For DonorsFor Applicants
user profile avatar

Luis Olea Cruz

3935

Bold Points

2x

Nominee

Bio

I'm graduating early, the first in my family to complete high school and attend college. My father abandoned me when I was born; with divorced parents and living in poverty, my single mother took care of me, and then I came to the US with my 76-year-old aunt while my mom remained in Mexico. As a first-generation student, living in Oregon for three years, I've faced challenges. However, I am proud of my roots; my grandmother was part of an indigenous community, and her stories have deeply influenced me. I'll graduate as valedictorian with an honors diploma, and I'm the first member of my cohort to pass the ELPA. I've independently earned 6 credits through the Odywesfare platform. I'm an active member of Latinos in Action, NHS, and ASB, where I've participated in community service activities. This commitment to the community makes me feel good as a human being, giving back a little of what the world has given me. I love debate because it's a way to express myself, a skill that I use to lead and understand others. Passionate about mathematics, philosophy, computing, and politics, I continually seek to expand my understanding. As a leader, I'm dedicated to tutoring elementary school children. My SAI is -1500, but I'm determined to fight for my dreams. I vividly remember the painful moments of being homeless and begging in Mexico. However, education has always been the light that illuminates my path. Despite not having studied at a prestigious school, having faced homelessness, and coming from a country plagued by drug violence, I'm committed to making a change in this world.

Education

Forest Grove High School

High School
2022 - 2024
  • GPA:
    4

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)

  • Majors of interest:

    • Electrical and Computer Engineering
    • Medicine
    • Mathematics
    • Computer Science
  • Planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Computer Hardware

    • Dream career goals:

      My aspiration is to create an organization that is dedicated to developing innovative solutions to improve living conditions in low-income communities or to be a neurosurgeon.

    • Shift leader.

      Noodles & Company
      2023 – 20241 year

    Sports

    Soccer

    Intramural
    2022 – 20231 year

    Research

    • English Language and Literature, General

      Forest Grove High School — Leader
      2024 – Present
    • English Language and Literature, General

      Forest Grove High School — investigator
      2023 – 2023
    • Computer Science

      New york association. — Coder
      2023 – Present

    Arts

    • Forest Grove High School.

      Computer Art
      2024 – Present
    • Forest Grove High School

      Music
      2022 – 2023
    • Forest Grove High School.

      Calligraphy
      2022 – 2024

    Public services

    • Volunteering

      Associated Student Body — Menber
      2022 – Present
    • Volunteering

      Seventh-day Adventist Church — Helper of organization.
      2023 – Present
    • Volunteering

      Forest Grove Elementary School District — Leader
      2022 – 2024
    • Volunteering

