obstacle with determination and a commitment to learning. Through diligent effort and perseverance, I not only adapted to my new environment but thrived academically, achieving a 4.0 GPA and earning a place on the Honor Roll consistently. Beyond academics, I am deeply committed to giving back to my community. Inspired by the opportunities afforded to me through education, I am passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of others. Whether through volunteering with organizations such as "Be the Match" or mentoring students in mathematics, I find fulfillment in contributing to the well-being of those around me. These experiences have not only enriched my life but have also shaped my aspirations for the future. My ultimate goal is to transfer to UCLA and pursue a career as a Physician Assistant. Fueled by a passion for healthcare and a desire to serve others, I aspire to challenge healthcare paradigms and push the boundaries of innovation. Through continuous learning, I strive to be a trailblazer, empowering others to chase their dreams with resilience. In conclusion, my journey towards higher education exemplifies the power of perseverance in the face of adversity. As I navigate my future, I remain steadfast in my commitment to driving positive change and reaching my full potential. This journey is not just about a degree; it's about embracing challenges, learning from setbacks, and becoming the best version of myself. Finally, as a first-generation college student, I understand the profound impact financial support can have. A scholarship wouldn't just ease the financial burden but also allow me to fully dedicate myself to academics and extracurriculars.

Embracing Challenges: A Lesson in Determination One of the most valuable life lessons I have learned is that you will never know what can happen unless you give it a chance. This realization came during a memorable moment before my first semester at Bakersfield College, an experience that has profoundly shaped my outlook and approach to challenges. Before my first college semester started, I was shocked and frustrated when I discovered that I was being charged an out-of-state tuition fee. The out-of-state fees were significantly higher than I had anticipated, and I didn’t have enough ability to afford them. At that moment, every plan for my college journey just seemed to slip away. I, then, reached out to Bakersfield College's Admissions and Records Department in the hope of a solution. They informed me that if I could provide evidence of living in California for at least one year, I might be qualified for in-state tuition. At first, I felt a sense of despair, as I did not have a comprehensive collection of documentation to prove my family's residency in the state for the required time. We had just relocated, and it was hard to gather sufficient evidence. The easiest path for me at that time appeared to be taking a gap year, postponing my educational plans, and reapplying the following year when I would undoubtedly meet the residency requirements. Luckily, my friends were with me all the time and encouraged me not to give up prematurely. As a result, I took a chance by submitting whatever evidence I had, no matter how incomplete it might seem. Their belief in me made me realize I had nothing to lose by trying to provoke my determination. I diligently gathered every piece of documentation I could find–utility bills, rental agreements, employment records– and submitted them to the Admissions and Records Department. For the first time in my life, I agreed with Emporio Ivankov when he said, “Miracles only happen to those who never give up.” It was exactly one year before the decision on my status was made, and other evidence was sufficient: I was finally approved for in-state tuition. This experience taught me a profound lesson about the power of perseverance and the importance of taking chances, even when the world seems to be fighting against you. I would have missed out on a valuable opportunity simply because I assumed the outcome would be impossible. From that point forward, I have carried this lesson with me, approaching challenges and opportunities with a more open and determined mindset. Instead of allowing self-doubt or perceived barriers to hold me back, I have learned to assess situations objectively and take calculated risks. This shift in perspective has served me well in various aspects of my life, from academic pursuits to personal growth. I take a step back and consider alternative paths forward, rather than immediately surrendering to defeat whenever I face seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Moreover, this experience has taught me the value of surrounding myself with a supportive network of friends and mentors who can offer encouragement and alternative perspectives. In conclusion, this life lesson has instilled in me a greater sense of resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace uncertainty. It has empowered me to approach challenges not with trepidation but with curiosity and determination. I believe that as long as I keep improving and developing myself every day with a proactive and optimistic mindset, I can shape my academic journey in many ways that I could have never imagined.

