I'm graduating this June and I'm super excited to start my next chapter. I'll be going to De Anza College to work towards a degree in Auto Repair Technology, and I'm also planning to take welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I've always loved getting my hands dirty and figuring out how things work—especially when it comes to cars and trucks. My dream is to take what I learn in school and help grow our family towing business by adding more auto repair services. Losing my dad when I was 12 was tough, but it taught me a lot about resilience. My mom raised me and my sister on her own and built our towing company from scratch in a field that's mostly run by men. Seeing how hard she worked, the obstacles she faced, and the way she turned her vision into a thriving business really inspired me. She showed me that if you stay determined and keep your eyes on your goals, you can achieve pretty much anything. For fun, I've been playing competitive roller derby for the past 11 years. It's been a wild ride—I've had the chance to travel all over the country with my team, the Santa Cruz Derby Groms, and compete in tournaments sanctioned by the US Junior Roller Derby Association. It's taught me a ton about teamwork, discipline, and just pushing myself to get better every season. I also like to give back to my community. I volunteer at Tails for Redwood Trails, a local non-profit equine rescue that offers riding lessons for kids. I help out with everything from mucking stalls and feeding the horses to assisting with lessons, group camps, and special events. It's hard work, but it's super rewarding to see the difference it makes for both the horses and the kids. On the work side, I keep pretty busy. I'm certified in Deep Water Rescue and CPR by the American Red Cross, and I work as a lifeguard for the city of Santa Cruz. I also pick up a few shifts with IHSS for the county, providing in-home support to people with disabilities. Both jobs have taught me a lot about responsibility and being ready for anything. When I have some free time, you'll usually find me at my mom’s shop working on my project truck—a 1985 Chevy K20 that I’ve been restoring from the ground up. It’s a long process, but there’s nothing like seeing something old come back to life with a little elbow grease and patience. I guess that’s kind of my approach to everything: stick with it, learn as much as you can, and don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty.

I have a small scar under my eye that’s stuck with me since I was eleven. It happened at the roller derby facility, right before practice—a dog bit me out of nowhere. One moment I was lacing up my skates, the next I was being rushed off for stitches. It was scary and, honestly, a bit of a shock. But what I really remember is how everyone—my teammates, coaches, and especially my family—rallied around me. They helped me get through the pain and the fear, and looking back, that scar is a reminder that life doesn’t always go to plan, but you can bounce back stronger. That lesson has come in handy more than once. The year after the dog bite, I lost my dad, and my whole world shifted again. My mom stepped up big time—she raised me and my sister on her own and ran our family towing business, even though she was often the only woman around. Watching her hustle through late nights, tough situations, and all the ups and downs showed me the real meaning of resilience. She’s always told me that scars, whether you can see them or not, are just proof you made it through something and kept going. I’ve always loved working with my hands and figuring things out, especially when it comes to cars. That’s why I’m pumped to start at De Anza College for Auto Repair Technology, and I’m also planning on taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo. My goal is to take what I learn and help grow our family business, maybe even add some new services to give back to our community. Roller derby has been a huge part of my life for over a decade now. I skate with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms, and we’ve traveled all over the country for tournaments. Derby has taught me about teamwork, discipline, and picking myself back up—sometimes literally. After that dog bite, getting back on the track was tough, but it made me tougher. Plus, the friendships and memories I’ve made are things I’ll always be grateful for. I like to stay busy outside of school, too. I volunteer at Tails for Redwood Trails, helping with horses and kids’ lessons. I work as a lifeguard for the city of Santa Cruz and do a few shifts with IHSS, supporting people with disabilities. And when I get a chance, I’m at my mom’s shop working on my ’85 Chevy K20, which I’m restoring from the ground up. It’s slow going, but there’s something really cool about bringing an old truck back to life. I’m hoping for this scholarship because I want to keep learning and keep giving back. College isn’t cheap, and this would help take some pressure off so I can focus on my classes, my family, and my community work. If there’s one thing my scar has taught me, it’s that you can get through just about anything if you stick with it and let people help you along the way. I want to take those lessons and use them to make a difference for others, too.

