Moving forward without a strong support system is something I deeply relate to in Malgorzata “Maggie” Kwiecien’s story. While I did not move to the United States alone, I understand what it feels like to depend on your own determination and push forward even when things feel uncertain. My journey into mechanical engineering has not been easy, and many of the challenges I have faced required the same kind of resilience and courage that Maggie demonstrated throughout her life. As a minority woman in engineering, I have often been one of the only women in my classes. I still remember walking into my first statics course and noticing how few people looked like me. It was intimidating, and at times I questioned whether I truly belonged there. When I struggled with concepts or didn’t perform as well as I hoped on exams, it felt easy to doubt myself. But instead of walking away, I kept showing up. I studied harder, asked questions, and forced myself to stay in rooms where I initially felt uncomfortable. That experience taught me that confidence is built, not given. Like Maggie, I have had to rely on myself to keep going, especially while balancing work and school. I work as a nail technician while pursuing my degree, which means long days that don’t always leave much time to rest. There have been nights where I left work exhausted and still had to complete assignments or prepare for exams. Managing both responsibilities has been challenging, but it has also strengthened my discipline and time management. It has shown me that I am capable of handling pressure and still moving forward. I also connect strongly with Maggie’s intellectual boldness. She was not afraid to challenge herself, and that is something I have had to learn. Engineering courses like physics, dynamics, and electrical engineering have pushed me beyond what I thought I could handle. Instead of avoiding difficulty, I have learned to face it directly. I no longer see struggle as failure, but as part of the process of becoming better. Another way I relate to Maggie is her desire to grow and become an expert in her field. I do not want to just graduate, I want to truly understand engineering and apply it in meaningful ways. Through my projects and coursework, I have started to see how engineering can solve real-world problems, and that motivates me to keep improving. Maggie’s story reminds me that strength is not just about where you start, but how you continue. She built her life through determination, and that is something I strive to do every day. I may not have taken the same path as her, but I share her persistence, her work ethic, and her willingness to face challenges head-on. Her legacy inspires me to keep pushing forward, even when things are difficult. I am committed to building a future in engineering where I not only succeed, but also represent others who may feel like they do not belong. Like Maggie, I am determined to create my own path through resilience, ambition, and courage.

Growing up as a minority woman in South Carolina, I did not often see people who looked like me in STEM fields. Engineering, in particular, felt like a space where I would have to prove myself more than others. Instead of discouraging me, that realization became one of the main reasons I chose to pursue mechanical engineering. Throughout my academic journey, I have often found myself as one of the only women and sometimes the only minority in my classes. At first, this was intimidating. There were moments where I questioned whether I truly belonged, especially in challenging courses like physics, statics, and electrical engineering. These subjects pushed me far outside of my comfort zone, and at times, I struggled to keep up. However, those experiences forced me to develop resilience, discipline, and confidence in my ability to learn difficult material. Being underrepresented has made me more aware of the importance of visibility. When you do not see people like yourself in a field, it can be easy to feel like you are not meant to be there. I realized that by continuing in engineering, I could become part of the representation that is currently missing. I want younger girls, especially those from minority backgrounds, to see someone like me and believe that they can succeed in STEM too. In addition to academic challenges, balancing financial responsibilities and school has also shaped my journey. Working while studying engineering has required strong time management and determination. There have been moments where the stress of finances and coursework felt overwhelming, but those obstacles have strengthened my work ethic and reinforced my commitment to my goals. My passion for engineering comes from my desire to create practical solutions that improve people’s lives. Through my coursework and projects, I have developed skills in design, problem-solving, and critical thinking. One of my goals is to work in an engineering role where I can contribute to real-world innovations while continuing to grow professionally. I am particularly interested in opportunities that allow me to work on projects that have a meaningful impact on communities. Looking toward the future, I want to do more than just succeed in my own career. I want to help others along the way. I plan to mentor younger students, especially women and minorities, who are interested in STEM but may feel unsure about pursuing it. Whether through tutoring, mentorship programs, or simply sharing my experiences, I hope to provide the encouragement and guidance that I once needed myself. Receiving this scholarship would not only ease the financial burden of my education, but it would also serve as a reminder that my journey matters. It would allow me to focus more on my studies and continue pushing forward in a field where diversity is still growing. My experiences as a minority woman have not limited me, they have shaped my strength, my ambition, and my purpose. I am determined to use my education in STEM not only to build a successful career, but also to help create a more inclusive and supportive environment for future generations.

