In a nation where computer science serves as the foundation for countless career opportunities, providing an inclusive education in computer science to the nation’s diverse population is more important than ever. Therefore, I founded the Maryland Chapter of Computer Science Youth of America (CSYA) to give students who are interested in computer science the free opportunity to learn how to code. I currently have sixty participants and am rapidly expanding my program's student body. Half of my students are high school women of color who have experienced being the only female in a coding class full of men. As a female student who has taken every computer science class, my school has to offer, I understand how it feels to be the only girl in the room. I am delighted to offer girls and underprivileged students the opportunity to learn in a class with a mixed demographic of students. Originally, I planned to teach my class in person to just students in Charles County, but after meeting a network of girls during the Girls Who Code Industry Immersion Day in Washington D.C. who were equally interested in computer science as I was, I decided to teach my classes online so any student, regardless of location, could join. Although my chapter is officially recognized as the Maryland Chapter of the 501(c)(3) non-profit organization Computer Science Youth of America, many of my students reside in states other than Maryland. Through my experience as the founder and teacher of a coding class, I learned that not only could I teach a class, but I could also build and manage an entire program of over sixty people. This journey has allowed me to develop and exhibit strong leadership skills, from coordinating lessons to managing a diverse group of students. After this program, I will introduce my students to a new program I have been planning, specifically designed to meet the needs of students from underrepresented backgrounds. Many underprivileged schools don’t have the resources to provide their students with a great computer science education. I have been planning out curriculums to teach students from different levels of experience in computer science. Whether a student has never written a line of code in their life or is just looking to learn a new programming language, my program will have a spot for them. It is currently in development, with the goal of full operation by January 2024. I enjoy administering my own chapter of CSYA, but creating this organization independently will allow me to develop my own curriculum to serve a wide range of students. I take pride in my contributions to a community of computer science students from diverse backgrounds. I remain committed to providing further learning opportunities for students. Through my journey of teaching my own coding class to the planning of my upcoming organization, I aim to create a more inclusive future where every aspiring coder, regardless of their background, can find a supportive community and quality education.

“Maybe one day, I’ll get enough money and have a life settled down with someone. We can experience the world before it’s too late. Maybe we can take a walk into the sea together, go before it all collapses. I don’t want to see the worst come while I’m still here. Just one history documentary of a tragic event from centuries ago is enough to keep me up all night. Every time I look at the news, I lose more hope.” These are the words I wrote to myself to pacify my worries for the future, after discovering news of anxiety-provoking events. Not every day do I wake up with a drive to make a change. Some days I struggle to view the world through the lens of an optimistic person. I have nights where I can't envision anything good for myself in the future. On those nights, I allow my pessimistic and optimistic thoughts to clash with one another. The pandemic continues to damage communities, people are turning against each other, and every country wants to blow each other up. Mosquitoes can kill you; the water can poison you; extreme temperatures may kill you, and natural disasters can take away a life in a matter of seconds. Global warming only has a small way to go before it is too late. The world has become suicidal, and people are hopeless. Maybe the reason nobody knows the reason for living in this world is because there is none. People are suffering. When you think you have the worst conditions, at least half the world has its worst. You are privileged to have that thought right now. The rich are losing privilege, the poor are losing lives. The world is screwed, why does nobody care that we are not doing anything to fix it? The average person would watch the world burn and be so desensitized that not even the flames would bring about pain. Just when you think it gets bad, it gets worse. If there is a God, why is He allowing this to happen? It is a question that only brings about more pain. Thinking deeply about this question will lead you down a path of despair. It may feel like not acknowledging worldly conflicts is all we can do to preserve our peace of mind. If you have the intelligence to question further, the answers may become torturous to one's mind and take away their peace. On my darkest nights, I ponder why people are born to suffer. It may feel like we only live a life of suffering, and we beg for an answer to what the point of all this is. We do not want to question such things as it disturbs our peace of mind but receiving no answers will only leave us with no hope. What separates a happy poor person from a depressed poor person? Is one acknowledging the truth of this world while the other wears a blindfold to hide it from themselves? Two people of misfortune can live with completely different outlooks on life. Why is that? Is it because one thinks more than the other, and if so, who will make things better for themselves? I struggle to manage thoughts of what the world will become one day. If more people engaged in deep and intellectual debates between their optimism and pessimism, we could overcome the problems in the world. If people would simply take off their rose-colored glasses and face the problem at face value, we would take a step further as a society. Unfortunately, it is not as simple as swapping a pair of glasses for another. The world is not improving any as we continue to live in ignorance. Scientific and technological breakthroughs are needed for any major changes to take place. It is crucial that society progressively makes discoveries about the nature of the universe. We need to question the unknown and search for answers. Knowledge of the fundamental laws of the universe is the torch we hold in a never-ending cave of mysteries, and our only sword in a battle of worldly threats. Our planes and our jet engines, which allow people to travel across the world, would not exist without the discovery of Newton’s Laws of Motion. Our phones and our computers, which allow us to access world news at the touch of a button and connect with people from all parts of the world, would not exist without the discovery of Moore’s law. Our boats and our ships, which have connected regions of the world for millenniums, would not exist without the discovery of Archimedes' Law in the 3rd century B.C. Like the universe, our knowledge is constantly expanding. And like building blocks, our knowledge is built on top of existing knowledge. As an aspiring computer scientist holding onto the hope that the world can still be saved by the power of knowledge, I want to contribute to the advancement of science and technology. I need to understand how the world works, and I will achieve that through my deep dedication to my education. I need society to understand how the world works, and I hope to achieve that through advanced levels of computer programming. Knowledge is revolutionizing. It is the single power we hold in this universe.