      Latino In Action. — President of my class.
      2022 – 2024
    • Volunteering

      Forest Grove High School — leader
      2022 – 2024

    Future Interests

    Advocacy

    Politics

    Volunteering

    Philanthropy

    Entrepreneurship

    Kalia D. Davis Memorial Scholarship
    My name is Luis Olea Cruz, 17-year-old aspiring to make a significant impact on my community and the world through my skills and community service. Born in the United States and raised for most of my life in Mexico, I have experienced many ideas and challenges in both countries, which have shaped my dual identity as Latino and Indigenous. These unique backgrounds, combined with personal challenges such as having been homeless and not having shoes while attending a primary school without tables, have fueled my commitment to the most vulnerable communities. From an early age, listening to my grandmother's stories from an Indigenous community, I learned to value the wisdom of Indigenous people and never understood why Indigenous communities were always discriminated against just because they had no money, despite their wisdom. Despite the harsh realities of life in a region plagued by drug cartel violence, these lessons have instilled in me a profound determination to succeed academically and show what I can do. I am proud to say that I will graduate with top honors from Forest Grove High School with an honors diploma and have earned 6 independent credits through the Odywesfare platform, demonstrating that I have the capacity of a few students. As the first member of my family to complete high school and attend university, I am facing new challenges. My journey has not been easy; I faced the significant obstacle of adapting to life in Oregon after moving from Mexico with my 76-year-old aunt while my mother stayed behind. These experiences have not only tested my courage but have also taught me leadership skills and increased my desire to give back to the community that has supported me during my time in the US. At Forest Grove High School, I have actively participated in community service through Latinos in Action, the National Honor Society, and the Associated Student Body. These roles have allowed me to help others while developing skills such as leadership and communication. Additionally, my involvement in research on drugs and immigration reforms has deepened my understanding of this country and its issues. Beyond academics, I am passionate about the arts, including computer art, music, and sports like soccer, which have taught me teamwork and perseverance. Looking ahead, my educational aspirations include obtaining a doctorate in fields such as electrical engineering and possibly becoming a neurosurgeon if everything goes well. My professional ambition is twofold: to innovate solutions that improve living conditions in low-income communities and possibly pursue a career as a neurosurgeon. I know this path is difficult, but it is what I love. I believe that education is a fundamental right, not a privilege. If I am granted this scholarship, I promise to use all the money to be an unparalleled student who emerges once every thousand years, committed not only to personal success but also to helping others. I am determined to make the most of this opportunity to advance my education, contribute to my community, and achieve change in the world, showing what a Mexican can do.
    CEW IV Foundation Scholarship Program
    One of the problems of our generation is the difference between the previous generation and ours. The previous generation had the benefits of having a stronger system; Most older people have accumulated more wealth than most of our current generation. It is sad and problematic for this country that we still consider our society lazy. Our generation is not lazy; We are a generation that rises up for this country every day. One of the big problems is racism, classism, and homophobia. It is horrible that, in a country founded on equality, we still do not have the rights that other citizens have. It is terrible to have to hide your identity to apply for a job because you will be discriminated against solely because of your skin color. They discriminate because of who you are, they only see the outside of the human being, when a stronger fire burns inside, the fire of our nation. We are mestizo and before the law, we should all be equal, it should not be that a corporation or a foreign nation controls and destroys another nation. We must live in harmony and peace, as it should always have been. That's why I think we must fight, we must fix the politics of our country and this corrupt system. I'm talking about first we have to fix the system, and give education to the poor because, as the saying goes: "Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day, but teach him to fish and he will eat for a lifetime." That is why I stand up every day for my generation, for the problems we have today, because I am Latino, I am Indigenous, and I stand up for that nation. I'm tired of the system we live in, tired of our generation not being able to even live in a 2m by 2m room. I'm tired of this inflation and the same old politicians, that actually for-profit companies have to spend most of my money. I only have $100 in my bank account for the entire semester, and I don't know how I'm going to do it. If necessary, I will beg to get the money; I can't even access a loan because according to the corrupt system, I am not trustworthy for a loan. But hey, that's what the system thinks. I will multiply that loan by millions. That is why I believe in a just society, a society where my generation does not have to beg, and where my Mexican brothers do not have to be murdered by a group of people who want drugs. I'm fed up with the system, I'm fed up that we have so many problems as a society. That's why I stand up, that's why I want this scholarship, because I want to make a real change, to make our nation become what it always was and always will be: a land of opportunity. I'm tired of my generation trying to escape to other countries. I want this country to be the country of hope.
    Deborah Thomas Scholarship Award
    I remember how the cartel has taken over the streets of Mexico, how fentanyl is destroying our generation, and how drugs are ruining our lives. I am tired of a divided nation, tired of seeing the same old politicians, sick of a system that oppresses us. That's why I want to make a change. I want to create a company that really makes a difference; I'm tired of all the companies deceiving people, of them not keeping their promises, tired of the so-called non-profit organizations actually looking for profit. Of course I oppose the system, of course, I speak against institutions like the College Board, for example, the institutions that control the SAT. I'm tired of seeing how young people no longer have the opportunities we used to. I want to take advantage of this scholarship to dedicate more time to community service, to integrate more into my community. I don't want to get a job and leave my community behind; I want to make a real difference. I am tired of a divided world, I don't like the nation we have, so divided. I want to go to university, because with higher education I could induce a change in society. I want to become a support for many people who are in the same situation. I understand that there are good people in this country, but I want to be the one to help others. I have done many things to deserve this scholarship and I believe that, if given the opportunity, I could multiply that $500 into a lot more money. I am a young man who tries to make a change, who pursues his dreams, who does not give up. I want to create a company, a company that makes a difference, something that finally eliminates the difference between rich and poor. I'm tired of seeing my people suffer, of seeing people without money. I'm frustrated with high house prices, with the cost of living. I want to make a real change, I want to be the voice of young people, the voice of Latinos, the voice of indigenous people, to be the voice of this youth. We are perceived as lazy but, at the same time, we are the generation that is going to make real change; At least I, in my career, will be a person who will generate one of the biggest changes. I am determined to get this scholarship or any other, it doesn't matter if I have to study for a thousand years, but I am going to make a change, no matter what happens. I'm tired of living in a separate world, tired of seeing how depression affects my generation. I hate competing for this scholarship because I feel like we all deserve it, but I still believe that I am the person who has the ability to make a change. Make this country become what it should always be: a land of opportunity for young people. We don't want super rich, we want equality. We want our country to wake up, for evil to go away. We want an equal country, an equal nation where there are no wars, where all people, regardless of their political ideology, have work, employment, food and security. That's why I'm studying, to make a change in that society because I'm tired of promises. I am not a man of promises, I am a man of actions.
    “Stranger Things” Fanatic Scholarship
    I remember when I started watching the series about 1 years ago, that series called "Stranger Things" became my favorite. I think my team would be made up of characters that I have loved since I started watching the series. To take on those Portland mounts, I would need a strong team, and I think these three would be perfect: First, there would be Eleven, as the super powerful girl of the group. She has telepathic and psychic abilities, in addition to great intelligence, she has natural intelligence and is the only one who destroys monsters in an epic way. On the team, she would be like the tank, protecting others and being key in defense and attack, I think Eleven would be the main one. She would later choose Hooper, due to his experience as police chief. He has tactical knowledge and leadership, he is a very good police officer, strange in his way but strong and very necessary. His protective nature and his ingenuity make him indispensable to uniting the entire team, and being able to overcome the coming crises of the strange town. Lastly, I would include Dustin for his technical expertise and quick thinking. He is like a genius of science and technology. Plus, he's a very loyal friend and can make jokes so the atmosphere doesn't feel so heavy, which is crucial because you can't always be stressed; you need to rest and breathe. I think this trio could provide a lot of combined skills and would create a super good team. I also think we could use the army in future seasons, which would be very interesting. It's exciting to see how these diverse characters could destroy those horrible things. I think it would be very interesting to see this combination of intellects and skills on Netflix, and of course, it would include me because I feel part of this story because it would be an anecdote to face these monsters.
    Zendaya Superfan Scholarship
    Of all the roles Zendaya has played in her career, I am impressed by her activism. I admire the way she expresses herself; It is a different way to connect with our generation. She takes advantage of her fame in a positive way and acts as a social justice advocate, so to speak. She has a unique way of expressing the problems we face as a society, especially how underrepresented communities are not present in film or other areas. As a role model, Zendaya shows that if you have influence, you must demonstrate your activism and service to the community. She has also participated in public campaigns to discuss issues such as racial equality and the disadvantages of women, topics that I find very interesting, especially the representation of women, who have historically been oppressed by the advantages of white men. This shows how someone with visibility can recognize social problems and how young people, aware of these problems, seek to change society. The choice of her roles on Netflix shows us that. By playing Rue in "Euphoria", Zendaya shows us the problems of addiction and mental health in American society, created by a capitalist system that creates numerous problems. In addition, she highlights the human side of people, promoting empathy, something essential since we are closer to being addicts than becoming millionaires. In our society, we often become disconnected and divided into groups with different labels. Their roles help us reflect on current problems in our societies; In 2024 we face numerous challenges related to housing and security. Zendaya's approach shows how grand gestures. I am similarly inspired by this strategy and know that at some point in my life, I want to support women and other disadvantaged groups, including the LGBTIQ+ community, of which I am a part. It saddens me how we are portrayed and in conclusion, Zendaya is a reminder of what you can do with a positive influence and how you can leave your mark on this world. That is why Zendaya is not only a personal but also an academic inspiration; aspires to become a real activist like her.
    Ultimate K-Pop Stan Scholarship
    For me, BTS is one of the best groups; Yes, I am Army and I love listening to BTS music, it fills me with joy. Then I start dancing and enjoying the music, I find it impressive how I like the rhythm. Now, without understanding the lyrics, I put subtitles and that's it. The lyrics are about being catchy, and then I love how they dance, how they captivate the audience. That way of presenting himself is very different from what we have seen so far. American culture is very different, even from the culture where I come from. For me, BTS is like a paradigm shift because the man is no longer presented to us as a rude character, but as a normal person; man is more humanized. It is much calmer to listen to BTS than all those stereotypes of men that exist in our society. I think the community is very diverse in this K-pop thing; I often like the feeling of feeling part of BTS, but sometimes there is a toxic community. They showed me that there is value in diversity and that your strength is what you are, what you feel and what you are. "Life goes on" became something that I can remember throughout my life because, despite everything that has happened academically, I have always liked listening to BTS. I love what they have done; BTS I love how the culture is, I like how they break those barriers that we humans create to "clean" your language and my language. No, you can actually take something without understanding it; It is very beautiful and strange at the same time. It's literally amazing how an older person and a younger person can come together to appreciate a band as a way to show that there is unity. I liked when they spoke at the United Nations and showed that young people have feelings, that we have problems, that we have differences, that we are not perfect, that what is asked of us is surreal, it is very idealistic. Also their "Self Pro" campaign fights against violence because there is a lot of violence in that time of adolescent when you are discovering yourself, and that initiative is also important for UNICEF campaigns, demonstrating that art can bring benefits to the society. BTS, from South Korea, through tourism, selling things and can also inspire many people, even to learn a language like Korean. In conclusion, I think that they have taught me the passion for Korean music, it has taught me nothing to understand another way of speaking and thinking because, thanks to that, I am interested in Korean culture because its culture seems incredible to me, it seems very incredible to me How such an ancient culture attracts more and more immigrants and that seems to me like not separating humanity but uniting us in something bigger than ourselves, it is because I think it inspires BTS.
    Janie Mae "Loving You to Wholeness" Scholarship
    I was always good in school and my teachers praised me. It is sad that there are no free university programs in the US, despite understanding the system here, I consider it unfair. My parents are in Mexico and I don't come from a rich family. The education was good; My school in Mexico had no resources. I remember not even having a door to the school. Still, I am determined to change this reality. I am here to make a change in society and support young people and both the Mexican and American communities. Although I have citizenship, the absence of my parents and Learning English from scratch was difficult although I tried very hard. I want the scholarship to demonstrate my skills and be that sun that illuminates the lives of people in difficult situations such as homeless people. I will fight for my dreams and emotions because it is the right thing to do. I won't give up easily and even though I only have 100 dollars for college, I'm confident I can find a way. My first experience in high school was terrifying. My aunt left me at the door and I entered with fear. But I found a girl who spoke Spanish and that calmed me down. This experience was important for me because it showed me that, just like in Mexico, it is possible to do good things even in difficult times. I am applying for the scholarship so I can dedicate myself to community service during college. If I don't get it, I will probably need to work, which will limit my time to be involved with my university life or help. Community service is a privilege not available to everyone, especially when facing challenges such as lack of resources in my case, and lack of parents. Going to college without parental support and money is a big challenge, but I'm ready to overcome it. I can't apply for loans because I don't have anyone to sign with me. Despite these difficulties, I want to make a difference. The community service scholarship would allow me to dedicate more time to my community and face college without the stress of what will happen to me! I am committed to transforming every dollar received into a thousand dollars for my community. I want to make a difference in this country. This was my dream since I was a kid Thanks:)
    Let Your Light Shine Scholarship
    My opinion would start with the idea of ​​starting a clothing business, but first I want to have some money and make significant contributions to science, since I consider making money to be the first step to starting a business. I have learned on my own, mainly on YouTube, and I have learned a lot about the potential I have as an entrepreneur, and even more so, being an example for this generation. My desire is to create something that helps those less fortunate. I want to found a company that can create real change, something that can compete on a large scale. I aspire for education to be accessible to everyone, which is one of my main motivations. For some time, I have been wanting to purchase a computer or something similar as I think it would be awesome and help me on my path as an entrepreneur. I feel that university is very important because it allows you to create valuable connections. For this reason, I am looking for a scholarship that will support me mainly in the economic sense, given that I do not have many resources and I come from a very low stratum. But I have had that entrepreneurial spirit since I was little. I always wanted to be someone great, someone who makes a difference in this world, someone who stands up for the Latino community and the entrepreneurial community. I want to be an example for my community, my family and my two countries, Mexico and the United States. It is interesting for me to evolve and become someone much more intelligent and capable. I want to illuminate many communities that are in darkness, share culture, and show the world what we can do. It doesn't matter your origins or the adversities you have faced, but what you do with the opportunities that are presented to you. We have to fight for them and hold on to them because even if the possibilities are minimal, I must do it not only for my dreams but for the dreams of my community and my family. I'm fighting for something bigger than myself. That's why I want to go to university, that's why I fight every day to be better and give 100% of myself to the world. I want to show what Latino can do, no matter where they come from. With any amount of money given to me, I can have a future and give back to my community. In the end, I want to make a difference in this world because there are a lot of bad people and I want to be someone good, I want to represent hope in my community.
    Mark Caldwell Memorial STEM/STEAM Scholarship
    I am a Chicano. My journey through personal challenges has shaped my worldview. My father abandoned me when I was born, and then a year later, my parents divorced. Later, my mother was deported to Mexico, where we were homeless for a time until my grandmother took us in at her house. My primary school lacked quality drinking water and facilities; I vividly remember how I cried for not having food and the harassment I suffered for not having minimum needs; my clothes cost 0.5 dollars. But always, my mother reminded me that I should study, and I spent most of my time reading and watching Khan Academy. As a high school senior, I have a deep commitment to the betterment of our society. My goal is to use my education to innovate towards a better world, being the change I want to see, where technology can help solve current challenges, such as the water, housing, and health crises. People always thought I was crazy because, just upon arriving in the US, I already wanted to go to university. In my first few years of school, I only took ELD classes, but I still studied on my own time and was the first in my cohort to pass the ELPA, an exam that even some native speakers don't pass. Graduating as valedictorian, earning an honors diploma. Learning English and adapting to the US. Solidified my determination to help my community through social service. My recognition for leadership in Latinos in Action and mastery of Spanish provided me with essential skills for this changing world. I can adapt to diverse environments and address different points of view, preparing me for the challenges that come with being the first person in my family to go to college. I worked in a fast food restaurant, where I thrived as a team leader in a high-pressure environment, there were many orders and a lack of staff but I always remained calm. Managing critical situations and learning to manage my resources efficiently. This position, together with my self-study in semiconductor manufacturing, has prepared me to face technical challenges with precision. Ensuring that my solutions are innovative and correspond to human needs. As a volunteer at school, I faced firsthand the socioeconomic barriers that prevent access to food and saw people in my situation without the resources to survive. These experiences have fueled my passion for making a change in society. My involvement here deepened my understanding of community dynamics and my commitment to using my skills to make a change. I am prepared to leverage my education in electrical engineering to make meaningful contributions to technology. I seek academic support to enhance my capabilities, driven by the belief that with the right tools, I can help transform communities around the world. I believe that community service means giving back a little of what the world has given you. I think that in my many nights suffering from poverty, I always wanted to see a light, someone who would help me. That's how my aunt helped me, but I believe that during this part of my life, I want to use this body to help people, to be that light I wanted to see. Community service is very important. If I were rich, I think I would give most of my money to the poor, bring education to this world, and stop wars, but for now, the most important thing is to finish my education, help as much as I can, and then, if I work hard, maybe I can solve some problems of society
    “The Office” Obsessed! Fan Scholarship
    Sometimes I start a sentence and I don't even know where it's going. I just hope to find it on the way. -Michael Scott If that quote made you feel happy or made you laugh, I think we're in the same place. I like you. As a fan of "The Office," I love the way the series presents the comedic, absurd, and deeply moving elements of each of the characters' work lives. Each of the characters shines for different reasons, and it's interesting to know that individuality can be funny. Sometimes it's good to relax. In my case, I find a lot in common between Jim's ambitions and jokes. His laid-back attitude is like mine, and his penchant for mischief reminds me of myself. He is a character I identify with because I enjoy humor and always try to be positive in life. I love giving a positive touch to life and I always laugh, even at small things. Only you decide which emotion to use. I have learned a lot about Dwight's perseverance and dedication. Despite his eccentricity and sometimes absurd behavior, he is an example of determination and commitment to his work. Facing different challenges as a first-generation student, I feel very connected to it because I also face challenges every day. "The Office" has also influenced my understanding of work dynamics. Analyzing the daily situations of the company seems interesting to me because, even if it is in a humorous way, it shows some truths about society. Sometimes it's nice to take a break and see a group of people having fun. The series has also positively influenced my way of dealing with problems and my appreciation of the diversity of personalities in a work environment. It has taught me that there can be dynamism in work culture and personalities. My sense of humor has changed after watching "The Office." I think I'm calmer now and I've learned not to take everything so seriously. Work life can be intense, but in the end you are making a change for yourself or your family. In conclusion, "The Office" is a television show that brings out the best in people. I identify with Jim and admire Dwight. I have found several role models in the series, although I also know not to take it too seriously because, in the end, it is just a series. But it's a lot of fun to relax after a hard day and watch "The Office."
