Reading about this issue brings up a mix of anger and pain for me. Maybe it's because I wish I could instantly change the world, or perhaps it's the memory of a time when I could have been part of that number. When I first came to the U.S., I felt like I was lagging behind. While my peers were getting into Ivy League and well-known universities, I wasn't even sure if college was an option for me. My mom, a single parent facing financial struggles, couldn't afford to send me and my siblings to college. Adding to the challenge, I had no idea about the college process. My mom didn't attend university in the U.S., and my older brother didn't go to college, so there was a lack of support even if I had the resources. Things took a turn when a mentor entered my life. She opened my eyes to opportunities like scholarships and explained how colleges could provide financial support. This inspired me to pursue my dreams. Now, I want to pay it forward, just like my mentor did. I've started an Instagram page, soon to be a website, called "Girls on Campus." The aim is to inspire and provide resources like scholarships, free college essay edits, and information on supportive schools for international, DACA, and other students. As I weave my personal story into the world of finance, business, and management, I'm driven by a simple belief – positive change is possible. This belief aligns with the values of equity and equality championed by the late Brian Lara. I understand the struggles that underrepresented communities face when it comes to accessing wealth-building resources. In my career, I plan to make a positive impact by championing initiatives that promote inclusivity, offering financial education, and creating pathways to economic empowerment. Understanding the vital need for support, especially for women of color, in accessing education and opportunities, my background in accounting and finance positions me to grow "Girls on Campus" into an LLC or non-profit. This means sustained support and empowerment for girls, creating a community that breaks barriers and champions the education of women worldwide. In memory of Brian Lara, I commit to being a strong advocate for equity and equality. I'll work to break down barriers and create opportunities for those who have been traditionally overlooked. Through my journey in finance and business management, my goal is not just professional success but to be a force for positive change in the lives of individuals facing systemic challenges in wealth-building and access to opportunities.

The bell rang, and all my friends were patiently waiting for the cue, forming a straight line next to each other. In the background, the voices of many people mingled with the faint sound of a Christmas carol. As I looked down at my tiny shoes, I felt my friend trying to get my attention, saying, 'Look, my daddy is here.' I looked up quickly, and with my little eyes, I desperately scanned the crowd to spot my dad. Nowhere to be seen. Our teacher, preparing to introduce our kindergarten class performance to the parents, continued with her instructions. While still trying to locate my dad in the bustling crowd, suddenly, my eyes sparkled as I saw the kindest smile and the warmest eyes—belonging to my mommy. Reflecting on this memory, I began to grasp the impact my mom, has had on shaping who I am today. The influence of my mom's resilience and commitment has profoundly shaped who I am as an individual, influencing my character, choices, and the way I approach challenges. Her determination has instilled in me a strong sense of perseverance. I've learned that success often comes from taking deliberate steps toward your goals, even when faced with obstacles. I witnessed how my mom was able to move from Mexico to a whole new country without the help of anyone. Her example has made me unafraid of setting ambitious objectives and working tirelessly to achieve them, understanding that challenges are a natural part of the journey. I was able to gain confidence in my Mexican accent because I saw my mom teaching proudly to her students. Now I can speak freely in presentations, debates, and public speaking events because I saw her doing the same way. As well, I've learned to navigate through life with self-reliance, overcoming obstacles with resilience and resourcefulness. This independence has empowered me to tackle new experiences, such as applying to college when money was limited and continuing to pursue my degree even when the path wasn't straightforward. This was easy because following her proactive approach to overcoming challenges has shaped my problem-solving skills. I've learned to view challenges as opportunities for growth and development, just as she did. This mindset has not only enabled me to navigate uncertainties but also extend support beyond my challenges. As a result, I took a significant step in this direction by creating "Girls on Campus," a student-led initiative to recognize the unique challenges faced by young women during their college journey. From the complexities of applying to college and navigating financial aid to embarking on their careers, these challenges often demand more than just individual effort. This reflects her value of not just seeking personal success but contributing to the well-being of the community and supporting others in their journeys. Her influence has not only guided me through personal and academic achievements but has also molded the way I view the world and my role in it.