To me, being a Pacific Islander attending college is about honoring my heritage and the sacrifices of those who came before me. My family has always valued hard work, resilience, and supporting one another. That sense of community and determination is something I carry with me as I step into higher education. When I lost my father at 12, my mom became my greatest role model—raising me and my sister on her own while building our family’s towing business from the ground up. She faced challenges not just as a single parent, but as a Pacific Islander woman in a male-dominated industry. Watching her persevere taught me the importance of staying focused, working hard, and never giving up on your goals, no matter the obstacles. As I prepare to attend De Anza College for Auto Repair Technology, and take welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo, I am motivated to use my education to help our family business grow and to give back to my community. I want to be someone who uplifts others, especially younger Pacific Islanders who might not see people like themselves in these fields. Representation matters, and I hope to set an example that college and skilled trades are possible paths for us too. Outside of school, I’ve spent 11 years playing competitive roller derby, which has taken me all over the country with my team, the Santa Cruz Derby Groms. The sport has taught me about teamwork, discipline, and pushing past my limits. I also volunteer at Tails for Redwood Trails, a local equine rescue, where I help care for horses and assist with children’s lessons. I work as a lifeguard and with IHSS, supporting people with disabilities. In my free time, I’m usually at my mom’s shop restoring my ’85 Chevy K20—another way I connect with my family’s legacy of hard work and hands-on problem solving. I believe I should receive this scholarship because I am dedicated to making the most of my education and giving back to my community. I want to use what I learn to support my family, help others, and represent Pacific Islanders in fields where we are underrepresented. Receiving this scholarship would relieve some of the financial pressure, allowing me to focus on my studies and community work. It would be an honor to carry forward the values of my heritage, and I am committed to making a positive impact for both my family and my community.

I'm graduating this June and I'm super excited to start my next chapter. I'll be going to De Anza College to work towards a degree in Auto Repair Technology, and I'm also planning to take welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I've always loved getting my hands dirty and figuring out how things work—especially when it comes to cars and trucks. My dream is to take what I learn in school and help grow our family towing business by adding more auto repair services. Losing my dad when I was 12 was tough, but it taught me a lot about resilience. My mom raised me and my sister on her own and built our towing company from scratch in a field that's mostly run by men. Seeing how hard she worked, the obstacles she faced, and the way she turned her vision into a thriving business really inspired me. She showed me that if you stay determined and keep your eyes on your goals, you can achieve pretty much anything. For fun, I've been playing competitive roller derby for the past 11 years. It's been a wild ride—I've had the chance to travel all over the country with my team, the Santa Cruz Derby Groms, and compete in tournaments sanctioned by the US Junior Roller Derby Association. It's taught me a ton about teamwork, discipline, and just pushing myself to get better every season. I also like to give back to my community. I volunteer at Tails for Redwood Trails, a local non-profit equine rescue that offers riding lessons for kids. I help out with everything from mucking stalls and feeding the horses to assisting with lessons, group camps, and special events. It's hard work, but it's super rewarding to see the difference it makes for both the horses and the kids. On the work side, I keep pretty busy. I'm certified in Deep Water Rescue and CPR by the American Red Cross, and I work as a lifeguard for the city of Santa Cruz. I also pick up a few shifts with IHSS for the county, providing in-home support to people with disabilities. Both jobs have taught me a lot about responsibility and being ready for anything. When I have some free time, you'll usually find me at my mom’s shop working on my project truck—a 1985 Chevy K20 that I’ve been restoring from the ground up. It’s a long process, but there’s nothing like seeing something old come back to life with a little elbow grease and patience. I guess that’s kind of my approach to everything: stick with it, learn as much as you can, and don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty.