I love math because it’s one of the few things in my life that actually feels steady. When everything else gets stressful or confusing, math is the one place where the rules don’t switch up on me. If I follow the steps and stay patient, I’ll get the answer. I like that consistency. It makes me feel grounded. Math also gives me this rush when something finally clicks. I can be stuck for a while thinking I’m doing everything wrong, and then out of nowhere it makes sense. That moment honestly feels so good. It makes me proud of myself, like, “okay, I really figured that out.” Math has helped me trust my own mind. Another big reason I love math is because English is my second language. Living in the U.S., there are moments where I feel unsure or misunderstood, or I have to think twice before saying something. But with math, I don’t feel that pressure. Numbers don’t care about accents, grammar, or how you grew up. Math is universal. It gives me confidence when language feels like a barrier. It’s something I can rely on no matter where I am. I also love knowing that math connects directly to the future I want. Engineering is basically math turned into real life — buildings, machines, energy, design, all of it. So when I’m learning math, it doesn’t feel random. It feels like I’m preparing myself for the career and life I’m working so hard for. But the biggest reason I love math is how it’s shaped the way I deal with challenges. Math taught me patience, discipline, and not giving up the second something gets hard. Every tough problem I get through reminds me that I can handle things, even when I doubt myself at first. Math makes me feel strong. It helps me navigate school, my goals, and even life in a country where English isn’t my first language. And that’s why I love it — it keeps me steady, focused, and confident in who I’m becoming.

I was one month old when my mother left me in Guatemala. My grandparents—two humble, hardworking souls—became my world. My grandfather spent his days doing labor jobs, and my grandmother cared for me with the little we had. They raised me with love, discipline, and the belief that education could be the bridge to a better life. Our home didn’t have much, but it was filled with warmth and hope. Growing up, I watched my grandfather return home exhausted but still smiling, and my grandmother stretching every penny to make sure I had what I needed for school. They couldn’t give me material things, but they gave me something far more valuable—a sense of purpose. I learned that even when life is difficult, perseverance can turn struggle into strength. As a child, I was always curious about how things worked. I would take apart broken fans or radios, amazed by the pieces inside. That curiosity, nurtured by my grandparents’ encouragement, slowly grew into a love for engineering before I even knew what engineering truly was. When I moved to the United States, everything changed. I didn’t speak English, I didn’t understand the culture, and I felt like an outsider in a world that moved faster than I could keep up with. I remember sitting in my first high school class, pretending to understand the lesson while quietly writing down words to translate later. There were moments when I wanted to give up, but I kept thinking of my grandparents—how hard they had worked, and how much they had sacrificed for me to have this opportunity. Being a first-generation immigrant student means figuring things out alone—college applications, financial aid, and navigating a system no one in my family had ever experienced. It was overwhelming at times, but it also made me stronger and more independent. I learned to ask questions, seek mentors, and believe in myself even when I felt out of place. Every challenge became a reminder of why I started this journey—to honor my grandparents’ sacrifices and to create a life where their struggles wouldn’t be in vain. Now, as a mechanical engineering student, I see the value of every obstacle I’ve faced. The language barrier taught me resilience. The cultural differences taught me adaptability. And my upbringing taught me empathy—an understanding that not everyone begins with the same opportunities. In my field, I hope to use that empathy to design solutions that help underserved communities. My goal is to work in sustainable energy and product design, creating technologies that make life more affordable and accessible in developing areas like the one I came from. My dream is to become more than an engineer—I want to be a role model for other first-generation students, especially young women who doubt whether they belong in STEM. I know what it’s like to feel unseen or underestimated, but I also know the power of perseverance and faith. My grandparents taught me that love and hard work can overcome anything. Their lessons travel with me every day—through long study nights, through failures, and through every new opportunity. They couldn’t read blueprints or equations, but they built the foundation of my life with their hands and hearts. I may have entered higher education as an outsider, but I carry with me the strength of two people who never stopped believing in me. My grandparents’ sacrifices have shaped my purpose—to build, to create, and to open doors for others who come from humble beginnings like mine. I am proud of where I come from, and I am determined to use my education to give back to the communities that raised me.

