Entering higher education as someone whose family has navigated different educational systems has been both challenging and enlightening. My mother received her higher education in another country, and while I learned from her to love learning and the importance of education, the differences between her system and the one here in the United States meant that when it came time for me to apply to colleges, I had to navigate much of the process on my own. I could not rely on her guidance to fully understand how applications, scholarships, or standardized testing worked in this country. While my guidance counselor helped at times, most of the responsibility fell on me. I had to research, ask questions, and figure things out independently. There were moments when I missed opportunities because I simply didn’t know they existed or because I didn’t fully understand the system. At times, that was frustrating and even discouraging. I saw peers with access to parents who had gone through the U.S. college system, or who had more connections and guidance, and I sometimes wondered if I was at a disadvantage. But over time, I realized that these challenges were also shaping me in important ways. Learning to advocate for myself, seeking out resources, and making decisions independently helped me develop a resilience and resourcefulness I might not have gained otherwise. I learned that even when the path isn’t clearly laid out, determination and curiosity can create opportunities where none seem to exist. Being a first generation immigrant has influenced more than just my approach to college applications. It has shaped the way I approach learning, work, and my future goals. I carry a strong sense of responsibility to myself, to my family, and to the community I come from. I have learned to value every opportunity, to take initiative, and to find creative solutions when faced with obstacles. My journey has not been “typical,” but it has taught me skills and perspectives that I know will serve me well in higher education and beyond. Looking ahead, I am motivated to make the most of every opportunity I encounter. I want to continue building on the independence and self-advocacy I developed through navigating the U.S. educational system on my own. I am confident that, while I may have missed some opportunities in the past, my path has still led me in the right direction. I hope to not only succeed academically but also contribute meaningfully to the communities I join, bringing the perspective of someone who has learned to navigate and bridge different worlds. Ultimately, being an “outsider” to the system has taught me that education is not just about following a prescribed path, it’s about persistence, self-awareness, and a willingness to learn from every experience. While I sometimes wish I had had more guidance early on, I also recognize that the challenges I faced have prepared me to take full ownership of my education. They have given me confidence in my ability to adapt, to ask questions, and to create opportunities for myself, which I know will be invaluable as I continue my academic journey and work toward my future goals.

I was born in Brazil and spent my early childhood there in a family that worked hard but struggled financially. My parents did everything they could to provide for us, yet opportunities were limited, and the future often felt uncertain. When I was twelve years old, my family made the painful decision to leave everything familiar behind and move to the United States in search of a better life. I did not fully understand what that meant at the time, only that it involved saying goodbye to grandparents, cousins, and the only home I had ever known. Arriving in the United States was both exciting and terrifying. I did not speak English fluently, and in school I often felt invisible because I could not express myself the way I wanted to. I remember sitting in classrooms afraid to raise my hand, worried that I would pronounce words incorrectly or be misunderstood. At home, my family faced financial struggles that added another layer of stress to our new beginning. There were moments when I questioned whether I truly belonged in this country or in higher education at all. However, those challenges slowly became the reason I refused to give up. I learned that growth often comes from discomfort and that my background was not something to hide, but something that made me stronger. What inspired me to pursue higher education in the United States was watching my parents sacrifice everything for my future. They left behind stability, family, and a sense of belonging so that I could have access to better schools and more opportunities. Their courage became my motivation. I realized that earning a college degree was not only a personal dream but a way to honor their sacrifice. Teachers who believed in me when I doubted myself also played a key role in shaping my confidence. They reminded me that my accent did not define my intelligence and that my story mattered. One of the greatest challenges I have overcome is learning how to navigate life as an immigrant student from a low-income household. Balancing academic expectations with financial realities forced me to mature quickly. I knew that college would not be possible without scholarships and hard work, which pushed me to stay focused even when I felt overwhelmed. From this experience, I learned resilience, self-discipline, and the importance of asking for help instead of suffering in silence. Most importantly, I learned that obstacles do not determine success — persistence does. The person who inspires me most is my mother. Despite language barriers and exhausting workdays, she has always made education her top priority for me. She reminds me that success is not only about individual achievement but about lifting others as you rise. Her strength has taught me to be compassionate, determined, and hopeful even during difficult times. After I graduate, I plan to use my education to give back to communities like the one I grew up in. I want to work in a field that allows me to improve living conditions and create safer, more sustainable environments for underserved populations. I also hope to mentor other immigrant and international students who feel lost or discouraged, so they can see that their dreams are valid and achievable. Pursuing higher education in the United States represents more than a career goal for me. It represents survival, sacrifice, and the belief that a better future is possible. This scholarship would not only support my education financially, but it would also affirm that students like me belong in higher education and have something meaningful to contribute to the world.

