I never really had a childhood like most kids. I grew up fast, dealing with things no kid should have to. Mental illness has always been a shadow over my life, whether it was my own struggles or the people I loved. My mom went through so much, and I saw firsthand what it’s like to feel trapped in your own mind, lost in pain that no one seems to understand. She suffered deeply, and it led to the loss of my brother and sister. That kind of grief doesn’t just go away—it stays with you. As for me, I’ve struggled with my own mind more times than I can count. My self-esteem has never been great, and honestly, sometimes it feels like no matter how hard I try, I’ll never be enough. I’ve been in relationships where I was treated like I didn’t matter, and it only made those thoughts worse. I started to believe them. It got to a point where people even told me to end my own life, handed me the tools to do it, like it was nothing. And a part of me almost listened. But I didn’t. I kept going, even when everything in me was screaming to stop. I wake up at 4 in the morning for my hospital shifts, drive an hour to work, go to school full-time, take care of my mom, work at a high school helping students, and somehow still manage to keep pushing forward. Some days, I don’t even know how I do it. But I do. But the things I’ve been through haunt me. I was assaulted when I was younger, and the weight of that never really leaves. It’s like a piece of me got taken, and no matter how much I try to push forward, some part of me still feels stuck there. And then there’s drugs that are done by people close to me, something I’ve had to witness tear people apart, making them someone they aren’t. It’s horrible seeing the people you love fall into that darkness and knowing there’s only so much you can do. Mental illness has taken a lot from me. It’s made me question everything about myself, it’s stolen people I love, and it’s left scars that don’t just fade away. But it’s also given me a purpose. I want to be someone who understands, who listens, who helps. That’s why I’m studying psychology along with biomedical science—because I know what it’s like to feel alone, and I refuse to let anyone else feel that way if I can help it. I don’t have all the answers, and I’m still figuring things out, but if there’s one thing I do know—it’s that I won’t stop fighting. Not for myself, and not for the people who need someone to fight for them.

I won’t sugarcoat it—growing up was hard. I didn’t have the kind of childhood where you feel safe, supported, or even just like a kid. Life threw a lot at me early on, and I had to figure things out on my own. Losing people I loved, struggling financially, and carrying responsibilities that no child should have to—those things shaped me. But they didn’t break me. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that pain has a way of teaching you things no classroom ever could. It’s shown me what it feels like to be unheard, to feel like no one cares, and to question if things will ever get better. And because I know that feeling so well, I want to dedicate my life to making sure others don’t have to go through it alone. That’s why I’m studying biomedical science full-time with a minor in psychology—so I can help people both physically and mentally. But my dreams don’t stop there. I also work two part-time jobs while helping take care of my mother at home because I know how much she’s sacrificed for me. On weekends, I wake up at 4 a.m. for my shifts at the hospital, which is a one-hour drive from where I work. During the week, I wake up early for 8 a.m. classes, and after that, I head straight to my work-study job at a high school, mentoring students. Balancing school, work, and home responsibilities isn’t easy, but I refuse to let my circumstances define my future. I want to become a therapist and eventually a veterinarian, focusing on helping both people and the animals they rely on, especially those with service animals. I believe healing should extend to every living being that needs it. I’ve fought my whole life to be where I am now. There have been days where exhaustion made me want to quit, but I keep going because I know I have a purpose. I want to use my struggles to help others find hope in theirs. I want to prove that no matter where you come from, no matter how hard life gets, you CAN rise above it. And with this scholarship, I’ll be one step closer to making that dream a reality. Even it it may seem like there is no hope now, whether it be in days or months time, there will always be hope in the tomorrow, and I aspire to be that light in someone else's darkness.