As a dedicated high school junior with a passion for computer science, I have a burning desire to make a positive impact on the world through my career and aspirations. The world is constantly evolving, and technology plays a critical role in shaping its future. I believe that computer science is the key to unlocking the full potential of technology and using it to create a better world. My career choice in computer science is not just a means to a paycheck. It is a way for me to contribute to society in a meaningful way. I am driven by the belief that technology has the power to solve some of the world's most pressing problems, such as poverty, disease, and climate change. My ultimate goal is to use my skills and knowledge to create innovative solutions that address these issues and make a tangible difference in people's lives. One area where I hope to make an impact is in healthcare. I am fascinated by the intersection of computer science and medicine, and I believe that the two fields have much to offer each other. By leveraging the power of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and big data, we can develop new tools and technologies that can help diagnose diseases, develop treatments, and improve patient outcomes. For example, I am inspired by the work of researchers who are using machine learning algorithms to analyze medical images and identify early signs of diseases such as cancer. By detecting these diseases early, we can save lives and improve the quality of care. Another area where I hope to make a difference is in education. Technology has the power to democratize education and make it accessible to people around the world. With the rise of online learning platforms, we can reach students in remote areas and provide them with high-quality educational resources. As someone who has benefited from online learning, I am passionate about using technology to help others access education and achieve their full potential. By creating new educational tools and platforms, we can empower people to learn and grow, regardless of their background or circumstances. Finally, I believe that computer science has the potential to revolutionize the way we think about sustainability and the environment. By developing new technologies that are energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, and sustainable, we can help address the urgent challenges of climate change and protect our planet for future generations. For example, I am inspired by the work of researchers who are using machine learning algorithms to optimize energy usage in buildings and reduce carbon emissions. By developing new technologies that are both efficient and sustainable, we can create a more sustainable future for all. In conclusion, my career choice in computer science is not just about pursuing my own interests and goals. It is about using my skills and knowledge to make a positive impact on the world and create a better future for all. By leveraging the power of technology, I am confident that I can contribute to solving some of the world's most pressing problems and make a difference in people's lives.

To my dear readers, I come before you today as a testament to the power of resilience, perseverance, and hope. My life has been a journey of ups and downs, filled with challenges that tested my limits and threatened to break me. But I am here today, writing to you, because I refused to give up. I refused to let my mental health challenges define me, and I refused to let the world dictate my destiny. I have struggled with depression for years, and in February of 2020, I attempted suicide. It was a dark moment in my life, a moment when I felt like there was no hope, no light at the end of the tunnel. But something within me refused to give up, refused to let go of the possibility of a better life. And so I persevered, seeking help, support, and love from those around me. Through it all, I managed to maintain a 4.75 weighted GPA with straight As throughout high school. It was not easy, but it was a testament to my resilience, my determination, and my belief that I could achieve anything I set my mind to. My education is important to me, and I want to major in computer science, to use my skills and knowledge to make a difference in the world. But my goals go beyond my personal achievements. Despite the challenges I have faced, my ultimate goal is to create a better life for my mom and our family in the Philippines. My mom made the difficult decision to leave her family at a young age in search of a better life in America, and she has faced significant challenges, including domestic violence. As her child, I am committed to doing everything in my power to make her happy and to help our family thrive. My struggles with mental health have shaped my goals, my relationships, and my understanding of the world. They have taught me that life is not always fair, that there will be challenges and obstacles along the way. But they have also taught me that we have the power to overcome those challenges, to rise above them and become stronger, wiser, and more compassionate human beings. My struggles have also taught me that we are all connected, that our actions and choices have consequences that ripple throughout the world. We are not islands, disconnected from one another. Rather, we are part of a larger whole, and our individual actions can make a difference in the lives of those around us. In a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and powerless. But we must remember that we have the power to shape our own destiny, to create a world that is more just, more equitable, and more compassionate. It starts with each of us, with our choices and actions, with our willingness to stand up for what is right and to fight against what is wrong. As we move forward in our lives, let us remember that our struggles do not define us. They are merely a part of our journey, shaping us and guiding us toward a greater understanding of ourselves and the world around us. Let us remember that we are all connected, that we all have a part to play in creating a better world. So I urge you, my friends, to never give up, to never lose hope. You are capable of achieving great things, of overcoming even the greatest challenges. Believe in yourself, believe in the power of your dreams, and believe in the power of the human spirit to rise above adversity and create a brighter tomorrow. Thank you.