There was a time in my life when I had to rely completely on my faith to overcome one of the biggest uncertainties I had ever faced: whether or not I would be able to attend college. My future felt suspended in waiting because my family and I were still in the process of having our Green Card approved. Without legal status, I would not qualify for financial aid, and without financial aid, college would not be possible for me. I had worked hard in school and dreamed of continuing my education, but suddenly that dream felt out of my control. The waiting period was filled with fear and doubt. I watched my classmates prepare for college while I remained unsure of what my own path would look like. It was difficult not to feel discouraged or left behind. However, during this time, my faith became my source of strength. I prayed constantly and reminded myself that God had brought my family and me this far for a reason. I believed that He had a bigger plan for my life, even if I could not yet see it. Instead of giving up, I continued preparing as if college would happen. I filled out applications, stayed focused on my studies, and held onto hope. My faith taught me patience and trust, especially when answers did not come right away. I learned that faith does not mean knowing the outcome; it means believing that the outcome will be meaningful. When our Green Card was finally approved, it felt like a miracle. That approval opened the door for financial aid and allowed me to officially begin my college career. The relief and gratitude I felt were overwhelming because I knew how close I had come to losing that opportunity. That moment confirmed what I had been trusting all along, God’s timing is different from ours, but His plans are greater. This experience shaped how I look at life and challenges. It taught me resilience, patience, and the importance of trusting in something greater than myself when circumstances feel impossible. I now face obstacles with the understanding that setbacks do not mean the end of the journey; they are often part of a larger purpose. My faith did not remove the challenge, but it gave me the strength to endure it. Because of that, I was able to begin my college education with gratitude, determination, and a deeper sense of purpose.

My grandfather, Lucio Sette, was more than just a grandparent to me; he was like my second dad. I was his first granddaughter, and he always told me I was his favorite. He said it with so much love that I never doubted it. From the very beginning of my life, he played an important role in my life, his love, guidance, and presence made me feel protected and valued in a way that only he could. My family and I continue to remember him in the simplest but most meaningful ways. Whenever we sit together to eat a meal, his stories come up naturally in our conversations. We laugh about the things he used to say and the lessons hidden inside his humor. These moments keep him alive in our home and remind us that although he is no longer physically with us, he is still part of our family’s daily life. When my family and I moved to the United States, he was the person I missed the most. Leaving him behind was one of the hardest parts. The distance felt unbearable at first, but he could not stay away from me and my sister for long. Only four months after we moved, he and my grandmother worked hard to get their visas so they could come visit us. Seeing him again after was one of the happiest moments of my childhood. From that point on, they made it a tradition to visit us every summer. Their visits became what made our summers special. Those months were filled with memories I will always cherish. We went on daily walks to the lake, where he would talk about life and ask us about school and our dreams. We took long car rides together to explore new places, turning even the smallest trip into an adventure. His presence brought warmth and joy into our home, and those summers felt complete because he was there. Losing him felt like losing a parent rather than a grandparent. Knowing that he will not be physically present for some of the most important moments of my life hurts deeply. The thought that he will not see me graduate from college, walk down the aisle at my wedding, or meet his great-grandchildren is painful. However, I believe he will still find a way to be there for me. I carry him in my heart, and his influence continues to guide my decisions and my dreams. This experience shaped my life by making me more grateful, more reflective, and more aware of how meaningful relationships are. His passing taught me that love does not disappear; it transforms into something we carry within us. When I face difficult moments, I think of what he would tell me, and that thought gives me strength. Being his first granddaughter and the one he called his favorite is something I will always carry proudly. His stories, his laughter, and his love continue to guide me, and in that way, he is still with me every day.