To me, the American dream isn’t about wealth or perfection — it’s about opportunity, perseverance, and the belief that hard work can transform your life. It’s the idea that no matter where you come from, you can build a future through dedication, courage, and faith. As someone who came from a Guatemalan background and grew up between two cultures, I’ve learned that the American dream is not handed to anyone — it’s built, piece by piece, through sacrifice and determination. When my family came to the United States, they carried little more than hope. They worked hard so I could have the chance to study, dream bigger, and create a better life. Growing up, I saw firsthand how much they gave up to provide stability. That inspired me to pursue education not only for myself but as a way to honor their sacrifices. I realized early on that my dream wasn’t just mine — it was our family’s dream, carried across borders and built on love and resilience. For me, the American dream means being able to chase an education that would have been nearly impossible back home. As a mechanical engineering student, I’m pursuing a field that allows me to combine creativity, logic, and innovation to solve real-world problems. I want to design solutions that make life better for others — whether it’s through sustainable systems, renewable energy, or technology that helps communities grow. Every time I walk into a lab or classroom, I’m reminded that I’m living the dream my parents once only imagined. But the path hasn’t been easy. As a non-citizen and first-generation student, I’ve faced challenges that go beyond academics. There have been moments when financial strain, uncertainty, and self-doubt felt overwhelming. Still, I’ve learned that resilience is part of the American dream too — it’s what keeps you standing when the odds are stacked against you. I’ve had to work while studying full-time, learn how to navigate college systems on my own, and stay motivated even when doors seemed closed. Through every struggle, I’ve found strength in knowing that giving up would mean letting go of everything my family fought for. The American dream, to me, isn’t just about success — it’s about progress. It’s the ability to grow, to contribute, and to make something meaningful out of the opportunities given to you. I see it as a shared promise: that if you put in the work, believe in yourself, and stay kind through the journey, you can create change not just for yourself, but for those who come after you. My dream goes beyond earning a degree; it’s about using what I learn to make a difference. One day, I hope to take my engineering knowledge and give back to both the U.S. and Guatemala — by creating sustainable projects, supporting underrepresented students in STEM, and helping communities access better technology. That, to me, is the true heart of the American dream: using your blessings to lift others. I may not have been born in this country, but I carry the same belief that defines the American spirit — that through hard work and perseverance, dreams can become reality. Every challenge I’ve faced has shaped me into someone stronger, more grateful, and more determined to keep moving forward. My version of the American dream isn’t about reaching the top alone — it’s about climbing with purpose and extending a hand to help others rise, too.