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to my mom and the example she set for me. After losing my father when I was 12, she raised my sister and me as a single parent while building a towing company from the ground up in a male-dominated industry. Watching her work long hours, overcome challenges, and turn the business into something successful taught me the value of hard work, determination, and perseverance. No matter how difficult things became, she continued pushing forward for our family, and her strength inspired me to pursue a future in the automotive industry and continue building on the foundation she created. In addition to the challenges my family faced, I was also diagnosed with ADHD inattentive-type at a young age. Throughout school, I often struggled with focus, organization, time management, and self-confidence. While many people assume ADHD only affects hyperactivity, inattentive ADHD can make it difficult to stay organized, process information efficiently, and keep up with academic expectations even when you are trying your hardest. There were times when I became frustrated with myself because I knew I was capable of more than my grades sometimes reflected. I had to work harder than many of my peers to stay on track, complete assignments, and remain focused in class. Over time, I learned how to adapt and develop strategies that helped me succeed. I learned the importance of structure, persistence, and asking for support when needed. Roller derby, work responsibilities, and hands-on learning environments helped me discover that I thrive when I am actively engaged and challenged. Instead of allowing ADHD to define my limitations, I used it as motivation to become more determined, resilient, and disciplined. Managing these challenges while balancing school, athletics, work, and family responsibilities has taught me how to persevere even when things feel overwhelming. It has also given me empathy for others who face struggles that are not always visible. I am graduating this June and plan to attend De Anza College to pursue an Auto Repair Technology degree while also taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and learning how things work, especially when it comes to vehicles. Some of my favorite memories are spending time at my mom’s shop, watching repairs being done, riding in tow trucks, and learning about the business from the ground up. Traditional classroom environments were not always easy for me because of my ADHD, but hands-on technical learning has always been where I feel most focused and confident. I enjoy solving problems, diagnosing issues, and learning practical skills that produce real results. My goal is to use my education and technical training to help grow our family towing company by expanding into automotive repair services. In the future, I also hope to start my own related business that complements the company my mom worked so hard to build. I want to continue creating opportunities not only for myself, but also for my family and community. Growing up in a family business taught me the importance of dedication, customer service, and building strong relationships with people. Outside of school and work, I have spent the last 11 years playing competitive roller derby with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms through the US Junior Roller Derby Association. Roller derby has given me the opportunity to travel across the country, compete at a high level, and meet people from many different backgrounds. The sport has taught me the importance of teamwork, discipline, leadership, and commitment. It has also helped me become more confident, resilient, and able to stay calm under pressure, skills that I know will help me in both my education and future career. Balancing practices, competitions, travel, school, and work responsibilities also helped me strengthen the organizational skills that were especially challenging because of my ADHD. I also volunteer with Tails for Redwood Trails, a local equine rescue that offers riding lessons and programs for children. I help care for the horses, clean stalls, and assist with camps, lessons, and community events. Volunteering there has taught me patience, responsibility, and the importance of giving back to the community. In addition, I am certified in American Red Cross Deep Water Rescue and CPR. I currently work as a lifeguard for the City of Santa Cruz and also work shifts with IHSS, providing in-home support for disabled individuals in our community. These experiences have strengthened my communication skills and shown me how rewarding it is to help others. In my free time, I enjoy spending as much time as possible at my mom’s shop working on my project truck, a 1985 Chevrolet K20 that I have been restoring. Working on that truck has strengthened my passion for the automotive field and motivated me to continue learning new skills. Through my education, work experience, athletics, volunteer service, and personal challenges, I hope to build a successful future while continuing to support my family, contribute to my community, and carry on the legacy my mom worked so hard to create. My experiences have taught me that success is not determined by the obstacles a person faces, but by their willingness to keep moving forward despite them.

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to my mom and the example she set for me. After losing my father when I was 12, she raised my sister and me as a single parent while building a towing company from the ground up in a male-dominated industry. Watching her work long hours, overcome challenges, and turn the business into something successful taught me the value of hard work, determination, and perseverance. No matter how difficult things became, she continued pushing forward for our family, and her strength inspired me to pursue a future in the automotive industry and continue building on the foundation she created. I am graduating this June and plan to attend De Anza College to pursue an Auto Repair Technology degree while also taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and learning how things work, especially when it comes to vehicles. Some of my favorite memories are spending time at my mom’s shop, watching repairs being done, riding in tow trucks, and learning about the business from the ground up. My goal is to use my education and technical training to help grow our family towing company by expanding into automotive repair services. In the future, I also hope to start my own related business that complements the company my mom worked so hard to build. Outside of school and work, I have spent the last 11 years playing competitive roller derby with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms through the US Junior Roller Derby Association. Roller derby has given me the opportunity to travel across the country, compete at a high level, and meet people from many different backgrounds. The sport has taught me the importance of teamwork, discipline, leadership, and commitment. It has also helped me become more confident, resilient, and able to stay calm under pressure, skills that I know will help me in both my education and future career. I also volunteer with Tails for Redwood Trails, a local equine rescue that offers riding lessons and programs for children. I help care for the horses, clean stalls, and assist with camps, lessons, and community events. Volunteering there has taught me patience, responsibility, and the importance of giving back to the community. In addition, I am certified in American Red Cross Deep Water Rescue and CPR. I currently work as a lifeguard for the City of Santa Cruz and also work shifts with IHSS, providing in-home support for disabled individuals in our community. These experiences have strengthened my communication skills and shown me how rewarding it is to help others. In my free time, I enjoy spending as much time as possible at my mom’s shop working on my project truck, a 1985 Chevrolet K20 that I have been restoring. Working on that truck has strengthened my passion for the automotive field and motivated me to continue learning new skills. Through my education, work experience, athletics, and volunteer service, I hope to build a successful future while continuing to support my family, contribute to my community, and carry on the legacy my mom worked so hard to create.

