"Man is by nature a political animal; and he who by nature and not by mere accident is without a state, is either above humanity, or below it. Society is something that precedes the individual. Anyone who either cannot lead the common life or is so self-sufficient as not to need to, and therefore does not partake of society, is either a beast or a god." - Aristotle, Politics, Book I Aristotle's claim that human beings are "political animals" is often interpreted as a simple observation that people live in governments and societies. However, the deeper meaning of this passage is not primarily about politics in the modern sense. Rather, Aristotle argues that human flourishing is fundamentally dependent upon participation in a community. His central claim is that isolation is contrary to human nature because individuals develop their identities, values, and sense of purpose through relationships with others. By describing those who exist outside society as either "a beast or a god," Aristotle establishes that ordinary human life is defined not by independence, but by interdependence. The most revealing phrase in the passage is Aristotle's assertion that "society is something that precedes the individual." At first glance, this statement appears false. Individuals are born before they become members of a community. Yet Aristotle is speaking philosophically rather than chronologically. He means that the structures that make meaningful human life possible, language, culture, laws, customs, and moral values, already exist before any individual enters the world. A person does not invent language or morality independently. Instead, they inherit them from a community. The individual therefore emerges from society rather than society emerging from the individual. This interpretation becomes clearer when Aristotle contrasts human beings with beasts and gods. The comparison is not intended as an insult but as a logical argument. A beast lacks the rational capacities necessary for civic life and therefore exists outside human society. A god, by contrast, possesses complete self-sufficiency and requires nothing from others. Human beings occupy neither condition. We depend upon one another materially, emotionally, intellectually, and morally. Aristotle suggests that the desire for connection is not merely convenient but essential to human nature itself. To reject community is therefore to reject something fundamental about what it means to be human. The passage also contains an important moral argument about responsibility. If humans are naturally social creatures, then participation in communal life becomes an ethical obligation rather than a personal preference. Aristotle's language implies that individuals have duties to contribute to the well-being of the larger community because their own flourishing is inseparable from the flourishing of others. Human fulfillment cannot be achieved solely through private success. Wealth, talent, and achievement have limited value if they are disconnected from the common good. This insight remains remarkably relevant in contemporary society. Modern culture often celebrates independence and self-reliance as the highest forms of achievement. Success is frequently measured by personal accomplishments rather than contributions to a community. Yet many of today's most significant challenges, loneliness, social isolation, and declining civic engagement, suggest the limitations of extreme individualism. Aristotle's passage challenges the assumption that fulfillment comes primarily from personal advancement. Instead, he argues that meaning emerges through participation in relationships and shared institutions. The passage is particularly significant because Aristotle does not merely describe a practical need for cooperation. He presents community as an essential component of human identity itself. Human beings are not isolated individuals who occasionally interact with others; they are social creatures whose humanity is expressed through those interactions. The community is not external to the individual but constitutive of who the individual becomes. Ultimately, the underlying meaning of this passage is that human flourishing depends upon belonging. Aristotle argues that people discover purpose, cultivate virtue, and develop their capacities through participation in communal life. His distinction between humans, beasts, and gods reveals that ordinary human existence is defined by mutual dependence rather than self-sufficiency. Far from limiting individual freedom, community provides the foundation that makes meaningful freedom possible. The passage therefore serves as a powerful reminder that our greatest achievements are rarely accomplished alone and that a fully human life is inseparable from the communities to which we belong.

