The first time I saw my mom counting change to pay for my school supplies in 3rd grade, I understood that life would not hand me opportunities; I would have to create them. She came to the United States from Costa Rica with dreams of going to college, but without guidance, financial resources, or confidence, those dreams faded. Watching her work tirelessly to give me a chance at the life she couldn’t have made me determined not only to succeed for myself, but to help others facing the same barriers. Coming from a single-parent, low-income household has meant I often have to work twice as hard as my peers just to access the same opportunities. But it has also given me a sense of purpose: to make sure no student gives up on their education because they don’t know where to turn. As a BigFuture Ambassador for the College Board, I’ve guided peers through finding scholarships, understanding FAFSA, and building college plans, helping one classmate secure a $5,000 scholarship they didn’t know existed. Through the College Partnership Program, I’ve helped students access free SAT testing, removing a major cost that often stops first-generation students from applying to competitive schools. As President of my school’s Equity Club, I’ve worked to create safe spaces for underrepresented voices, organizing events that foster understanding and advocacy. In my role on the Fairfax County Student Human Rights Commission, I will continue to address immigrant and first-generation student concerns at the county level, ensuring that policy discussions include those most affected. These experiences have shown me that change starts with access, awareness, and belief. I plan to continue advocating for educational equity in my community and beyond, turning the lessons I’ve learned from my own challenges into opportunities for others to thrive.