Choosing a Degree in Healthcare: A Commitment to Compassion and Impact My decision to pursue a degree in healthcare is deeply intertwined with my personal experiences, values, and aspirations. Growing up in a family that faced significant financial challenges and health issues, I witnessed firsthand the critical role that compassionate and accessible healthcare plays in individuals' lives. These experiences have profoundly shaped my desire to enter the healthcare field, driven by a commitment to make a positive and meaningful impact. From an early age, I observed the struggles my family endured due to limited access to medical care and the emotional toll it took on us. These formative experiences instilled in me a deep understanding of the barriers that many people face when seeking healthcare. They also highlighted the transformative power of empathy, kindness, and professional care. As a result, I felt compelled to pursue a career where I could contribute to alleviating suffering, supporting those in need, and advocating for equitable healthcare access. Choosing a degree in healthcare is not merely an academic pursuit for me; it is a reflection of my core values and a response to the challenges I have witnessed. My role as a certified Patient Care Technician (PCT) at Valley Regional has provided me with invaluable experience, reinforcing my passion for patient care and the importance of a holistic approach to health. Working alongside skilled nurses and healthcare professionals, I have learned the significance of addressing both physical and emotional needs, as well as the impact of compassionate care on patient outcomes. As a woman in the healthcare field, I am committed to making a positive impact by bringing a compassionate and empathetic perspective to patient care. I believe that women, with their innate capacity for empathy and nurturing, have a unique ability to connect with patients on a personal level. My goal is to leverage these qualities to create a supportive and understanding environment for those I serve. By providing not only medical care but also emotional support, I hope to help patients navigate their health journeys with dignity and hope. Moreover, I am passionate about advocating for underserved and vulnerable populations. My experiences have shown me that access to quality healthcare is not equally distributed, and I am dedicated to addressing these disparities. Whether through direct patient care, community outreach, or policy advocacy, I aspire to work towards a healthcare system that is inclusive, equitable, and responsive to the needs of all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances. In addition to patient care, I am eager to contribute to the advancement of healthcare practices and education. I envision a future where I can be involved in mentoring and supporting the next generation of healthcare professionals, particularly women who are entering the field. By sharing my experiences and insights, I hope to inspire and empower others to pursue careers in healthcare with passion and purpose. In conclusion, my choice to pursue a degree in healthcare is driven by a deep-seated commitment to compassion, equity, and positive impact. Through my education and career, I aim to provide empathetic care, advocate for those who are underserved, and contribute to a more inclusive and effective healthcare system. As a woman in the healthcare field, I am dedicated to making a meaningful difference, guided by my values and a desire to support and uplift those in need.

A Journey into Nursing: A Reflection on Inspiration and Aspiration My decision to pursue a career in nursing is deeply rooted in a tapestry of personal experiences, aspirations, and a profound admiration for healthcare professionals. From a young age, I was exposed to the realities of healthcare through my family's experiences with financial challenges and health crises. These early encounters ignited a passion within me to make a meaningful difference in people's lives through compassionate care and support. At the age of 18, I took a pivotal step in my journey by becoming a certified Patient Care Technician (PCT) at Valley Regional in Brownsville. This role marked the beginning of my hands-on experience in healthcare, where I worked alongside dedicated nurses who became my mentors and role models. Their expertise, resilience, and unwavering dedication to patient care inspired me daily, reinforcing my aspiration to pursue nursing as a career. Working as a PCT has been a transformative experience. I've had the privilege of providing direct patient care, assisting medical teams, and supporting patients during vulnerable moments. These interactions have underscored the importance of empathy, communication, and clinical competence in delivering high-quality healthcare. Every day, I witness the profound impact that nurses have on patient outcomes and overall well-being, motivating me to strive for excellence in my own practice. Beyond the technical aspects of healthcare, my journey is guided by a commitment to holistic patient care. I am deeply interested in the intersection of veterinary medicine and human healthcare, driven by a lifelong love for animals and a belief in the interconnectedness of all living beings. My aspiration is to bridge these disciplines, leveraging my nursing knowledge to promote the health and well-being of both human patients and their animal companions. Furthermore, my interest in psychology and psychiatry complements my nursing aspirations. Mental health is inseparable from physical health, and addressing both aspects is essential for comprehensive patient care. I am passionate about understanding the psychological aspects of illness, trauma, and recovery, aiming to support patients not only physically but also emotionally and mentally. My decision to pursue nursing is also a testament to my belief in the transformative power of education and opportunity. Growing up in a family where financial hardships were a constant challenge, I witnessed the barriers that prevent access to healthcare and educational opportunities. These experiences fuel my determination to break barriers, advocate for equitable healthcare access, and empower individuals and communities through education and compassionate care. In conclusion, my journey into nursing is guided by a profound sense of purpose, shaped by personal experiences, admiration for healthcare professionals, and a commitment to holistic patient care. It is a path that aligns with my values of compassion, empathy, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in healthcare. As I continue on this journey, I am excited about the opportunities to learn, grow, and make a meaningful impact in the lives of others. Nursing is not just a career choice for me—it is a calling rooted in a deep-seated desire to serve and contribute to a healthier, more compassionate world.