As a student, mental health is important to me because it affects every aspect of a person's ability to learn, grow, and reach their potential. Academic success is often measured through grades, internships, and accomplishments, but behind every achievement is a person whose well-being influences their capacity to succeed. Throughout college, I have witnessed the pressures students face as they balance coursework, finances, careers, relationships, and uncertainty about the future. These challenges can take a significant toll on mental health, and I believe that creating supportive communities is just as important as providing educational opportunities. Mental health should not be viewed as separate from success, it is a fundamental part of it. My interest in mental health advocacy has grown through my experiences as an architecture student. While many people think of architecture as simply designing buildings, I have come to understand that architecture is ultimately about designing environments for people. The spaces we inhabit influence our daily lives in ways we often do not recognize. Access to natural light, green spaces, walkable neighborhoods, community gathering areas, and safe public environments can all affect a person's sense of well-being and belonging. Conversely, isolation, lack of public space, and poorly designed environments can contribute to stress, loneliness, and disconnection. Through my studies, I have become increasingly interested in the relationship between the built environment, social justice, and mental health. One of the most important ways I advocate for mental health is by promoting connection and inclusivity within my own communities. Whether through my architecture program, collegiate sailing team, volunteer experiences, or friendships, I strive to create spaces where people feel comfortable asking for help and sharing their experiences. Mental health challenges often become more difficult when individuals feel isolated or misunderstood. Something as simple as checking in on a classmate during a stressful project, listening without judgment, or encouraging someone to seek support can make a meaningful difference. I have learned that advocacy does not always require large-scale initiatives; it often begins with creating a culture of empathy and understanding in everyday interactions. Looking ahead, I hope to advocate for mental health through my career as an architect. My long-term goal is to design communities that foster social connection and improve quality of life. I am particularly interested in creating walkable, human-centered environments that encourage people to interact with one another and engage with their communities. Research consistently shows that loneliness and social isolation can negatively affect mental health, yet many modern developments unintentionally separate people from one another. Through thoughtful urban design, accessible public spaces, and community-focused architecture, I hope to help address these challenges. I believe architects have a responsibility not only to create functional buildings but also to design environments that support human well-being. Mental health is important to me because every person deserves the opportunity to thrive, not just survive. By fostering empathy within my community today and pursuing a career dedicated to creating healthier, more connected environments tomorrow, I hope to contribute to a future where mental health is prioritized, understood, and supported. Through both my actions and my professional aspirations, I am committed to helping create communities that empower people to live healthier, happier, and more connected lives.

When I think about selflessness, I do not think about grand gestures or extraordinary acts of heroism. I think about showing up for others consistently, even when there is no recognition attached to it. Throughout my life, I have learned that some of the most meaningful ways to help people come through listening, offering support, and using my time and abilities to make someone else's life a little easier. Whether through volunteering, teamwork, or helping those around me succeed, I strive to embody selflessness by focusing on the needs of others and contributing to my community whenever I can. One of the most impactful ways I have helped others has been through volunteer work. During my time volunteering on farms in Northern California, Southern California, and along the Oregon coast, I worked alongside people from a wide variety of backgrounds and circumstances. These experiences were not simply about completing physical labor; they were opportunities to contribute to communities that relied on cooperation and shared responsibility. Whether caring for animals, harvesting crops, or assisting with daily operations, every task contributed to a larger purpose. Through these experiences, I learned that helping others often requires humility and a willingness to do work that may go unnoticed but is essential to supporting a community. I have also found opportunities to serve others through my education and extracurricular activities. As an architecture student, I frequently collaborate with classmates on complex projects that require teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. I enjoy helping peers understand challenging concepts, reviewing designs, and sharing skills that I have developed through coursework and internships. Architecture can be demanding, and I know firsthand how valuable encouragement and guidance can be during stressful periods. Rather than viewing success as a competition, I believe that helping others grow ultimately strengthens the entire community. Some of my most rewarding experiences have come from seeing classmates gain confidence in their work after receiving support and encouragement. My experience on my collegiate sailing team has further reinforced the importance of selflessness. Sailing is a sport that depends on trust and teamwork. Success is rarely the result of one individual's efforts; it comes from people working together toward a common goal. On the water, I have learned to prioritize the needs of my teammates, communicate effectively, and remain dependable even in difficult conditions. Supporting others often means putting aside personal recognition in favor of what is best for the team. These lessons have carried into other areas of my life and have shaped the way I approach relationships and leadership. Selflessness is closely connected to perseverance because helping others requires a long-term commitment. The challenges facing our communities are not solved through a single act of service but through consistent effort over time. As I pursue a career in architecture, I hope to continue serving others by designing spaces that strengthen communities and improve quality of life. Whether through volunteer work, mentorship, teamwork, or future professional contributions, I want to use my skills to make a positive difference. I believe that selflessness is not defined by one moment but by a lifetime of choosing to contribute to something larger than yourself, and that is a principle I will continue to carry with me throughout my education, career, and life.