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to my mom and the example she set for me. After losing my father when I was 12, she raised my sister and me as a single parent while building a towing company from the ground up in a male-dominated industry. Watching her work long hours, overcome challenges, and turn the business into something successful taught me the value of hard work, determination, and perseverance. No matter how difficult things became, she continued pushing forward for our family, and her strength inspired me to pursue a future in the automotive industry and continue building on the foundation she created. I am graduating this June and plan to attend De Anza College to pursue an Auto Repair Technology degree while also taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and learning how things work, especially when it comes to vehicles. Some of my favorite memories are spending time at my mom’s shop, watching repairs being done, riding in tow trucks, and learning about the business from the ground up. My goal is to use my education and technical training to help grow our family towing company by expanding into automotive repair services. In the future, I also hope to start my own related business that complements the company my mom worked so hard to build. Outside of school and work, I have spent the last 11 years playing competitive roller derby with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms through the US Junior Roller Derby Association. Roller derby has given me the opportunity to travel across the country, compete at a high level, and meet people from many different backgrounds. The sport has taught me the importance of teamwork, discipline, leadership, and commitment. It has also helped me become more confident, resilient, and able to stay calm under pressure, skills that I know will help me in both my education and future career. I also volunteer with Tails for Redwood Trails, a local equine rescue that offers riding lessons and programs for children. I help care for the horses, clean stalls, and assist with camps, lessons, and community events. Volunteering there has taught me patience, responsibility, and the importance of giving back to the community. In addition, I am certified in American Red Cross Deep Water Rescue and CPR. I currently work as a lifeguard for the City of Santa Cruz and also work shifts with IHSS, providing in-home support for disabled individuals in our community. These experiences have strengthened my communication skills and shown me how rewarding it is to help others. In my free time, I enjoy spending as much time as possible at my mom’s shop working on my project truck, a 1985 Chevrolet K20 that I have been restoring. Working on that truck has strengthened my passion for the automotive field and motivated me to continue learning new skills. Through my education, work experience, athletics, and volunteer service, I hope to build a successful future while continuing to support my family, contribute to my community, and carry on the legacy my mom worked so hard to create.

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to my mom and the example she set for me. After losing my father when I was 12, she raised my sister and me as a single parent while building a towing company from the ground up in a male-dominated industry. Watching her work long hours, overcome challenges, and turn the business into something successful taught me the value of hard work, determination, and perseverance. No matter how difficult things became, she continued pushing forward for our family, and her strength inspired me to pursue a future in the automotive industry and continue building on the foundation she created. I am graduating this June and plan to attend De Anza College to pursue an Auto Repair Technology degree while also taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and learning how things work, especially when it comes to vehicles. Some of my favorite memories are spending time at my mom’s shop, watching repairs being done, riding in tow trucks, and learning about the business from the ground up. My goal is to use my education and technical training to help grow our family towing company by expanding into automotive repair services. In the future, I also hope to start my own related business that complements the company my mom worked so hard to build. Outside of school and work, I have spent the last 11 years playing competitive roller derby with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms through the US Junior Roller Derby Association. Roller derby has given me the opportunity to travel across the country, compete at a high level, and meet people from many different backgrounds. The sport has taught me the importance of teamwork, discipline, leadership, and commitment. It has also helped me become more confident, resilient, and able to stay calm under pressure, skills that I know will help me in both my education and future career. I also volunteer with Tails for Redwood Trails, a local equine rescue that offers riding lessons and programs for children. I help care for the horses, clean stalls, and assist with camps, lessons, and community events. Volunteering there has taught me patience, responsibility, and the importance of giving back to the community. In addition, I am certified in American Red Cross Deep Water Rescue and CPR. I currently work as a lifeguard for the City of Santa Cruz and also work shifts with IHSS, providing in-home support for disabled individuals in our community. These experiences have strengthened my communication skills and shown me how rewarding it is to help others. In my free time, I enjoy spending as much time as possible at my mom’s shop working on my project truck, a 1985 Chevrolet K20 that I have been restoring. Working on that truck has strengthened my passion for the automotive field and motivated me to continue learning new skills. Through my education, work experience, athletics, and volunteer service, I hope to build a successful future while continuing to support my family, contribute to my community, and carry on the legacy my mom worked so hard to create.