As a high school junior who is deeply passionate about computer science, I am constantly inspired by the potential for technology to positively impact our world. But as a gifted individual, I am also acutely aware of the unique social-emotional and intellectual needs of my peers. My career goals in computer science are rooted in a deep desire to use technology to foster the social-emotional well-being and meet the intellectual needs of gifted children. Through my education and future career, I am committed to developing innovative solutions that support the unique needs of this population. One of the primary ways in which I believe technology can support the social-emotional well-being of gifted children is through fostering connections and community. Gifted children often struggle with feelings of isolation and alienation, as their unique perspectives and experiences can set them apart from their peers. By developing technological solutions that enable gifted children to connect with one another, I believe we can help to create a sense of belonging and community that is crucial to their well-being. For example, I plan to develop a social media platform specifically for gifted children. This platform will enable gifted children to connect with one another, share their experiences and perspectives, and collaborate on projects and initiatives. By providing a space for gifted children to connect and build relationships with others who share their interests and abilities, I believe we can help to reduce feelings of isolation and promote a sense of belonging and community. In addition to fostering social-emotional well-being, I believe technology can also play a crucial role in meeting the intellectual needs of gifted children. Gifted children often crave intellectual stimulation and challenge, and traditional educational systems are often ill-equipped to provide the level of rigor and complexity that these students require. By leveraging technology, we can provide gifted children with access to the resources and challenges that they need to truly thrive. One area where I believe technology can make a significant impact is in the development of personalized learning experiences. Through the use of adaptive learning algorithms and other technologies, we can create educational experiences that are tailored to the unique needs and abilities of each gifted student. By providing each student with an individualized curriculum that is challenging and engaging, we can help to foster a love of learning and a sense of intellectual fulfillment that is crucial to their development. Furthermore, I believe that technology can help to bridge the gap between traditional education systems and the needs of gifted children. By developing educational resources and tools that are specifically designed for gifted students, we can ensure that these students are receiving the support and resources they need to excel. For example, I am currently working on a project to develop a database of open-source educational resources that are specifically tailored to the needs of gifted children. This database will include resources such as challenging problem sets, advanced textbooks, and online courses that are designed to provide gifted children with the intellectual stimulation and challenge that they crave. In conclusion, my career goals in computer science are rooted in a deep commitment to using technology to support the social-emotional well-being and meet the intellectual needs of gifted children. Through my education and future career, I am dedicated to developing innovative solutions that enable gifted children to connect with one another, access personalized learning experiences, and thrive academically and socially. By leveraging the power of technology, I am confident that we can help to create a world where gifted children are fully supported and empowered to reach their full potential.

As a high school junior with aspirations of pursuing higher education in computer science, I reflect on the various individuals who have supported me in my journey. While I am grateful for the support of my family and friends, one individual stands out as a true pillar of strength and support in my life – my therapist. For years, I have struggled with mental health issues including depression, anxiety, and OCD. These struggles have often made it difficult for me to focus on my academic goals and pursue my passions with a clear mind. It wasn't until I began seeing my therapist that I truly began to understand the power of mental health care and its role in achieving success in all aspects of life. My therapist has been an unwavering source of support, guidance, and encouragement throughout my journey. In our sessions, she listens to me with empathy and helps me to navigate my complex emotions and thought patterns. She has given me invaluable tools and strategies to manage my mental health challenges and has supported me in making tangible progress towards my academic and personal goals. One of the most powerful ways in which my therapist has supported me is by helping me to reframe my mindset. Rather than allowing my mental health struggles to define me, she has taught me to view them as a challenge to be overcome. With her help, I have learned to take ownership of my mental health and to view it as an integral aspect of my overall well-being. Furthermore, my therapist has always been a fierce advocate for my academic and personal goals. She has encouraged me to pursue my passions and has helped me to develop a clear plan for achieving my goals. Whether I need support with time management or simply need someone to talk to about my stress and anxieties, she is always there for me with unwavering support and guidance. When I think back on my journey so far, I am struck by how much my therapist has helped me to grow and to thrive. She has been my champion, my confidante, and my role model. She has shown me that with hard work, self-compassion, and a strong support system, I can achieve anything I set my mind to. Overall, I am incredibly grateful for the support of my therapist in reaching my educational goals. Her unwavering dedication and guidance have helped me to develop the resilience, perseverance, and determination needed to succeed in all aspects of life. I truly believe that without her support, I would not be where I am today, and for that, I am eternally grateful.