Embarking on the path of higher education is often fraught with challenges, yet it is within these challenges that we find the seeds of growth and determination. My journey toward pursuing higher education has been marked by various obstacles, each presenting an opportunity to overcome, learn, and thrive. Before my first college semester started, I was shocked and frustrated when I discovered that I was being charged an out-of-state tuition fee. The out-of-state fees were significantly higher than I had anticipated, and I didn’t have enough ability to afford them. At that moment, every plan for my college journey just seemed to slip away. I, then, reached out to Bakersfield College's Admissions and Records Department in the hope of a solution. They informed me that if I could provide evidence of living in California for at least one year, I might be qualified for in-state tuition. At first, I felt a sense of despair, as I did not have a comprehensive collection of documentation to prove my family's residency in the state for the required time. We had just relocated, and it was hard to gather sufficient evidence. The easiest path for me at that time appeared to be taking a gap year, postponing my educational plans, and reapplying the following year when I would undoubtedly meet the residency requirements. Luckily, my friends were with me all the time and encouraged me not to give up prematurely. As a result, I took a chance by submitting whatever evidence I had, no matter how incomplete it might seem. Their belief in me made me realize I had nothing to lose by trying to provoke my determination. I diligently gathered every piece of documentation I could find–utility bills, rental agreements, employment records– and submitted them to the Admissions and Records Department. For the first time in my life, I agreed with Emporio Ivankov when he said, “Miracles only happen to those who never give up.” It was exactly one year before the decision on my status was made, and other evidence was sufficient: I was finally approved for in-state tuition. On the other hand, my academic journey faced some obstacles. My journey toward higher education was marked by a significant transition from Vietnam to the United States. This move was not merely a change in location but a profound shift in culture, language, and lifestyle. From navigating the intricacies of daily life in a new country to mastering English as a second language, I faced numerous challenges along the way. However, I approached each obstacle with determination and a commitment to learning. Through diligent effort and perseverance, I not only adapted to my new environment but thrived academically, achieving a 4.0 GPA and earning a place on the Honor Roll consistently. Beyond academics, I am deeply committed to giving back to my community. Inspired by the opportunities afforded to me through education, I am passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of others. Whether through volunteering with organizations such as "Be the Match" or mentoring students in mathematics, I find fulfillment in contributing to the well-being of those around me. These experiences have not only enriched my life but have also shaped my aspirations for the future. In conclusion, my journey toward higher education has been characterized by a relentless pursuit of excellence in the face of adversity. By embracing challenges and maintaining a steadfast determination, I have overcome obstacles that once seemed insurmountable. This journey is not just about obtaining a degree; it's about embracing the challenges, learning from them, and ultimately becoming the best version of myself.

Systemic racism is a pervasive issue that affects societies worldwide, casting a shadow over various aspects of life, including education. As a student navigating this complex landscape, I see firsthand the importance of addressing this issue to create a more just and equitable society. In the realm of education, systemic racism remains a significant challenge that demands attention. Colleges, universities, and educational organizations have a critical role to play in addressing this issue and fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion on campus. By implementing concrete actions and policies to promote fairness in admissions, academics, and anti-discrimination practices, institutions can create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all students. One crucial step that educational institutions can take is to build and implement comprehensive policies and regulations aimed at promoting diversity and equity in all aspects of school life. This includes reevaluating and restructuring the admissions process to ensure that it is fair and accessible to students from all backgrounds. Additionally, academic programs can be revised to include diverse perspectives and voices, reflecting the multicultural nature of society. Moreover, instituting anti-racism training programs for students and employees can play a vital role in raising awareness and fostering a culture of inclusivity. These programs can provide participants with the knowledge and tools to recognize and challenge systemic racism, empowering them to become agents of change in their communities. By fostering open dialogue and promoting understanding, educational institutions can create a more supportive and inclusive learning environment for all students. For example, Bakersfield College, the college I'm attending now, has taken proactive steps to address systemic racism through its Associate in Arts for Transfer (AA-T) degree program. By offering courses in fields related to social justice, such as sociology and political science, the college aims to equip students with the critical thinking skills and knowledge needed to confront and combat racism in society. Programs like these demonstrate a commitment to diversity and inclusion, providing students with the opportunity to engage with and learn from diverse perspectives. Creating an academic environment where everyone feels valued and supported is another crucial aspect of combating systemic racism. This involves providing opportunities for students to engage in dialogue, exchange ideas, and learn from diverse perspectives. Initiatives like the Hispanic Organization Promoting Engineering and Science (HOPES) exemplify the power of collaborative efforts in promoting diversity and equity in STEM fields. By fostering a sense of belonging and community, educational institutions can empower students to succeed academically and personally. As an Asian student, I have actively participated in HOPES, contributing to the promotion of diversity and inclusion in STEM education. By working alongside my Hispanic peers to mentor and tutor students from underrepresented communities, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment. Through collaborative efforts like these, we can create a more equitable society where individual effort and success are celebrated, irrespective of race or background. In conclusion, addressing systemic racism is imperative for creating a more just and equitable society. By taking proactive measures to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in education, we can pave the way for a future where everyone has equal opportunities to succeed. Together, we can build a world where individual effort and success are celebrated, irrespective of race or background.