As someone with roots in Guatemala, I’ve always felt a strong connection to my culture and the people who make it so rich and vibrant. At the same time, I’ve also seen the challenges that many communities face — limited access to quality education, reliable infrastructure, and sustainable technology. These realities have shaped my goals and inspired me to use my education in mechanical engineering to make a positive impact in my home country. Coming from a first-generation background, I understand how powerful education can be. It’s not just a way to build a career; it’s a way to open doors that generations before me didn’t have. I’ve been fortunate to study engineering in the United States, where I’ve had access to advanced tools, research opportunities, and mentors who have encouraged me to think beyond borders. But I’ve always known that my success means more when I can use it to give back — especially to the place that helped shape who I am. My long-term goal is to contribute to engineering projects that improve infrastructure and promote sustainability in Guatemala. Many rural areas still struggle with access to clean water, energy, and efficient transportation systems. I want to be part of developing solutions that are affordable, durable, and designed with local needs in mind. Whether that means creating energy-efficient systems, supporting renewable power projects, or helping train young engineers, I want my work to have a direct, meaningful impact on people’s daily lives. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned as an engineering student is that problem-solving goes beyond equations — it requires empathy and understanding. I believe that by combining technical skills with cultural awareness, I can help create solutions that actually work for the people they’re meant to serve. My experience with research and projects, like using drone technology to detect environmental waste, has shown me how innovation can be used to address real-world problems. I hope to one day bring that same mindset to projects in Guatemala that focus on sustainability and accessibility. Beyond technical contributions, I also hope to inspire and mentor other young women and first-generation students in STEM. Representation matters, and I know how powerful it can be to see someone from a similar background achieve their goals. I want to help build programs or partnerships that encourage students in Guatemala to explore engineering, especially girls who might not see themselves in these fields yet. If I can help even a few young people realize that their dreams are possible, it will be one of my greatest accomplishments. Receiving an education in the United States has changed my life, but I see it as a responsibility as much as an opportunity. The knowledge and experiences I’m gaining are tools — not just for personal growth, but for community impact. My vision is to return home equipped with the skills, confidence, and compassion to contribute to projects that create lasting change. I want to build more than machines; I want to help build futures. Through engineering, I hope to bridge the gap between innovation and accessibility, bringing new possibilities to places that have been overlooked for too long. Guatemala taught me resilience, creativity, and gratitude — and with the education I’m receiving, I plan to give all of that back, multiplied.

From a young age, I’ve always been curious about how things work — not just in watching machines move, but in understanding what makes them function. I was the type of kid who would take apart everyday objects just to see what was inside, fascinated by the precision behind every detail. That curiosity never left me; it grew stronger with time and led me to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering. Being a woman in a STEM field has been both challenging and empowering. When I first started taking advanced math and science courses, I noticed there weren’t many women who looked like me in the room. At first, that made me hesitant — I questioned if I belonged there. But over time, I realized that representation doesn’t just happen; it’s created. I decided that if my presence could inspire even one other girl to believe she could succeed in engineering, then every challenge would be worth it. A defining moment that deepened my interest in STEM happened during a bridge design project I completed at my previous college. The task involved designing, building, and testing a small-scale bridge capable of carrying specific loads. At first, it felt intimidating — the math, materials, and calculations all seemed complex. But as I worked through the process, I saw how theory and creativity came together to form something tangible. Watching my design hold up successfully under stress testing was one of the most rewarding moments I’ve had. It wasn’t just about building a structure; it was about proving to myself that I could take an idea, work through challenges, and bring it to life. That project solidified my passion for mechanical design and problem-solving. Later, I participated in a research initiative called “Detection and Mapping of Plastics using MAVs,” which focused on using drone technology and image classification to identify plastic waste in oceans. Even though it was a remote project, it opened my eyes to how engineering and technology can have a real environmental and social impact. It made me realize that being an engineer isn’t only about equations or machines — it’s about using innovation to make the world better. As a first-generation college student, I’ve also learned that pursuing a STEM career requires persistence and faith. There have been times when balancing school, work, and financial responsibilities felt overwhelming. But I’ve come to see those moments as part of my story. Every late night studying and every challenge I’ve faced has built the foundation of the engineer I’m becoming. Being a woman in STEM means constantly proving that ability has no gender. I’ve learned to take pride in my work, to ask questions, and to lead with confidence even when I’m the only woman in the room. I’ve found community and encouragement through organizations like the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE), where I’ve met mentors and friends who remind me that I’m part of something much bigger — a growing network of women and minorities reshaping what engineering looks like. In the future, I hope to use my education to contribute to sustainable engineering projects and inspire other young women to follow their curiosity into STEM. My goal is not just to succeed personally but to help others see that they can too. Engineering has taught me that strength lies in persistence, creativity is as powerful as logic, and innovation begins with courage. I want to keep breaking barriers, one design, one project, and one step at a time.