My dear reader, I come to you with a story of struggles and triumphs, of heartbreak and hope. I write to you as a testament to the human spirit's indomitable nature, a spirit that can overcome even the darkest of demons. Depression is a powerful force that can consume even the strongest of individuals. I know this all too well because it has taken a significant toll on my life. For years, I have battled with this monster, trying to fight it off as it clawed at my soul. But the weight of my struggles became too much to bear, and in February of 2020, I attempted to take my own life. It was a dark moment in my life, but I am grateful that I survived. I write to you today as a living and breathing testament that it is possible to rise above even the deepest despair. Despite the darkness that clouded my life, I managed to achieve a 4.75 weighted GPA with straight As throughout high school. The endless nights of studying and working tirelessly paid off, but it didn't come easy. The constant battle with my mental health made it difficult for me to focus on anything else. However, I refused to let my struggles define me or my future. What defines me is my resilience and my determination to overcome any obstacle that comes my way. My education is essential to me, and I aspire to major in computer science. But my ultimate goal goes far beyond myself. I come from a family that has faced significant challenges, and my mother made the difficult decision to leave her family in the Philippines to provide us with a better life in America. Her sacrifices and struggles have been immense, and I am committed to doing everything in my power to make her happy and to help our family thrive. I have faced significant mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, and OCD. These struggles have tested my resolve, but I have persevered through them and have not let them define me. I am not my mental illness, and I refuse to be a victim to it. My struggles have taught me that the only limits we have are the ones we impose on ourselves. It is possible to rise above even the darkest of demons, to overcome even the most significant of obstacles. The human spirit is capable of enduring incredible pain, but it is also capable of achieving incredible joy. I come to you today with a message of hope. No matter what struggles you face, you are capable of overcoming them. You are not your mental illness, and you are not defined by your past. You are defined by your ability to rise above your challenges and to become a better version of yourself. As I look to the future, I know that there will be challenges and obstacles that lie ahead. But I also know that I am capable of overcoming them. I am committed to achieving my goals, not just for myself, but for my family and for all those who have faced similar struggles. My dear reader, I leave you with this message of hope. No matter what challenges you face, know that you are not alone. There is always hope, and there is always a way forward. Let us embrace our struggles and rise above them, for we are capable of achieving greatness beyond measure.

As a young woman with a passion for technology and a keen interest in learning, I am constantly inspired by the ways in which technology can be harnessed to make the world a better place. There are so many examples of innovative technologies that have the potential to improve people's lives, from medical devices that can detect and treat diseases more effectively to renewable energy solutions that can help reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. One technology that particularly inspires me is the Internet. Although it's not exactly new, the Internet has revolutionized the way we live, work, and communicate in ways that were once unimaginable. With just a few clicks of a mouse, we can connect with people from all over the world, access vast stores of information, and even participate in online communities and social networks. But the power of the Internet goes far beyond mere convenience and entertainment. It has the potential to break down barriers and bring people together in ways that were once impossible. Through social media, for example, people can raise awareness about important issues and even organize movements for social change. The Arab Spring, for example, was a series of protests and uprisings that swept across the Middle East and North Africa in 2010 and 2011, and it was largely driven by social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook. But the Internet is also being used to address some of the most pressing challenges facing our world today, such as poverty, hunger, and disease. For example, through online fundraising platforms like Kickstarter and GoFundMe, people can support causes and organizations that are working to improve the lives of others. And through crowdfunding initiatives like Kiva, people can provide microloans to entrepreneurs and small businesses in developing countries, helping to create jobs and stimulate economic growth. Overall, I am incredibly inspired by the way in which the Internet has the potential to make the world a better place. While there are certainly challenges and risks associated with this technology, I believe that with careful planning and thoughtful use, we can harness its power to create a brighter, more connected, and more compassionate world for all.

My dear reader, I come to you with a story of struggles and triumphs, of heartbreak and hope. I write to you as a testament to the human spirit's indomitable nature, a spirit that can overcome even the darkest of demons. Depression is a powerful force that can consume even the strongest of individuals. I know this all too well because it has taken a significant toll on my life. For years, I have battled with this monster, trying to fight it off as it clawed at my soul. But the weight of my struggles became too much to bear, and in February of 2020, I attempted to take my own life. It was a dark moment in my life, but I am grateful that I survived. I write to you today as a living and breathing testament that it is possible to rise above even the deepest despair. Despite the darkness that clouded my life, I managed to achieve a 4.75 weighted GPA with straight As throughout high school. The endless nights of studying and working tirelessly paid off, but it didn't come easy. The constant battle with my mental health made it difficult for me to focus on anything else. However, I refused to let my struggles define me or my future. What defines me is my resilience and my determination to overcome any obstacle that comes my way. My education is essential to me, and I aspire to major in computer science. But my ultimate goal goes far beyond myself. I come from a family that has faced significant challenges, and my mother made the difficult decision to leave her family in the Philippines to provide us with a better life in America. Her sacrifices and struggles have been immense, and I am committed to doing everything in my power to make her happy and to help our family thrive. I have faced significant mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, and OCD. These struggles have tested my resolve, but I have persevered through them and have not let them define me. I am not my mental illness, and I refuse to be a victim to it. My struggles have taught me that the only limits we have are the ones we impose on ourselves. It is possible to rise above even the darkest of demons, to overcome even the most significant of obstacles. The human spirit is capable of enduring incredible pain, but it is also capable of achieving incredible joy. I come to you today with a message of hope. No matter what struggles you face, you are capable of overcoming them. You are not your mental illness, and you are not defined by your past. You are defined by your ability to rise above your challenges and to become a better version of yourself. As I look to the future, I know that there will be challenges and obstacles that lie ahead. But I also know that I am capable of overcoming them. I am committed to achieving my goals, not just for myself, but for my family and for all those who have faced similar struggles. My dear reader, I leave you with this message of hope. No matter what challenges you face, know that you are not alone. There is always hope, and there is always a way forward. Let us embrace our struggles and rise above them, for we are capable of achieving greatness beyond measure.