I do not believe I deserve this scholarship because I am more talented or more worthy than the other students applying. Many applicants have worked incredibly hard to reach this point. What sets me apart is the way I have combined my experiences, education, and passions into a clear vision for how I hope to contribute to the world. As an architecture student at the University of Oregon, I have maintained a strong academic record while balancing collegiate sailing, internships, employment, and volunteer experiences. However, my greatest advantage is not my GPA or resume, it is my curiosity. I am constantly asking questions about how people interact with the spaces around them and how thoughtful design can improve everyday life. Whether I am studying urban design, exploring a new city, volunteering on a farm, or sailing in unfamiliar conditions, I am always looking for opportunities to learn from the world around me. That curiosity has shaped the way I approach challenges and has given me a deeper understanding of the communities I hope to serve through my future career. My experiences have also taught me the value of adaptability and perseverance. Through internships in architecture, I have learned how to collaborate with professionals, solve complex design problems, and accept constructive criticism. Through sailing, I have developed leadership skills, resilience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. Through travel and volunteer work, I have gained exposure to different perspectives and ways of life. Each of these experiences has expanded my understanding of what it means to create meaningful change. Rather than viewing education as a checklist of accomplishments, I see it as a tool that will allow me to make a tangible impact on the people and places around me. Looking ahead, my goal is to design environments that strengthen communities and improve quality of life. I am particularly interested in creating walkable, human-centered spaces that encourage connection and foster a sense of belonging. The challenges facing our communities today, from social isolation to unsustainable development, require thoughtful and creative solutions. I hope to use my education to address those challenges through architecture and urban design. This scholarship would not simply support my education; it would support the work I hope to do long after graduation. My advantage is not that I have already achieved my goals, but that I have a clear sense of purpose, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to using my education to serve others. I am determined to make the most of every opportunity I am given, and I believe this scholarship would help me continue building the knowledge and experience necessary to make a meaningful difference in the world.

I have always been fascinated by the way places shape people. Some spaces invite conversation, connection, and a sense of belonging, while others are designed simply to move people from one destination to another. Through my experiences studying architecture, traveling, volunteering on farms, and observing communities around the world, I have come to believe that the built environment has a profound impact on quality of life. As a future architect, I plan to make a positive impact on the world by designing spaces that strengthen communities, encourage human connection, and improve the everyday experiences of the people who use them. My interest in community-centered design developed long before I entered architecture school. Growing up in Austin, I spent countless hours exploring parks, trails, and public gathering spaces. I watched families picnic together, children play freely, and neighbors connect through shared experiences. As I traveled and volunteered on farms in California, Oregon, and Northern California, I gained a deeper appreciation for the ways different communities are shaped by their environments. These experiences taught me that successful places are not defined by impressive buildings alone, but by the opportunities they create for people to interact, learn from one another, and build meaningful relationships. As an architecture student at the University of Oregon, I have become increasingly interested in how thoughtful design can address larger social challenges. Many communities today struggle with isolation, a lack of affordable public spaces, and environments that prioritize cars over people. Through my academic projects, I have explored concepts such as walkability, human-scale design, and the creation of "third places,” spaces outside of home and work where people can gather and form connections. I hope to continue researching and implementing design strategies that make communities more inclusive, accessible, and welcoming for people of all ages and backgrounds. My commitment to service extends beyond my future career. Throughout my life, I have sought opportunities to contribute to the communities around me through volunteer work, mentorship, and collaboration. These experiences have taught me that meaningful change often begins with small actions. Whether helping classmates, volunteering my time, or supporting community initiatives, I have learned that positive impact is built through consistency and genuine care for others. I believe the same principle applies to architecture: small design decisions can profoundly influence how people experience their daily lives. Looking ahead, I hope to use my education and career to create places that bring people together and improve community well-being. While architecture may not solve every problem, it has the power to foster connection, promote accessibility, and create opportunities for people to thrive. My goal is to design environments that leave communities stronger than I found them. By combining creativity, service, and a commitment to improving the human experience, I hope to make a lasting positive impact on the world, one thoughtfully designed space at a time.