    1989 (Taylor's Version) Fan Scholarship
    I'm going to start by introducing myself. I am Luis Olea Cruz, a student from a school in Oregon. I don't have a lot of money, but listening to music inspires me a lot and is a way to connect with America. I didn't know how to speak English before, but I really liked the sound and how the letters were conveyed. The beautiful thing about Taylor Swift is the way she sings, it's like a bird that sings, something beautiful for me. Taylor Swift has been an inspiration; I have read her books and I feel that we connect because she has also suffered a lot. It is interesting to know that suffering is for everyone, and just because Taylor Swift is a singer does not mean that she is human. It is important to recognize that singers also have feelings. In 2022 my life began to change suddenly. First, I had to leave Mexico and leave my grandmother and everything she loved. The songs on the album "1989 (Taylor's Version)" reflect how I felt before and after that change. A song that reflects that is "Welcome to New York." It's an optimistic song, full of hope, and it reminds me of when I arrived in the United States. The change was big and surprising, like seeing mask machines for the first time. It was a time of revolution for me. Another song I like is "Clean." It talks about overcoming past struggles and becoming stronger, which reflects my story. Navigating the complexities of a new environment has been difficult, but the lyrics "the rain fell" reminded me that even if there are difficulties, I can overcome them and grow. I also like "Out of the Woods" because it talks about uncertainty and perseverance. My high school journey was a time of many changes, especially during the pandemic. The lyrics "Are we out of the woods yet? Are we safe yet?" It reflects my fears about college. Even though I've done amazing things, I'm still scared, and I think a lot of teenagers feel the same way. Finally, “Shake It Off” is personal to me because it shows resilience. Throughout my high school career, I have had to be resilient. Listening to Taylor Swift, I feel a connection to humans that was lost during the pandemic. There were too many crises and things happening, but her music helps me feel that connection and affection again. In conclusion, Taylor Swift is an excellent singer, and her music has taught me a lot. I want this scholarship because I also want to make a change in the world. These are my reasons and why I feel connected to Taylor Swift and her music.
    GUTS- Olivia Rodrigo Fan Scholarship
    During that changing moment that is adolescence, I have seen many artist try to adapt to the generation of teenagers in our Generation Z, but for me, Olivia Rodrigo has been the best attempt because it talks about love and the feelings experienced during adolescence, which inspires many people because you are drawn to the beauty of music. Olivia Rodrigo's album encapsulates the roller coaster of various emotions, such as pain and sadness. A song I like is "Vampire." This track is interesting because it talks about the pain and betrayal she felt and the struggle to understand her own worth. It is a theme that reflects my experiences of feeling disappointed and frustrated with teenage relationships because it is difficult and complicated to be a teenager, especially in these times. For me, it helped me realize that sometimes you get betrayed and hurt, but you have to move on. Another song, "Ballad of a Homeschooled Girl," talks about isolation and the world around you. Sometimes you want to fit into society. For example, when I moved to Oregon, I wanted to be like Americans and I didn't want to be Mexican. I didn't like my pride in my nationality so much, but later I discovered that that's what's special: the teenager who creates his own identity. The track "Get Him Back!" explores how the complexities of relationships affect your life because there is confusion between love, resentment and honesty. There are many things that make you reflect in this music. It's a reminder that sometimes there are mixed feelings. Sometimes you have a girl or boy who makes you feel good, but at the same time it hurts you because sometimes relationships are toxic, especially at our age. Olivia's ability is incredible. For me, it's a reminder that it's normal to be human. One of the most impactful songs for me is "Making the Bed." The lyrics are a retrospective on the discovery that comes with adolescence: the discovery of your body and your ideas, the expectations of your community and the sense of enlightenment. It reminded me that I have to be myself. He has given me something with which I can express myself. she is one of the few singers I can feel connected to, but she is also a normal human being. In conclusion, I feel that what Olivia Rodrigo did with her music was one of her best attempts. Her music has taught me many things and teaches you about how we can change as humans, how tastes can change, how one day you can like chocolate and another day you don't, because that's life. It is a constant evolution. That's what I think of her music.
    Carlos F. Garcia Muentes Scholarship
    I am a Chicano. My journey through personal challenges has shaped my worldview. My father abandoned me when I was born, and then a year later, my parents divorced. Later, my mother was deported to Mexico, where we were homeless for a time until my grandmother took us in at her house. My primary school lacked quality drinking water and facilities; I vividly remember how I cried for not having food and the harassment I suffered for not having minimum needs; my clothes cost 0.5 dollars. But always, my mother reminded me that I should study, and I spent most of my time reading and watching Khan Academy. As a high school senior, I have a deep commitment to the betterment of our society. My goal is to use my education to innovate towards a better world, being the change I want to see, where technology can help solve current challenges, such as the water, housing, and health crises. People always thought I was crazy because, just upon arriving in the US, I already wanted to go to university. In my first few years of school, I only took ELD classes, but I still studied on my own time and was the first in my cohort to pass the ELPA, an exam that even some native speakers don't pass. Graduating as valedictorian, earning an honors diploma. Learning English and adapting to the US. Solidified my determination to help my community through social service. My recognition for leadership in Latinos in Action and mastery of Spanish provided me with essential skills for this changing world. I can adapt to diverse environments and address different points of view, preparing me for the challenges that come with being the first person in my family to go to college. I worked in a fast food restaurant, where I thrived as a team leader in a high-pressure environment, there were many orders and a lack of staff but I always remained calm. Managing critical situations and learning to manage my resources efficiently. This position, together with my self-study in semiconductor manufacturing, has prepared me to face technical challenges with precision. Ensuring that my solutions are innovative and correspond to human needs. As a volunteer at school, I faced firsthand the socioeconomic barriers that prevent access to food and saw people in my situation without the resources to survive. These experiences have fueled my passion for making a change in society. My involvement here deepened my understanding of community dynamics and my commitment to using my skills to make a change. I am prepared to leverage my education in electrical engineering to make meaningful contributions to technology. I seek academic support to enhance my capabilities, driven by the belief that with the right tools, I can help transform communities around the world. I believe that community service means giving back a little of what the world has given you. I think that in my many nights suffering from poverty, I always wanted to see a light, someone who would help me. That's how my aunt helped me, but I believe that during this part of my life, I want to use this body to help people, to be that light I wanted to see. Community service is very important. If I were rich, I think I would give most of my money to the poor, bring education to this world, and stop wars, but for now, the most important thing is to finish my education, help as much as I can, and then, if I work hard, maybe I can solve some problems of society
    "The Summer I Turned Pretty" Fan Scholarship
    A month ago, I watched the series "The Summer I Turned Pretty" on Amazon Prime. I love having the opportunity to apply for this scholarship and share my perspective on why I am always on Team Conrad. This series, based on the novel by Jenny Han, is very important because it helps you discover your youth and the challenges that come with being young. Conrad's character has a mysterious and intense behavior, which goes beyond his physical appearance. Throughout the series, his depth and complexity make him a fundamental pillar for the protagonist. One specific moment I liked was in the first season, when she finally opens up to Belly about her internal struggles. We all thought that he had no problems, but seeing that he also faces difficulties and is going through a stage of emotional changes, he becomes more human and real. This moment comes when he reveals everything to Belly, showing that his tough attitude is just a mask and that he carries a vulnerable boy inside of him. Another moment I loved was in season 2, when Conrad supports Belly despite her own problems. Through different actions, we are shown how, even if he is wrong, he always wants the best for her. His disinterest in his own problems and her maturity highlight her character. It is interesting to see how Conrad, an initially aggressive and distant character, becomes affectionate and friendly, like a calm little dog. I like to see men who can show the sensitive side of themselves, challenging male stereotypes. Conrad's relationship with Belly is marked by a series of significant interactions. The series shows us how this character helps Belly regain her self-confidence, positively influencing her and giving her support. As students, we must learn from these interactions as they teach us the importance of supporting and motivating others. I am very attracted to the idea of ​​a man who can cry and show his emotions without fear. The series shows us the complexity of the teenage brain and what it means to be human. At first, Conrad is an aggressive individual, but in the end, he reveals himself to be a sensitive and real man. In conclusion, I am proud to declare myself a member of Team Conrad. His position, the way he speaks and supports her inspires me on my own journey. I want to be like him, show myself as I am without fear of being criticized or considered less for crying. We all have feelings and we are human. That's why I'm Team Conrad.
    Eras Tour Farewell Fan Scholarship
    For me, Taylor Swift's music, especially during the Eras Tour, has had a very good influence on my life. I consider that it helped me discover a part of who I am, with its different genres, and it was also a discovery process for me. I found out who he was during the "Eras Tour." I was impressed by her ability to convey her problems at different stages of her life, each marked by different musical styles. That personal touch that Taylor Swift gives inspired me to reflect on my own life, from my difficult childhood in Mexico to my current life. I realized that each phase, no matter how difficult it was, has made me who I am today. Every part has attached itself to me. The songs about resilience and empowerment resonated deeply with me. They reminded me of my own strength and determination, especially when I was a poor student in Mexico. Homelessness is painful and so is being a first-generation student. Songs like "All Too Well" made me feel more comfortable embracing my own vulnerabilities and using them as sources of inspiration to demonstrate my capabilities. Additionally, Taylor Swift's dedication to her art and her ability to connect with her audience with that personal touch of hers always inspires me to pursue my own passions. Her way of singing her stories, her sad moments, her low moments, taught us the importance of expressing our ideas, what we feel, our experiences. We must also help people who are going through similar situations. In general, I love Taylor Swift's music. It provides me a way to connect to myself. It's like focusing on personal growth, but at the same time understanding that not everything bad that happens to you is really bad, but rather it is an opportunity for growth. It is essential to shape a future. You cannot build a house without a solid foundation. Mistakes are part of the journey, and it shows me that even famous people make mistakes. We all make mistakes because we are human. I love the way Taylor Swift expresses herself. It's like listening to someone human. They always idealize people who are famous, but in reality, they are humans like all of us. They make mistakes, they cry, they even go to the bathroom. They are not gods. But in itself, Taylor Swift's music inspires me to grow and run after my dreams. I really like Taylor; I like the way she expresses herself. Although when I was in Mexico I didn't understand her songs, the rhythm of the music and the way Taylor Swift expressed herself inspired me for some reason that I don't know. That intrinsic connection you have with music is a way of expressing yourself, an art, a way to show the world who you are and where you are going. It's an interesting way to explore who you are. I remember the first time I heard her and asked, "Who is she? She sings so well!" I love how she sings. Someday I would like to see her in person, I would like to go to one of her concerts, I would like to buy some tickets, but unfortunately I can't. But at some point, I know I can. I want to make a difference like she does. I admire her because sometimes she makes a difference and I want to be that difference like Taylor does. I want to be someone who can help people. Mistakes are part of the path, but it is what makes a person a person: mistakes.
    Bookshelf to Big Screen Scholarship
    "The Hunger Games" is the most realistic adaptation I have ever known. I think what Netflix did is very interesting because it presents a dystopia where we fight for resources necessary to survive, such as water and food. I find it very interesting to criticize in that way, to criticize that, for example, now you have to compete for a scholarship to go to university and achieve your dreams. But still, it's weird to compete for something that should be a universal right. Competing for health is a sad thing about our system. But, even so, we have to continue. I remember when an earthquake in Mexico was a very difficult experience for my family, very difficult for people, because many died. It was a practically traumatic event, and it reminds me of how the players competed in horrible conditions, inhuman conditions you could say. But I think it's kind of interesting to know that humanity sometimes brings out the best in you, but it can also bring out the worst in you. For me, I always want to bring out the best in me, to raise my voice for my community, for the Latino community, to raise my voice for those who do not have a voice, for those who do not have "pure" or "real" blood. I don't like how young people are classified. I believe in education, in the power of words, in the power of literature and in the power of the audiovisual medium. I believe in the power of criticizing society without destructively criticizing it, in the power of making people interested in politics and people's problems. Because, at the end of the day, we are valuable as individuals and we should not compete, we should help each other. We must find a way that we can all live in harmony, that we can create a society without "Hunger Games." "The Hunger Games" seems to me to be one of the best adaptations both for its way of speaking and its way of expressing itself. It was very faithful to the book. I love reading and watching movies because it is a way to connect with other people from the past, and present, and imagine the future. A future where we can all be better, a future where war ends, a future where we can all continue to grow and live in a country that is, so to speak, a country without "Hunger Games." That's why I want to make a change in society. I'm tired of promises, it's better to take action. In a way, we all have to talk about society's problems, and stand up against the system, like in "The Hunger Games." You must use your voice to protect the weak. That is the point of life, the point of human consciousness: to improve and show the world what you can do, what you should do. It is not what is expected of you, but what you should do according to your morals and your heart. We must share a heart so that we can all go towards the future. We must not fight among ourselves, but create communities where we can achieve a utopia. We can get there, we can destroy the system we live in and create something beautiful, something that is real and relevant to society. Because time in this world is finite and your actions can be infinite. You can leave a legacy with your actions, with your money, with what you have. That's why I want the scholarship.
    Arthur and Elana Panos Scholarship
    Personally, I remember God with gratitude. I remember that my grandmother always taught me to believe in Him and appreciate Him, because every day she suffered for us. In a way, faith is a way to inspire yourself and believe in something more. I think it's very good to have that hope and faith. I feel that coming to the United States has been a challenge for my mother, for me, and for many people. I believe I deserve the scholarship because of my ability to understand the problems of Latinos in the United States and my ability to understand how the American model works. That's why I really like religion in my life; Religion is a way to express love and gratitude towards the people who welcomed you. It's true, I don't come from a rich family or a super fancy family, but here I am, fighting for my dreams and my beliefs, for myself, for my mom, for my dad and for all people. Although I didn't know my dad, I have learned to forgive. It is important to be an example for people. You always have to stand up and say, "My God, thank you for everything I have, thank you for the time you've given me." It is important to be a difference in this world, to be someone who changes and contributes, who gives back what has been given. You have to multiply what is given to you; If they give you 5 dollars, you must return 10 to society. This is how I see scholarships. That's why I want this scholarship, because I raise my voice on behalf of the Latino community. I raise my voice for those who have no voice, for those who have been forgotten. Before we had fewer rights as Latinos, but now we have improved a lot. We have made God something big, we give away food and help people. God teaches us to turn the other cheek, and that is why I believe in Him, because God is all the good that there is in the world, and I will believe in Him all my life. He is an inspiration for the sacrifices he made and for everything we are going to have to do. We are immigrants and we have to work hard, study and work, because that's how life works. I am an immigrant, I am Latino and I am proud of it. I am proud of who I am. My mother crossed the border over a hill full of dead people, but fortunately she made it. I am proudly Latino, proudly Mexican, proudly a student. I am proud of who I am and I want to make a difference with the help you will give me. I raise my voice for all those who have no voice or legal status like me. I want to protect my community, I want to protect Latinos, because at the end of the day we are all equal regardless of skin color or what you have. The important thing is what you have inside, the important thing is the individual, not the money.
    Netflix and Scholarships!
    My favorite movie is called "I'm Not More Longer Here ." Surrounded in a society full of guns and gangs, it reminds me of where I come from. How bad people started distributing drugs in my town and community was horrible. I think people should help you and not destroy your mind. We must exchange weapons for books, drugs for food. Is that how it works. We must change if we want to get anywhere. I like "I'm Not Longer Here" because it tells the story of a young Chicano like me. In the end, he realizes that the American dream is complicated, but I think I'm something different. I believe in following the American dream. I like to think and dream that I can help people as I have done throughout my time in high school. It is interesting to know that there are people who go through the same thing, who do not have economic possibilities. I am different in my culture and sometimes I am discriminated against because of that. I am neither from here nor there, but I belong to both countries at the same time. It's like two flavors of ice cream: part of me is not Mexican enough to be considered Mexican, nor American enough to be considered American. But still, I'm Chicano, and that's what I am. I fight for my dreams. That's why I like that movie because I feel very identified with the character and his problems and difficulties. You have no one to protect you in this country, it is very different from living in Mexico. Here you are in a different community, in a different power structure. It changes a lot being in Mexico and then in the United States; It's like a 360-degree change. It is something that could not be described in words. Leaving everything you know behind and that's why I identify with the character, because I left many things in the past, I left a lot of myself in Mexico. But still, I firmly believe that I want to make a change. I want to make a change in this country, a change in the power structure. I want to make a change, a change is what I ask for, it is what my generation asks for, what the people ask for, and what the United States asks for. We must make a change in society. Not only do I have the responsibility, but all of us. That's why I want the scholarship, so I can make a difference in this world, make that change that I want to see, that moment that I want to have. I want to know the difference between education and ignorance. I want to be an example of what can be achieved without having resources.
    Little Miami Brewing Native American Scholarship Award
    I vividly remember how a girl died from a fever. It is horrible that the government forgets about less fortunate communities. I remember that it was only a Tylenol that the girl needed. It is frustrating to see how people take advantage of indigenous communities, bargaining away the work of many people. It is horrible to remember the abuse of authority by the police. My grandmother told me that they bullied her for knowing something about the indigenous language. It is important to know that towns are valuable in our community. I like engineering: to solve problems, to learn who you are and where you're going. That's what's important. The importance is learning to know that indigenous people are important, that being indigenous is not an insult. It's horrible to be discriminated against for something you can't control, like, your skin color or your eyes. It is a traumatic experience. But that's life. I am proud of my roots. Of course, I am not 100% indigenous, but I come from there. I'm not going to deny my roots for fear of what they will say. I am proud of my roots and my grandmother (RIP), because she marked me as a man and as a future engineer. I am proud of who I am and I want to make a change in this world. I want to speak for those who have no voice, for that girl who died for not having just a Tylenol, for not having medicine. I firmly believe that life is sometimes unfair to indigenous people. It is horrible to be insulted for knowing a language that is from your own country but is unknown to the system, a system that oppresses you and encapsulates you with a label that says "you are this and you cannot do that" or "you are the another and you are prohibited from entering this place. If you're not rich, you can't go to university. If you are not enough for this world, I also suffered from depression and anxiety, but in my uniqueness I find beauty, the beauty of my nation. It's true, my mom was illegal. Okay, I suffered discrimination because of my skin color, because of what I am, because of what I represent. But still, I dream. I like mathematics, I like what I am, I like what I will do. I am the change that I want to see in the world and I am becoming that man who will help the community. I am the one who makes the difference, the one who makes the difference every day, every morning. I speak for the forgotten, for that girl who died, for the people who have been abused, for the people no one talks about, the ones everyone forgets because they only see the rich. But I have to dream because that is what matters in my community. We are many natural dreamers. We are humans, we must respect our community and feel proud. Many people would hide their indigenous origin to say "I'm American," but not me. I can proudly say that I come from an indigenous family, from a family that has been oppressed by the system. But I raise my voice for the community, for my country, for what I am and for what I know. That's why I raise my voice because I no longer believe in politicians. I believe in myself, I believe in my generation, I believe in society, I believe in that society that gets up every day to look for its bread, to seek to improve.
    Minecraft Forever Fan Scholarship