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to my mom and the example she set for me. After losing my father when I was 12, she raised my sister and me as a single parent while building a towing company from the ground up in a male-dominated industry. Watching her work long hours, overcome challenges, and turn the business into something successful taught me the value of hard work, determination, and perseverance. No matter how difficult things became, she continued pushing forward for our family, and her strength inspired me to pursue a future in the automotive industry and continue building on the foundation she created. I am graduating this June and plan to attend De Anza College to pursue an Auto Repair Technology degree while also taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and learning how things work, especially when it comes to vehicles. Some of my favorite memories are spending time at my mom’s shop, watching repairs being done, riding in tow trucks, and learning about the business from the ground up. My goal is to use my education and technical training to help grow our family towing company by expanding into automotive repair services. In the future, I also hope to start my own related business that complements the company my mom worked so hard to build. Outside of school and work, I have spent the last 11 years playing competitive roller derby with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms through the US Junior Roller Derby Association. Roller derby has given me the opportunity to travel across the country, compete at a high level, and meet people from many different backgrounds. The sport has taught me the importance of teamwork, discipline, leadership, and commitment. It has also helped me become more confident, resilient, and able to stay calm under pressure, skills that I know will help me in both my education and future career. I also volunteer with Tails for Redwood Trails, a local equine rescue that offers riding lessons and programs for children. I help care for the horses, clean stalls, and assist with camps, lessons, and community events. Volunteering there has taught me patience, responsibility, and the importance of giving back to the community. In addition, I am certified in American Red Cross Deep Water Rescue and CPR. I currently work as a lifeguard for the City of Santa Cruz and also work shifts with IHSS, providing in-home support for disabled individuals in our community. These experiences have strengthened my communication skills and shown me how rewarding it is to help others. In my free time, I enjoy spending as much time as possible at my mom’s shop working on my project truck, a 1985 Chevrolet K20 that I have been restoring. Working on that truck has strengthened my passion for the automotive field and motivated me to continue learning new skills. Through my education, work experience, athletics, and volunteer service, I hope to build a successful future while continuing to support my family, contribute to my community, and carry on the legacy my mom worked so hard to create.

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to my mom and the example she set for me. After losing my father when I was 12, she raised my sister and me as a single parent while building a towing company from the ground up in a male-dominated industry. Watching her work long hours, overcome challenges, and turn the business into something successful taught me the value of hard work, determination, and perseverance. No matter how difficult things became, she continued pushing forward for our family, and her strength inspired me to pursue a future in the automotive industry and continue building on the foundation she created. I am graduating this June and plan to attend De Anza College to pursue an Auto Repair Technology degree while also taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and learning how things work, especially when it comes to vehicles. Some of my favorite memories are spending time at my mom’s shop, watching repairs being done, riding in tow trucks, and learning about the business from the ground up. My goal is to use my education and technical training to help grow our family towing company by expanding into automotive repair services. In the future, I also hope to start my own related business that complements the company my mom worked so hard to build. Outside of school and work, I have spent the last 11 years playing competitive roller derby with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms through the US Junior Roller Derby Association. Roller derby has given me the opportunity to travel across the country, compete at a high level, and meet people from many different backgrounds. The sport has taught me the importance of teamwork, discipline, leadership, and commitment. It has also helped me become more confident, resilient, and able to stay calm under pressure, skills that I know will help me in both my education and future career. I also volunteer with Tails for Redwood Trails, a local equine rescue that offers riding lessons and programs for children. I help care for the horses, clean stalls, and assist with camps, lessons, and community events. Volunteering there has taught me patience, responsibility, and the importance of giving back to the community. In addition, I am certified in American Red Cross Deep Water Rescue and CPR. I currently work as a lifeguard for the City of Santa Cruz and also work shifts with IHSS, providing in-home support for disabled individuals in our community. These experiences have strengthened my communication skills and shown me how rewarding it is to help others. In my free time, I enjoy spending as much time as possible at my mom’s shop working on my project truck, a 1985 Chevrolet K20 that I have been restoring. Working on that truck has strengthened my passion for the automotive field and motivated me to continue learning new skills. Through my education, work experience, athletics, and volunteer service, I hope to build a successful future while continuing to support my family, contribute to my community, and carry on the legacy my mom worked so hard to create.