Mental health is incredibly important to me as a student because it directly affects every aspect of my life, from my ability to focus on academics to how I handle relationships and navigate personal challenges. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of unaddressed mental health issues, particularly within my family. My mother faced severe emotional struggles, which not only impacted her but also rippled through our household. Losing two siblings due to miscarriage, partly because of the emotional strain she carried, made me realize how much mental health can influence both our emotional and physical well-being. This shaped my understanding that without proper mental health care, it becomes difficult to manage daily life, let alone thrive. As a student, the pressures of academic life, financial responsibilities, and balancing personal obligations can often feel overwhelming. I’ve faced my own challenges, from coping with iron deficiency to supporting my mother and younger brother while pursuing my studies. These experiences have underscored the importance of maintaining mental wellness, especially in a high-stress environment. When mental health is neglected, it can lead to burnout and anxiety, making it impossible to perform at your best. Advocating for mental health in my community, both at school and at home, has become a personal mission. One of the ways I advocate is through open conversations. I believe that the first step to reducing the stigma surrounding mental health is normalizing discussions about it. Whether it’s talking to friends or classmates about their struggles or sharing my own experiences, I try to create a space where people feel safe to express their emotions without fear of judgment. In high school, many students were hesitant to talk about their mental health because they were afraid of being seen as weak. By being open about my own struggles, I hope to encourage others to do the same. At home, I support my mother and younger brother by checking in on their emotional well-being. We’ve all faced hardships together, and I’ve learned the importance of patience and understanding when emotions are running high. I also practice self-care through meditation, especially at the beach, which helps me center myself and clear my mind. I hope to inspire others in my community to find their own ways to take care of their mental health, whether through mindfulness or seeking professional help. In the future, I plan to continue advocating for mental health, both in my professional life as a healthcare worker and in my personal life. Whether I become a nurse, psychiatrist, or veterinarian, I will always prioritize the mental well-being of those I care for. Mental health deserves care and attention, and I want to help create a world where everyone feels empowered to seek help when they need it.

My name is Katherine Santana, and I attended Port Isabel Early College High School. Currently, I am pursuing my studies at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) with the goal of becoming a nurse and, eventually, a veterinarian. My deep love for animals and healthcare has shaped this path, but I am also considering psychiatry due to my growing interest in mental health and its connection to well-being. From an early age, I knew that I wanted to dedicate my life to helping others, whether they are humans or animals, and making a positive impact on the world around me. Through my high school years, I became increasingly aware of how mental health can affect every aspect of a person’s life. Growing up without a father and watching my mother suffer emotional hardships, including a miscarriage that resulted in the loss of my siblings, was a difficult experience that taught me the true depth of emotional pain. I learned how fragile mental health can be and how its effects ripple through our daily lives, often in ways that aren't visible to others. My own struggles, such as coping with iron deficiency and the pressure of supporting my family, further deepened my understanding of the mental and emotional toll life can take. What stood out to me during high school was how little mental health was talked about, even though so many of us were going through difficulties. Whether it was anxiety about grades, home life, or personal identity, it seemed like everyone was carrying their own invisible burden. Yet, there was still a stigma surrounding asking for help. It felt as though mental health struggles were something to be ashamed of, and that if we admitted to them, we’d be seen as weak or broken. This silence can be incredibly harmful. People often felt isolated or embarrassed, and I know from my own experiences how isolating it can be to feel like no one understands. Through these years, I learned that mental health is just as important as physical health, if not more so. I've seen how neglecting mental health can affect a person’s ability to function in their daily life, their relationships, and even their physical well-being. I realized that no one should have to carry these burdens alone, and everyone deserves to be heard and supported without judgment. Moving forward, I intend to apply what I've learned about mental health in all areas of my life. Whether I end up working as a nurse, psychiatrist, or veterinarian who partners with service animals, I want to make sure that mental health is at the forefront of my practice. My goal is to create environments where people can feel safe discussing their mental health struggles, knowing that they will be met with compassion and understanding. I believe in the power of empathy and in listening deeply to those in need. Mental health deserves the same level of care and attention that we give to physical health. By encouraging open dialogue, supporting those who are struggling, and breaking down the stigma that surrounds mental health, I hope to help others realize that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. In my future career, I am determined to be part of the change that normalizes mental health care and ensures that no one has to suffer in silence.