    I have spent several moments of my life playing Minecraft. It is an interesting game, a game for dreamers, a game for people like me who dream big and fight for their goals. I firmly believe in the infinite possibilities that both gaming and real life offer you. Coming from a difficult community, I think that in a certain way we can all create that utopian world that Minecraft offers us. I like playing Minecraft with friends because friends offer you company and the possibility of creating something bigger than yourself, a project that would take you years, but as a guide you could do it in just a few hours. Real life is similar, since the human ability to adapt to the environment, create various tools and help people is impressive. In Minecraft, you can create your farm, your resources, and help others. That's what Minecraft is about: it's not about war, it's about peace; It is not something without meaning, but with meaning. Life has no meaning by itself; we give the meaning. To make life good, you have to learn, sleep, improve. There are fights and monsters in this life, but you still have to fight with your soul, with your heart, with who you are and what you dream of. That's why I like Minecraft: because you can create whatever you want. You can create a palace, a farm, you can follow your dreams, just like here in the United States. Minecraft connects with the American spirit, with my generation, with the dream of millions of people like me, millions of dreamers who dream of a better day, of a better world, of a world where we can eliminate wars, eliminate hunger, eliminate injustices from the system. In these moments of pain after the pandemic, Minecraft has been an example of architecture, peace and literature, because it has also had libraries where you can learn. Learning is the meaning of life: create, believe, learn and adapt. That's why I like Minecraft, that's why I love Minecraft, that's why I love America, and that's why I love the world. That's why it's important to be alive.
    Elevate Mental Health Awareness Scholarship
    My story of depression and anxiety began when I was little. I remember being abused, and the words they used stayed in my soul. When I was a child, I wanted to kill myself, but my mom always taught me that in the darkest moments there is always hope. There is always a moment where you can be a light for other people, and that's why I decided to do it. I did everything I needed to do to become that light that people need. My voice speaks for my generation, for the generation of the forgotten, for the generations of the most exploited in this increasingly changing world. I raise my voice for my community, I raise my voice for those who have no voice, for the millions of people who were stripped of their jobs. We all want to live the American dream, we all want to fight for it, but sometimes it's not possible. However, I believe I can make a difference. That's why I want the scholarship. There are equally talented and beautiful people, but I want to make a difference. I want to show the world that a Latino can become someone great, that a person who suffered from depression can achieve great things. It is not your past that matters, but your future; It doesn't matter what you did, but what you do in the present. It doesn't matter if your dad abandoned you, it doesn't matter where you come from, but where you go. I raise my voice for my generation, for the forgotten, for those to whom the system has turned its back, for those who have been hurt and hurt by people who were supposed to take care of them. I stand up for my generation, I stand up for the Latinos, I stand up for the United States, I stand up for Mexico, I stand up for this nation, for this world, for this planet. I am going to stand up and raise my voice and say with all pride: I am making a change. I am going to give scholarships and support, I am going to make a real change in society, I am going to be different from others, I am going to be a better politician, a better person every day. I'm going to rise up and destroy the evil system. I am a different person from others. I am a person who gets up every day to become a light, a hope. I believe that I represent my community, my nation. I am the only one who can create that future that I plan, where there are no wars but books, where there is no violence but love, where there is no greed but compassion. Because in this world the only thing that matters is creating paradise on earth. But if we continue like this and continue ignoring the community, we are going to create hell on earth. However, I believe in the goodness of human beings. That goodness that makes us special is what makes people grow and develop. I am Latino, with great honor. I come from an indigenous community and learned English in just three years. That's why I stand up, because I speak for my generation, I speak for all those who cannot speak, the millions of sick children. I speak for them. When I get my college degree, I will make a real change, a change in this society. That's why I fight for my dreams, because they are not only my dreams, but those of humanity. They are the dreams of a people that has been forgotten, they are the dreams of nobodies, of which no one listens, of which no one cries. I don't come from a school of rich kids or an upper class family, and that's what makes me different. In my uniqueness I find beauty, and in my scars I find the experiences of my past. I've accomplished incredible things with half the resources of most rich kids, and that's why I stand up. I stand up for this country, for this nation, because it is important. I want to make a change in society.
    Nintendo Super Fan Scholarship
    I remember that my best friend had a console that we played a lot with; I think it was one of the most interesting experiences to discover how to use such an interesting control. I didn't know how to speak English or anything, but I really liked playing. It was very funny. I mainly played classic video games like Donkey Kong, because in Mexico one gets used to having video games from older generations. But I remember very well the great moments with the Wii U; It was an incredible experience learning to play video games that is also a way to connect with your inner child, with your friends and family, with all those people who make you feel happy. For me, he was my best friend. I remember playing multiple games with him, wrestling, tennis; It was very interesting and an incredible experience for me and my friend. I remember how they invited me to his house so we could play; That was a very nice stage of my childhood. I remember that his parents liked that I was his friend because he always taught him math and how to play. I think it was fun to enjoy that family time thanks to Nintendo. That's why I like it a lot, because it helps you connect with the people around you, with your friends, family... I remember that once we played on a Nintendo and we played a lot; it was fun. It was a way to connect with my mom because she was never home and all that. I think throughout my time playing Nintendo, I'm a huge fan. I had so many amazing moments, how we played, how we had fun, how we shared a special connection as friends. I remember that we also invited other friends and we played and had fun with the different games. I liked playing with the console more; It was interesting to see those movements and technological advances. And then, Pokémon, which is a classic. I literally watched the anime and played a lot of those video games. I love Pokémon, I love Nintendo. I think I'm one of the biggest Nintendo fans. For me, Nintendo is an inspiration. I think I love Japanese culture and video game culture. I think it's an incredible way for young people to distract themselves a little from the problems of the world. The connection between video games and a human being is beautiful; It's an interesting way to learn about other cultures and learn about yourself by playing video games. It's not just about the game, but about the people who are with you.
    Student Life Photography Scholarship
    Ethel Hayes Destigmatization of Mental Health Scholarship
    I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety a year ago, sad news. Despite my actions, I felt alone. It's interesting to talk about my feelings. Sometimes I believe that university processes only add more burden to students, leaving many deserving people without access to university because of a system that forces us to pay absurd amounts of money for something that should be a right. I don't like how the system works. I have had several achievements; I graduated with a diploma with honors, but it is still difficult to face depression every day. My psychologist says that I am very resilient. Seeing the problems in society, like the poverty I myself have lived in, is heartbreaking. Competing for a scholarship when I believe we are all special is difficult. I come from a country where there were no books, water or money, and yet I dream of going to university. Now I dream of making a change; I think that's the good thing about being human: dreaming and achieving those dreams. I know what I want for the world; I want to be that piece that changes the system. That's why I want the scholarship because, despite all my difficulties, without a prestigious school or millionaire parents, I am a person who raises my voice for Latinos and represents my generation. We are often called lazy or crazy, but in the end, we are human. I hope they give me the scholarship because at some point I also want to offer one. I want to give back to society, to this country, to my other country. I am grateful for my family, my games, and my country. I have struggled with mental issues since I was 10 years old, but I was too afraid to speak out, for fear of being judged. I love literature, politics, and I want to raise my voice for Latinos. We are not perfect, but were previous generations? It's strange to think that my generation can't speak because we are too busy surviving. Still, our dreams remain alive, like that mouse that wanted to reach the stars. My experience living with mental health issues has been tough, but I kept everything in its place: my GPA, my extracurricular activities. Still, I felt sad. Imagine leaving everything you love to protect people. That's why I want the scholarship, to give back to the world what it has given me. I hope to be that world that changes this world. I am a big dreamer, I know that there are millions of beautiful and talented people who want that scholarship, but I want you to give me a chance, for who I am, for what I represent, for the ideal that I want to represent. I am proudly Latino and I am proud of who I am. I will fight tooth and nail to achieve my goal. With what the United States has given me, it is interesting to think about the opportunities I have, but also about the future problems I will face, mainly economic. My parents did not finish primary education. Since I was little, I was stalked by criminals and bad people who wanted to lure me to them. It was strange to be under such influence, but my mother always tried to do her best and she tried to teach me that education is important. My grandmother also did it before she died. It is strange to remember them; Sometimes I feel like what I did wasn't worth it, but I remember all the good I hope to do, and that is my hope and my way of rising toward life. It gets easier every day, but it's still hard to take your medicine, go for a walk, and make a difference. At some point, I'd like to do something like what this app does: some money, education, and free resources. It is difficult but not only for an individual to do all this alone, especially with my financial situation. My days can only give me shelter and food, which I am grateful for. But hey, I have to keep dreaming. I am a big dreamer; I dream of a world where there is no war or violence. I think that's what education does. Statistics don't lie: the most educated countries are the happier, and that is what we must promote. That's why I don't like American politics; instead of bullets, they should shoot books if they want to help a country. I hate the current conflicts in the world. I wish people would educate themselves more and understand that there is no difference between them and me; We are all human, we are all individuals with dreams, with love, and with things to share. That's why I want the scholarship. I hope to get to a position where I can help millions of people, not just one. I dream of that day, of the day when I can make a change in a society wounded by violence and destroyed by wars, weapons, drugs, money, and corruption. I believe we can make heaven on earth, but if we continue as we are going, we are going to make hell on earth.
    Book Lovers Scholarship
    I think if I had to recommend a book, I would recommend "One Hundred Years of Solitude" for its interesting themes. At first, the Buendía family was judged for problems that could be interpreted as echoes of the past. Fortunately, at first nothing happened to them, and then we enter the plot where we see a cycle of poverty and wealth, which I find very interesting because it is a criticism of how our society repeats the same mistakes. Currently, this manifests itself in discrimination against African-American or Mexican-American people. It's a shame that we keep repeating mistakes, but as the book says, this has been repeated before, and as one historian has said, history doesn't repeat itself, but sometimes it rhymes. I think it was an interesting criticism about the policies of the US government in underdeveloped countries, the banana policy and the disasters that this exploitation generates both in society and in individuals. It is a shame that the leading world power does this to our people. It makes me remember the blood of my Mexican brothers shed to satisfy the demand of the American market. The book is about mistakes being repeated, but I believe I can make that change; I want to make that change. I hope to break the barriers that come with making this change and I am willing to sacrifice my existence until I reach the point of making a real change in society. On the one hand, I love American society and on the other, I hate the murderers who destroyed millions of lives. It is the cold and complex part of reading, knowing that your country is not the good guy in the story or the bad guy, but rather it is gray, and the only thing you can do is try to change it. With this, I want to reinforce my promise that I will make a change if given the opportunity.
    Barbara Cain Literary Scholarship
    I have read various books, both classic and current. At first, when I was in Mexico, I wasn't that good at reading; We couldn't buy books, but now that I am here in the United States, I have the possibility of renting books from the library. I have learned about philosophy from Plato, Aristotle and many more. I have also learned about Latin literature through "One Hundred Years of Solitude" and various authors and poems that criticize the system in which we live. Sometimes I think that everyone should have the opportunity to go to university, but we can't because of this system that forces us to pay money for something that is a right. That's my position on education in America. I love every part of it; Reading is like a passion that I have had since I was little. As you'll see from my profile, I don't come from a millionaire family or parents who taught me to read at a college level. I come from a normal, lower class family, one of those whom no one remembers, the forgotten ones. But well, my relationship is more with Latin American literature because now I understand the exploitation that indigenous peoples suffer and the discredit caused by not having money; Criticism of Mexican and American policies fascinates me. I am a person who gives my opinion on things and defends those who do not have a voice; That's why I want to get a scholarship. I believe that I am someone who can generate changes in that society. During my time in the United States, I have read and understood college-level books. Although English has not been my first language, it is also true that I am not going to say that I am perfect because I am not. I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety a year ago, some news that I have to share to show you that we are capable but scared teenagers, although we have to face it, we have to stand up for those who have no voice, for the forgotten. I come from a family in which there was not a single book in the bookstore, where access to books is like finding water in the desert, but I love them, they are the most precious of humanity, they are the ones who have done what we what are we. It is the difference between societies that kill each other and those that prospered to give a good future to their children. Of course, my political opinions are strong because I come from below, because I understand the problems of my country, of my two countries, of my planet, of my fellow generations. I understand the difficulty of finding books in Mexico and when I have money, I want to donate a library. I don't come from a prestigious school, my elementary school didn't even have a roof, we are plagued by crime, but I believe in the idea that bullets should be replaced by books, war by peace, resources should be used for education to help our generation, help the next generation and solve the problems that come with this system. I am the one who is going to make the change because I understand the problems of my generation; I am the person who is going to make the most significant changes in this society, it doesn't matter if I am poor. It doesn't matter if it takes me a thousand years to do it, I'm going to make the changes I need to make.
    Our Destiny Our Future Scholarship
    I am a Chicano. My journey through personal challenges has shaped my worldview. My father abandoned me when I was born, and then a year later, my parents divorced. Later, my mother was deported to Mexico, where we were homeless for a time until my grandmother took us in at her house. My primary school lacked quality drinking water and facilities; I vividly remember how I cried for not having food and the harassment I suffered for not having minimum needs; my clothes cost 0.5 dollars. But always, my mother reminded me that I should study, and I spent most of my time reading and watching Khan Academy. As a high school senior, I have a deep commitment to the betterment of our society. My goal is to use my education to innovate towards a better world, being the change I want to see, where technology can help solve current challenges, such as the water, housing, and health crises. People always thought I was crazy because, just upon arriving in the US, I already wanted to go to university. In my first few years of school, I only took ELD classes, but I still studied on my own time and was the first in my cohort to pass the ELPA, an exam that even some native speakers don't pass. Graduating as valedictorian, earning an honors diploma. Learning English and adapting to the US. Solidified my determination to help my community through social service. My recognition for leadership in Latinos in Action and mastery of Spanish provided me with essential skills for this changing world. I can adapt to diverse environments and address different points of view, preparing me for the challenges that come with being the first person in my family to go to college. I worked in a fast food restaurant, where I thrived as a team leader in a high-pressure environment, there were many orders and a lack of staff but I always remained calm. Managing critical situations and learning to manage my resources efficiently. This position, together with my self-study in semiconductor manufacturing, has prepared me to face technical challenges with precision. Ensuring that my solutions are innovative and correspond to human needs. As a volunteer at school, I faced firsthand the socioeconomic barriers that prevent access to food and saw people in my situation without the resources to survive. These experiences have fueled my passion for making a change in society. My involvement here deepened my understanding of community dynamics and my commitment to using my skills to make a change. I am prepared to leverage my education in electrical engineering to make meaningful contributions to technology. I seek academic support to enhance my capabilities, driven by the belief that with the right tools, I can help transform communities around the world. I believe that community service means giving back a little of what the world has given you. I think that in my many nights suffering from poverty, I always wanted to see a light, someone who would help me. That's how my aunt helped me, but I believe that during this part of my life, I want to use this body to help people, to be that light I wanted to see. Community service is very important. If I were rich, I think I would give most of my money to the poor, bring education to this world, and stop wars, but for now, the most important thing is to finish my education, help as much as I can, and then, if I work hard, maybe I can solve some problems of society.
    Anime Enthusiast Scholarship
    My experience with anime began with "Naruto", an anime that for me was the best. We start with a protagonist who seems to be different; He wasn't the typical hero who achieves everything just by being the protagonist. I liked that Naruto suffered because it allowed me to connect with that sense of rejection, but also with his resilience to get up again and again. Naruto is a great example of a good character who starts out as a rebellious and neglected child, similar to how I see my dream of making a change in this society. I think in some ways, I'm similar to him: I wasn't born with natural talent, but I'm always looking for my dreams and run towards a better moment in live. I remember when Naruto met his teacher and I thought he would be the typical anime protagonist, but that wasn't the case. In fact, he taught us what it means to strive for something. As young people, we want to change society, just like the shinobi in Naruto village. We must not seek revenge, but be the change, the light, the hope. That's a counterpart to Obito, who could have become a hero, but chose the dark path. In a way, I am like the protagonist: I strive tirelessly to achieve my goals, work and study. Even though some things seem impossible, like getting an honorary diploma, people thought he was crazy, just like Naruto when he first tried to become Hokage. But in reality, effort trumps innate talent, and that's what they showed me. We must always look to the future and never get stuck in a negative cycle, but rather make a positive change in this world, and use our tools and resources without looking at what others have. The point of Naruto is to pursue your dreams, train, rest, and achieve your goals no matter what other people think of you. Be yourself, be original, be that change you want to see in the world. My favorite phrase in life, and one that reflects the Naruto series, is: "Change begins within oneself." In "Naruto Shippuden," when Naruto returned from his training with Jiraiya, we saw how he had become an adult. He became a role model for his peers—the same child who was once overlooked and without power had become an inspiration to the village. He distinguished himself during the confrontation with Pain, truly showing the importance of forgiveness: someone who, despite not coming from a privileged background, relentlessly pursues a brighter future. Against Sasuke, we see a contrast with Sasuke, being consumed by revenge, doesn’t progress in life. Yet, Naruto forgave him, showing the nearly unbreakable friendship and the importance of always striving to see the good in people. This means trying to understand their ideas and their motivations. Many are labeled criminals yet are innocent, imprisoned by a horrible system. We shouldn’t judge others for crimes without understanding the context—some may have started with minor offenses but were driven to greater crimes by this broken system. We must recognize that we are all human and that the path to becoming what we aspire to be involves hard work. This is the Naruto mentality: a team mentality, a supportive mentality, a mentality where we all contribute to a cause greater than ourselves, to a moment where we can all find happiness—not in illusion, but in the reality of people, the world, and our planet. We are better than the hatred; we are human, we change, we improve, and we grow.
    Sola Family Scholarship
    I am a Chicano. My journey through personal challenges has shaped my worldview. My father abandoned me when I was born, and then a year later, my parents divorced. Later, my mother was deported to Mexico, where we were homeless for a time until my grandmother took us in at her house. My primary school lacked quality drinking water and facilities; I vividly remember how I cried for not having food and the harassment I suffered for not having minimum needs; my clothes cost 0.5 dollars. But always, my mother reminded me that I should study, and I spent most of my time reading and watching Khan Academy. As a high school senior, I have a deep commitment to the betterment of our society. My goal is to use my education to innovate towards a better world, being the change I want to see, where technology can help solve current challenges, such as the water, housing, and health crises. People always thought I was crazy because, just upon arriving in the US, I already wanted to go to university. In my first few years of school, I only took ELD classes, but I still studied on my own time and was the first in my cohort to pass the ELPA, an exam that even some native speakers don't pass. Graduating as valedictorian, earning an honors diploma. Learning English and adapting to the US. Solidified my determination to help my community through social service. My recognition for leadership in Latinos in Action and mastery of Spanish provided me with essential skills for this changing world. I can adapt to diverse environments and address different points of view, preparing me for the challenges that come with being the first person in my family to go to college. I worked in a fast food restaurant, where I thrived as a team leader in a high-pressure environment, there were many orders and a lack of staff but I always remained calm. Managing critical situations and learning to manage my resources efficiently. This position, together with my self-study in semiconductor manufacturing, has prepared me to face technical challenges with precision. Ensuring that my solutions are innovative and correspond to human needs. As a volunteer at school, I faced firsthand the socioeconomic barriers that prevent access to food and saw people in my situation without the resources to survive. These experiences have fueled my passion for making a change in society. My involvement here deepened my understanding of community dynamics and my commitment to using my skills to make a change. I am prepared to leverage my education in electrical engineering to make meaningful contributions to technology. I seek academic support to enhance my capabilities, driven by the belief that with the right tools, I can help transform communities around the world. I believe that community service means giving back a little of what the world has given you. I think that in my many nights suffering from poverty, I always wanted to see a light, someone who would help me. That's how my aunt helped me, but I believe that during this part of my life, I want to use this body to help people, to be that light I wanted to see. Community service is very important. If I were rich, I think I would give most of my money to the poor, bring education to this world, and stop wars, but for now, the most important thing is to finish my education, help as much as I can, and then, if I work hard, maybe I can solve some problems of society.