I am a fan of Sabrina Carpenter because her career represents growth, resilience, and self-definition in a way that deeply resonates with my own journey. What first drew me to her music was her honesty. Her lyrics explore confidence, heartbreak, independence, and self-worth with humor and vulnerability, making her music both relatable and empowering. Over time, watching her evolve as an artist and as a public figure has inspired me to approach my own life with greater courage and authenticity. As someone who immigrated to the United States from Brazil at a young age, I experienced periods of self-doubt and pressure to fit into expectations that did not always reflect who I was. Sabrina Carpenter’s music became a source of comfort and motivation during those moments. Her songs often center on reclaiming one’s voice and embracing individuality, which helped me feel less alone while navigating cultural and academic challenges. Listening to her work encouraged me to trust myself and take pride in my background rather than hide it. Beyond her music, Sabrina Carpenter’s career has impacted me through the example she sets as a young woman who continuously reinvents herself. She began her career in television and successfully transitioned into a respected musician, proving that growth does not mean abandoning your past, but building upon it. Watching her take creative risks and redefine how she is seen by the public has reminded me that I am not limited to one version of myself. This mindset has influenced how I approach my education and career as a civil engineering student. Like her, I strive to challenge assumptions and expand beyond what others may expect of me. Her work ethic is another aspect of her career that has inspired me. She consistently produces music, tours, and engages with fans while maintaining control over her artistic direction. This dedication motivates me during demanding semesters, reminding me that success comes from persistence and belief in one’s purpose. When coursework feels overwhelming, her music often serves as a reminder that effort and passion can coexist. Sabrina Carpenter’s impact on me is not just emotional, but practical. Her confidence has helped me speak up in academic spaces, especially in a field where women and minorities are often underrepresented. Her example reinforces the idea that self-expression and professionalism are not opposites, but strengths when combined. She has shown me that it is possible to be both strong and sensitive, ambitious and reflective. Being a fan of Sabrina Carpenter means more than enjoying her songs; it means carrying the lessons her career represents. She has taught me the value of perseverance, authenticity, and self-belief. Her journey has encouraged me to pursue my own goals with confidence and creativity, even when the path feels uncertain. Through her music and her example, she has helped shape how I see myself and how I envision my future, making her influence both personal and lasting.

I am a civil engineering student pursuing a dual degree in Civil Engineering and Spanish with a minor in Architecture at UMass Lowell. I was born in Brazil and lived there until I was twelve, when my family moved to the United States in search of better financial and educational opportunities. Adjusting to a new country and school system was challenging, but those experiences shaped my resilience and motivated me to pursue higher education in a field where I can directly improve communities through infrastructure and design. Through my academic work and professional experiences, including a civil engineering co-op and involvement in organizations such as ASCE and SHPE, I have developed a strong interest in sustainable and community-centered infrastructure. After graduation, I plan to work as a civil engineer in the public or environmental sector, focusing on projects related to transportation, coastal protection, and urban planning. My long-term goal is to contribute to infrastructure solutions that promote equity, environmental responsibility, and accessibility, particularly in communities that face economic or environmental challenges. My first language is Portuguese, being bilingual has provided many benefits, including the ability to communicate with a wider range of people and better understand different cultures and perspectives. In engineering, this skill allows me to collaborate more effectively with diverse teams and better serve communities where English may not be the primary language. It also strengthens my problem-solving abilities, as switching between languages has helped me become more adaptable and attentive to detail. However, being bilingual has also presented challenges. When I first moved to the United States, learning English while keeping up academically required significant effort and perseverance. There were moments when I struggled to express myself clearly or felt behind in class due to language barriers. Over time, these challenges became sources of strength, teaching me discipline, patience, and confidence. Today, I view my bilingualism as an asset that enhances both my personal and professional life. Overall, my background as a bilingual student and immigrant has shaped my educational and career goals. I am driven to succeed not only for myself, but also to serve as a role model for others from similar backgrounds who aspire to enter technical and professional fields. This scholarship would support my academic journey and help me continue working toward a career dedicated to building safer, more sustainable, and more inclusive communities. I am a civil engineering student pursuing a dual degree in Civil Engineering and Spanish/Portuguese with a minor in Architecture at UMass Lowell. I was born in Brazil and lived there until I was twelve, when my family moved to the United States in search of better financial and educational opportunities. Adjusting to a new country and school system was challenging, but those experiences shaped my resilience and motivated me to pursue higher education in a field where I can directly improve communities through infrastructure and design.