In my everyday life, I make a concerted effort to support others in meaningful ways, drawing from my personal experiences with hardship and mental health struggles. Growing up, I faced challenges such as severe iron deficiency, the trauma of losing family members, and toxic relationships, which have profoundly shaped my perspective and fueled my commitment to helping those around me. Despite the relentless exhaustion from my condition and the emotional weight of bullying and rejection, I strive to be a source of support for friends, family, and anyone in need. I offer a compassionate ear and share my own experiences to provide comfort and understanding. Whether it’s a friend grappling with mental health issues or a family member facing personal challenges, I prioritize being there for them, providing a safe space where they can express their fears and find solace. My involvement in community programs, such as tutoring and mentoring, reflects my dedication to supporting others. These roles allow me to share my knowledge and offer encouragement to students struggling academically or emotionally. I remember the difficulty of waking up at 5 a.m. to manage my iron deficiency just to attend school. This personal struggle has deepened my empathy and determination to help others face their own battles. Looking ahead, I plan to continue this supportive role through my professional career. Pursuing a degree in psychology with the goal of becoming a therapist is deeply personal, rooted in my own experiences of feeling isolated and unsupported. I want to provide the care and understanding that I once yearned for, creating a nurturing environment where individuals can openly share their struggles and find hope. My aim is to offer the support that was often missing from my own life. In addition to becoming a therapist, I am studying nursing and working towards a career as a veterinarian. My passion for animals and desire to help people intersect as I plan to work with individuals who have service animals, ensuring they receive compassionate and comprehensive care. Through these combined efforts, I aim to extend my support from personal interactions to professional realms. My experiences have taught me the value of empathy and resilience, and I am committed to using my skills and compassion to make a broader impact. My goal is to be a source of comfort and assistance, ensuring no one faces their struggles alone.

My journey with mental health has profoundly shaped who I am, influencing my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. From a young age, I faced significant challenges that left deep emotional scars. In elementary school, I was bullied and subjected to hateful treatment that made me feel isolated and unworthy. These experiences sowed the seeds of self-doubt and fear that would continue to affect me as I grew older. My relationships have also been deeply impacted by these early experiences. I found myself drawn into toxic situations where I was manipulated, ridiculed, and even told to end my life. One particularly painful experience involved someone handing me razor blades, urging me towards a darkness that I struggled to escape. These moments of deep hurt and rejection made me fearful of forming new relationships, both romantic and platonic, as I constantly worried about being hurt again. Despite these hardships, I discovered a strength within myself and a deep desire to help others who might be going through similar struggles. My experiences with mental health have made me acutely aware of the importance of understanding, empathy, and support. I didn’t have the help I needed when I was younger, and this has driven me to ensure that others don’t have to face their challenges alone. This is why I am pursuing a degree in psychology with the goal of becoming a therapist. I want to provide the support and guidance that I lacked, helping people navigate their struggles and find a way to heal. My mission is to create a safe space for others to share their pain and work through their challenges, knowing that they are supported and understood. In addition to becoming a therapist, I also plan to study nursing and become a veterinarian, with the ultimate goal of working with people who have service animals. This career path allows me to combine my love for animals with my passion for helping people. I want to ensure that both the animals and their human companions receive the care and support they need. Through these combined careers, I aim to make a positive difference in the lives of others, offering them the help and compassion that I once needed. My journey has taught me the value of resilience, empathy, and the importance of giving back, and I am determined to use my experiences to improve the lives of both people and animals alike.