    Brotherhood Bows Scholarship
    I am a Chicano. My journey through personal challenges has shaped my worldview. My father abandoned me when I was born, and then a year later, my parents divorced. Later, my mother was deported to Mexico, where we were homeless for a time until my grandmother took us in at her house. My primary school lacked quality drinking water and facilities; I vividly remember how I cried for not having food and the harassment I suffered for not having minimum needs; my clothes cost 0.5 dollars. But always, my mother reminded me that I should study, and I spent most of my time reading and watching Khan Academy. As a high school senior, I have a deep commitment to the betterment of our society. My goal is to use my education to innovate towards a better world, being the change I want to see, where technology can help solve current challenges, such as the water, housing, and health crises. People always thought I was crazy because, just upon arriving in the US, I already wanted to go to university. In my first few years of school, I only took ELD classes, but I still studied on my own time and was the first in my cohort to pass the ELPA, an exam that even some native speakers don't pass. Graduating as valedictorian, earning an honors diploma. Learning English and adapting to the US. Solidified my determination to help my community through social service. My recognition for leadership in Latinos in Action and mastery of Spanish provided me with essential skills for this changing world. I can adapt to diverse environments and address different points of view, preparing me for the challenges that come with being the first person in my family to go to college. I worked in a fast food restaurant, where I thrived as a team leader in a high-pressure environment, there were many orders and a lack of staff but I always remained calm. Managing critical situations and learning to manage my resources efficiently. This position, together with my self-study in semiconductor manufacturing, has prepared me to face technical challenges with precision. Ensuring that my solutions are innovative and correspond to human needs. As a volunteer at school, I faced firsthand the socioeconomic barriers that prevent access to food and saw people in my situation without the resources to survive. These experiences have fueled my passion for making a change in society. My involvement here deepened my understanding of community dynamics and my commitment to using my skills to make a change. I am prepared to leverage my education in electrical engineering to make meaningful contributions to technology. I seek academic support to enhance my capabilities, driven by the belief that with the right tools, I can help transform communities around the world. I believe that community service means giving back a little of what the world has given you. I think that in my many nights suffering from poverty, I always wanted to see a light, someone who would help me. That's how my aunt helped me, but I believe that during this part of my life, I want to use this body to help people, to be that light I wanted to see. Community service is very important. If I were rich, I think I would give most of my money to the poor, bring education to this world, and stop wars, but for now, the most important thing is to finish my education, help as much as I can, and then, if I work hard, maybe I can solve some problems of society.
    Bright Lights Scholarship
    I am a Chicano. My journey through personal challenges has shaped my worldview. My father abandoned me when I was born, and then a year later, my parents divorced. Later, my mother was deported to Mexico, where we were homeless for a time until my grandmother took us in at her house. My primary school lacked quality drinking water and facilities; I vividly remember how I cried for not having food and the harassment I suffered for not having minimum needs; my clothes cost 0.5 dollars. But always, my mother reminded me that I should study, and I spent most of my time reading and watching Khan Academy. As a high school senior, I have a deep commitment to the betterment of our society. My goal is to use my education to innovate towards a better world, being the change I want to see, where technology can help solve current challenges, such as the water, housing, and health crises. People always thought I was crazy because, just upon arriving in the US, I already wanted to go to university. In my first few years of school, I only took ELD classes, but I still studied on my own time and was the first in my cohort to pass the ELPA, an exam that even some native speakers don't pass. Graduating as valedictorian, earning an honors diploma. Learning English and adapting to the US. Solidified my determination to help my community through social service. My recognition for leadership in Latinos in Action and mastery of Spanish provided me with essential skills for this changing world. I can adapt to diverse environments and address different points of view, preparing me for the challenges that come with being the first person in my family to go to college. I worked in a fast food restaurant, where I thrived as a team leader in a high-pressure environment, there were many orders and a lack of staff but I always remained calm. Managing critical situations and learning to manage my resources efficiently. This position, together with my self-study in semiconductor manufacturing, has prepared me to face technical challenges with precision. Ensuring that my solutions are innovative and correspond to human needs. As a volunteer at school, I faced firsthand the socioeconomic barriers that prevent access to food and saw people in my situation without the resources to survive. These experiences have fueled my passion for making a change in society. My involvement here deepened my understanding of community dynamics and my commitment to using my skills to make a change. I am prepared to leverage my education in electrical engineering to make meaningful contributions to technology. I seek academic support to enhance my capabilities, driven by the belief that with the right tools, I can help transform communities around the world. I believe that community service means giving back a little of what the world has given you. I think that in my many nights suffering from poverty, I always wanted to see a light, someone who would help me. That's how my aunt helped me, but I believe that during this part of my life, I want to use this body to help people, to be that light I wanted to see. Community service is very important. If I were rich, I think I would give most of my money to the poor, bring education to this world, and stop wars, but for now, the most important thing is to finish my education, help as much as I can, and then, if I work hard, maybe I can solve some problems of society.
    Ojeda Multi-County Youth Scholarship
    I am a Chicano. My journey through personal challenges has shaped my worldview. My father abandoned me when I was born, and then a year later, my parents divorced. Later, my mother was deported to Mexico, where we were homeless for a time until my grandmother took us in at her house. My primary school lacked quality drinking water and facilities; I vividly remember how I cried for not having food and the harassment I suffered for not having minimum needs; my clothes cost 0.5 dollars. But always, my mother reminded me that I should study, and I spent most of my time reading and watching Khan Academy. As a high school senior, I have a deep commitment to the betterment of our society. My goal is to use my education to innovate towards a better world, being the change I want to see, where technology can help solve current challenges, such as the water, housing, and health crises. People always thought I was crazy because, just upon arriving in the US, I already wanted to go to university. In my first few years of school, I only took ELD classes, but I still studied on my own time and was the first in my cohort to pass the ELPA, an exam that even some native speakers don't pass. Graduating as valedictorian, earning an honors diploma. Learning English and adapting to the US. Solidified my determination to help my community through social service. My recognition for leadership in Latinos in Action and mastery of Spanish provided me with essential skills for this changing world. I can adapt to diverse environments and address different points of view, preparing me for the challenges that come with being the first person in my family to go to college. I worked in a fast food restaurant, where I thrived as a team leader in a high-pressure environment, there were many orders and a lack of staff but I always remained calm. Managing critical situations and learning to manage my resources efficiently. This position, together with my self-study in semiconductor manufacturing, has prepared me to face technical challenges with precision. Ensuring that my solutions are innovative and correspond to human needs. As a volunteer at school, I faced firsthand the socioeconomic barriers that prevent access to food and saw people in my situation without the resources to survive. These experiences have fueled my passion for making a change in society. My involvement here deepened my understanding of community dynamics and my commitment to using my skills to make a change. I am prepared to leverage my education in electrical engineering to make meaningful contributions to technology. I seek academic support to enhance my capabilities, driven by the belief that with the right tools, I can help transform communities around the world. I believe that community service means giving back a little of what the world has given you. I think that in my many nights suffering from poverty, I always wanted to see a light, someone who would help me. That's how my aunt helped me, but I believe that during this part of my life, I want to use this body to help people, to be that light I wanted to see. Community service is very important. If I were rich, I think I would give most of my money to the poor, bring education to this world, and stop wars, but for now, the most important thing is to finish my education, help as much as I can, and then, if I work hard, maybe I can solve some problems of society
    JT Lampert Scholarship
    I am Chicano. My journey through personal challenges has shaped my worldview. My father abandoned me when I was born, and then a year later, my parents divorced. Later, my mother was deported to Mexico, where we were homeless for a time until my grandmother took us. My primary school lacked quality drinking water and facilities; I vividly remember how I cried for not having food and the harassment I suffered for not having minimum needs; my clothes cost 0.5 dollars. But always, my mother reminded me that I should study, and I spent most of my time reading and watching Khan Academy. My goal is to use my education to innovate towards a better world, being the change I want to see, where technology can help solve current challenges, such as the water, housing, and health crises. Just upon arriving in the US, I already wanted to go to university. In my first few years of school, I only took ELD classes, but I still studied during my free time and was the first in my cohort to pass the ELPA, an exam that even some native speakers don't pass. Graduating as valedictorian, earning an honors diploma. Learning English and adapting to the US. Solidified my determination to help my community through social service. My recognition for leadership in Latinos in Action and mastery of Spanish provided me with essential skills for this changing world. I can adapt to diverse environments and address different points of view, preparing me for the challenges that come with being the first person in my family to go to college. I worked in a restaurant, where I thrived as a team leader in a high-pressure environment, there were many orders and a lack of staff but I always remained calm. Managing critical situations and learning to manage my resources efficiently. This position, together with my self-study in semiconductor manufacturing, has prepared me to face technical challenges with precision. Ensuring that my solutions. I am prepared to leverage my education as an enginer. I seek academic support to enhance my capabilities, driven by the belief that with the right tools, I can help transform communities around the world. I believe that community service means giving back a little of what the world has given you. I think that in my many nights suffering from poverty, I always wanted to see a light, someone who would help me. That's how my aunt helped me, but I believe that during this part of my life, I want to use this body to help people, to be that light I wanted to see. Community service is very important. If I were rich, I think I would give most of my money to the poor, bring education to this world, and stop wars, but for now, the most important thing is to finish my education, help as much as I can, and then, if I work hard, maybe I can solve some problems of society.
    Dan Leahy Scholarship Fund
    My inspiration is Cesar Chavez,My journey through personal challenges has shaped my worldview. My father abandoned me when I was born, and then a year later, my parents divorced. Later, my mother was deported to Mexico, where we were homeless for a time until my grandmother took us in at her house. My primary school lacked quality drinking water and facilities; I vividly remember how I cried for not having food and the harassment I suffered for not having minimum needs; my clothes cost 0.5 dollars. But always, my mother reminded me that I should study, and I spent most of my time reading and watching Khan Academy. As a high school senior, I have a deep commitment to the betterment of our society. My goal is to use my education to innovate towards a better world, being the change I want to see, where technology can help solve current challenges, such as the water, housing, and health crises. People always thought I was crazy because, just upon arriving in the US, I already wanted to go to university. In my first few years of school, I only took ELD classes, but I still studied on my own time and was the first in my cohort to pass the ELPA, an exam that even some native speakers don't pass. Graduating as valedictorian, earning an honors diploma. Learning English and adapting to the US. Solidified my determination to help my community through social service. My recognition for leadership in Latinos in Action and mastery of Spanish provided me with essential skills for this changing world. I can adapt to diverse environments and address different points of view, preparing me for the challenges that come with being the first person in my family to go to college. I worked in a fast food restaurant, where I thrived as a team leader in a high-pressure environment, there were many orders and a lack of staff but I always remained calm. Managing critical situations and learning to manage my resources efficiently. This position, together with my self-study in semiconductor manufacturing, has prepared me to face technical challenges with precision. Ensuring that my solutions are innovative and correspond to human needs. As a volunteer at school, I faced firsthand the socioeconomic barriers that prevent access to food and saw people in my situation without the resources to survive. These experiences have fueled my passion for making a change in society. My involvement here deepened my understanding of community dynamics and my commitment to using my skills to make a change. I am prepared to leverage my education in electrical engineering to make meaningful contributions to technology. I seek academic support to enhance my capabilities, driven by the belief that with the right tools, I can help transform communities around the world. I believe that community service means giving back a little of what the world has given you. I think that in my many nights suffering from poverty, I always wanted to see a light, someone who would help me. That's how my aunt helped me, but I believe that during this part of my life, I want to use this body to help people, to be that light I wanted to see. Community service is very important. If I were rich, I think I would give most of my money to the poor, bring education to this world, and stop wars, but for now, the most important thing is to finish my education, help as much as I can, and then, if I work hard, maybe I can solve some problems of society.
    Sandra West ALS Foundation Scholarship
    I am a Chicano. My journey through personal challenges has shaped my worldview. My father abandoned me when I was born, and then a year later, my parents divorced. Later, my mother was deported to Mexico, where we were homeless for a time until my grandmother took us in at her house. My primary school lacked quality drinking water and facilities; I vividly remember how I cried for not having food and the harassment I suffered for not having minimum needs; my clothes cost 0.5 dollars. But always, my mother reminded me that I should study, and I spent most of my time reading and watching Khan Academy. As a high school senior, I have a deep commitment to the betterment of our society. My goal is to use my education to innovate towards a better world, being the change I want to see, where technology can help solve current challenges, such as the water, housing, and health crises. People always thought I was crazy because, just upon arriving in the US, I already wanted to go to university. In my first few years of school, I only took ELD classes, but I still studied on my own time and was the first in my cohort to pass the ELPA, an exam that even some native speakers don't pass. Graduating as valedictorian, earning an honors diploma. Learning English and adapting to the US. Solidified my determination to help my community through social service. My recognition for leadership in Latinos in Action and mastery of Spanish provided me with essential skills for this changing world. I can adapt to diverse environments and address different points of view, preparing me for the challenges that come with being the first person in my family to go to college. I worked in a fast food restaurant, where I thrived as a team leader in a high-pressure environment, there were many orders and a lack of staff but I always remained calm. Managing critical situations and learning to manage my resources efficiently. This position, together with my self-study in semiconductor manufacturing, has prepared me to face technical challenges with precision. Ensuring that my solutions are innovative and correspond to human needs. As a volunteer at school, I faced firsthand the socioeconomic barriers that prevent access to food and saw people in my situation without the resources to survive. These experiences have fueled my passion for making a change in society. My involvement here deepened my understanding of community dynamics and my commitment to using my skills to make a change. I am prepared to leverage my education in electrical engineering to make meaningful contributions to technology. I seek academic support to enhance my capabilities, driven by the belief that with the right tools, I can help transform communities around the world. I believe that community service means giving back a little of what the world has given you. I think that in my many nights suffering from poverty, I always wanted to see a light, someone who would help me. That's how my aunt helped me, but I believe that during this part of my life, I want to use this body to help people, to be that light I wanted to see. Community service is very important. If I were rich, I think I would give most of my money to the poor, bring education to this world, and stop wars, but for now, the most important thing is to finish my education, help as much as I can, and then, if I work hard, maybe I can solve some problems of society
    Martin Simutis Memorial Scholarship
    I am a Chicano. My journey through personal challenges has shaped my worldview. My father abandoned me when I was born, and then a year later, my parents divorced. Later, my mother was deported to Mexico, where we were homeless for a time until my grandmother took us in at her house. My primary school lacked quality drinking water and facilities; I vividly remember how I cried for not having food and the harassment I suffered for not having minimum needs; my clothes cost 0.5 dollars. But always, my mother reminded me that I should study, and I spent most of my time reading and watching Khan Academy. As a high school senior, I have a deep commitment to the betterment of our society. My goal is to use my education to innovate towards a better world, being the change I want to see, where technology can help solve current challenges, such as the water, housing, and health crises. People always thought I was crazy because, just upon arriving in the US, I already wanted to go to university. In my first few years of school, I only took ELD classes, but I still studied on my own time and was the first in my cohort to pass the ELPA, an exam that even some native speakers don't pass. Graduating as valedictorian, earning an honors diploma. Learning English and adapting to the US. Solidified my determination to help my community through social service. My recognition for leadership in Latinos in Action and mastery of Spanish provided me with essential skills for this changing world. I can adapt to diverse environments and address different points of view, preparing me for the challenges that come with being the first person in my family to go to college. I worked in a fast food restaurant, where I thrived as a team leader in a high-pressure environment, there were many orders and a lack of staff but I always remained calm. Managing critical situations and learning to manage my resources efficiently. This position, together with my self-study in semiconductor manufacturing, has prepared me to face technical challenges with precision. Ensuring that my solutions are innovative and correspond to human needs. As a volunteer at school, I faced firsthand the socioeconomic barriers that prevent access to food and saw people in my situation without the resources to survive. These experiences have fueled my passion for making a change in society. My involvement here deepened my understanding of community dynamics and my commitment to using my skills to make a change. I am prepared to leverage my education in electrical engineering to make meaningful contributions to technology. I seek academic support to enhance my capabilities, driven by the belief that with the right tools, I can help transform communities around the world. I believe that community service means giving back a little of what the world has given you. I think that in my many nights suffering from poverty, I always wanted to see a light, someone who would help me. That's how my aunt helped me, but I believe that during this part of my life, I want to use this body to help people, to be that light I wanted to see. Community service is very important. If I were rich, I think I would give most of my money to the poor, bring education to this world, and stop wars, but for now, the most important thing is to finish my education, help as much as I can, and then, if I work hard, maybe I can solve some problems of society
    Robert F. Lawson Fund for Careers that Care