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to my mom and the example she set for me. After losing my father when I was 12, she raised my sister and me as a single parent while building a towing company from the ground up in a male-dominated industry. Watching her work long hours, overcome challenges, and turn the business into something successful taught me the value of hard work, determination, and perseverance. No matter how difficult things became, she continued pushing forward for our family, and her strength inspired me to pursue a future in the automotive industry and continue building on the foundation she created. I am graduating this June and plan to attend De Anza College to pursue an Auto Repair Technology degree while also taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and learning how things work, especially when it comes to vehicles. Some of my favorite memories are spending time at my mom’s shop, watching repairs being done, riding in tow trucks, and learning about the business from the ground up. My goal is to use my education and technical training to help grow our family towing company by expanding into automotive repair services. In the future, I also hope to start my own related business that complements the company my mom worked so hard to build. Outside of school and work, I have spent the last 11 years playing competitive roller derby with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms through the US Junior Roller Derby Association. Roller derby has given me the opportunity to travel across the country, compete at a high level, and meet people from many different backgrounds. The sport has taught me the importance of teamwork, discipline, leadership, and commitment. It has also helped me become more confident, resilient, and able to stay calm under pressure, skills that I know will help me in both my education and future career. I also volunteer with Tails for Redwood Trails, a local equine rescue that offers riding lessons and programs for children. I help care for the horses, clean stalls, and assist with camps, lessons, and community events. Volunteering there has taught me patience, responsibility, and the importance of giving back to the community. In addition, I am certified in American Red Cross Deep Water Rescue and CPR. I currently work as a lifeguard for the City of Santa Cruz and also work shifts with IHSS, providing in-home support for disabled individuals in our community. These experiences have strengthened my communication skills and shown me how rewarding it is to help others. In my free time, I enjoy spending as much time as possible at my mom’s shop working on my project truck, a 1985 Chevrolet K20 that I have been restoring. Working on that truck has strengthened my passion for the automotive field and motivated me to continue learning new skills. Through my education, work experience, athletics, and volunteer service, I hope to build a successful future while continuing to support my family, contribute to my community, and carry on the legacy my mom worked so hard to create.

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to my mom and the example she set for me. After losing my father when I was 12, she raised my sister and me as a single parent while building a towing company from the ground up in a male-dominated industry. Watching her work long hours, overcome challenges, and turn the business into something successful taught me the value of hard work, determination, and perseverance. No matter how difficult things became, she continued pushing forward for our family, and her strength inspired me to pursue a future in the automotive industry and continue building on the foundation she created. I am graduating this June and plan to attend De Anza College to pursue an Auto Repair Technology degree while also taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and learning how things work, especially when it comes to vehicles. Some of my favorite memories are spending time at my mom’s shop, watching repairs being done, riding in tow trucks, and learning about the business from the ground up. My goal is to use my education and technical training to help grow our family towing company by expanding into automotive repair services. In the future, I also hope to start my own related business that complements the company my mom worked so hard to build. Outside of school and work, I have spent the last 11 years playing competitive roller derby with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms through the US Junior Roller Derby Association. Roller derby has given me the opportunity to travel across the country, compete at a high level, and meet people from many different backgrounds. The sport has taught me the importance of teamwork, discipline, leadership, and commitment. It has also helped me become more confident, resilient, and able to stay calm under pressure, skills that I know will help me in both my education and future career. I also volunteer with Tails for Redwood Trails, a local equine rescue that offers riding lessons and programs for children. I help care for the horses, clean stalls, and assist with camps, lessons, and community events. Volunteering there has taught me patience, responsibility, and the importance of giving back to the community. In addition, I am certified in American Red Cross Deep Water Rescue and CPR. I currently work as a lifeguard for the City of Santa Cruz and also work shifts with IHSS, providing in-home support for disabled individuals in our community. These experiences have strengthened my communication skills and shown me how rewarding it is to help others. In my free time, I enjoy spending as much time as possible at my mom’s shop working on my project truck, a 1985 Chevrolet K20 that I have been restoring. Working on that truck has strengthened my passion for the automotive field and motivated me to continue learning new skills. Through my education, work experience, athletics, and volunteer service, I hope to build a successful future while continuing to support my family, contribute to my community, and carry on the legacy my mom worked so hard to create.