If there were one book I'd want everyone in the world to read, especially considering my background as an immigrant woman in college, it would undoubtedly be "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho. This enchanting tale has been an unwavering source of inspiration, serving as a guiding light through my own journey of self-discovery and growth. "The Alchemist" encapsulates the essence of my own aspirations and struggles, resonating deeply with my experiences. As an immigrant navigating a new country and a woman pursuing higher education, I often encounter challenges that test my resolve. Santiago's journey, filled with trials and triumphs, reminds me that challenges are an integral part of the path to realizing our dreams. Just like Santiago, I've learned that setbacks are not roadblocks, but rather opportunities to learn and evolve. Coelho's narrative also reinforces the significance of intuition and following one's heart. Santiago's relentless pursuit of his Personal Legend mirrors my own determination to carve out my place in a foreign land and embrace my academic pursuits. It's a poignant reminder that in a world teeming with distractions and doubts, staying true to oneself is essential to finding purpose and fulfillment. As a college student, moments of uncertainty are inevitable. "The Alchemist" has been a companion during these times, teaching me to embrace the unknown and have faith in the journey. Santiago's encounters with diverse characters and cultures exemplify the beauty of human connection, a lesson that's particularly meaningful in my own journey of forging relationships and building a community far from home. The book's message about the interconnectedness of all things echoes my own experiences. Just as Santiago learns from every interaction, I've grown by immersing myself in diverse academic and personal experiences. Each encounter contributes to my growth, reminding me that even in the vastness of life, there's an underlying thread that binds us all. "The Alchemist" is more than just a story; it's an embodiment of the resilience and courage that immigrants and women like me embody daily. It's a reminder that our dreams are attainable, even in the face of adversity. Just as Santiago's journey is one of discovery and transformation, so is mine, and the book reinforces my belief that with dedication, perseverance, and the courage to listen to my heart, I can overcome any challenge and continue moving forward toward my own Personal Legend.

Walking the intricate path of being a college student, with the layers of my identity as a low-income immigrant woman venturing into the world of business, Taylor Swift's music, especially during the unforgettable Eras Tour, has been my guiding light. It's more than just songs – it's like she's unraveling pieces of my own story, helping me see parts of myself I hadn't fully understood before. The transition to college was like stepping into a whole new universe, and Swift's music played in the background of my journey. Her lyrics, filled with messages of empowerment and courage, felt like advice from a wise friend. "Shake It Off" became my anthem for embracing who I am and owning my unique experiences, regardless of what others might think. As I stepped into the challenging world of business, her melodies resonated deeply with my struggles as a woman trying to make her mark. "Blank Space" and "Bad Blood" weren't just catchy tunes; they were reminders that challenges can be turned into stepping stones. Swift's stories of overcoming setbacks echoed my own journey of pushing past limitations and defining my own path. "The Man" became a pivotal song for me during the Eras Tour. As a low-income woman in a field often dominated by men, the song resonated deeply. Swift's powerful lyrics about the double standards and the weight of expectations highlighted the very challenges I've faced. Through her music, I found validation for my own experiences and the strength to challenge the status quo. The song's lines about how her achievements might be perceived differently if she were a man struck a chord with me. It made me realize that my journey in the business world isn't just about my abilities; it's also about navigating a system that's often biased. The Eras Tour wasn't just about songs; it was about emotions. Tracks like "All Too Well" and "Clean" became the backdrop for moments of self-doubt and growth during my college experience. Swift's vulnerability reminded me that it's okay to feel lost sometimes, and growth often comes from those messy, uncertain moments. What struck me most was how Swift blended different eras seamlessly, much like my own journey of reconciling my immigrant background with my aspirations in business. As a low-income student, I often felt like I didn't quite fit anywhere. Swift's music taught me to embrace my diverse identity as a strength, not a hurdle. In essence, Taylor Swift's music during the Eras Tour wasn't just entertainment; it was a mirror reflecting back pieces of my own story. Through her melodies and lyrics, I uncovered the courage to challenge stereotypes, embrace my vulnerabilities, and understand that life's journey is never linear. Her songs are a reminder that I'm not alone in my struggles and dreams, and they continue to be my anthem as I venture into an unknown future, ready to face whatever comes my way with authenticity and a heart full of hope.