Faith has never been something that appeared in my life through one defining moment. Instead, it has been a quiet and consistent presence, shaping the way I view challenges, opportunities, and my purpose. Throughout my life, my faith has provided me with a sense of direction and confidence, especially during times of uncertainty. Whether I am navigating the demands of college, competing on my university's sailing team, or planning for my future career, I have found comfort in trusting that God has a purpose for each season of my life. My faith reminds me that my worth is not determined by achievements alone, but by the character I develop and the impact I have on others. One of the greatest lessons my faith has taught me is perseverance. As an architecture student, I have spent countless hours revising designs, solving complex problems, and pushing through projects that seemed impossible at first. There have been moments when I questioned my abilities or worried about the future, but my faith has encouraged me to keep moving forward. Rather than viewing obstacles as signs that I should give up, I have learned to see them as opportunities for growth. Faith has given me the confidence to take risks, trust the process, and remain hopeful even when outcomes are uncertain. It has also taught me humility—the understanding that success is not achieved alone and that every opportunity I receive is a chance to learn, serve, and improve. My faith has also shaped the way I interact with other people. Through experiences in school, athletics, volunteer work, and travel, I have met individuals from many different backgrounds and walks of life. These experiences have reinforced my belief that every person deserves dignity, kindness, and respect. Faith challenges me to lead with compassion, listen before judging, and consider how my actions affect those around me. In a world that often prioritizes personal success above all else, my faith reminds me that true success is measured by integrity, service, and the positive influence we have on our communities. As I pursue a career in architecture, I believe my faith will continue to guide both my decisions and my goals. Architecture is ultimately about people. The spaces we create influence how individuals live, work, learn, and connect with one another. I hope to design environments that improve quality of life and strengthen communities. My faith will help me approach that responsibility with integrity, ensuring that I prioritize people over profit and long-term impact over short-term gain. It will also remind me to remain grateful, humble, and committed to serving others through my work. Just as this scholarship honors individuals whose hard work and values guided their success, I hope to build a career rooted in both ambition and faith. No matter where my professional journey leads, I want my accomplishments to reflect not only what I achieved, but also the principles and character that guided me along the way.

Growing up, I rarely questioned whether certain fields were considered "male-dominated." I simply pursued the things that interested me. It was not until I became more involved in architecture and collegiate sailing that I began to recognize how few women occupied leadership positions in those spaces. Rather than discouraging me, that realization motivated me to work harder, speak up more often, and demonstrate that women belong wherever their passions lead them. My impact on women's empowerment comes not from a single achievement, but from consistently showing younger women and my peers that they do not need to limit themselves based on outdated expectations. By choosing to pursue opportunities that challenge me and by remaining confident in my abilities, I hope to encourage other women to trust themselves and pursue their goals, even when they find themselves in environments where they are underrepresented. As an architecture student, I have learned the importance of representation in shaping future generations. Architecture has historically been dominated by men, yet the built environment affects everyone. Through my academic work, internships, and collaborative projects, I strive to contribute my perspective and encourage other women to pursue design-related careers. During my studies, I have maintained a strong academic record while balancing extracurricular commitments and professional experience, proving to myself that I am capable of succeeding in a demanding field. I believe that diverse voices create better solutions, and I hope to help build a profession where women feel confident sharing their ideas and taking on leadership roles. Whether through helping classmates, participating in design critiques, or working alongside professionals in the industry, I aim to demonstrate that women have valuable perspectives that deserve to be heard and implemented. My experience as a member of a collegiate sailing team has further strengthened my commitment to women's empowerment. Sailing requires confidence, resilience, and the willingness to make decisions under pressure. As a woman competing in a physically and mentally demanding sport, I have learned to trust my instincts, communicate effectively, and embrace challenges that initially seem intimidating. By competing alongside talented athletes and supporting my teammates, I have learned that leadership is often demonstrated through consistency, encouragement, and example. Some of the most influential women in my life have shown me that strength is not about being fearless, but about moving forward despite uncertainty. I hope to embody that lesson for others. When younger women see someone like them succeeding in challenging environments, it becomes easier for them to envision themselves doing the same. Looking ahead, I hope to continue empowering women through my career in architecture by mentoring students, advocating for inclusive opportunities, and helping create environments where everyone feels welcome to contribute. Women's empowerment is not only about breaking barriers for ourselves, it is about making those barriers easier for the next generation to overcome. As architects, we have the ability to shape spaces that influence how people interact with the world, and I hope to use that responsibility to create communities that are welcoming, accessible, and inclusive. Through my work, leadership, and everyday actions, I hope to help create a future where women are encouraged to pursue ambitious goals without hesitation. If my journey encourages even one young woman to raise her hand, share her ideas, or pursue a path she once thought was out of reach, then I will know I have made a meaningful contribution to women's empowerment.