One of the biggest struggles I’ve faced has been balancing my education with personal and financial responsibilities. As a first-generation college student pursuing mechanical engineering, I’ve had to learn how to navigate everything on my own — from understanding how financial aid works to figuring out how to stay motivated when life gets overwhelming. There were times when I doubted if I could keep going, especially when classes became more advanced and personal challenges seemed to hit all at once. During my transition from community college to the University of South Carolina, the adjustment was tough. I was excited to continue my education, but I also carried the pressure of supporting myself financially and staying on top of a demanding workload. At one point, I worked part-time while taking multiple engineering courses like Statics, Dynamics, and Thermodynamics. The workload tested not only my time management but also my determination. I had to make sacrifices — late nights studying, early mornings commuting, and spending weekends catching up on assignments instead of resting. What got me through wasn’t just hard work, but resourcefulness. I learned how to ask for help when I needed it, something I used to struggle with. I sought out tutoring sessions, formed study groups, and reached out to professors during office hours. I also found creative ways to stay motivated, like turning my engineering projects into something meaningful. For example, during a research project involving environmental mapping, I connected it to sustainability and how technology can be used for real-world solutions. It reminded me that what I was learning had a purpose far beyond exams. Another major challenge I faced was during a period when I was dealing with health issues and financial strain at the same time. I couldn’t afford to slow down or take time off because I knew how much my education meant to my family and to my future. Instead of giving up, I adapted. I organized my schedule more strictly, reached out for financial assistance, and communicated with professors to find balance. Those moments taught me responsibility, maturity, and the importance of resilience — not just in academics, but in life. Overcoming these struggles has shaped who I am today. I’ve learned that success isn’t about having an easy path; it’s about how you move forward when things get difficult. I now see challenges as opportunities to grow, and I approach every new situation with determination and confidence. These experiences have made me more empathetic, disciplined, and persistent — qualities that I know will make me a better engineer and leader in the future. As I continue my studies, I carry the lessons I’ve learned from every obstacle. I know what it feels like to struggle, but I also know what it feels like to overcome. My goal is to use that same perseverance in my career — to design, create, and contribute to innovations that make a difference. Every challenge I’ve faced has pushed me closer to becoming not just an engineer, but someone who builds with purpose and heart.