My name is Karla and I'm an immigrant student who aspires to make a positive impact on people around me while pursuing a dual degree in finance and accounting. I have been resilient, adaptable, and unwavering in my determination throughout my journey. It represents more than just financial assistance; it represents a stepping stone toward realizing my aspirations and creating lasting change. The purpose of this essay is to discuss the impact I am having on others at present. In this essay, I will outline my future goals and explain how this scholarship will assist me in achieving them. During my college years, I actively sought out ways to contribute to society and help others. I dedicated myself to various community organizations and initiatives that address social and economic disparities. One of my most fulfilling experiences was serving as a mentor to high school students through the Latina Mentor Program. In this role, I shared my knowledge and experiences, teaching them valuable financial management skills and inspiring them to pursue higher education at my old high school. Aside from that, I recently started my own Etsy shop to put into practice the few skills I have learned in my accounting classes. My shop represents my interest in selling art, ranging from stickers, posters, and drawings to eyelashes and accessories. Additionally, I'm creating a website that explains the college application process in California for San Francisco Bay Area students. You can find a preview at https://mceducation.info/. When I immigrated from Mexico, I had no idea about the college process or the cost of attending a university. I found myself lost multiple times, applying to schools I didn't even know about and feeling clueless about what to do. Fortunately, I had a mentor who guided me and helped with college applications. However, I still felt lost and confused during the application process, interviews, and navigating the system as an outsider. When I received an acceptance letter, it was a validation of my hard work and a sense of belonging. Unfortunately, I discovered that I wasn't eligible for the Pell Grant, which caused my hopes and dreams to falter. I started applying for multiple scholarships, took out loans, and got a part-time job. The purpose of building a website is to provide guidance and information to every student about the entire college process, not just the application itself. This website will serve as a quick guide to college applications, providing information about financial aid, loans, scholarships, and more. I plan to make it available in Spanish. My starting point will be using it with the Latina Mentor Program at Mills High School and recruiting volunteers from my college. Apart from these personal projects, I'm also considering a career in business. I would love to pursue a career in accounting or finance, but for now, I'm focusing on internships to explore both sectors. I have an upcoming internship at Deloitte for accounting and another one at KPMG for finance next year. While I'm still unsure about which career path to take, I can envision myself working in a corporate environment and being a team leader. Ultimately, I would love to have my own business, one related to financial services and another in the bakery industry. This highlights my interest in accounting since it is essential for running a business. The financial assistance provided by this scholarship would alleviate the burden of educational expenses, allowing me to devote more time and energy to my studies, extracurricular activities, and community engagement.

Music has an incredible power to transcend time and space, evoking emotions that connect us to moments that have shaped our lives. Among the vast array of melodies and lyrics that have accompanied me on my journey, one song holds a special place in my heart: "Blank Space" by Taylor Swift. Featured on her iconic '1989' album, this song became an anthem of transition and self-discovery for me, marking the end of my childhood and the beginning of a new chapter in a foreign land. Its popularity coincided with my move from Mexico to the United States, and its captivating melodies and thought-provoking lyrics immortalized the bittersweet emotions of that pivotal time in my life. When I came to the U.S. this song started playing all over the radio in 2014. The first time I heard it I fell in love with the sounds and the melody. Even though, I did not speak a lot of English I tried singing it by following the sounds of the words. I loved this song so much that I downloaded a karaoke app and recorded myself singing. To be honest I was a little disappointed when I heard the recording and did not sound like Tay at all. Now, I’m able to pronounce every word correctly and know the meaning of the song. Upon discovering the captivating music video for "Blank Space," I was mesmerized by the visual storytelling and the vivid emotions it evoked. Inspired by Taylor Swift's powerful performance and the intricate set designs, I felt compelled to create my version of the story using the tools at my disposal: my two Barbie dolls. With an abundance of excitement and determination, I delved into the realm of stop-motion animation, eager to breathe life into my toys and reimagine the tale woven within the music video. Upon discovering the captivating music video for "Blank Space," I was mesmerized by the visual storytelling and the vivid emotions it evoked. Inspired by Taylor Swift's powerful performance and the intricate set designs, I felt compelled to create my version of the story using the tools at my disposal: my cherished dolls. With an abundance of excitement and determination, I delved into the realm of stop-motion animation, eager to breathe life into my toys and reimagine the tale woven within the music video. With each shot and frame, I delved deeper into a world of imagination, where my dolls came alive, mirroring Taylor Swift's every movement. I recently found this video in my old Musical.ly account ( Now TikTok) and even though the video was 1 minute I still remember the time I spent moving slowly my Barbie’s hand. Blank Space" became more than just a song; it became a catalyst for personal growth. Each time I listen to it, a wave of nostalgia washes over me, transporting me back to the time when I first arrived in the U.S. It serves as a reminder of how I overcame language barriers, honed my pronunciation, and nurtured my creativity in a new country. As a college student, "Blank Space" holds sentimental value while also symbolizing my personal growth and resilience. It exemplifies the boundless power of music to transcend boundaries and the limitless possibilities inherent in our own creative spirits. With each melodious note, "Blank Space" carries me back to cherished memories of my journey, igniting a symphony of nostalgia and gratitude for the transformative force of art.