I offer a warm hello to the person reading this, my name is Kaitlyn Bassford. I write to you today as a feminist, an advocate for gender equality, and a believer in the power of women. Feminism is a movement that seeks to ensure equal rights and opportunities for people of all genders. It is an idea that has been around for centuries and continues to evolve as we strive towards true equality. To me, feminism means creating a world where women can reach their full potential without fear of discrimination or violence. It means empowering women to take control of their lives and make choices that are right for them. Feminism also means acknowledging that gender intersects with other forms of oppression, such as race and class, and working to dismantle those systems of power. But why is feminism so important? The simple answer is that it is necessary for achieving social justice. Women have been systematically oppressed throughout history, and while progress has been made, there is still a long way to go. In many parts of the world, women are still denied basic human rights, such as the right to education, to vote, or to work in certain professions. Even in developed countries like the United States, women continue to face discrimination and sexism in the workplace, in politics, and in their personal lives. However, feminism is not just about correcting past wrongs. It is also about creating a better future for all. When women are empowered, they are more likely to contribute to society, to take on leadership roles, and to advocate for change. This benefits not only women but also men and non-binary individuals. Feminism is about creating a more just and equitable world for everyone. Now, when it comes to inspiration, I have to say that I am in awe of the incredible women who have come before me. Women like Sojourner Truth, who fought for both women's suffrage and abolition. Women like Angela Davis, who continues to fight for racial and gender equality to this day. Women like Malala Yousafzai, who has risked her life to advocate for education for girls. These women and many others have paved the way for the work we do today. In my own life, I have been fortunate to have a mother who has always been a strong feminist role model. She taught me the value of hard work, independence, and standing up for what I believe in. I have also been inspired by the many feminist activists in my community who work tirelessly to promote equality and justice. As for my own contributions, I try to do my part by speaking out against sexism and advocating for women's rights. I write speeches like this that support women, and I try to educate myself and others about feminist issues. I believe that every action, no matter how small, can make a difference. In conclusion, feminism is not just a movement, it is a way of life. It is about recognizing the inherent value and worth of every human being, regardless of gender. It is about creating a world where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential. So let us continue to fight for justice, let us continue to empower women, and let us continue to build a better world for all. Thank you.

I used to think I was broken, that my mind was a faulty machine, That my struggles with attention and focus meant I couldn't achieve my dreams. I was diagnosed with ADHD in middle school, and from then on, I felt like a misfit, like I was always doing something wrong. I struggled in class, couldn't keep up with the pace, Felt like I was constantly running in a never-ending race. I excelled academically, but I felt like I was falling behind, Like I was a prisoner in my own mind. But as I got older, I started to realize, That my ADHD didn't define me, it was just a part of my guise. I learned to manage my symptoms, to work with my brain, And slowly but surely, I began to gain. I found strategies that worked for me, like breaking tasks into smaller bits, Using timers and apps to help me stay on track and not quit. I discovered that exercise and mindfulness were key, To help me focus, stay calm, and feel more free. I began to embrace my differences, to see them as strengths, To appreciate my creativity, my out-of-the-box ways and lengths. I learned to advocate for myself, to ask for help when I needed, And to never give up on my dreams, no matter how much my ADHD pleaded. I'm now a junior in high school, and my journey with ADHD has been a ride, But it's also made me more resilient, more determined, and given me more pride. I'm proud of the hard work I've put in, the progress I've made, And I'm excited for the future, for the opportunities that will cascade. I want to pursue higher education, to study computer science, Because as the world advances, I don’t want to sit in silence. I believe that my struggles have given me a unique perspective, A passion for learning, for helping, for being proactive. I feel like I'm a good candidate for this scholarship, not just because of my 4.75 GPA, But because of my story, my resilience, my unbreakable clay. I've overcome obstacles that could have knocked me down, And I've learned to turn my weaknesses into a crown. So to anyone out there struggling with ADHD or a learning disability, Know that you are not alone, and that you have the ability, To persevere, to thrive, to pursue your passions and dreams, To be the best version of yourself, to exceed your wildest extremes. It won't be easy, and it won't happen overnight, But with determination, hard work, and self-advocacy in sight, You can achieve anything you set your mind to, And let your ADHD be a part of you, not define you.