    I am a Chicano. My journey through personal challenges has shaped my worldview. My father abandoned me when I was born, and then a year later, my parents divorced. Later, my mother was deported to Mexico, where we were homeless for a time until my grandmother took us in at her house. My primary school lacked quality drinking water and facilities; I vividly remember how I cried for not having food and the harassment I suffered for not having minimum needs; my clothes cost 0.5 dollars. But always, my mother reminded me that I should study, and I spent most of my time reading and watching Khan Academy. As a high school senior, I have a deep commitment to the betterment of our society. My goal is to use my education to innovate towards a better world, being the change I want to see, where technology can help solve current challenges, such as the water, housing, and health crises. People always thought I was crazy because, just upon arriving in the US, I already wanted to go to university. In my first few years of school, I only took ELD classes, but I still studied on my own time and was the first in my cohort to pass the ELPA, an exam that even some native speakers don't pass. Graduating as valedictorian, earning an honors diploma. Learning English and adapting to the US. Solidified my determination to help my community through social service. My recognition for leadership in Latinos in Action and mastery of Spanish provided me with essential skills for this changing world. I can adapt to diverse environments and address different points of view, preparing me for the challenges that come with being the first person in my family to go to college. I worked in a fast food restaurant, where I thrived as a team leader in a high-pressure environment, there were many orders and a lack of staff but I always remained calm. Managing critical situations and learning to manage my resources efficiently. This position, together with my self-study in semiconductor manufacturing, has prepared me to face technical challenges with precision. Ensuring that my solutions are innovative and correspond to human needs. As a volunteer at school, I faced firsthand the socioeconomic barriers that prevent access to food and saw people in my situation without the resources to survive. These experiences have fueled my passion for making a change in society. My involvement here deepened my understanding of community dynamics and my commitment to using my skills to make a change. I am prepared to leverage my education in electrical engineering to make meaningful contributions to technology. I seek academic support to enhance my capabilities, driven by the belief that with the right tools, I can help transform communities around the world. I believe that community service means giving back a little of what the world has given you. I think that in my many nights suffering from poverty, I always wanted to see a light, someone who would help me. That's how my aunt helped me, but I believe that during this part of my life, I want to use this body to help people, to be that light I wanted to see. Community service is very important. If I were rich, I think I would give most of my money to the poor, bring education to this world, and stop wars, but for now, the most important thing is to finish my education, help as much as I can, and then, if I work hard, maybe I can solve some problems of society.
    Pierson Family Scholarship for U.S. Studies
    I am a Chicano. My journey through personal challenges has shaped my worldview. My father abandoned me when I was born, and then a year later, my parents divorced. Later, my mother was deported to Mexico, where we were homeless for a time until my grandmother took us in at her house. My primary school lacked quality drinking water and facilities; I vividly remember how I cried for not having food and the harassment I suffered for not having minimum needs; my clothes cost 0.5 dollars. But always, my mother reminded me that I should study, and I spent most of my time reading and watching Khan Academy. As a high school senior, I have a deep commitment to the betterment of our society. My goal is to use my education to innovate towards a better world, being the change I want to see, where technology can help solve current challenges, such as the water, housing, and health crises. People always thought I was crazy because, just upon arriving in the US, I already wanted to go to university. In my first few years of school, I only took ELD classes, but I still studied on my own time and was the first in my cohort to pass the ELPA, an exam that even some native speakers don't pass. Graduating as valedictorian, earning an honors diploma. Learning English and adapting to the US. Solidified my determination to help my community through social service. My recognition for leadership in Latinos in Action and mastery of Spanish provided me with essential skills for this changing world. I can adapt to diverse environments and address different points of view, preparing me for the challenges that come with being the first person in my family to go to college. I worked in a fast food restaurant, where I thrived as a team leader in a high-pressure environment, there were many orders and a lack of staff but I always remained calm. Managing critical situations and learning to manage my resources efficiently. This position, together with my self-study in semiconductor manufacturing, has prepared me to face technical challenges with precision. Ensuring that my solutions are innovative and correspond to human needs. As a volunteer at school, I faced firsthand the socioeconomic barriers that prevent access to food and saw people in my situation without the resources to survive. These experiences have fueled my passion for making a change in society. My involvement here deepened my understanding of community dynamics and my commitment to using my skills to make a change. I am prepared to leverage my education in electrical engineering to make meaningful contributions to technology. I seek academic support to enhance my capabilities, driven by the belief that with the right tools, I can help transform communities around the world. I believe that community service means giving back a little of what the world has given you. I think that in my many nights suffering from poverty, I always wanted to see a light, someone who would help me. That's how my aunt helped me, but I believe that during this part of my life, I want to use this body to help people, to be that light I wanted to see. Community service is very important. If I were rich, I think I would give most of my money to the poor, bring education to this world, and stop wars, but for now, the most important thing is to finish my education, help as much as I can, and then, if I work hard, maybe I can solve some problems of society.
    Dimon A. Williams Memorial Scholarship
    I am a Chicano. My journey through personal challenges has shaped my worldview. My father abandoned me when I was born, and then a year later, my parents divorced. Later, my mother was deported to Mexico, where we were homeless for a time until my grandmother took us in at her house. My primary school lacked quality drinking water and facilities; I vividly remember how I cried for not having food and the harassment I suffered for not having minimum needs; my clothes cost 0.5 dollars. But always, my mother reminded me that I should study, and I spent most of my time reading and watching Khan Academy. As a high school senior, I have a deep commitment to the betterment of our society. My goal is to use my education to innovate towards a better world, being the change I want to see, where technology can help solve current challenges, such as the water, housing, and health crises. People always thought I was crazy because, just upon arriving in the US, I already wanted to go to university. In my first few years of school, I only took ELD classes, but I still studied on my own time and was the first in my cohort to pass the ELPA, an exam that even some native speakers don't pass. Graduating as valedictorian, earning an honors diploma. Learning English and adapting to the US. Solidified my determination to help my community through social service. My recognition for leadership in Latinos in Action and mastery of Spanish provided me with essential skills for this changing world. I can adapt to diverse environments and address different points of view, preparing me for the challenges that come with being the first person in my family to go to college. I worked in a fast food restaurant, where I thrived as a team leader in a high-pressure environment, there were many orders and a lack of staff but I always remained calm. Managing critical situations and learning to manage my resources efficiently. This position, together with my self-study in semiconductor manufacturing, has prepared me to face technical challenges with precision. Ensuring that my solutions are innovative and correspond to human needs. As a volunteer at school, I faced firsthand the socioeconomic barriers that prevent access to food and saw people in my situation without the resources to survive. These experiences have fueled my passion for making a change in society. My involvement here deepened my understanding of community dynamics and my commitment to using my skills to make a change. I am prepared to leverage my education in electrical engineering to make meaningful contributions to technology. I seek academic support to enhance my capabilities, driven by the belief that with the right tools, I can help transform communities around the world. I believe that community service means giving back a little of what the world has given you. I think that in my many nights suffering from poverty, I always wanted to see a light, someone who would help me. That's how my aunt helped me, but I believe that during this part of my life, I want to use this body to help people, to be that light I wanted to see. Community service is very important. If I were rich, I think I would give most of my money to the poor, bring education to this world, and stop wars, but for now, the most important thing is to finish my education, help as much as I can, and then, if I work hard, maybe I can solve some problems of society
    Sloane Stephens Doc & Glo Scholarship
    I am a Chicano. My journey through personal challenges has shaped my worldview. My father abandoned me when I was born, and then a year later, my parents divorced. Later, my mother was deported to Mexico, where we were homeless for a time until my grandmother took us in at her house. My primary school lacked quality drinking water and facilities; I vividly remember how I cried for not having food and the harassment I suffered for not having minimum needs; my clothes cost 0.5 dollars. But always, my mother reminded me that I should study, and I spent most of my time reading and watching Khan Academy. As a high school senior, I have a deep commitment to the betterment of our society. My goal is to use my education to innovate towards a better world, being the change I want to see, where technology can help solve current challenges, such as the water, housing, and health crises. People always thought I was crazy because, just upon arriving in the US, I already wanted to go to university. In my first few years of school, I only took ELD classes, but I still studied on my own time and was the first in my cohort to pass the ELPA, an exam that even some native speakers don't pass. Graduating as valedictorian, earning an honors diploma. Learning English and adapting to the US. Solidified my determination to help my community through social service. My recognition for leadership in Latinos in Action and mastery of Spanish provided me with essential skills for this changing world. I can adapt to diverse environments and address different points of view, preparing me for the challenges that come with being the first person in my family to go to college. I worked in a fast food restaurant, where I thrived as a team leader in a high-pressure environment, there were many orders and a lack of staff but I always remained calm. Managing critical situations and learning to manage my resources efficiently. This position, together with my self-study in semiconductor manufacturing, has prepared me to face technical challenges with precision. Ensuring that my solutions are innovative and correspond to human needs. As a volunteer at school, I faced firsthand the socioeconomic barriers that prevent access to food and saw people in my situation without the resources to survive. These experiences have fueled my passion for making a change in society. My involvement here deepened my understanding of community dynamics and my commitment to using my skills to make a change. I am prepared to leverage my education in electrical engineering to make meaningful contributions to technology. I seek academic support to enhance my capabilities, driven by the belief that with the right tools, I can help transform communities around the world. I believe that community service means giving back a little of what the world has given you. I think that in my many nights suffering from poverty, I always wanted to see a light, someone who would help me. That's how my aunt helped me, but I believe that during this part of my life, I want to use this body to help people, to be that light I wanted to see. Community service is very important. If I were rich, I think I would give most of my money to the poor, bring education to this world, and stop wars, but for now, the most important thing is to finish my education, help as much as I can, and then, if I work hard, maybe I can solve some problems of society
    Strong Leaders of Tomorrow Scholarship
    I think my ability to help people without seeking personal gain shows that it is always good to give back to the world what it has given you. Although I am not a person with financial resources, I consider myself lucky for what I have and I want to share my skills with the world. I aspire to be the change I want to see. Since I was little, I admired my teachers for their ability to teach and maintain order, thus freeing the class from distractions. Being a leader is not about obtaining personal benefits or manipulating others; It's about doing what it takes to guide your peers, your family, and your community. During my time at LIA, I experienced the satisfaction of teaching math and Spanish to children. I believe that a leader is not born, but made. Although I always had a knack for leading, I learned a lot during my high school experience. I opted for an early graduation because I wanted to go to college, fly, and make a change. I want to help my community and my two countries, Mexico and the United States. I aspire to be a leader for both, serving as a bridge that connects them. Throughout my first year, despite not knowing English, I was brave enough to enroll in a leadership class where Spanish was spoken, which made me feel more comfortable. This experience taught me to help the community, to learn from others, to understand different ideas, to control my emotions, to not get angry or be impulsive. However, my path was not perfect; I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety, which I was afraid to mention. Despite this, I managed my group well and, according to my vice president, being a leader is a matter of morality. I can't say I'm perfect; My education during the pandemic was affected because I did not have money to pay for internet, and I vividly remember the sadness of seeing that my mother could not afford the service because she had been laid off. I am frustrated by how some leaders handled the situation during the pandemic by not supporting workers. I think a company does not inspire anyone by laying off its employees in such difficult times. Current politics, which focus on dividing society, make me very angry. I think we should be united, because together we are stronger. This is how the United States and Mexico were forged. We must all be leaders and show the world who we are, where we are going and what we want. I do not simply aspire to live; I want to be someone who integrates and improves society. I do not come from a prestigious school, but I'm Latino and I'm proud of it. I have always been inspired by the figure of César Chávez, whom I met in my history class. It filled me with pride to see how someone of my same status managed to make a significant change in society. I remember feeling happy that my community could be represented in such a way. My mother crossed the border over a mountain, facing unimaginable challenges, and that is why I admire her so much. I believe the world gave me an ability and a body to make a change. Even though I can't pay for college and my family can't give me a dime, I'm going to make that change because that's what matters. My parents didn't even finish primary school, but I will be the first student in my family to earn a doctorate.
    Learner Math Lover Scholarship
    It's a very interesting question. When I was in Mexico, I remember my teachers always praised my ability with mathematics, even though my school was in terrible condition. Mathematics was a refuge for me, for the pain I went through, even when I was homeless in Mexico. I remember having a notebook where I would jot down numbers; that helped distract me. I think I also like mathematics because they are the language of the world in many ways. Mathematics have been what allowed human beings to achieve unimaginable goals, such as going to the moon or even artificial intelligence was built with data. Statistics are important in making decisions that affect millions of people. Calculus is used in all branches of mathematics, number theory. Everything we see is mathematics. I think the question here is: who doesn't love mathematics? Loving mathematics is like loving life. Mathematics for me are an art, a way to express yourself, a way to predict the future, a way to help humanity. That is, I believe that humanity has progressed too much thanks to mathematics. I firmly believe that we should not invest in weapons, but in mathematics, so that soon the suffering of error ends. I firmly believe that mathematics are an art, a way to say yourself, a way to say: "I can help my colleagues, my friends, the people I appreciate." In a way, I have always believed that we should not focus on the differences, but on what we have in common and in all societies what we have, everything we have in common is, so to speak, mathematics. Mathematics is what all societies share, at least all those that did not try to kill themselves. I believe that, regardless of my origins, I love mathematics because they are the way to connect with other cultures, they are the way to communicate, so to speak, with the creator of this world; they are a way in which my earthly body can make a change in this society rotten by human greed.
    Headbang For Science
    I am a Chicano. My journey through personal challenges has shaped my worldview. My father abandoned me when I was born, and then a year later, my parents divorced. Later, my mother was deported to Mexico, where we were homeless for a time until my grandmother took us in at her house. My primary school lacked quality drinking water and facilities; I vividly remember how I cried for not having food and the harassment I suffered for not having minimum needs; my clothes cost 0.5 dollars. But always, my mother reminded me that I should study, and I spent most of my time reading and watching Khan Academy. As a high school senior, I have a deep commitment to the betterment of our society. My goal is to use my education to innovate towards a better world, being the change I want to see, where technology can help solve current challenges, such as the water, housing, and health crises. People always thought I was crazy because, just upon arriving in the US, I already wanted to go to university. In my first few years of school, I only took ELD classes, but I still studied on my own time and was the first in my cohort to pass the ELPA, an exam that even some native speakers don't pass. Graduating as valedictorian, earning an honors diploma. Learning English and adapting to the US. Solidified my determination to help my community through social service. My recognition for leadership in Latinos in Action and mastery of Spanish provided me with essential skills for this changing world. I can adapt to diverse environments and address different points of view, preparing me for the challenges that come with being the first person in my family to go to college. I worked in a fast food restaurant, where I thrived as a team leader in a high-pressure environment, there were many orders and a lack of staff but I always remained calm. Managing critical situations and learning to manage my resources efficiently. This position, together with my self-study in semiconductor manufacturing, has prepared me to face technical challenges with precision. Ensuring that my solutions are innovative and correspond to human needs. As a volunteer at school, I faced firsthand the socioeconomic barriers that prevent access to food and saw people in my situation without the resources to survive. These experiences have fueled my passion for making a change in society. My involvement here deepened my understanding of community dynamics and my commitment to using my skills to make a change. I am prepared to leverage my education in electrical engineering to make meaningful contributions to technology. I seek academic support to enhance my capabilities, driven by the belief that with the right tools, I can help transform communities around the world. I believe that community service means giving back a little of what the world has given you. I think that in my many nights suffering from poverty, I always wanted to see a light, someone who would help me. That's how my aunt helped me, but I believe that during this part of my life, I want to use this body to help people, to be that light I wanted to see. Community service is very important. If I were rich, I think I would give most of my money to the poor, bring education to this world, and stop wars, but for now, the most important thing is to finish my education, help as much as I can, and then, if I work hard, maybe I can solve some problems of society For me, Heavy Metal is a genre, it is a genre that breaks barriers. I remember it vividly on the bus in my city. In fact, I am learning to play it. I like it. It is a way of expressing who you are. It is like a rebel. It is a genre that attracts me like no other.
    Castillo Scholarship
    I am a Chicano. My journey through personal challenges has shaped my worldview. My father abandoned me when I was born, and then a year later, my parents divorced. Later, my mother was deported to Mexico, where we were homeless for a time until my grandmother took us in at her house. My primary school lacked quality drinking water and facilities; I vividly remember how I cried for not having food and the harassment I suffered for not having minimum needs; my clothes cost 0.5 dollars. But always, my mother reminded me that I should study, and I spent most of my time reading and watching Khan Academy. As a high school senior, I have a deep commitment to the betterment of our society. My goal is to use my education to innovate towards a better world, being the change I want to see, where technology can help solve current challenges, such as the water, housing, and health crises. People always thought I was crazy because, just upon arriving in the US, I already wanted to go to university. In my first few years of school, I only took ELD classes, but I still studied on my own time and was the first in my cohort to pass the ELPA, an exam that even some native speakers don't pass. Graduating as valedictorian, earning an honors diploma. Learning English and adapting to the US. Solidified my determination to help my community through social service. My recognition for leadership in Latinos in Action and mastery of Spanish provided me with essential skills for this changing world. I can adapt to diverse environments and address different points of view, preparing me for the challenges that come with being the first person in my family to go to college. I worked in a fast food restaurant, where I thrived as a team leader in a high-pressure environment, there were many orders and a lack of staff but I always remained calm. Managing critical situations and learning to manage my resources efficiently. This position, together with my self-study in semiconductor manufacturing, has prepared me to face technical challenges with precision. Ensuring that my solutions are innovative and correspond to human needs. As a volunteer at school, I faced firsthand the socioeconomic barriers that prevent access to food and saw people in my situation without the resources to survive. These experiences have fueled my passion for making a change in society. My involvement here deepened my understanding of community dynamics and my commitment to using my skills to make a change. I am prepared to leverage my education in electrical engineering to make meaningful contributions to technology. I seek academic support to enhance my capabilities, driven by the belief that with the right tools, I can help transform communities around the world. I believe that community service means giving back a little of what the world has given you. I think that in my many nights suffering from poverty, I always wanted to see a light, someone who would help me. That's how my aunt helped me, but I believe that during this part of my life, I want to use this body to help people, to be that light I wanted to see. Community service is very important. If I were rich, I think I would give most of my money to the poor, bring education to this world, and stop wars, but for now, the most important thing is to finish my education, help as much as I can, and then, if I work hard, maybe I can solve some problems of society
    Spider-Man Showdown Scholarship
    "Spider-Man 2", directed by Sam Raimi, is cinematic narrative that perfectly combines the evolution of its characters with exciting action scenes. This film is not only recognized for its visual quality and battle sequences, but also for its deep character development, especially that of the villain. It stands out as one of the best in the genre because of how viewers can identify with the plot and the adversities faced by the protagonist, Peter Parker. Peter experiences a series of misfortunes: he is mistreated at work, fired, and his financial situation is so precarious that even the check he receives is taken away from him. Added to this is his declining academic performance and visible fatigue. Curiously, all of these events occur on his birthday, a day that not even he remembers. Despite these adversities, Peter always appears with a smile, although internally he does not feel happy. The film reflects how sometimes life seems overwhelming and out of control, a very human feeling. Peter is constantly humiliated: the love of his life is with another, his mentor becomes a villain, and he faces countless personal challenges. Furthermore, his relationship with Mary Jane is complicated; She, focused on her own problems, does not perceive the magnitude of the challenges Peter faces. A highlight of "Spider-Man 2" is Peter's internal evolution. His internal struggle reaches a critical point when he even loses his powers, a reflection of his existential and identity doubts. This crisis culminates in a metaphorical conversation with his doctor, where Peter verbalizes his confusion about his identity and purpose, which resonates with many who once felt lost in life. "Spider-Man 2" is a representation of human resilience and the destrucion of the perfect heroe image. He teaches us that, although life does not always unfold as we wish, strength and hope must never be lost. Peter learns that, despite the knocks life throws him, there is always room to get up and move forward. The film, at its core, is a mirror of the daily struggle against difficulties, encouraging us to persevere and rediscover our ability to be heroes in our own lives.