A magical realm of dreams and enchantment, Disneyland has captivated the hearts of millions around the world. This summer, I embarked on an extraordinary adventure to Disneyland with my sister. Just the two of us, a 20-year-old and a 17-year-old, alone in LA. Little did I know that this journey would not only bring us closer but also illuminate the importance of sisterhood and embracing the inner child within us. As we immersed ourselves in the wonders of the park, my favorite thing about Disney became clear: its ability to foster joy, create lasting memories, and ignite a sense of childlike wonder within us. There is an unparalleled joy that comes from seeing a loved one happy, and during our trip to Disneyland, that joy radiated from my sister. Her eyes sparkled with excitement, and her laughter filled the air as we immersed ourselves in the magic of the park. From experiencing thrilling rides together to encountering beloved Disney characters, each moment was filled with a shared sense of wonder and delight. It reminded me of the joy we had as children, the fun we used to have to play, and how Disneyland was able to bring back those cherished memories. As we grew older, the responsibilities and challenges of adulthood and starting college began to weigh upon us. However, our trip to Disneyland provided a respite from those burdens and allowed us to relive the carefree days of our childhood. We embraced the freedom to let go, to laugh unabashedly, and to be swept away by the magic that enveloped the park. It reminded us that no matter how much we grow up, there will always be a childlike spirit within us, ready to be reignited by the enchantment of Disney. Among the countless memorable experiences we had at Disneyland, one stood out in particular: our encounter with Mickey Mouse. Excitement bubbled within us as we eagerly lined up to meet the iconic character, patiently waiting for a quick picture, something we had never done before. I guess that when we both saw Mickey, our inner child came out, and we ran to join the line. We waited patiently for 10 minutes. However, just as we were about to reach him, Mickey had to leave. The employees informed us, "Mickey is leaving now. He might just pass by and give you a high five." Disappointment flickered briefly, but what happened next turned it into a moment of pure magic. True to his character, Mickey didn't want to disappoint us. He took the time to give us a warm hug, posed for a quick picture, and bid us farewell. We were left in awe of his kindness and affectionately named him "The Humble King." "The Humble King" became an inside joke between my sister and me, reminding us of the surprises and enduring memories we created at Disneyland. It symbolized Mickey Mouse's humble nature as he graciously hugged us and took a picture, even though he was already leaving. This quick moment epitomized Disney's ability to create magic even in the most unexpected situations and serves as a reminder to approach life with a lighthearted and open mindset. Our journey to Disneyland brought us immeasurable happiness as we witnessed the joy on my sister's face and embraced the opportunity to rediscover our inner child.