The person who has had the biggest impact on my life is my mother. She is the example of the woman and mother I hope to become one day. More than anything, her determination and strength have shaped how I see challenges, especially when it comes to education and pursuing my goals. My mother has faced many difficulties throughout her life, but she has never allowed them to define her. When my family immigrated to the United States, she had to leave behind not only her home, but also the career she loved. In Brazil, she was a nurse, a profession she worked hard for and truly cared about. Starting over in a new country meant starting from zero. She did not speak fluent English, and everything from grocery shopping to filling out paperwork became a challenge. Still, instead of giving up, she made a decision to rebuild her life. She spent long hours studying English while also taking care of our family. I remember seeing her with books, notes, and flashcards, practicing pronunciation and learning medical vocabulary late at night. A few years later, she made the brave decision to pursue her nursing career again in the United States. This meant months of intense studying for the NCLEX exam, an exam that is difficult even for people whose first language is English. Watching her prepare was inspiring. She balanced work, family responsibilities, and constant studying, often putting her own comfort aside to create a better future for us. When she passed the NCLEX exam on her first try, it felt like a victory for our entire family. It showed me that determination can overcome fear, language barriers, and doubt. Her success was not just about becoming a nurse again; it was proof that persistence and discipline truly matter. Seeing her achieve something so challenging made me believe that I, too, could reach goals that once seemed impossible. Academically, my mother’s example has shaped how I approach school. Whenever I feel overwhelmed or doubt myself, I think about how she studied in a language that was not her own and still succeeded. Her work ethic reminds me that effort is just as important as talent. She has taught me that education is a privilege and a responsibility, not something to take lightly. I aspire to be like her not only in her determination, but in her ability to keep moving forward despite fear and uncertainty. She has shown me what resilience looks like in real life. Because of her, I have learned that setbacks do not mean failure and that hard work can transform obstacles into opportunities. My mother’s journey continues to motivate me every day, and her strength will always be the foundation of who I am becoming.

A significant struggle I have faced in my life was immigrating to the United States from Brazil at the age of twelve due to financial hardship. From a young age, I had dreamed of studying in the United States. I was always someone who adapted well to change, so even though leaving my home, friends, and extended family was painful, I believed this move would open doors I could not access before. Still, nothing fully prepared me for what it meant to start over in a new country, new language, and new school system all at once. School quickly became my biggest challenge. In many classes, the language barrier made me feel invisible. Classes that depended heavily on discussion, presentations, and group work were intimidating. I was afraid of saying the wrong word or pronouncing something incorrectly, and that fear often turned into silence. I felt ashamed when classmates could not understand me right away, and I worried that my accent made me sound less capable than I really was. Ironically, STEM classes became the place where I felt I belonged the most. Math and science gave me a sense of comfort because problem-solving did not rely as heavily on perfect English. Numbers, formulas, and logical steps gave me something familiar to hold onto when everything else felt foreign. Even when I struggled with vocabulary, I could understand the structure and reasoning behind the problems. STEM became the space where I could prove to myself that I was capable, even if my words were still catching up. To overcome these challenges, I learned to be resourceful. I stayed after school for extra help, watched online tutorials to reinforce lessons, and spent hours practicing both academic material and English. I forced myself to participate in class even when my voice shook. Over time, I learned that growth only came when I allowed myself to be uncomfortable. My parents’ sacrifices motivated me every day; seeing them work long hours in difficult jobs reminded me that education was not just an opportunity, but a responsibility. Even now, I still have an accent. There are moments when I hesitate before speaking, worried that I will mispronounce something or not be understood right away. But I have also learned that my accent is part of my heritage and a reflection of where I come from. It tells the story of a girl who crossed borders, learned a new language, and refused to let fear define her future. Instead of seeing it as something to hide, I am learning to see it as proof of resilience. These experiences shaped me into a student who adapts quickly, works hard, and does not give up when things feel unfamiliar. They are also what led me to pursue civil engineering, a field where problem-solving and persistence are essential. As a future professional in STEM, I carry with me the lessons of my journey: that change is not something to fear, that communication takes courage, and that my background is not a weakness but a strength. Being an immigrant daughter has taught me how to turn struggle into motivation, and that mindset will guide me in every classroom, workplace, and community I serve.