One of the most valuable life lessons I have learned is that you will never know what can happen unless you give it a chance. This realization came during a memorable moment before my first semester at Bakersfield College, an experience that has profoundly shaped my outlook and approach to challenges. Before my first college semester started, I was shocked and frustrated when I discovered that I was being charged an out-of-state tuition fee. The out-of-state fees were significantly higher than I had anticipated, and I didn’t have enough ability to afford them. At that moment, every plan for my college journey just seemed to slip away. I, then, reached out to Bakersfield College's Admissions and Records Department in the hope of a solution. They informed me that if I could provide evidence of living in California for at least one year, I might be qualified for in-state tuition. At first, I felt a sense of despair, as I did not have a comprehensive collection of documentation to prove my family's residency in the state for the required time. We had just relocated, and it was hard to gather sufficient evidence. The easiest path for me at that time appeared to be taking a gap year, postponing my educational plans, and reapplying the following year when I would undoubtedly meet the residency requirements. Luckily, my friends were with me all the time and encouraged me not to give up prematurely. As a result, I took a chance by submitting whatever evidence I had, no matter how incomplete it might seem. Their belief in me made me realize I had nothing to lose by trying to provoke my determination. I diligently gathered every piece of documentation I could find–utility bills, rental agreements, employment records– and submitted them to the Admissions and Records Department. For the first time in my life, I agreed with Emporio Ivankov when he said, “Miracles only happen to those who never give up.” It was exactly one year before the decision on my status was made, and other evidence was sufficient: I was finally approved for in-state tuition. This experience taught me a profound lesson about the power of perseverance and the importance of taking chances, even when the world seems to be fighting against you. I would have missed out on a valuable opportunity simply because I assumed the outcome would be impossible. From that point forward, I have carried this lesson with me, approaching challenges and opportunities with a more open and determined mindset. Instead of allowing self-doubt or perceived barriers to hold me back, I have learned to assess situations objectively and take calculated risks. This shift in perspective has served me well in various aspects of my life, from academic pursuits to personal growth. In conclusion, this life lesson has instilled in me a greater sense of resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace uncertainty. It has empowered me to approach challenges not with trepidation but with curiosity and determination. I believe that as long as I keep improving and developing myself every day with a proactive and optimistic mindset, I can shape my academic journey in many ways that I could have never imagined. Finally, to someone who is facing the same circumstance, please remember to give it a try because you won't know what will happen. Even you might not get the result you want, at least you gave it a try to fight for your future, and I promise you that you absolutely won't feel regret.

Embracing Challenges: A Lesson in Determination One of the most valuable life lessons I have learned is that you will never know what can happen unless you give it a chance. This realization came during a memorable moment before my first semester at Bakersfield College, an experience that has profoundly shaped my outlook and approach to challenges. Before my first college semester started, I was shocked and frustrated when I discovered that I was being charged an out-of-state tuition fee. The out-of-state fees were significantly higher than I had anticipated, and I didn’t have enough ability to afford them. At that moment, every plan for my college journey just seemed to slip away. I, then, reached out to Bakersfield College's Admissions and Records Department in the hope of a solution. They informed me that if I could provide evidence of living in California for at least one year, I might be qualified for in-state tuition. At first, I felt a sense of despair, as I did not have a comprehensive collection of documentation to prove my family's residency in the state for the required time. We had just relocated, and it was hard to gather sufficient evidence. The easiest path for me at that time appeared to be taking a gap year, postponing my educational plans, and reapplying the following year when I would undoubtedly meet the residency requirements. Luckily, my friends were with me all the time and encouraged me not to give up prematurely. As a result, I took a chance by submitting whatever evidence I had, no matter how incomplete it might seem. Their belief in me made me realize I had nothing to lose by trying to provoke my determination. I diligently gathered every piece of documentation I could find–utility bills, rental agreements, employment records– and submitted them to the Admissions and Records Department. For the first time in my life, I agreed with Emporio Ivankov when he said, “Miracles only happen to those who never give up.” It was exactly one year before the decision on my status was made, and other evidence was sufficient: I was finally approved for in-state tuition. This experience taught me a profound lesson about the power of perseverance and the importance of taking chances, even when the world seems to be fighting against you. I would have missed out on a valuable opportunity simply because I assumed the outcome would be impossible. From that point forward, I have carried this lesson with me, approaching challenges and opportunities with a more open and determined mindset. Instead of allowing self-doubt or perceived barriers to hold me back, I have learned to assess situations objectively and take calculated risks. This shift in perspective has served me well in various aspects of my life, from academic pursuits to personal growth. I take a step back and consider alternative paths forward, rather than immediately surrendering to defeat whenever I face seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Moreover, this experience has taught me the value of surrounding myself with a supportive network of friends and mentors who can offer encouragement and alternative perspectives. In conclusion, this life lesson has instilled in me a greater sense of resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace uncertainty. It has empowered me to approach challenges not with trepidation but with curiosity and determination. I believe that as long as I keep improving and developing myself every day with a proactive and optimistic mindset, I can shape my academic journey in many ways that I could have never imagined.