As one of the most cherished traditions of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, the Sorting Ceremony holds a profound significance in the lives of young witches and wizards. It is a moment of anticipation and self-discovery, where each student is assigned to one of the four noble houses based on their unique qualities and values. Standing before the ancient Sorting Hat, its wise and weathered brim poised to unravel the depths of my character, I am filled with a mix of nervous excitement and hopeful anticipation. In that fleeting moment, as I reflect on my journey as an immigrant college student, I come to a resolute realization: Hufflepuff is my true home. The core values of Hufflepuff resonate deeply within me. Fairness, compassion, and an innate desire to promote harmony and inclusivity are the guiding principles that have shaped my worldview. As an immigrant, I have experienced the richness of diverse cultures and viewpoints, nurturing a profound appreciation for the importance of fairness and justice. In the magical realm of Hogwarts, I have witnessed the transformative power of a harmonious community, where every individual is celebrated and included. Hufflepuff House embodies this spirit of acceptance and embraces the vibrant tapestry of backgrounds and experiences that immigrant students bring. It is my heartfelt desire to cultivate an environment that goes beyond mere tolerance, where every student feels seen, heard, and valued. To manifest these ideals within Hogwarts' magical walls, I would tirelessly work to ensure fairness and justice in every aspect of student life. Organizing cultural exchanges and advocating for equality would be my primary focus. By creating platforms for open dialogue and fostering an atmosphere of understanding, I aim to bridge the gaps that exist between different cultures and traditions. I believe that through education and empathy, we can break down barriers and build bridges of harmony that transcend borders. Drawing from my own experiences as an immigrant, I possess a deep reservoir of compassion and empathy. Hufflepuffs are known for their nurturing nature and their willingness to extend a helping hand to those who are homesick or face difficulties in communication. In my journey through the muggle world, I have sought to make a positive impact by developing a website that streamlines the college application process for immigrant students and volunteering in a Latina Mentoring Program. As a member of Hufflepuff, I would seize every opportunity to establish mentorship programs and organize support groups. By creating a network of guidance and encouragement, I aim to provide a haven where every student feels empowered to embrace their unique heritage while forging new friendships rooted in understanding and acceptance. Furthermore, my journey as an immigrant has instilled within me a strong work ethic and unwavering loyalty. As a Hufflepuff, I would approach my academic pursuits with a steadfast dedication to excellence. I understand the challenges that immigrant students face in navigating a new educational system and adapting to unfamiliar surroundings. By embodying the values of hard work and perseverance, I aim to inspire my fellow immigrant students to overcome obstacles and unlock their full potential. Together, we can create a supportive community within Hufflepuff, where every individual feels a sense of belonging and knows that they are not alone on their magical journey. Being sorted into Hufflepuff would mark the beginning of a truly enchanting chapter in my life—a chapter filled with compassion, inclusivity, and growth. I believe that by fostering an environment where everyone feels valued, celebrated, and empowered, we can unlock the true magic that resides within each individual.

It's very unusual to see a 15-year-old as a teacher. I'm not referring to a teacher who teaches middle schoolers or high schoolers. Rather, I'm talking about a 15-year-old giving a lesson through a Bible while toddlers stare at her with sparkling eyes. During my 15 years as a Sunday School teacher, I didn't even believe in the Bible, and now every night I sleep with a Bible beside me. It was I who taught Sunday school at 15 years old. I have been volunteering at Woodside Village Church since 2016, cleaning up after events and organizing festivities. However, my primary role was helping with cleaning and earning hours for middle school graduation, as my religious views differed from others. I even considered myself an atheist. Throughout the years, the pastor offered me a job since I was very active in the community. At this point, everyone knew me. I was not very connected to my religious beliefs, and it was not a priority for me. I never thought it would be such a big deal. As a result, I put aside my thoughts and decided that volunteering with kids would be a better option. At first, it was strange watching the children talk lovingly about God and pray constantly. Knowing a lot about the Bible at such a young age made me uncomfortable, as they had practiced the church's beliefs most of their lives. So, I decided to focus more on playing with them and less on God. As I started teaching Bible lessons, I became more comfortable talking about the topic; I found it fascinating. After reading many children's stories about Noah's Ark, Jesus Calling Philip Nathanael, and Jesus walking on water, the kids started seeing me as family. This was similar to how God treated his followers instead of being solely their teacher. Over time, the kids grew closer to me, and their families even blessed me many times. I felt worthy and connected to God. Every time I saw a child happily talking about God and how I taught about the Bible, I felt part of the community. This helped me find myself. The unity and diversity within the church enriched the church community and me. I noticed the relationships between my students and me and their relationships with one another. To relate to them on their level, I let my inner child out and enjoyed spending time with them. Teaching Sunday school has taught me that every endeavor takes time and patience. I don't have to rush myself to be flawless and I understand that I won't succeed at everything I try. Additionally, I expect more from myself than from my children or other members. They simply enjoy learning. Slowing down, taking a breath, and organizing my thoughts is okay. Just like this scholarship, it helped me realize the importance of volunteering and remember the significance of connecting with my community and religion. The scholarship highlights the importance of volunteering and inspires me to continue doing it and exploring other areas. It will serve as a powerful tool to overcome financial barriers that hinder higher education and have time to volunteer and increase my knowledge and connections. I treasure my ability to help others more as I do more for my community and learn its hidden lessons. I find myself developing characteristics I never realized I had, such as patience and care. Through community service, I am challenged to become a better person.

