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Kai Santos

645

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Finalist

Education

Contra Costa College

Associate's degree program
2022 - 2024
  • Majors:
    • Sociology

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Bachelor's degree program

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

    • Sociology
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Public Safety

    • Dream career goals:

      First Responder Futures Award
      I am currently facing significant financial challenges in funding my education. Despite my best efforts, I’ve only secured a partial scholarship, and my school cannot offer additional aid. My mom, the sole provider for our family, is already stretched thin with three other children to support. She simply cannot afford to help me without compromising the needs of my siblings. I am attending college with two primary goals: playing football and preparing for a career in firefighting. Football has been a lifelong passion, teaching me invaluable lessons about teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. These qualities are essential not only on the field but also in my academic pursuits and future career. I am deeply committed to excelling both as a student-athlete and as an aspiring firefighter, but the financial burden is a significant obstacle. The partial scholarship I received is a testament to my hard work, but it doesn’t cover the full cost of tuition, books, housing, and other living expenses. Without additional funding, I may have to drop out of school, which would derail my dreams and future career plans. This prospect is disheartening, considering the sacrifices I’ve made to reach this point. My interest in firefighting comes from a desire to serve my community and make a positive impact. Firefighting is a demanding profession that requires physical strength, mental resilience, quick thinking, and a strong sense of duty. I admire firefighters for their bravery and selflessness, and I am determined to join their ranks. This career choice is about personal fulfillment and giving back to society. The path to becoming a firefighter requires a solid educational foundation, specialized training, and additional certifications. Balancing my responsibilities as a student-athlete with the demands of firefighting training is challenging, but I am committed to making it work. However, the financial strain makes it increasingly difficult to stay focused and motivated. I’ve explored various options to bridge the financial gap, including applying for additional scholarships, grants, and part-time jobs. While these efforts have yielded some results, they are not enough to cover the full cost of my education. Working part-time while maintaining the demanding schedule of a student-athlete is not sustainable in the long term, and it can negatively impact my academic performance and athletic commitments. The pressure to succeed academically, athletically, and financially is immense. There are days when I feel overwhelmed by the sheer weight of my responsibilities, but I refuse to give up. I am determined to find a way to continue my education and pursue my dream of becoming a firefighter. This is not just about me; it is about setting a positive example for my siblings and proving that with hard work and determination, it is possible to overcome even the most daunting challenges. I believe in the importance of education and the transformative power it holds. I am committed to making the most of this opportunity, not only for myself but also for my family and community. With the right support, I am confident that I can excel in my studies, perform well on the football field, and ultimately achieve my goal of becoming a firefighter. The financial assistance I am seeking will go directly towards covering tuition, textbooks, housing, and other essential expenses. It will alleviate the financial burden on my mom, allowing her to continue supporting my siblings without compromising their future. It will also enable me
      Netflix and Scholarships!
      Imagine stepping into a new chapter of your life, feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety, and discovering a show that not only entertains but also feels like a friend. That's exactly what happened to me when I discovered "New Girl" on Netflix during my first semester at university. Feeling a bit lost in my new surroundings, I found comfort and laughter in the world of Jessica Day and her quirky roommates. "New Girl" is a brilliant blend of humor, heart, and awkward moments, making it the perfect series for a weekend binge. The show follows Jess (Zooey Deschanel), a quirky and optimistic teacher who moves into a loft with three single men after a tough breakup. What starts as a quest for a place to live turns into a hilarious and heartwarming story of friendship and personal growth. One of the standout aspects of "New Girl" is its rich character development. Jess's roommates, Nick, Schmidt, and Winston, along with her best friend Cece, each bring their unique personalities to the mix. Nick Miller, the grumpy yet endearing bartender, struggles with finding his path in life but his loyalty and unexpected wisdom make him incredibly likable. Schmidt, the confident and over-the-top marketing executive, provides endless laughs with his obsessive habits and flamboyant nature. Winston, the quirky and unpredictable former athlete, adds a layer of surprise and fun. Cece, Jess’s grounded and supportive best friend, balances out the group with her pragmatic approach to life. The chemistry among the cast is undeniable, making every interaction feel genuine and relatable. Watching them navigate relationships, careers, and personal challenges feels like spending time with your own friends. Their bond is heartwarming, reminding viewers of the importance of friendship and support in our lives. Another reason "New Girl" is so binge-worthy is its clever humor and sharp dialogue. The show excels at combining situational comedy with witty remarks and hilarious misunderstandings. Each episode is packed with memorable moments and catchphrases that you’ll find yourself repeating long after you’ve watched. Whether it’s Schmidt’s meticulous habits, Nick’s wild theories, or Jess’s boundless optimism, there’s always something to laugh about. Beyond its comedy, "New Girl" delves into the complexities of modern life and relationships with surprising depth. It explores themes of self-discovery, the challenges of adulthood, and the importance of being true to oneself. The characters face real-life issues, but their resilience and ability to find humor in difficult situations are inspiring. In essence, "New Girl" is the perfect show for a weekend binge because it offers more than just laughs. It provides a sense of belonging, plenty of laughter, and moments of reflection. It’s a show that reminds us it’s okay to be imperfect, to make mistakes, and to lean on our friends for support. So, grab your favorite snacks, get comfortable, and prepare to spend your weekend with Jess and her crew – you won’t regret it.