I hear your cries, your silent screams, The weight that pulls you down it seems, I too have walked this path before, And found my way to life once more. I know the pain, the emptiness, The thoughts that lead to hopelessness, But hear me now, my dear friend, There is a way to heal and mend. Depression is a thief, it steals, The joy and laughter that life reveals, But listen close, my sweet one, The battle can be fought and won. First, know that you are not alone, That others too have made it home, And though it feels like endless night, The dawn will come, the sun will shine. It takes time, it takes some care, But slowly you will find your air, The darkness fades, the light returns, Your heart will mend, your soul will burn. Take small steps, one day at a time, And let yourself be gentle and kind, For healing comes from deep within, And self-compassion helps it begin. You are strong, you are brave, And you have the power to break free from the cave, That held you down for far too long, And robbed you of your rightful song. So rise, my friend, and lift your head, And know that you are not yet dead, But rather, you are just beginning, To find your way, to start the winning. And when you need a hand to hold, A friend to walk with, a heart to unfold, Remember this, my dear one, You are loved, you are seen, you are not done. The road is long, but you will find, That joy and peace can be redefined, And though the journey may be tough, You are enough, and that is enough. So take this poem as a hug, A gentle nudge to rise above, And know that you are not alone, For I too, have found my way home.

My dear reader, I come to you with a story of struggles and triumphs, of heartbreak and hope. I write to you as a testament to the human spirit's indomitable nature, a spirit that can overcome even the darkest of demons. Depression is a powerful force that can consume even the strongest of individuals. I know this all too well because it has taken a significant toll on my life. For years, I have battled with this monster, trying to fight it off as it clawed at my soul. But the weight of my struggles became too much to bear, and in February of 2020, I attempted to take my own life. It was a dark moment in my life, but I am grateful that I survived. I write to you today as a living and breathing testament that it is possible to rise above even the deepest despair. Despite the darkness that clouded my life, I managed to achieve a 4.75 weighted GPA with straight As throughout high school. The endless nights of studying and working tirelessly paid off, but it didn't come easy. The constant battle with my mental health made it difficult for me to focus on anything else. However, I refused to let my struggles define me or my future. What defines me is my resilience and my determination to overcome any obstacle that comes my way. My education is essential to me, and I aspire to major in computer science. But my ultimate goal goes far beyond myself. I come from a family that has faced significant challenges, and my mother made the difficult decision to leave her family in the Philippines to provide us with a better life in America. Her sacrifices and struggles have been immense, and I am committed to doing everything in my power to make her happy and to help our family thrive. I have faced significant mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, and OCD. These struggles have tested my resolve, but I have persevered through them and have not let them define me. I am not my mental illness, and I refuse to be a victim to it. My struggles have taught me that the only limits we have are the ones we impose on ourselves. It is possible to rise above even the darkest of demons, to overcome even the most significant of obstacles. The human spirit is capable of enduring incredible pain, but it is also capable of achieving incredible joy. I come to you today with a message of hope. No matter what struggles you face, you are capable of overcoming them. You are not your mental illness, and you are not defined by your past. You are defined by your ability to rise above your challenges and to become a better version of yourself. As I look to the future, I know that there will be challenges and obstacles that lie ahead. But I also know that I am capable of overcoming them. I am committed to achieving my goals, not just for myself, but for my family and for all those who have faced similar struggles. My dear reader, I leave you with this message of hope. No matter what challenges you face, know that you are not alone. There is always hope, and there is always a way forward. Let us embrace our struggles and rise above them, for we are capable of achieving greatness beyond measure.

Fahrenheit 451 is a book that has changed my life in many ways. Its themes of censorship and the importance of books have had a profound impact on me. In this essay, I will explore how this book has impacted my life and why it is so important to me. The first time I read Fahrenheit 451, I was in middle school. At the time, I was struggling with my own identity and trying to figure out who I was. The book spoke to me on a deep level and helped me to see the importance of individuality and free thought. From the moment I picked it up, I was captivated by the story of a society obsessed with censorship and the dangers of conformity. As I read, I couldn't help but reflect on my own life and the ways in which I had been influenced by the world around me. At the heart of the book is the idea that knowledge and ideas are essential to our humanity. Without them, we are nothing more than mindless drones, controlled by those in power. This idea resonated with me on a deep level, and I began to question the ideas and beliefs that I had always taken for granted. As I continued to read the book, I became more and more invested in the story and the characters. I found myself identifying with the protagonist, Montag, and his struggle to find meaning in a world that had lost touch with its humanity. The book's message about the dangers of censorship and the importance of books resonated with me and helped shape my worldview. In the years since I first read Fahrenheit 451, I have returned to it again and again. Each time, I find new meaning in its pages and am reminded of the power of literature to shape our lives. For me, this book will always hold a special place in my heart, and I am grateful for the ways in which it has changed my life. In conclusion, Fahrenheit 451 is a book that has had a profound impact on my life. Its themes of censorship and the importance of books have helped shape my worldview and remind me of the power of literature. Fahrenheit 451 changed my life by showing me the power of ideas and the importance of standing up for what you believe in. It challenged me to think deeply about the world around me and to never take my freedom for granted. I am grateful for the ways in which this book has changed my life and will always cherish it as a work of art.