I grew up in Austin, Texas, in a family that encouraged me to be curious, independent, and hardworking. My parents taught me that success is not measured solely by achievements, but by how you use your talents to contribute to something larger than yourself. Those values have guided me throughout my life and continue to shape my goals for the future. Today, I am a junior at the University of Oregon pursuing a degree in architecture. I chose architecture because it combines many of the things I love most: creativity, problem-solving, art, engineering, and community impact. What began as an interest in design has evolved into a passion for understanding how the spaces around us influence the way we live, interact, and experience the world. I am particularly interested in urban design and creating places that foster connection, accessibility, and a sense of belonging. One of the most meaningful parts of my college experience has been competing on the University of Oregon Sailing Team. Sailing has taught me lessons that extend far beyond athletics. Success on the water requires teamwork, adaptability, communication, and resilience. Weather conditions can change in an instant, and there are many factors outside of your control. Sailing has taught me to remain calm under pressure, trust my teammates, and find solutions when challenges arise. These lessons have strengthened my confidence and shaped the way I approach both academics and life. In addition to my studies and athletics, I enjoy traveling and exploring new places. Through volunteer experiences on farms, adventures throughout the western United States, and opportunities to experience different communities, I have gained a deeper appreciation for the diverse ways people live and connect with one another. These experiences have broadened my perspective and reinforced my belief that thoughtful design can improve people's daily lives. Professionally, I have been fortunate to gain experience through an architecture internship, where I worked alongside architects and designers on real-world projects. Seeing the impact that thoughtful planning and design can have on communities confirmed that I am pursuing the right path. After graduation, I hope to build a career focused on designing places that bring people together. As cities continue to grow, I believe there is a need for more human-centered spaces that encourage interaction, strengthen communities, and improve quality of life. Whether designing public spaces, mixed-use developments, parks, or community-centered neighborhoods, I want my work to create meaningful experiences for the people who use those spaces every day. My experiences as a student, athlete, traveler, and aspiring architect have taught me that growth comes from embracing challenges and remaining open to new perspectives. I am excited to continue learning, developing my skills, and using my education to make a positive impact. Through architecture, I hope to help create communities where people feel connected, inspired, and empowered to thrive.

The spaces we inhabit shape the lives we live. I did not always understand this. Growing up in Austin, Texas, I simply enjoyed the parks, trails, and gathering places that brought people together. It wasn't until I began studying architecture that I realized these experiences were not accidental. Someone had thoughtfully designed them. The placement of a bench, the shade of a tree, the width of a sidewalk, and the openness of a public square all influence how people interact with one another and experience their communities. Today, I am a junior architecture student at the University of Oregon, where I have developed a passion for designing places that foster connection, belonging, and opportunity. My education has taught me that architecture is about much more than buildings. It is about creating environments that improve people's daily lives. Outside of the classroom, I am a member of the University of Oregon Sailing Team, where I have learned perseverance, teamwork, and adaptability. Sailing has taught me that success is rarely about controlling circumstances; it is about learning how to navigate challenges with resilience and purpose. These lessons have shaped how I approach both design and life. My experiences traveling and volunteering have also influenced my perspective. Whether working on farms, exploring new cities, or engaging with different communities, I have seen firsthand how the built environment affects people's quality of life. Some places invite interaction and create a sense of belonging. Others unintentionally isolate people. These observations have strengthened my belief that thoughtful design can be a powerful tool for positive change. Through my career, I hope to address a problem that often goes unnoticed: the growing lack of spaces that encourage human connection. As cities expand and development accelerates, many communities lose the public spaces that allow neighbors to meet, children to play, and people from different backgrounds to interact. I want to design places that bring people together rather than push them apart. My goal is to work in architecture and urban design, creating vibrant, human-centered communities that prioritize accessibility, sustainability, and social connection. I am particularly interested in designing public spaces, mixed-use developments, and neighborhood environments that make people feel welcome and engaged. The positive impact I hope to make is not measured by the number of buildings I design, but by the lives those spaces improve. If a project helps a child feel safe walking to school, gives a community a place to gather, or creates opportunities for meaningful connections, then I will have succeeded. I believe the world's biggest challenges require both creativity and compassion. Through architecture, I hope to combine both to design spaces that help people thrive.