    Sean Carroll's Mindscape Big Picture Scholarship
    I am a Chicano. My journey through personal challenges has shaped my worldview. My father abandoned me when I was born, and then a year later, my parents divorced. Later, my mother was deported to Mexico, where we were homeless for a time until my grandmother took us in at her house. My primary school lacked quality drinking water and facilities; I vividly remember how I cried for not having food and the harassment I suffered for not having minimum needs; my clothes cost 0.5 dollars. But always, my mother reminded me that I should study, and I spent most of my time reading and watching Khan Academy. As a high school senior, I have a deep commitment to the betterment of our society. My goal is to use my education to innovate towards a better world, being the change I want to see, where technology can help solve current challenges, such as the water, housing, and health crises. People always thought I was crazy because, just upon arriving in the US, I already wanted to go to university. In my first few years of school, I only took ELD classes, but I still studied on my own time and was the first in my cohort to pass the ELPA, an exam that even some native speakers don't pass. Graduating as valedictorian, earning an honors diploma. Learning English and adapting to the US. Solidified my determination to help my community through social service. My recognition for leadership in Latinos in Action and mastery of Spanish provided me with essential skills for this changing world. I can adapt to diverse environments and address different points of view, preparing me for the challenges that come with being the first person in my family to go to college. I worked in a fast food restaurant, where I thrived as a team leader in a high-pressure environment, there were many orders and a lack of staff but I always remained calm. Managing critical situations and learning to manage my resources efficiently. This position, together with my self-study in semiconductor manufacturing, has prepared me to face technical challenges with precision. Ensuring that my solutions are innovative and correspond to human needs. As a volunteer at school, I faced firsthand the socioeconomic barriers that prevent access to food and saw people in my situation without the resources to survive. These experiences have fueled my passion for making a change in society. My involvement here deepened my understanding of community dynamics and my commitment to using my skills to make a change. I am prepared to leverage my education in electrical engineering to make meaningful contributions to technology. I seek academic support to enhance my capabilities, driven by the belief that with the right tools, I can help transform communities around the world. I believe that community service means giving back a little of what the world has given you. I think that in my many nights suffering from poverty, I always wanted to see a light, someone who would help me. That's how my aunt helped me, but I believe that during this part of my life, I want to use this body to help people, to be that light I wanted to see. Community service is very important. If I were rich, I think I would give most of my money to the poor, bring education to this world, and stop wars, but for now, the most important thing is to finish my education, help as much as I can, and then, if I work hard, maybe I can solve some problems of society
    Simon Strong Scholarship
    I am a Chicano. My journey through personal challenges has shaped my worldview. My father abandoned me when I was born, and then a year later, my parents divorced. Later, my mother was deported to Mexico, where we were homeless for a time until my grandmother took us in at her house. My primary school lacked quality drinking water and facilities; I vividly remember how I cried for not having food and the harassment I suffered for not having minimum needs; my clothes cost 0.5 dollars. But always, my mother reminded me that I should study, and I spent most of my time reading and watching Khan Academy. As a high school senior, I have a deep commitment to the betterment of our society. My goal is to use my education to innovate towards a better world, being the change I want to see, where technology can help solve current challenges, such as the water, housing, and health crises. People always thought I was crazy because, just upon arriving in the US, I already wanted to go to university. In my first few years of school, I only took ELD classes, but I still studied on my own time and was the first in my cohort to pass the ELPA, an exam that even some native speakers don't pass. Graduating as valedictorian, earning an honors diploma. Learning English and adapting to the US. Solidified my determination to help my community through social service. My recognition for leadership in Latinos in Action and mastery of Spanish provided me with essential skills for this changing world. I can adapt to diverse environments and address different points of view, preparing me for the challenges that come with being the first person in my family to go to college. I worked in a fast food restaurant, where I thrived as a team leader in a high-pressure environment, there were many orders and a lack of staff but I always remained calm. Managing critical situations and learning to manage my resources efficiently. This position, together with my self-study in semiconductor manufacturing, has prepared me to face technical challenges with precision. Ensuring that my solutions are innovative and correspond to human needs. As a volunteer at school, I faced firsthand the socioeconomic barriers that prevent access to food and saw people in my situation without the resources to survive. These experiences have fueled my passion for making a change in society. My involvement here deepened my understanding of community dynamics and my commitment to using my skills to make a change. I am prepared to leverage my education in electrical engineering to make meaningful contributions to technology. I seek academic support to enhance my capabilities, driven by the belief that with the right tools, I can help transform communities around the world. I believe that community service means giving back a little of what the world has given you. I think that in my many nights suffering from poverty, I always wanted to see a light, someone who would help me. That's how my aunt helped me, but I believe that during this part of my life, I want to use this body to help people, to be that light I wanted to see. Community service is very important. If I were rich, I think I would give most of my money to the poor, bring education to this world, and stop wars, but for now, the most important thing is to finish my education, help as much as I can, and then, if I work hard, maybe I can solve some problems of society
    Judith A. Vaughn Scholarship
    I am a Chicano. My journey through personal challenges has shaped my worldview. My father abandoned me when I was born, and then a year later, my parents divorced. Later, my mother was deported to Mexico, where we were homeless for a time until my grandmother took us in at her house. My primary school lacked quality drinking water and facilities; I vividly remember how I cried for not having food and the harassment I suffered for not having minimum needs; my clothes cost 0.5 dollars. But always, my mother reminded me that I should study, and I spent most of my time reading and watching Khan Academy. As a high school senior, I have a deep commitment to the betterment of our society. My goal is to use my education to innovate towards a better world, being the change I want to see, where technology can help solve current challenges, such as the water, housing, and health crises. People always thought I was crazy because, just upon arriving in the US, I already wanted to go to university. In my first few years of school, I only took ELD classes, but I still studied on my own time and was the first in my cohort to pass the ELPA, an exam that even some native speakers don't pass. Graduating as valedictorian, earning an honors diploma. Learning English and adapting to the US. Solidified my determination to help my community through social service. My recognition for leadership in Latinos in Action and mastery of Spanish provided me with essential skills for this changing world. I can adapt to diverse environments and address different points of view, preparing me for the challenges that come with being the first person in my family to go to college. I worked in a fast food restaurant, where I thrived as a team leader in a high-pressure environment, there were many orders and a lack of staff but I always remained calm. Managing critical situations and learning to manage my resources efficiently. This position, together with my self-study in semiconductor manufacturing, has prepared me to face technical challenges with precision. Ensuring that my solutions are innovative and correspond to human needs. As a volunteer at school, I faced firsthand the socioeconomic barriers that prevent access to food and saw people in my situation without the resources to survive. These experiences have fueled my passion for making a change in society. My involvement here deepened my understanding of community dynamics and my commitment to using my skills to make a change. I am prepared to leverage my education in electrical engineering to make meaningful contributions to technology. I seek academic support to enhance my capabilities, driven by the belief that with the right tools, I can help transform communities around the world. I believe that community service means giving back a little of what the world has given you. I think that in my many nights suffering from poverty, I always wanted to see a light, someone who would help me. That's how my aunt helped me, but I believe that during this part of my life, I want to use this body to help people, to be that light I wanted to see. Community service is very important. If I were rich, I think I would give most of my money to the poor, bring education to this world, and stop wars, but for now, the most important thing is to finish my education, help as much as I can, and then, if I work hard, maybe I can solve some problems of society
    Joe Ford Trade Scholarship
    I am a Chicano. My journey through personal challenges has shaped my worldview. My father abandoned me when I was born, and then a year later, my parents divorced. Later, my mother was deported to Mexico, where we were homeless for a time until my grandmother took us in at her house. My primary school lacked quality drinking water and facilities; I vividly remember how I cried for not having food and the harassment I suffered for not having minimum needs; my clothes cost 0.5 dollars. But always, my mother reminded me that I should study, and I spent most of my time reading and watching Khan Academy. As a high school senior, I have a deep commitment to the betterment of our society. My goal is to use my education to innovate towards a better world, being the change I want to see, where technology can help solve current challenges, such as the water, housing, and health crises. People always thought I was crazy because, just upon arriving in the US, I already wanted to go to university. In my first few years of school, I only took ELD classes, but I still studied on my own time and was the first in my cohort to pass the ELPA, an exam that even some native speakers don't pass. Graduating as valedictorian, earning an honors diploma. Learning English and adapting to the US. Solidified my determination to help my community through social service. My recognition for leadership in Latinos in Action and mastery of Spanish provided me with essential skills for this changing world. I can adapt to diverse environments and address different points of view, preparing me for the challenges that come with being the first person in my family to go to college. I worked in a fast food restaurant, where I thrived as a team leader in a high-pressure environment, there were many orders and a lack of staff but I always remained calm. Managing critical situations and learning to manage my resources efficiently. This position, together with my self-study in semiconductor manufacturing, has prepared me to face technical challenges with precision. Ensuring that my solutions are innovative and correspond to human needs. As a volunteer at school, I faced firsthand the socioeconomic barriers that prevent access to food and saw people in my situation without the resources to survive. These experiences have fueled my passion for making a change in society. My involvement here deepened my understanding of community dynamics and my commitment to using my skills to make a change. I am prepared to leverage my education in electrical engineering to make meaningful contributions to technology. I seek academic support to enhance my capabilities, driven by the belief that with the right tools, I can help transform communities around the world. I believe that community service means giving back a little of what the world has given you. I think that in my many nights suffering from poverty, I always wanted to see a light, someone who would help me. That's how my aunt helped me, but I believe that during this part of my life, I want to use this body to help people, to be that light I wanted to see. Community service is very important. If I were rich, I think I would give most of my money to the poor, bring education to this world, and stop wars, but for now, the most important thing is to finish my education, help as much as I can, and then, if I work hard, maybe I can solve some problems of society
    Students Impacted by Incarceration Scholarship
    I am a Chicano. My journey through personal challenges has shaped my worldview. My father abandoned me when I was born, and then a year later, my parents divorced. My mother was deported to Mexico, where we were homeless until my grandmother took us in. My primary school lacked quality drinking water; I cried for not having food and suffered harassment for not meeting minimum needs; my clothes cost 0.5 dollars. But my mother always reminded me to study, so I spent most of my time reading and watching Khan Academy. As a high school senior, I am committed to the betterment of our society. My goal is to use my education to innovate towards a better world, where technology can help solve current challenges, like water, housing, and health crises. People thought I was crazy because, just upon arriving in the US, I wanted to go to university. In my first years of school, I took only ELD classes but studied on my own and was the first in my cohort to pass the ELPA, an exam that even some native speakers don't pass. Graduating as valedictorian, earning an honors diploma. Learning English and adapting to the US solidified my determination to help my community through social service. My leadership in Latinos in Action and mastery of Spanish provided essential skills for this changing world. I can adapt to diverse environments and address different points of view, preparing me for college challenges. I worked in a fast food restaurant, thriving as a team leader in a high-pressure environment. Managing critical situations and learning to manage resources efficiently. This position, together with my self-study in semiconductor manufacturing, prepared me to face technical challenges with precision. As a volunteer at school, I faced firsthand the socioeconomic barriers that prevent access to food. These experiences fueled my passion for change. My involvement here deepened my understanding of community dynamics and my commitment to use my skills to make a change. I am prepared to leverage my education in electrical engineering to make meaningful contributions to technology. I seek academic support to enhance my capabilities, driven by the belief that with the right tools, I can help transform communities. I believe community service means giving back what the world has given you. In my many nights suffering from poverty, I wanted to see a light, someone who would help me. That's how my aunt helped me. Now, I want to use my body to help people, to be that light. Community service is important. If I were rich, I would give most of my money to the poor, bring education to this world, and stop wars, but now, the most important thing is to finish my education and help as much as I can.
    Kris Lewis Memorial Scholarship
    I am a Chicano. My journey through personal challenges has shaped my worldview. My father abandoned me when I was born, and then a year later, my parents divorced. Later, my mother was deported to Mexico, where we were homeless for a time until my grandmother took us in at her house. My primary school lacked quality drinking water and facilities; I vividly remember how I cried for not having food and the harassment I suffered for not having minimum needs; my clothes cost 0.5 dollars. But always, my mother reminded me that I should study, and I spent most of my time reading and watching Khan Academy. As a high school senior, I have a deep commitment to the betterment of our society. My goal is to use my education to innovate towards a better world, being the change I want to see, where technology can help solve current challenges, such as the water, housing, and health crises. People always thought I was crazy because, just upon arriving in the US, I already wanted to go to university. In my first few years of school, I only took ELD classes, but I still studied on my own time and was the first in my cohort to pass the ELPA, an exam that even some native speakers don't pass. Graduating as valedictorian, earning an honors diploma. Learning English and adapting to the US. Solidified my determination to help my community through social service. My recognition for leadership in Latinos in Action and mastery of Spanish provided me with essential skills for this changing world. I can adapt to diverse environments and address different points of view, preparing me for the challenges that come with being the first person in my family to go to college. I worked in a fast food restaurant, where I thrived as a team leader in a high-pressure environment, there were many orders and a lack of staff but I always remained calm. Managing critical situations and learning to manage my resources efficiently. This position, together with my self-study in semiconductor manufacturing, has prepared me to face technical challenges with precision. Ensuring that my solutions are innovative and correspond to human needs. As a volunteer at school, I faced firsthand the socioeconomic barriers that prevent access to food and saw people in my situation without the resources to survive. These experiences have fueled my passion for making a change in society. My involvement here deepened my understanding of community dynamics and my commitment to using my skills to make a change. I am prepared to leverage my education in electrical engineering to make meaningful contributions to technology. I seek academic support to enhance my capabilities, driven by the belief that with the right tools, I can help transform communities around the world. I believe that community service means giving back a little of what the world has given you. I think that in my many nights suffering from poverty, I always wanted to see a light, someone who would help me. That's how my aunt helped me, but I believe that during this part of my life, I want to use this body to help people, to be that light I wanted to see. Community service is very important. If I were rich, I think I would give most of my money to the poor, bring education to this world, and stop wars, but for now, the most important thing is to finish my education, help as much as I can, and then, if I work hard, maybe I can solve some problems of society
    Zamora Borose Goodwill Scholarship
    I am a Chicano. My journey through personal challenges has shaped my worldview. My father abandoned me when I was born, and then a year later, my parents divorced. Later, my mother was deported to Mexico, where we were homeless for a time until my grandmother took us in at her house. My primary school lacked quality drinking water and facilities; I vividly remember how I cried for not having food and the harassment I suffered for not having minimum needs; my clothes cost 0.5 dollars. But always, my mother reminded me that I should study, and I spent most of my time reading and watching Khan Academy. As a high school senior, I have a deep commitment to the betterment of our society. My goal is to use my education to innovate towards a better world, being the change I want to see, where technology can help solve current challenges, such as the water, housing, and health crises. People always thought I was crazy because, just upon arriving in the US, I already wanted to go to university. In my first few years of school, I only took ELD classes, but I still studied on my own time and was the first in my cohort to pass the ELPA, an exam that even some native speakers don't pass. Graduating as valedictorian, earning an honors diploma. Learning English and adapting to the US. Solidified my determination to help my community through social service. My recognition for leadership in Latinos in Action and mastery of Spanish provided me with essential skills for this changing world. I can adapt to diverse environments and address different points of view, preparing me for the challenges that come with being the first person in my family to go to college. I worked in a fast food restaurant, where I thrived as a team leader in a high-pressure environment, there were many orders and a lack of staff but I always remained calm. Managing critical situations and learning to manage my resources efficiently. This position, together with my self-study in semiconductor manufacturing, has prepared me to face technical challenges with precision. Ensuring that my solutions are innovative and correspond to human needs. As a volunteer at school, I faced firsthand the socioeconomic barriers that prevent access to food and saw people in my situation without the resources to survive. These experiences have fueled my passion for making a change in society. My involvement here deepened my understanding of community dynamics and my commitment to using my skills to make a change. I am prepared to leverage my education in electrical engineering to make meaningful contributions to technology. I seek academic support to enhance my capabilities, driven by the belief that with the right tools, I can help transform communities around the world. I believe that community service means giving back a little of what the world has given you. I think that in my many nights suffering from poverty, I always wanted to see a light, someone who would help me. That's how my aunt helped me, but I believe that during this part of my life, I want to use this body to help people, to be that light I wanted to see. Community service is very important. If I were rich, I think I would give most of my money to the poor, bring education to this world, and stop wars, but for now, the most important thing is to finish my education, help as much as I can, and then, if I work hard, maybe I can solve some problems of society
    Peter and Nan Liubenov Student Scholarship
    I am a Chicano. My journey through personal challenges has shaped my worldview. My father abandoned me when I was born, and then a year later, my parents divorced. Later, my mother was deported to Mexico, where we were homeless for a time until my grandmother took us in at her house. My primary school lacked quality drinking water and facilities; I vividly remember how I cried for not having food and the harassment I suffered for not having minimum needs; my clothes cost 0.5 dollars. But always, my mother reminded me that I should study, and I spent most of my time reading and watching Khan Academy. As a high school senior, I have a deep commitment to the betterment of our society. My goal is to use my education to innovate towards a better world, being the change I want to see, where technology can help solve current challenges, such as the water, housing, and health crises. People always thought I was crazy because, just upon arriving in the US, I already wanted to go to university. In my first few years of school, I only took ELD classes, but I still studied on my own time and was the first in my cohort to pass the ELPA, an exam that even some native speakers don't pass. Graduating as valedictorian, earning an honors diploma. Learning English and adapting to the US. Solidified my determination to help my community through social service. My recognition for leadership in Latinos in Action and mastery of Spanish provided me with essential skills for this changing world. I can adapt to diverse environments and address different points of view, preparing me for the challenges that come with being the first person in my family to go to college. I worked in a fast food restaurant, where I thrived as a team leader in a high-pressure environment, there were many orders and a lack of staff but I always remained calm. Managing critical situations and learning to manage my resources efficiently. This position, together with my self-study in semiconductor manufacturing, has prepared me to face technical challenges with precision. Ensuring that my solutions are innovative and correspond to human needs. As a volunteer at school, I faced firsthand the socioeconomic barriers that prevent access to food and saw people in my situation without the resources to survive. These experiences have fueled my passion for making a change in society. My involvement here deepened my understanding of community dynamics and my commitment to using my skills to make a change. I am prepared to leverage my education in electrical engineering to make meaningful contributions to technology. I seek academic support to enhance my capabilities, driven by the belief that with the right tools, I can help transform communities around the world. I believe that community service means giving back a little of what the world has given you. I think that in my many nights suffering from poverty, I always wanted to see a light, someone who would help me. That's how my aunt helped me, but I believe that during this part of my life, I want to use this body to help people, to be that light I wanted to see. Community service is very important. If I were rich, I think I would give most of my money to the poor, bring education to this world, and stop wars, but for now, the most important thing is to finish my education, help as much as I can, and then, if I work hard, maybe I can solve some problems of society