Living with severe iron deficiency has profoundly impacted my life, adding layers of difficulty to an already challenging existence. This blood disorder makes even the simplest tasks feel overwhelming. Waking up in the morning often feels like an insurmountable task, and there are days when even walking leaves me utterly exhausted. Despite this, I have to push through because life doesn’t wait—especially when you come from a poor family, like mine, where every day is a fight for survival. Getting to school was particularly rough. To manage my condition, I had to wake up at 5 a.m., giving my body time to adjust so I could muster the energy to get through the day. But even with this effort, the fatigue never fully went away. School became not just an academic challenge but a physical one as well. It wasn’t just about learning; it was about enduring the exhaustion that iron deficiency imposed on me, while still striving to excel academically. The struggles didn’t end with school. Coming from a financially disadvantaged background means that I have to work to support my family, adding another layer of difficulty to my life. Balancing work, school, and managing my health feels like walking a tightrope. My family is poor, and the constant worry about how I’ll pay for my college tuition adds to the stress. Yet, despite these overwhelming challenges, I continue to push forward because I have no other choice. My life has been marked by hardship from an early age. Growing up without a father, watching my mother suffer through miscarriages, and dealing with the trauma of losing my innocence at a young age left deep emotional scars. There were times when the pain became unbearable—so much so that someone once handed me razor blades and told me to end my life. But I didn’t give up. I kept fighting because I knew that there had to be more to life than the darkness I was experiencing. This iron deficiency, combined with the emotional and financial struggles, has made me acutely aware of how debilitating blood disorders can be, not just physically but mentally and emotionally. It’s a hidden struggle, one that many people might not see or understand, but it influences every aspect of my life. I hope to use my experiences to spread awareness about blood disorders like iron deficiency. I want to share my story to help others recognize the symptoms, seek early diagnosis, and understand the importance of proper management. My goal is to contribute to research and support initiatives that focus on these conditions, advocating for better treatment options and support systems for those affected. Through education, advocacy, and community involvement, I aim to turn my personal struggles into a source of strength, helping to create a world where those with blood disorders can receive the care and understanding they need. Despite the overwhelming obstacles, I remain determined to make a difference, using my experiences to fuel my passion for a career in STEM. This scholarship represents more than just financial support; it’s a lifeline that will enable me to continue striving toward a brighter future where I can use my knowledge and experiences to make a lasting impact.

My mental health journey has been profoundly shaped by the trials and losses I’ve faced throughout my life. Growing up without a father and witnessing the deep pain my mother endured, including the miscarriage and the deaths of my brother and sister, left me with a heavy emotional burden. These early experiences created fears and insecurities that I continue to grapple with today. One of the most significant and painful moments in my life was when I lost my innocence due to a traumatic experience at a young age. This event left me with a deep sense of guilt and emotional scars that have profoundly affected my ability to trust and form relationships. The fear of making mistakes and the anxiety from my past continue to haunt me, influencing my interactions and self-worth. Throughout my life, each attempt to build a connection, whether romantic or neutral, has been overshadowed by the fear that my past mistakes might forever impact those relationships. This fear often feels like a constant weight, making me long for a time when things seemed more stable and safe. Even now, the shadow of my past continues to cast over my attempts to find happiness and peace. The pain of being compared to graphic images online and receiving cruel messages pushed me to my darkest moments. I felt lost, disconnected from who I was, and overwhelmed by the burden of my past. At one point, someone even told me to kill myself and handed me razor blades, a cruel act that intensified my despair and made me question my self-worth. When I finally met someone who offered hope, their betrayal only deepened my despair. A supposed friend reached out to those who had hurt me, ensuring my struggles were ridiculed and pushing away someone who meant a