My name is Karla and I'm an immigrant student who aspires to make a positive impact on people around me while pursuing a dual degree in finance and accounting. I have been resilient, adaptable, and unwavering in my determination throughout my journey. It represents more than just financial assistance; it represents a stepping stone toward realizing my aspirations and creating lasting change. The purpose of this essay is to discuss the impact I am having on others at present. In this essay, I will outline my future goals and explain how this scholarship will assist me in achieving them. During my college years, I actively sought out ways to contribute to society and help others. I dedicated myself to various community organizations and initiatives that address social and economic disparities. One of my most fulfilling experiences was serving as a mentor to high school students through the Latina Mentor Program. In this role, I shared my knowledge and experiences, teaching them valuable financial management skills and inspiring them to pursue higher education at my old high school. Aside from that, I recently started my own Etsy shop to put into practice the few skills I have learned in my accounting classes. My shop represents my interest in selling art, ranging from stickers, posters, and drawings to eyelashes and accessories. Additionally, I'm creating a website that explains the college application process in California for San Francisco Bay Area students. You can find a preview at https://mceducation.info/. When I immigrated from Mexico, I had no idea about the college process or the cost of attending a university. I found myself lost multiple times, applying to schools I didn't even know about and feeling clueless about what to do. Fortunately, I had a mentor who guided me and helped with college applications. However, I still felt lost and confused during the application process, interviews, and navigating the system as an outsider. When I received an acceptance letter, it was a validation of my hard work and a sense of belonging. Unfortunately, I discovered that I wasn't eligible for the Pell Grant, which caused my hopes and dreams to falter. I started applying for multiple scholarships, took out loans, and got a part-time job. The purpose of building a website is to provide guidance and information to every student about the entire college process, not just the application itself. This website will serve as a quick guide to college applications, providing information about financial aid, loans, scholarships, and more. I plan to make it available in Spanish. My starting point will be using it with the Latina Mentor Program at Mills High School and recruiting volunteers from my college. Apart from these personal projects, I'm also considering a career in business. I would love to pursue a career in accounting or finance, but for now, I'm focusing on internships to explore both sectors. I have an upcoming internship at Deloitte for accounting and another one at KPMG for finance next year. While I'm still unsure about which career path to take, I can envision myself working in a corporate environment and being a team leader. Ultimately, I would love to have my own business, one related to financial services and another in the bakery industry. This highlights my interest in accounting since it is essential for running a business. The financial assistance provided by this scholarship would alleviate the burden of educational expenses, allowing me to devote more time and energy to my studies, extracurricular activities, and community engagement.

My name is Karla and I'm an immigrant student who aspires to make a positive impact on people around me while pursuing a dual degree in finance and accounting. I have been resilient, adaptable, and unwavering in my determination throughout my journey. It represents more than just financial assistance; it represents a stepping stone toward realizing my aspirations and creating lasting change. The purpose of this essay is to discuss the impact I am having on others at present. In this essay, I will outline my future goals and explain how this scholarship will assist me in achieving them. During my college years, I actively sought out ways to contribute to society and help others. I dedicated myself to various community organizations and initiatives that address social and economic disparities. One of my most fulfilling experiences was serving as a mentor to high school students through the Latina Mentor Program. In this role, I shared my knowledge and experiences, teaching them valuable financial management skills and inspiring them to pursue higher education at my old high school. Aside from that, I recently started my own Etsy shop to put into practice the few skills I have learned in my accounting classes. My shop represents my interest in selling art, ranging from stickers, posters, and drawings to eyelashes and accessories. Additionally, I'm creating a website that explains the college application process in California for San Francisco Bay Area students. You can find a preview at https://mceducation.info/. When I moved from Mexico, I had no idea about the college process or the cost of attending a university. I found myself lost multiple times, applying to schools I didn't even know about and feeling clueless about what to do. Fortunately, I had a mentor who guided me and helped with college applications. However, I still felt lost and confused during the application process, interviews, and navigating the system as an outsider. When I received an acceptance letter, it was a validation of my hard work and a sense of belonging. Unfortunately, I discovered that I wasn't eligible for the Pell Grant, which caused my hopes and dreams to falter. I started applying for multiple scholarships, took out loans, and got a part-time job. The purpose of building a website is to provide guidance and information to every student about the entire college process, not just the application itself. This website will serve as a quick guide to college applications, providing information about financial aid, loans, scholarships, and more. I plan to make it available in Spanish. My starting point will be using it with the Latina Mentor Program at Mills High School and recruiting volunteers from my college. Apart from these personal projects, I'm also considering a career in business. I would love to pursue a career in accounting or finance, but for now, I'm focusing on internships to explore both sectors. I have an upcoming internship at Deloitte for accounting and another one at KPMG for finance next year. While I'm still unsure about which career path to take, I can envision myself working in a corporate environment and being a team leader. Ultimately, I would love to have my own business, one related to financial services and another in the bakery industry. This highlights my interest in accounting since it is essential for running a business. The financial assistance provided by this scholarship would alleviate the burden of educational expenses, allowing me to devote more time and energy to my studies, extracurricular activities, and community engagement.