Growing up as a Latina and a first-generation college student, I’ve always understood what it means to stand out in spaces where few people look like me or share my story. My identity has shaped not only how I view the world but also how I move through it — with resilience, pride, and a deep drive to make my presence meaningful. Entering the field of mechanical engineering, a field where women and minorities remain underrepresented, has made me realize that my background isn’t a barrier — it’s a strength. From a young age, I learned the value of perseverance through my family. My parents came to this country in search of better opportunities, and their sacrifices have always reminded me that education is not something to take for granted. Because of them, I carry a strong sense of responsibility to succeed, not just for myself but for those who didn’t have the same chance. Balancing school, work, and family responsibilities has not been easy, but it has taught me discipline and humility — qualities that I believe make me not only a better student but also a stronger leader. Being a minority in engineering has its challenges. There are moments when I’ve doubted myself or felt out of place, especially in classrooms or labs where I’m one of the few women or people of color. But those experiences have motivated me even more. I’ve learned to turn self-doubt into determination and representation into purpose. I want to show younger students — especially girls from Hispanic backgrounds — that they belong in STEM fields too. Representation matters, and seeing someone who looks like you achieve something can spark a dream you didn’t think was possible. Through my involvement in organizations like the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE), I’ve found a community that not only understands my experiences but celebrates them. SHPE has given me a platform to connect with other minority students in engineering and to participate in outreach efforts that encourage underrepresented students to pursue STEM. Whether it’s mentoring a peer, attending professional development events, or helping organize activities that promote inclusion, I’ve seen how community can turn challenges into empowerment. My identity also influences the kind of engineer I want to become. I want to bring empathy, diversity, and cultural awareness into a field that thrives on innovation. I believe that engineering solutions are stronger when they reflect a variety of perspectives — because the problems we solve affect diverse communities. In the future, I hope to use my skills to design and improve systems that help people in practical, impactful ways — especially in underserved communities that often lack access to sustainable and safe technology. Being an underrepresented student has shaped me into someone who doesn’t wait for opportunities — I create them. It has made me more persistent, more compassionate, and more aware of how my journey can inspire others to break barriers too. My background is not just a part of who I am; it’s what fuels my drive to keep moving forward, to achieve more than what’s expected, and to open doors for others to follow.

When I first learned about brain cancer, it wasn’t through statistics or a classroom lecture — it was through witnessing someone close to my family go through it. Watching them face treatments, surgeries, and the uncertainty that came with every doctor’s visit was painful and eye-opening. What stood out to me most wasn’t just the physical struggle, but the emotional weight it carried — the fear, exhaustion, and strength that patients and their families must balance daily. That experience made me see how deeply brain cancer impacts more than just health — it touches every part of a person’s life, from their hope to their identity. Seeing that experience up close changed my perspective completely. I realized how important awareness, compassion, and research are in helping families cope with something so unpredictable. It gave me a stronger sense of purpose — to not only support awareness around brain cancer but also to find ways to use my education to help others facing medical challenges. Even though my field is mechanical engineering, I’ve always been fascinated by how technology can improve lives. Engineering isn’t just about building machines; it’s about creating solutions that serve people. That belief motivates me to focus my career on projects that connect innovation and humanity — whether that’s in medical devices, imaging systems, or assistive technology. I’ve participated in a research project called “Detection and Mapping of Plastics using MAVs,” which focused on environmental data and sustainability. While the topic was different, the research process taught me patience, collaboration, and the importance of purpose behind every experiment. It also sparked my curiosity about applying similar analytical and technical skills toward health-related research — such as developing tools that could help with early detection or improve precision in medical diagnostics. I hope to continue exploring ways my background in design and systems analysis can contribute to healthcare innovation, especially in fields like neurology where accuracy and timing are so critical. Beyond academics, I try to advocate for awareness in small but meaningful ways. I’ve encouraged classmates to learn about early signs of brain and neurological health issues, shared resources with families going through medical hardships, and supported fundraising efforts online for cancer research foundations. I’ve learned that advocacy isn’t always about being in the spotlight — sometimes it’s about showing up quietly, consistently, and compassionately for people who need it. Each conversation I’ve had about cancer and awareness has reminded me how powerful empathy can be in creating change. Receiving this scholarship would mean much more than financial support — it would represent an opportunity to continue my education with purpose. As a first-generation college student studying mechanical engineering, I understand how valuable every bit of help is when working toward a dream. This scholarship would allow me to stay focused on my studies, reduce financial stress, and continue participating in projects that push me closer to combining my engineering skills with medical impact. In the future, I want to contribute to designing medical technologies that make treatments safer, more efficient, and more accessible. Whether that’s improving surgical tools, assisting in data-driven health research, or helping develop rehabilitation devices for patients recovering from brain injuries or cancer treatments, I want to be part of that progress. Brain cancer awareness is not only about understanding the disease — it’s about recognizing the human stories behind it. I hope to use my education, compassion, and perseverance to help bring light, innovation, and hope to those affected by it.