lot to me. The chance to say goodbye was lost, leaving me with a profound sense of unresolved pain. Compounding these emotional struggles is the stark reality of my financial situation. My family is not wealthy; in fact, we are very poor, and affording college tuition has been a constant worry. The anxiety of not having enough to fully pay for my education adds another layer of stress to my already difficult life, and sometimes it makes me worry deeply about how I will end up in life. The fear of not achieving my dreams and the uncertainty of my future weigh heavily on me. Yet, despite every challenge, I refuse to be defined by my past. Each hardship has forged in me a resilience that fuels my determination to push forward. My experiences, though painful, have taught me invaluable lessons about strength and perseverance. They have instilled in me a fierce drive to transform my struggles into motivation and to rise above the darkness that has tried to hold me back. I am determined to prove that no matter how heavy the burdens I carry, I will not be deterred from pursuing my dreams. My scars are not marks of defeat but rather symbols of my enduring strength. I am committed to turning my pain into purpose, using it to fuel my journey toward a brighter future where my aspirations can flourish. With every step, I am driven by the hope that I can overcome the challenges of my past and create a life filled with opportunity and success. This scholarship represents not just financial support but a beacon of hope that can help me continue to strive for a better tomorrow, where I can contribute meaningfully to the world and make a difference in the lives of others.

Growing up in one of the poorest families, I’ve faced many burdens and obstacles that have shaped my determination to pursue a career in STEM. My interest in this field is deeply rooted in the struggles I’ve experienced and the desire to create a better future for my family and others in similar situations. From a young age, I was the type of girl who often felt invisible, the one others didn’t want to talk to. Even in elementary school, where I was always at the top of my class, I struggled with loneliness. I would lie to my mom, telling her I had many friends, but deep down, I knew it wasn’t true. My isolation only grew worse when I began attending Wednesday church classes after school. It was there that I met a boy, much older than me—possibly five or six years older—who I now realize was the beginning of a very dark chapter in my life. At just 11 years old, as I transitioned from elementary to middle school, this boy took an unhealthy interest in me. He would write me notes and eventually gave me his phone number. I was too young to see the warning signs, and I didn’t have the courage to tell anyone, not even my mom. Over time, he became more controlling, telling me to push my friends away and only talk to him. The relationship, if you could call it that, was toxic and damaging. He eventually handed me a box of razor blades and told me to go away and never appear before him again. That experience left me feeling completely shut off from the world, and I lost something within myself that I cherished deeply—my confidence, my trust, and my sense of self-worth. These early hardships taught me about the darker sides of life, but they also planted the seeds of resilience in me. My mother, despite her love for animals and science, was unable to pursue an education due to financial hardships. She couldn’t even attend elementary school, and to this day, she regrets not being able to make a difference in the world through her passions. Watching her sacrifice so much, while we struggled to make ends meet, inspired me to take a different path. I knew I had to become someone who could make a difference, both for my family and for others who have been silenced or shut out by circumstances beyond their control. I nearly lost sight of my dreams because I needed to find a job to support my mother and younger brother. But despite the financial challenges, I never lost my kindness toward nature, animals, and the sciences. I refuse to let our financial situation define our future. I want to make a difference—not just for myself, but for my family and others who face similar struggles. Recently, life has become even more challenging. My stepdad, who has done nothing wrong, was taken away by the cops because he’s an immigrant, and he’s been in jail for about seven months now. This has left me with the responsibility of being the primary provider, both financially and mentally, for my family. I’m not saying this to vent, but to highlight that everything I do happens for a reason, and these challenges have only strengthened my resolve to push forward and continue my studies. Now, I’ve graduated high school and need just three more classes to earn my associate’s degree, which I’ll complete in one semester. At 18 years