As a Chinese American adopted from China into a white American family, I grew up feeling caught between two worlds, never quite belonging to either. From a young age, I stood out in terms of skin color and identity. My parents separated just a few years after my adoption, leaving me to navigate life in a fractured family. My father's side rejected us, deepening my sense of isolation, while my sister quickly found her place. The psychological abuse I experienced during those years made it hard to trust others—or myself. I carried the weight of a history I didn’t understand, unsure of my place in the world. My father’s demanding job as a police officer only added distance. For years, I focused solely on surviving. My struggles were invisible to most, and I learned to mask my pain. I couldn’t articulate my experiences, nor did I have support groups that understood my unique circumstances. Education became my outlet to channel frustrations and dreams. I turned to academics, particularly in engineering and architecture, where I found a way to express creativity, solve problems, and make a difference. My passion for sustainable, inclusive design helped me focus on something greater than myself. Architecture, for me, isn’t just about buildings; it’s about creating spaces where people feel seen, valued, and connected, regardless of their background. Leadership experiences further shaped my aspirations. As co-president of the Engineering Club and Girls Who Code, I worked to create inclusive spaces for underrepresented groups in STEM. Tutoring peers and organizing drives for families in need taught me the power of community and the importance of supporting others during struggles that may echo my own. The lessons from my past fuel my dreams. I aspire to be an architect who designs functional, inclusive buildings that honor diversity and promote sustainability, improving the world for future generations. Equally, I want to mentor and advocate for students from underrepresented backgrounds, helping them see their dreams as achievable and showing them they belong in spaces that may seem out of reach. What drives me is the recognition of how far I’ve come. I’m inspired by the opportunity to make a difference—not just through design but in people’s lives. My experiences have instilled empathy, and I hope to show others that they, too, can overcome barriers and achieve their goals. My ambition is not just about personal success but about uplifting others along the way. I am passionate about realizing these dreams because they allow me to contribute to a future where everyone has the chance to thrive, regardless of their background, appearance, or challenges. This is the legacy I want to leave behind.