The dream version of my future self is a successful entrepreneur in the field of accounting and finance, who has established a thriving business and actively contributes to the financial well-being of immigrant communities through education and empowerment.

As an international immigrant pursuing education outside my home country, I have encountered significant challenges throughout my academic journey. These obstacles primarily revolved around the adjustment to a new culture, language, and educational system. However, I have approached these challenges as opportunities for personal growth and self-discovery, and with unwavering determination, adaptability, and an unwavering spirit, I have overcome them and embarked on a path toward realizing my dreams. The language barrier was one of the initial impediments I faced. Effective communication in the local language proved to be a significant hurdle, hindering my comprehension of lectures, participation in class discussions, and completion of assignments. To address this challenge, I took proactive steps by enrolling in additional language courses and actively engaging in language exchange programs with native speakers. Gradually, my language proficiency improved, enabling me to confidently partake in academic settings. Cultural disparities also posed considerable challenges. Adjusting to distinct teaching methods, unfamiliar customs, and social norms demanded a substantial degree of adaptation. Seeking guidance from mentors, including fellow students and faculty members, facilitated my understanding of the local culture. Active involvement in extracurricular activities, club memberships, and attendance at cultural events aided my immersion in the community and facilitated a deeper comprehension of customs and traditions. Additionally, a sense of being an outsider occasionally affected my emotional well-being, inducing feelings of isolation. To mitigate this, I actively sought opportunities to connect with fellow international students, engaging in multicultural events and activities. Cultivating a supportive network of friends who shared similar experiences provided solace and camaraderie, enabling us to navigate the challenges together and celebrate our diverse backgrounds. Navigating the educational system itself presented a distinctive set of challenges. Each country boasts its unique system, policies, and procedures. Acquainting myself with academic requirements, grading systems, and course selection processes demanded time and effort. Relying on the support of my school mentor and friends, who had prior experience with the U.S. college process, proved invaluable in navigating this unfamiliar educational landscape. Driven by my passion for accounting and finance, I am committed to pursuing post-secondary education as a means to achieve my goals. Furthermore, I aspire to make a positive impact on the lives of immigrant communities by promoting financial wellness. With this in mind, I am embarking on a transformative journey to create a comprehensive website that serves as a guiding resource for immigrants. This platform will bridge the gap between financial literacy and the college process, providing immigrants with the tools they need to make informed decisions about their future. Topics such as financial planning, budgeting, college admissions, scholarships, and navigating the education system will be covered. By imparting knowledge and fostering understanding, I aim to empower immigrants to improve their financial well-being and pursue higher education. Pursuing post-secondary education is crucial to the realization of my career aspirations. It will provide me with a comprehensive understanding of accounting and finance principles, advanced analytical skills, and an opportunity to deepen my knowledge in these fields. Additionally, post-secondary education offers valuable networking opportunities, exposing me to diverse ideas and potential mentors and business partners. In conclusion, my experience as an international immigrant in education has been marked by challenges, but I have embraced these obstacles as opportunities for growth. My career aspirations revolve around establishing myself as an entrepreneur in accounting and finance while promoting financial wellness among immigrant communities. Pursuing post-secondary education equips me with the necessary knowledge, skills, and connections to succeed in the financial industry. Through these endeavors, I strive to make a positive impact, create opportunities, and contribute to the financial well.