old, I’m already working at Valley Regional Hospital as a Patient Care Technician, gaining valuable experience and establishing a foundation for my future. Though things were difficult at first, they’ve gotten better, and my mom is proud of me—but I won’t stop here. I want to study biology, not only to teach at schools and shelters but also to pursue my long-held dream of becoming a veterinarian. I have a friend, Jared, who, despite being in similar circumstances, also wants to take biology to become an aviary vet. I always encourage him not to give up, and he hasn’t. Yet, due to financial challenges, even I sometimes feel like giving up—but I don’t. So again, I’m not afraid to say that the things I’ve been through have had a profound impact on the way I think and approach life. These experiences have shaped my determination and resilience. I’m currently in a school program partnered with the college I’m attending, which has given me incredible opportunities. Thanks to my grades and humility, I was selected to become a tutor at the high school, where I help other students navigate their academic challenges. It’s a role that has allowed me to give back to my community, and it’s one I’m proud of. One of the most amazing experiences I’ve had through this program was being chosen to travel to Washington, D.C., for two weeks. I met congressmen, asked them questions, and toured the city. It was an eye-opening experience that showed me the possibilities that exist beyond my immediate surroundings. These opportunities have made me realize that becoming a person of change doesn’t require wealth or a privileged background. What it truly takes is vigilance, determination, and the drive to achieve what others might see as impossible. This is why studying and pursuing my education in the STEM field means so much to me. Through my work in science or medicine, I aim to break the cycle of poverty that has held my family back for generations. I want to be someone who brings light to those who, like my mother, were once shut out from opportunities due to their financial circumstances. By pursuing a STEM career, I hope to create meaningful change, proving that even in the face of adversity, it’s possible to rise above and make a lasting impact.

There’s something special about gaming with friends and lovers that makes the experience so much richer. What I love most is immersing myself in roleplaying, especially in Minecraft. I use this app called CurseForge that lets me download and install all kinds of mods. For example, I play a horror mod with my friends Gabriel, Maria, and a few others, where we dive into a world of endless terror. We’ve added zombies that take everything to the next level—hunger bars now include thirst and anxiety meters. Scary monsters lurk in the shadows, making every cracked branch send chills down our spines. But it’s not just about survival; sometimes, we mix in romance and slice-of-life scenarios. Imagine this: we’re trapped in a world overrun by zombies, fighting to stay alive. Amid the chaos, two of us find solace in each other, sharing quiet moments that turn into something more. Or, we roleplay a tale of five demon boys sent to Earth to capture humans, but instead, they grow fond of a single girl, creating a romantic and emotional storyline. Other times, we pretend we’re just living ordinary lives—like college students navigating love and heartbreak, or medieval villagers trying to survive both monsters and our own complicated feelings. But even when I'm playing solo, Minecraft is just as fun. There’s something satisfying about having your own survival world, where you don’t have to worry about anyone stealing your diamonds or Netherite armor. I love building secret underground bases, hidden away from prying eyes, and even setting up traps and pranks for when my friends eventually join the world. It’s like having your own little kingdom, where you call the shots and decide what happens next. The best part is that we record these roleplays and turn them into YouTube videos. It’s a way to share our stories with other Minecraft fans who love roleplaying as much as we do. Whether it’s a heart-pounding apocalypse or a tear-jerking romance, we can connect with people all over the world through these videos. While Minecraft offers limitless possibilities, the aspect that resonates most deeply with me is the immersive roleplaying with friends and lovers. Whether we’re surviving a zombie apocalypse or acting out a romantic tale, the creative freedom we share makes the game truly special. Even in solo survival, I find joy in building secret bases and safeguarding my treasures, creating my own little world where anything is possible. Sharing these adventures through YouTube videos adds another layer of excitement, knowing we can inspire and connect with others. Minecraft isn’t just a game—it’s a canvas for endless creativity and meaningful connections.