My name is Luiza Simoes Sette, I am a sophomore with a doble major in civil engineering and Spanish/Portuguese with a minor in architecture at the University of Massachusetts Lowell. Civil engineering incorporates all the aspects of engineering and design that I love. Being able to use my technical knowledge as well as my creative side to build structures to improve people's lives. I am motivated by the idea of contributing to the development of infrastructure that not only serves practically but also improves the quality of life for others. I decided to study Spanish to be in more in contact with my community, I speak Portuguese and sometimes it is struggle to speak with the Hispanic community and because I believe communication is key to successful being able to speak to a community that is the backbone of the construction industry is very important professionally and personally. The ability to communicate effectively with people from other backgrounds is essential, particularly in fields like construction, where collaboration and understanding are crucial. By learning Spanish, I hope to bridge that gap and build stronger, more inclusive connections within my professional and personal circle. As an immigrant, I am aware of the challenges many face in our community, especially in the current political climate. With the current administration increasing deportations and making it harder for immigrants to find stability, it has made me realize how important it is to advocate for and support the immigrant community, as they are often the backbone of many industries. While I was fortunate that my parents were able to find a way to stay in this country legally, I recognize the struggles many families face and want to use my education and experience to create a more inclusive future for all, especially in areas that have lacked diversity. My long-term goal is to become a respected civil engineer I wish to work in projects that will benefit minority and underserved communities. I am looking forward to use my skills and education to create infrastructure that will enhance quality of life, in areas that have lacked investment and resources. In the short term, I am focused on excelling in my academics, gaining hands-on experience through internships, and building a solid foundation toward my future career. Receiving this scholarship would significantly alleviate the financial burdens of my education. It would allow me to concentrate more on my studies, reduce the need for part-time work, and ultimately help me achieve my goal of completing my education and becoming a professional who makes a difference.

Title: Building Dreams: A Personal Reflection on the Heart of Civil Engineering Civil engineering, to me, is more than just a profession—it's a powerful force shaping the world we live in. It touches our lives every day, influencing our communities, the environment, and the overall well-being of society. Coming from Brazil, a country facing its own set of infrastructure challenges, I've seen firsthand the profound impact civil engineering can have on transforming societies. It's not about just constructing buildings; it's about weaving dreams into the very fabric of our communities. Growing up, I was always fascinated by the construction industry, but it wasn't until I moved to the United States that my passion for civil engineering truly blossomed. My father inspired and encouraged me to pursue my career in civil engineering after he started working as a carpenter, he became my guide and inspiration. His practical experience, combined with the wisdom he shared, sparked a flame within me, redirecting my aspirations towards civil engineering. Initially drawn to architecture, I realized the incredible potential this field held for addressing the immediate infrastructural needs in my native Brazil. One pivotal moment that solidified my dedication to civil engineering was my co-op experience at Robert B. It presented a unique challenge as I found myself the only individual with an engineering focus in a construction-oriented environment. Despite the lack of engineers, this experience became a crucible where my skills in construction and structural design were forged. Interacting with seasoned professionals, I absorbed their insights and lessons, laying a solid foundation for my future endeavors. Challenges, both academic and personal, have been woven into the fabric of my journey. Adapting to a new educational system and overcoming language barriers were early hurdles that shaped not just my academic resilience but also instilled in me a profound appreciation for diversity and the importance of adaptability—qualities that resonate deeply in the human side of civil engineering. My passion for civil engineering has evolved into a commitment to addressing the infrastructural gaps in Brazil. I'm particularly excited about contributing to structural engineering and sustainable infrastructure development with a focus on designing structures that can withstand environmental challenges such as floods, earthquakes, and extreme weather events. By incorporating cutting-edge technologies and sustainable materials into my projects, I aim to contribute to the creation of infrastructure that not only meets current needs but also anticipates and adapts to future challenges. In conclusion, civil engineering is not just a means to a career—it's a calling to make a positive impact on the lives of others. From my journey in Brazil to the United States, my experiences in construction, and the challenges I've faced, I've developed a vision of contributing to the betterment of Brazil's infrastructure. With an unwavering determination, a passion for innovation, and a commitment to the well-being of communities, I am eager to embark on a journey that not only builds structures but fosters connections, progress, and dreams of a brighter future. As I pursue this scholarship, my goal is to build bridges that go beyond concrete and steel—bridges that connect hearts, dreams, and the shared humanity that binds us all.