“Maybe one day, I’ll get enough money and have a life settled down with someone. We can experience the world before it’s too late. Maybe we can take a walk into the sea together, go before it all collapses. I don’t want to see the worst come while I’m still here. Just one history documentary of a tragic event from centuries ago is enough to keep me up all night. Every time I look at the news, I lose more hope.” These are the words I wrote to myself to pacify my worries for the future, after discovering news of anxiety-provoking events. Not every day do I wake up with a drive to make a change. Some days I struggle to view the world through the lens of an optimistic person. I have nights where I can't envision anything good for myself in the future. On those nights, I allow my pessimistic and optimistic thoughts to clash with one another. The pandemic continues to damage communities, people are turning against each other, and every country wants to blow each other up. Mosquitoes can kill you; the water can poison you; extreme temperatures may kill you, and natural disasters can take away a life in a matter of seconds. Global warming only has a small way to go before it is too late. The world has become suicidal, and people are hopeless. Maybe the reason nobody knows the reason for living in this world is because there is none. People are suffering. When you think you have the worst conditions, at least half the world has its worst. You are privileged to have that thought right now. The rich are losing privilege, the poor are losing lives. The world is screwed, why does nobody care that we are not doing anything to fix it? The average person would watch the world burn and be so desensitized that not even the flames would bring about pain. Just when you think it gets bad, it gets worse. If there is a God, why is He allowing this to happen? It is a question that only brings about more pain. Thinking deeply about this question will lead you down a path of despair. It may feel like not acknowledging worldly conflicts is all we can do to preserve our peace of mind. If you have the intelligence to question further, the answers may become torturous to one's mind and take away their peace. On my darkest nights, I ponder why people are born to suffer. It may feel like we only live a life of suffering, and we beg for an answer to what the point of all this is. We do not want to question such things as it disturbs our peace of mind but receiving no answers will only leave us with no hope. What separates a happy poor person from a depressed poor person? Is one acknowledging the truth of this world while the other wears a blindfold to hide it from themselves? Two people of misfortune can live with completely different outlooks on life. Why is that? Is it because one thinks more than the other, and if so, who will make things better for themselves?

“Maybe one day, I’ll get enough money and have a life settled down with someone. We can experience the world before it’s too late. Maybe we can take a walk into the sea together, go before it all collapses. I don’t want to see the worst come while I’m still here. Just one history documentary of a tragic event from centuries ago is enough to keep me up all night. Every time I look at the news, I lose more hope.” These are the words I wrote to myself to pacify my worries for the future, after discovering news of anxiety-provoking events. Not every day do I wake up with a drive to make a change. Some days I struggle to view the world through the lens of an optimistic person. I have nights where I can't envision anything good for myself in the future. On those nights, I allow my pessimistic and optimistic thoughts to clash with one another. The pandemic continues to damage communities, people are turning against each other, and every country wants to blow each other up. Mosquitoes can kill you; the water can poison you; extreme temperatures may kill you, and natural disasters can take away a life in a matter of seconds. Global warming only has a small way to go before it is too late. The world has become suicidal, and people are hopeless. Maybe the reason nobody knows the reason for living in this world is because there is none. People are suffering. When you think you have the worst conditions, at least half the world has its worst. You are privileged to have that thought right now. The rich are losing privilege, the poor are losing lives. The world is screwed, why does nobody care that we are not doing anything to fix it? The average person would watch the world burn and be so desensitized that not even the flames would bring about pain. Just when you think it gets bad, it gets worse. If there is a God, why is He allowing this to happen? It is a question that only brings about more pain. Thinking deeply about this question will lead you down a path of despair. It may feel like not acknowledging worldly conflicts is all we can do to preserve our peace of mind. If you have the intelligence to question further, the answers may become torturous to one's mind and take away their peace. On my darkest nights, I ponder why people are born to suffer. It may feel like we only live a life of suffering, and we beg for an answer to what the point of all this is. We do not want to question such things as it disturbs our peace of mind but receiving no answers will only leave us with no hope. What separates a happy poor person from a depressed poor person? Is one acknowledging the truth of this world while the other wears a blindfold to hide it from themselves? Two people of misfortune can live with completely different outlooks on life. Why is that? Is it because one thinks more than the other, and if so, who will make things better for themselves? I struggle to manage thoughts of what the world will become one day. If more people engaged in deep and intellectual debates between their optimism and pessimism, we could overcome the problems in the world. If people would simply take off their rose-colored glasses and face the problem at face value, we would take a step further as a society. Unfortunately, it is not as simple as swapping a pair of glasses for another. The world is not improving any as we continue to live in ignorance. Scientific and technological breakthroughs are needed for any major changes to take place. It is crucial that society progressively makes discoveries about the nature of the universe. We need to question the unknown and search for answers. Knowledge of the fundamental laws of the universe is the torch we hold in a never-ending cave of mysteries, and our only sword in a battle of worldly threats. Our planes and our jet engines, which allow people to travel across the world, would not exist without the discovery of Newton’s Laws of Motion. Our phones and our computers, which allow us to access world news at the touch of a button and connect with people from all parts of the world, would not exist without the discovery of Moore’s law. Our boats and our ships, which have connected regions of the world for millenniums, would not exist without the discovery of Archimedes' Law in the 3rd century B.C. Like the universe, our knowledge is constantly expanding. And like building blocks, our knowledge is built on top of existing knowledge. As an aspiring computer scientist holding onto the hope that the world can still be saved by the power of knowledge, I want to contribute to the advancement of science and technology. I need to understand how the world works, and I will achieve that through my deep dedication to my education. I need society to understand how the world works, and I hope to achieve that through advanced levels of computer programming. Knowledge is revolutionizing. It is the single power we hold in this universe.

