Forty years ago, the eldest daughter of five escaped her war-torn nation of Vietnam. She later found herself aboard a boat with many others like herself, leaving part of her family behind in hopes of a better life. After endless days of hardship, she reached the shores of America, but the challenges only continued. Enrolling in school as a sophomore, she struggled immensely to find her sense of belonging. The language barrier, cultural differences, and simply being an immigrant from a rarely known foreign country furthered her struggles in finding a group to feel at home with. Solitude and fear were her companions throughout her high school years, as no one made an effort to comfort or approach her. She felt like an outcast, navigating her way through school alone. That young girl was my mother. To this day, her experiences serve as a reminder of the challenges immigrants face and the sacrifices they make for their children. Growing up, I was constantly reminded of her sacrifice, which granted me the privilege to be raised in this nation. Born and raised in Pennsylvania, I was taught to love and appreciate every aspect of my life that my mother never got to experience—a warm, cozy home, clothing, free education, home-cooked meals, and most of all, the thought that I would never have to worry about the safety of my community. Despite being born a U.S. citizen, my mother ensured I would never forget the Vietnamese heritage she grew up in. The fresh smell of beef phở, the crunchy taste of her addictive Banh mi, our celebrations of Lunar New Year with wishes for a good year and exchanges of money, our family reunions where we wrapped Banh Cuon together, our deep devotion to God and everyday worship prayers, and the instilled notion that perseverance, hard work, and charity are the foundations of a successful life have all shaped who I am. My family's heritage has been the foundation of my goals and what I intend to become. Throughout my high school years, I worked tirelessly and endlessly towards my education to ensure that I set myself up for success. My courses consisted of rigorous classes, including seven APs and twelve advanced classes. The course load was intense, and though I struggled, my spirit was always willing to find a way to power through. I attended tutoring, office hours, and found online resources to get me through each class effectively. The perseverance my family instilled in me has always been my reason for overcoming any challenge that comes my way. Beyond academics, I pursued extracurriculars that helped me find my sense of community within the school. I joined the tennis team, Key Club, Peer Advocates, and a local Asian club, connecting with many people with whom I could share my cultural experiences. Having this community beside me throughout high school further helped me embrace who I am and encouraged me to continue pursuing my aspirations. I will always be grateful for my mother, my rock, the woman who laid her foundation in the Vietnamese heritage she grew up in. To be a daughter of Vietnamese heritage is a blessing, not a curse. It is that heritage that instilled the perseverance, hard work, and kindness that define who I have become.