As a passionate individual pursuing a career in civil engineering, my ultimate goal is to contribute significantly to the development and improvement of my home country, Brazil. With an understanding of the current infrastructure challenges facing Brazil, I am determined to utilize my skills, knowledge, and enthusiasm to make a positive impact on the nation's built environment. Brazil, a country of vast natural beauty and cultural richness, is also confronted with infrastructural deficiencies that hinder its economic growth and the overall well-being of its citizens. In many regions, outdated transportation systems, inadequate water supply, and substandard public facilities are persistent issues that require urgent attention. Recognizing these challenges has fueled my commitment to pursuing a career in civil engineering with a focus on infrastructure development. Water resource management is another critical aspect that demands attention. Brazil faces challenges related to water scarcity, unequal distribution, and inadequate sanitation systems. Through my career in civil engineering, I aspire to focus on water resources and environmental engineering. By developing innovative and sustainable solutions for water supply and sanitation, I aim to contribute to the improvement of living conditions for communities across Brazil. This involves implementing advanced technologies, promoting water conservation practices, and ensuring the efficient treatment and distribution of water resources. Furthermore, the need for resilient and sustainable infrastructure cannot be overstated, especially in a country prone to natural disasters. Climate change poses additional challenges that require proactive planning and engineering solutions. I intend to specialize in structural engineering with a focus on designing structures that can withstand environmental challenges such as floods, earthquakes, and extreme weather events. By incorporating cutting-edge technologies and sustainable materials into my projects, I aim to contribute to the creation of infrastructure that not only meets current needs but also anticipates and adapts to future challenges. In addition to my technical skills, I recognize the importance of collaboration and community engagement in achieving lasting change. I plan to actively participate in local initiatives, partnering with communities to understand their unique needs and concerns. By involving local stakeholders in the planning and implementation process, I believe we can create infrastructure solutions that are not only effective but also culturally sensitive and sustainable. In conclusion, my dedication to making a positive impact on Brazil through civil engineering is unwavering. I envision a future where the country's infrastructure is robust, sustainable, and resilient, contributing to the well-being and prosperity of its citizens. Through my career, I aspire to be a catalyst for positive change, driving innovation, and addressing the pressing infrastructure challenges that lie ahead. With a combination of technical expertise, community engagement, and a passion for sustainable development, I am confident in my ability to contribute significantly to the transformation of Brazil's built environment for generations to come.

As a first-generation immigrant to the United States, I have experienced the challenges of integrating into a new culture as well as the benefits of community development. I left Brazil with my parents and sister when I was twelve years old in 2017. Here in the United States, I received the opportunity to pursue higher education and experience a higher quality of life than what I would have had in my native country. Coming into a completely new culture, language and way of living in Massachusetts was very challenging for me, but I accepted the challenge and never saw the language and culture barrier as a burden. At my school, other immigrant children welcomed me. Having people that understood what I was going through was a very important factor, but that didn't stop me from making American friends. On my first day of school, this American blue-eyed girl showed me the school, she would take me to all my classes and sit with me during lunch. We couldn't properly communicate but we understood each other. For the first week of school, my lunch table would always be packed with kids trying to talk to me. Like for every immigrant it is still not easy for us and life has prepared us for some ups and downs, from missing home to not knowing how we would pay the next rent. It made us stronger and hopeful that one day all the hard work we are doing now will pay off. Since the day we got here, me and my family have worked hard to fulfill our dreams, and this year we finally got some of this hard work paid back. In June 2023 we received our green cards. It was a relief although it's just the start. Because of that now I am starting my college journey, I will be the first of my family to go to college outside Brazil, and this is going to be a new and more challenging chapter of my life. Being a first-generation immigrant is not easy, having to learn the language, and helping my parents emotionally and financially is what makes us immigrants stronger. My career aspirations and the reason why I want to pursue post-secondary education are my parents. They are the reason I am here today and have done numerous sacrifices for me and my sister. Going to college is my dream and theirs. My educational aspirations consist of acquiring a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. I have always loved construction since a little girl and I believe that I can make an impact in society and give back to others.