I notice empty spaces where community should exist. Most people walk past vacant lots, oversized parking lots, and wide roads without thinking twice. I see missed opportunities. As an architecture student, I've learned that the places we build shape the lives we live. When a city lacks welcoming public spaces, people don't just lose a place to sit, they lose opportunities to connect, belong, and build relationships. Growing up in Austin and now attending college in Oregon, I've watched communities change rapidly. New buildings appear, populations grow, and development moves quickly. Yet many of these spaces are designed for efficiency rather than human connection. We prioritize moving cars through cities instead of creating places where people can slow down, interact, and feel part of something larger than themselves. What many people don't notice is how loneliness can be designed into a place. A street without shade discourages walking. A neighborhood without gathering spaces limits spontaneous interactions. A city without inviting public areas makes it harder for people from different backgrounds to meet one another. If I had the resources to act, I would invest in creating small-scale community spaces that bring people together in everyday life. Instead of focusing solely on large landmark projects, I would transform underutilized spaces into neighborhood gathering places with seating, greenery, local art, and flexible areas for events and activities. I believe meaningful change often begins at the human scale. This issue matters to me because I have experienced the power of community firsthand. Through architecture, sailing, volunteering, and travel, I have seen how shared spaces foster friendships, creativity, and support networks. The best places are not defined by their buildings alone but by the connections they inspire. My goal as a future architect is not simply to design structures. It is to create environments where people feel welcome, connected, and valued. While others may see an empty lot or a forgotten corner, I see the possibility for a stronger community. That's a problem I refuse to walk past.

It wasn’t until I was met with the enchanting structures of New Orleans that I knew my mind was compelled by architecture. I was in awe walking past every building, their daunting dramatic structures, with each facade a unique welcome, intricate filigree lining the balconies, and ornate corbels supporting each roof. It felt honorable to experience a place with such rich history and culture displayed through its architecture. This experience sparked my passion for architecture as I aspire to design impactful structures that cause one to resonate with their surroundings, as I did with New Orleans. This interest did not fade with time and if anything only grew stronger. Upon researching various architecture programs, the University of Oregon immediately caught my eye, and it was not just a result of the bright green and yellow colors that envelop the website. The program’s focus on the design goals of each student, whether they be environmental, social, or cultural is important to me because I believe it is necessary to express individuality through design. I admire the program’s focus on innovative design, as with the current challenges facing society, whether they are environmental, political, or economic, innovation is more critical now than ever. As a community, we can collaborate to develop creative solutions that combat these issues. All change has occurred by taking on creative attempts at problem-solving. Innovation: The power to see things differently. For as long as I can remember I have been an innovator. From age six I was finding a new way to stack blocks to build a tower that won't collapse, and now I am creating architectural solutions to combat environmental issues in my spare time. Innovation is in my blood, running through my veins, each of which contains the answer to a new problem. To be an architect is to be an innovator. The primary attributes of an innovator are creativity, critical-thinking skills, and passion for change. I have recently come to recognize that these are some of the most profound traits that shape my identity. My creativity is enhanced through my interest in the arts, ranging from studio art, to the culinary arts, and even music. My diverse array of interests outlines my creative perspective as I enjoy partaking in activities that allow me to challenge my mind. Aiding in my innovative abilities, my optimistic outlook, when faced with setbacks, allows me to focus solely on the solution rather than dwell in failure. The power to innovate is the power to change. I plan to implement more sustainable practices in the architecture field and contribute to the restoration of our environment. Innovation resonates with me because it allows me to take action on the issues I am passionate about.

From the ripe age of 9 years old, my first day of elementary school, I looked around as I observed all the uniform characteristics of the “popular” girls. In my young mind I believed that if I were to adopt their traits, I too would be a part of their group, which at the time was my most urgent priority. Fast forward 5 years to my freshman year of highschool where I had no friends attending the same school as me, a lone tree in a vast plain, I was tempted to fall into the trap of putting on and act and pretending to be someone I’m not, in order to achieve “popularity.” However, something clicked in my mind and I, in fact, exhibited the opposite behavior, acting as my complete, weird, funny, and kind self. Discovering my sense of self and individual identity brought me to find the best friends I could possibly have, who excepted me for who I am. Learning to express my identity has played a significant role in my quality of life as I am able to focus my attention to true goals and be content with my life.