    Riegle Family Scholarship
    I am a Chicano. My journey through personal challenges has shaped my worldview. My father abandoned me when I was born, and then a year later, my parents divorced. My mother was deported to Mexico, where we were homeless until my grandmother took us in. My primary school lacked quality drinking water; I cried for not having food and suffered harassment for not meeting minimum needs; my clothes cost 0.5 dollars. But my mother always reminded me to study, so I spent most of my time reading and watching Khan Academy. As a high school senior, I am committed to the betterment of our society. My goal is to use my education to innovate towards a better world, where technology can help solve current challenges, like water, housing, and health crises. People thought I was crazy because, just upon arriving in the US, I wanted to go to university. In my first years of school, I took only ELD classes but studied on my own and was the first in my cohort to pass the ELPA, an exam that even some native speakers don't pass. Graduating as valedictorian, earning an honors diploma. Learning English and adapting to the US solidified my determination to help my community through social service. My leadership in Latinos in Action and mastery of Spanish provided essential skills for this changing world. I can adapt to diverse environments and address different points of view, preparing me for college challenges. I worked in a fast food restaurant, thriving as a team leader in a high-pressure environment. Managing critical situations and learning to manage resources efficiently. This position, together with my self-study in semiconductor manufacturing, prepared me to face technical challenges with precision. As a volunteer at school, I faced firsthand the socioeconomic barriers that prevent access to food. These experiences fueled my passion for change. My involvement here deepened my understanding of community dynamics and my commitment to use my skills to make a change. I am prepared to leverage my education in electrical engineering to make meaningful contributions to technology. I seek academic support to enhance my capabilities, driven by the belief that with the right tools, I can help transform communities. I believe community service means giving back what the world has given you. In my many nights suffering from poverty, I wanted to see a light, someone who would help me. That's how my aunt helped me. Now, I want to use my body to help people, to be that light. Community service is important. If I were rich, I would give most of my money to the poor, bring education to this world, and stop wars, but now, the most important thing is to finish my education and help as much as I can.
    Jean Ramirez Scholarship
    I am a Chicano. My journey through personal challenges has shaped my worldview. My father abandoned me when I was born, and then a year later, my parents divorced. Later, my mother was deported to Mexico, where we were homeless for a time until my grandmother took us in at her house. My primary school lacked quality drinking water and facilities; I vividly remember how I cried for not having food and the harassment I suffered for not having minimum needs; my clothes cost 0.5 dollars. But always, my mother reminded me that I should study, and I spent most of my time reading and watching Khan Academy. As a high school senior, I have a deep commitment to the betterment of our society. My goal is to use my education to innovate towards a better world, being the change I want to see, where technology can help solve current challenges, such as the water, housing, and health crises. People always thought I was crazy because, just upon arriving in the US, I already wanted to go to university. In my first few years of school, I only took ELD classes, but I still studied on my own time and was the first in my cohort to pass the ELPA, an exam that even some native speakers don't pass. Graduating as valedictorian, earning an honors diploma. Learning English and adapting to the US. Solidified my determination to help my community through social service. My recognition for leadership in Latinos in Action and mastery of Spanish provided me with essential skills for this changing world. I can adapt to diverse environments and address different points of view, preparing me for the challenges that come with being the first person in my family to go to college. I worked in a fast food restaurant, where I thrived as a team leader in a high-pressure environment, there were many orders and a lack of staff but I always remained calm. Managing critical situations and learning to manage my resources efficiently. This position, together with my self-study in semiconductor manufacturing, has prepared me to face technical challenges with precision. Ensuring that my solutions are innovative and correspond to human needs. As a volunteer at school, I faced firsthand the socioeconomic barriers that prevent access to food and saw people in my situation without the resources to survive. These experiences have fueled my passion for making a change in society. My involvement here deepened my understanding of community dynamics and my commitment to using my skills to make a change. I am prepared to leverage my education in electrical engineering to make meaningful contributions to technology. I seek academic support to enhance my capabilities, driven by the belief that with the right tools, I can help transform communities around the world. I believe that community service means giving back a little of what the world has given you. I think that in my many nights suffering from poverty, I always wanted to see a light, someone who would help me. That's how my aunt helped me, but I believe that during this part of my life, I want to use this body to help people, to be that light I wanted to see. Community service is very important. If I were rich, I think I would give most of my money to the poor, bring education to this world, and stop wars, but for now, the most important thing is to finish my education, help as much as I can, and then, if I work hard, maybe I can solve some problems of society
    Michael Mattera Jr. Memorial Scholarship
    I am a Chicano. My journey through personal challenges has shaped my worldview. My father abandoned me when I was born, and then a year later, my parents divorced. Later, my mother was deported to Mexico, where we were homeless for a time until my grandmother took us in at her house. My primary school lacked quality drinking water and facilities; I vividly remember how I cried for not having food and the harassment I suffered for not having minimum needs; my clothes cost 0.5 dollars. But always, my mother reminded me that I should study, and I spent most of my time reading and watching Khan Academy. As a high school senior, I have a deep commitment to the betterment of our society. My goal is to use my education to innovate towards a better world, being the change I want to see, where technology can help solve current challenges, such as the water, housing, and health crises. People always thought I was crazy because, just upon arriving in the US, I already wanted to go to university. In my first few years of school, I only took ELD classes, but I still studied on my own time and was the first in my cohort to pass the ELPA, an exam that even some native speakers don't pass. Graduating as valedictorian, earning an honors diploma. Learning English and adapting to the US. Solidified my determination to help my community through social service. My recognition for leadership in Latinos in Action and mastery of Spanish provided me with essential skills for this changing world. I can adapt to diverse environments and address different points of view, preparing me for the challenges that come with being the first person in my family to go to college. I worked in a fast food restaurant, where I thrived as a team leader in a high-pressure environment, there were many orders and a lack of staff but I always remained calm. Managing critical situations and learning to manage my resources efficiently. This position, together with my self-study in semiconductor manufacturing, has prepared me to face technical challenges with precision. Ensuring that my solutions are innovative and correspond to human needs. As a volunteer at school, I faced firsthand the socioeconomic barriers that prevent access to food and saw people in my situation without the resources to survive. These experiences have fueled my passion for making a change in society. My involvement here deepened my understanding of community dynamics and my commitment to using my skills to make a change. I am prepared to leverage my education in electrical engineering to make meaningful contributions to technology. I seek academic support to enhance my capabilities, driven by the belief that with the right tools, I can help transform communities around the world. I believe that community service means giving back a little of what the world has given you. I think that in my many nights suffering from poverty, I always wanted to see a light, someone who would help me. That's how my aunt helped me, but I believe that during this part of my life, I want to use this body to help people, to be that light I wanted to see. Community service is very important. If I were rich, I think I would give most of my money to the poor, bring education to this world, and stop wars, but for now, the most important thing is to finish my education, help as much as I can, and then, if I work hard, maybe I can solve some problems of society
    Morgan Stem Diversity in STEM Scholarship
    I am a Chicano, My journey through personal challenges has shaped my worldview. My father abandoned me when I was born, and then a year later, my parents divorced. Later, my mother was deported to Mexico, where we were homeless for a time until my grandmother took us in at her house; My primary school lacked quality drinking water and facilities; being poor is indeed horrible and you face many challenges. I vividly remember how I cried for not having food and the harassment I suffered for not having what I needed; my clothes cost 0.5 dollars. But always, my mother always reminded me that I should study, and she spent most of my time reading and watching Khan Academy. As a high school senior, I have a deep commitment to the betterment of our society. My goal is to use my education to innovate towards a better world, being the change I want to see, where technology can help solve challenges, such as the water, housing, and health crises. People thought I was a little crazy because, just upon arriving in the US, I already wanted to go to university. In my first few years of school, I only took ELD classes, but I still studied on my own time and was the first in my cohort to pass the ELPA, an exam that even some Americans don't pass. Graduating as valedictorian, earning an honors diploma, as well as learning the complexities of learning English and adapting to the US. I have a determination to help my community through social service. My recognition for leadership in Latinos in Action and mastery of Spanish provided me with skills for this increasingly changing world. I can adapt to diverse environments and address different points of view, preparing me for the multifaceted challenges that come with being the first person in my family to go to college. I worked in a fast-food restaurant and thrived as a team leader in a high-pressure environment, there were many orders and a lack of staff but I always remained calm. Managing critical situations and learning to manage my resources efficiently. This position, together with my self-study in semiconductor manufacturing, has prepared me to face technical challenges with precision. As a volunteer at school food pantry, I faced firsthand the socioeconomic barriers that prevent access to food and saw people in my situation without the resources to survive. These experiences have fueled my passion for making a change in society. My involvement here not only deepened my understanding of community dynamics but also reinforced my commitment to using my skills to make changes. Through my academic achievements and community commitments, I am prepared to leverage my education in electrical engineering to make contributions to technology. I believe that with the right tools, I can help transform communities around the world. I believe that community service means giving back a little of what the world has given you. I think that in my many nights suffering from poverty, I always wanted to see a light, someone who would help me. I believe that during this part of my life, I want to use this body to help people, to be that light I wanted to see. Community service is very important. If I were rich, I think I would give most of my money to the poor, create pathways, bring education to this world, and stop wars, but for now, the most important thing is to finish my education, help as much as I can, and then, if I work hard, I can solve some big issues.
    Social Anxiety Step Forward Scholarship
    I am a Chicano student. My journey through personal challenges has shaped my worldview. My father abandoned me when I was born, and then a year later, my parents divorced. Later, my mother was deported to Mexico, where we were homeless for a time until my grandmother took us in at her house. My primary school lacked quality drinking water and facilities; I vividly remember how I cried for not having food and the harassment I suffered for not having what I needed. But always, my mother reminded me that she should study, and she spent most of my time reading and watching Khan Academy. As a high school senior, I have a deep commitment to the betterment of our society. My goal is to use my education to innovate towards a better world, being the change I want to see, where technology can help solve current challenges, such as the water, housing and health crises. My anxiety began when I was a child, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Coming from a family with limited resources, plus the problems of the pandemic, was a very stressful situation. The death of my grandmother, the fear of failure—all of this triggered my anxiety. I was afraid of being judged, of feeling out of place. I felt very bad; I vomited, cried, and didn't want to do anything. It was one of the most difficult experiences of my life, but now I am receiving treatment. People always thought I was crazy because, just upon arriving in the US, I already wanted to go to university. My first few years of school I only took ELD classes, but I still studied on my own time and was the first in my cohort to pass the ELPA, an exam that even some native speakers don't pass. Graduating as valedictorian, earning an honors diploma, learning the complexities of learning English and adapting to a new nation having a great determination to help my community through social service. My recognition for leadership in Latinos in Action and mastery of Spanish provided me with skills for this increasingly changing world. I can adapt to diverse environments and address problems from different points of view. I worked at a Noodles & Company, where I thrived as a team leader in a high-pressure environment, there were many orders and a lack of staff but I always remained calm. Managing critical situations and learning to manage my resources efficiently. Together with my self-study in semiconductor manufacturing, has prepared me to face technical challenges with precision and care. I am prepared for my education in electrical engineering and make great contributions. I think that with the right tools education helps transform communities around the world. I believe that community service means giving back a little of what the world has given you. I think that in my many nights suffering from poverty, I always wanted to see a light, someone who would help me. That's how my aunt helped me, but I believe that during this part of my life, I want to use this body to help people, to be that light I wanted to see. Community service is very important. If I were rich, I think I would give most of my money to the poor, bring education to this world, stop wars, but for now the most important thing is to finish my education, help as much as I can, and if I work hard, maybe I can solve some of the great problems of society.
    John Young 'Pursue Your Passion' Scholarship
    I am a Chicano student. My journey through personal challenges has shaped my worldview. My father abandoned me when I was born, and then a year later, my parents divorced. Later, my mother was deported to Mexico, where we were homeless for a time until my grandmother took us in at her house. My primary school lacked quality drinking water and facilities; I vividly remember how I cried for not having food and the harassment I suffered for not having what I needed. But always, my mother reminded me that she should study, and she spent most of my time reading and watching Khan Academy. As a high school senior, I have a deep commitment to the betterment of our society. My goal is to use my education to innovate towards a better world, being the change I want to see, where technology can help solve current challenges, such as the water, housing and health crises. People always thought I was crazy because, just upon arriving in the US, I already wanted to go to university. My first few years of school I only took ELD classes, but I still studied on my own time and was the first in my cohort to pass the ELPA, an exam that even some native speakers don't pass. Graduating as valedictorian, earning an honors diploma, learning the complexities of learning English and adapting to a new nation having a great determination to help my community through social service. My recognition for leadership in Latinos in Action and mastery of Spanish provided me with skills for this increasingly changing world. I can adapt to diverse environments and address problems from different points of view. I worked at a Noodles & Company, where I thrived as a team leader in a high-pressure environment, there were many orders and a lack of staff but I always remained calm. Managing critical situations and learning to manage my resources efficiently. Together with my self-study in semiconductor manufacturing, has prepared me to face technical challenges with precision and care. I am prepared for my education in electrical engineering and make great contributions. I think that with the right tools education helps transform communities around the world. I believe that community service means giving back a little of what the world has given you. I think that in my many nights suffering from poverty, I always wanted to see a light, someone who would help me. That's how my aunt helped me, but I believe that during this part of my life, I want to use this body to help people, to be that light I wanted to see. Community service is very important. If I were rich, I think I would give most of my money to the poor, bring education to this world, stop wars, but for now the most important thing is to finish my education, help as much as I can, and if I work hard, maybe I can solve some of the problems of society.
    Once Upon a #BookTok Scholarship
    Growing up in challenging conditions with limited educational resources, my refuge often came in the form of books. These weren't just escapes, but windows into worlds I yearned to understand and master. #BookTok has significantly enriched this journey, influencing not only the books I choose but how I connect with them and their broader communities. One of the first #BookTok recommendations that resonated with me was "Educated" by Tara Westover. This memoir mirrors my own belief in self-transformation through learning. Westover’s struggle to break from her oppressive background, choosing education over confinement, echoes my experience. From makeshift classrooms to achieving academic excellence despite all odds, her story fueled my resolve to use education as a catalyst for change. Another pivotal #BookTok discovery was "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho. The protagonist's quest to follow his dreams despite numerous obstacles inspired me to persevere in my educational journey. This book, trending on #BookTok for its universal theme of pursuing one’s destiny, helped me see my path as a series of deliberate choices toward a greater goal. Furthermore, "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" by Taylor Jenkins Reid, although set in a vastly different context, spoke to me through its themes of sacrifice and resilience. It's a #BookTok favorite for its complex character development and unexpected plot twists. Discussing this book online led to profound conversations about personal and professional sacrifices, themes that resonate deeply with my life’s narrative. Through #BookTok, not only did I discover these books, but I also engaged in discussions that deepened my understanding of their themes. The community's creative responses, like character analyses and thematic challenges, enhanced the reading experience, making each story a springboard for personal and collective reflection. These books have not only shaped my literary taste but have also bolstered my academic and social aspirations. Each story’s journey through #BookTok’s visually engaging reviews and discussions has amplified its impact, making the lessons more vivid and applicable to my life. This digital platform has proven that literature can thrive in the age of screens, bringing together a global community of readers who are eager to learn, share, and grow. In conclusion, my ideal bookshelf, heavily influenced by #BookTok, is more than a collection of texts. It is a mosaic of resilience, dreams, and transformation that reflects both my personal struggles and aspirations. The "Once Upon a #BookTok Scholarship" resonates with my journey, emphasizing how digital platforms can extend the reach and relevance of literature in modern education. This scholarship will not only support my academic goals but also affirm my commitment to using knowledge as a tool for community improvement and social change.
    Douglass M. Hamilton Memorial Scholarship
    My name is Luis and I am Chicano. My experience, though unique, is defined by significant challenges that have shaped my aspirations and views on education. My parents, who are non-citizens, currently reside in Mexico. They divorced when I was one year old and were deported to Mexico when I was two. I have always lived in poverty; my income is so low that I receive food stamps and have never been able to afford clothing. I have been living in America for only three years. These family difficulties have set me apart from my peers. However, through these challenges, I have found hope in education. Growing up, my school conditions were far from ideal; Imagine attending an elementary school without even a roof over your head. Despite these circumstances, I realized that education has the power to transform not only people's lives but entire countries. I have been observing Mexico since I was a child, and it is clear to me that education is a light that shines in the darkness. Education frees you from ignorance. This understanding of the world around me inspired me to pursue education after high school. For me, university is not a place to find a job; it's an opportunity to contribute to society and make a change in the world. It is the place where I can acquire the knowledge and skills needed to one day improve the conditions that once characterized my community and many others in vulnerable situations. I want to use my education to assist others. I aim to establish a foundation to donate food or clothing because I understand how challenging it can be to afford even the basics. My goal is to enhance my community and create opportunities for people trapped in cycles of poverty and violence. My commitment to this path is evident in my achievements throughout high school. I have been recognized for my leadership with a Latinos in Action award, a testament to my ability to lead others. I graduated from the English Language Development (ELD) program, which provided me with the language skills necessary to excel academically in a foreign language. Additionally, my command of Spanish has been recognized, allowing me to be fluent in both languages. In June 2024, I will graduate as valedictorian of my class, a significant achievement that underscores my dedication and hard work. Additionally, I will receive an Honors Diploma, which reflects my academic excellence throughout high school. Beyond academics, I was named Employer of the Month at my part-time job, highlighting my commitment and work ethic in my labor life. These awards are proof of my determination to overcome my circumstances and strive for excellence in all areas of my life. University represents the next step to acquiring knowledge. It is an opportunity to further my education, broaden my horizons, and prepare to give back to those who have less than me. I will be an electrical engineer, I want to work with a company to make this country capable of helping those most in need, creating technology for tomorrow and today. No matter what happens, I will fight tooth and nail for this opportunity, the university is vital for me because it symbolizes an opportunity, not only for personal improvement but also for society. With a college education, I believe I can become the change I want to see in the world, using my knowledge and skills to improve my community. College Is where my past and my potential create something incredible, a future where I can make a difference.