I’ve tried starting this story a hundred different ways, but nothing seems to capture how I really felt. Growing up, I was the kind of girl people didn’t really notice. I didn’t understand why, and honestly, I still don’t. I even lie to my mom, pretending I have friends and that people talk to me, but deep down, I know that’s not true. Back in elementary school, I was always top of my class. I hadn’t even had my first kiss yet. Everything seemed like it was going in the right direction until I started going to church classes every Wednesday after school. That’s where I met him—a boy whose name I won’t say. I was shy, not much of a talker back then. I had just turned 11 and was getting ready to start junior high. But instead of middle school being a fresh start, it was the beginning of something horrible. It wasn’t the opening of new doors—it was the closing of them. One day, at church, there he was, the boy from my class, who I later learned was much older than me—maybe 5 or 6 years older. He sat next to me and passed me notes with his phone number on them. I didn’t have a phone, so I used my mom’s. I couldn’t borrow it often, but I finally got the courage to send him my first-ever message to a boy. My heart raced—I was nervous but excited. It took him over an hour to reply, and when he did, he called me by my name and told me I was pretty. Soon after, he asked me to be his girlfriend. I didn’t know what to say; it all felt too fast. But I thought he was cute, so I said yes, even though something didn’t feel quite right. I kept my mouth shut about his age, too scared to tell anyone. We started “dating,” but I was too frightened to tell my mom. She didn’t like the idea of me having a boyfriend at my age, which only made me more nervous about the whole thing. The next Wednesday, we started holding hands in secret. I thought it was exciting until my mom found out through one of his friends, Aliyah. She told me he had been acting flirty with her too. My heart sank. This boy, who had told me to push my friends away and only talk to him, was treating me like I didn’t matter. I lost my friends, and a part of myself that I really valued. Then, one day, he told me to leave and never come back. He handed me a box of razor blades and cut off all contact with me. That broke whatever confidence I had left. I’ve felt shut off from the world ever since. Middle school wasn’t the new chapter I thought it would be—it was the start of a nightmare. Instead of finding new friendships and experiences, I found myself losing everything I once held dear. And I had to keep quiet about it all, too afraid of what might happen if I spoke up. A little girl, compared to women online and treated like she didn’t matter—that’s what made me close off from everything. But it also made me determined to change things. I want to go to college to learn how to help people, to make sure no one has to go through what I did. I want to work with and donate to abuse shelters, to make a difference for those who need it most.

Karma, the intricate connection between our actions and the ripple effects they create, unfurls a captivating tale within the rich tapestry of existence. Just as I'm drawn to the enigmatic series "Girl from Nowhere," its intricate portrayal of life's dance intrigues me. Though it might not be everyone's preferred brew of entertainment, every episode is a vivid canvas, painting poignant lessons on the human experience. In the show's inaugural episode, we witness a seemingly innocuous beginning. Two girls, initially friendly, welcome Nanno, a newcomer, into their school. However, beneath the facade of friendliness, the insidious roots of jealousy slowly creep into their hearts. Nanno, quite unwittingly, becomes the object of desire for some wayward young men with intentions darker than a moonless night. These boys are anything but noble, driven by a relentless pursuit of their desires. Enter two more girls, enticed by the prospect of receiving affection from these ill-intentioned boys. It's a grim reminder that popularity can cast a bewitching spell. And as for Nanno, she embodies the very essence of karma – unstoppable, relentless, and enigmatic. Now, let's turn our attention to the night of the ill-fated party, a night cloaked in a deceptive invitation, concealing a sinister agenda. The two girls, torn between hesitation and their desires, tamper with Nanno's drink, leaving her unconscious. What follows is a spine-chilling descent into the abyss of human frailty. Amid Nanno's eerie, menacing laughter, her "friends" recoil in sheer horror. They're compelled to strike her down again and again, grappling with the inexplicable. She becomes the embodiment of their deepest fears, a nightmarish reminder that our actions have a way of returning to haunt us. Back at school, they're drenched in a cold sweat, the weight of their actions etched into their very souls. Nanno materializes in the classroom, her eerie smile casting an enduring shadow over their lives. She's an unsettling reminder that we're forever tethered to the consequences of our dark deeds. What makes this narrative resonate so deeply is its profound reflection of our own lives. We've all stumbled, made mistakes, and faced moments of moral dilemma. But for those who cause harm to the innocent, karma stands vigilant in the wings, ready to mete out retribution. It's an immutable force that transcends the boundaries of life and death, a cosmic reminder that our actions shape our destinies and that the scales of karma are never tipped in our favor without just cause.