“Maybe one day, I’ll get enough money and have a life settled down with someone. We can experience the world before it’s too late. Maybe we can take a walk into the sea together, go before it all collapses. I don’t want to see the worst come while I’m still here. Just one history documentary of a tragic event from centuries ago is enough to keep me up all night. Every time I look at the news, I lose more hope.” These are the words I wrote to myself to pacify my worries for the future, after discovering news of anxiety-provoking events. Not every day do I wake up with a drive to make a change. Some days I struggle to view the world through the lens of an optimistic person. I have nights where I can't envision anything good for myself in the future. On those nights, I allow my pessimistic and optimistic thoughts to clash with one another. The pandemic continues to damage communities, people are turning against each other, and every country wants to blow each other up. Mosquitoes can kill you; the water can poison you; extreme temperatures may kill you, and natural disasters can take away a life in a matter of seconds. Global warming only has a small way to go before it is too late. The world has become suicidal, and people are hopeless. Maybe the reason nobody knows the reason for living in this world is because there is none. People are suffering. When you think you have the worst conditions, at least half the world has its worst. You are privileged to have that thought right now. The rich are losing privilege, the poor are losing lives. The world is screwed, why does nobody care that we are not doing anything to fix it? The average person would watch the world burn and be so desensitized that not even the flames would bring about pain. Just when you think it gets bad, it gets worse. If there is a God, why is He allowing this to happen? It is a question that only brings about more pain. Thinking deeply about this question will lead you down a path of despair. It may feel like not acknowledging worldly conflicts is all we can do to preserve our peace of mind. If you have the intelligence to question further, the answers may become torturous to one's mind and take away their peace. On my darkest nights, I ponder why people are born to suffer. It may feel like we only live a life of suffering, and we beg for an answer to what the point of all this is. We do not want to question such things as it disturbs our peace of mind but receiving no answers will only leave us with no hope. What separates a happy poor person from a depressed poor person? Is one acknowledging the truth of this world while the other wears a blindfold to hide it from themselves? Two people of misfortune can live with completely different outlooks on life. Why is that? Is it because one thinks more than the other, and if so, who will make things better for themselves? I struggle to manage thoughts of what the world will become one day. If more people engaged in deep and intellectual debates between their optimism and pessimism, we could overcome the problems in the world. If people would simply take off their rose-colored glasses and face the problem at face value, we would take a step further as a society. Unfortunately, it is not as simple as swapping a pair of glasses for another. The world is not improving any as we continue to live in ignorance. Scientific and technological breakthroughs are needed for any major changes to take place. It is crucial that society progressively makes discoveries about the nature of the universe. We need to question the unknown and search for answers. Knowledge of the fundamental laws of the universe is the torch we hold in a never-ending cave of mysteries, and our only sword in a battle of worldly threats. Our planes and our jet engines, which allow people to travel across the world, would not exist without the discovery of Newton’s Laws of Motion. Our phones and our computers, which allow us to access world news at the touch of a button and connect with people from all parts of the world, would not exist without the discovery of Moore’s law. Our boats and our ships, which have connected regions of the world for millenniums, would not exist without the discovery of Archimedes' Law in the 3rd century B.C. Like the universe, our knowledge is constantly expanding. And like building blocks, our knowledge is built on top of existing knowledge. As an aspiring computer scientist holding onto the hope that the world can still be saved by the power of knowledge, I want to contribute to the advancement of science and technology. I need to understand how the world works, and I will achieve that through my deep dedication to my education. I need society to understand how the world works, and I hope to achieve that through advanced levels of computer programming. Knowledge is revolutionizing. It is the single power we hold in this universe.