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to my mom and the example she set for me. After losing my father when I was 12, she raised my sister and me as a single parent while building a towing company from the ground up in a male-dominated industry. Watching her work long hours, overcome challenges, and turn the business into something successful taught me the value of hard work, determination, and perseverance. No matter how difficult things became, she continued pushing forward for our family, and her strength inspired me to pursue a future in the automotive industry and continue building on the foundation she created. I am graduating this June and plan to attend De Anza College to pursue an Auto Repair Technology degree while also taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and learning how things work, especially when it comes to vehicles. Some of my favorite memories are spending time at my mom’s shop, watching repairs being done, riding in tow trucks, and learning about the business from the ground up. My goal is to use my education and technical training to help grow our family towing company by expanding into automotive repair services. In the future, I also hope to start my own related business that complements the company my mom worked so hard to build. Outside of school and work, I have spent the last 11 years playing competitive roller derby with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms through the US Junior Roller Derby Association. Roller derby has given me the opportunity to travel across the country, compete at a high level, and meet people from many different backgrounds. The sport has taught me the importance of teamwork, discipline, leadership, and commitment. It has also helped me become more confident, resilient, and able to stay calm under pressure, skills that I know will help me in both my education and future career. I also volunteer with Tails for Redwood Trails, a local equine rescue that offers riding lessons and programs for children. I help care for the horses, clean stalls, and assist with camps, lessons, and community events. Volunteering there has taught me patience, responsibility, and the importance of giving back to the community. In addition, I am certified in American Red Cross Deep Water Rescue and CPR. I currently work as a lifeguard for the City of Santa Cruz and also work shifts with IHSS, providing in-home support for disabled individuals in our community. These experiences have strengthened my communication skills and shown me how rewarding it is to help others. In my free time, I enjoy spending as much time as possible at my mom’s shop working on my project truck, a 1985 Chevrolet K20 that I have been restoring. Working on that truck has strengthened my passion for the automotive field and motivated me to continue learning new skills. Through my education, work experience, athletics, and volunteer service, I hope to build a successful future while continuing to support my family, contribute to my community, and carry on the legacy my mom worked so hard to create.

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to my mom and the example she set for me. After losing my father when I was 12, she raised my sister and me as a single parent while building a towing company from the ground up in a male-dominated industry. Watching her work long hours, overcome challenges, and turn the business into something successful taught me the value of hard work, determination, and perseverance. No matter how difficult things became, she continued pushing forward for our family, and her strength inspired me to pursue a future in the automotive industry and continue building on the foundation she created. I am graduating this June and plan to attend De Anza College to pursue an Auto Repair Technology degree while also taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and learning how things work, especially when it comes to vehicles. Some of my favorite memories are spending time at my mom’s shop, watching repairs being done, riding in tow trucks, and learning about the business from the ground up. My goal is to use my education and technical training to help grow our family towing company by expanding into automotive repair services. In the future, I also hope to start my own related business that complements the company my mom worked so hard to build. Outside of school and work, I have spent the last 11 years playing competitive roller derby with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms through the US Junior Roller Derby Association. Roller derby has given me the opportunity to travel across the country, compete at a high level, and meet people from many different backgrounds. The sport has taught me the importance of teamwork, discipline, leadership, and commitment. It has also helped me become more confident, resilient, and able to stay calm under pressure, skills that I know will help me in both my education and future career. I also volunteer with Tails for Redwood Trails, a local equine rescue that offers riding lessons and programs for children. I help care for the horses, clean stalls, and assist with camps, lessons, and community events. Volunteering there has taught me patience, responsibility, and the importance of giving back to the community. In addition, I am certified in American Red Cross Deep Water Rescue and CPR. I currently work as a lifeguard for the City of Santa Cruz and also work shifts with IHSS, providing in-home support for disabled individuals in our community. These experiences have strengthened my communication skills and shown me how rewarding it is to help others. In my free time, I enjoy spending as much time as possible at my mom’s shop working on my project truck, a 1985 Chevrolet K20 that I have been restoring. Working on that truck has strengthened my passion for the automotive field and motivated me to continue learning new skills. Through my education, work experience, athletics, and volunteer service, I hope to build a successful future while continuing to support my family, contribute to my community, and carry on the legacy my mom worked so hard to create.

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to my mom and the example she set for me. After losing my father when I was 12, she raised my sister and me as a single parent while building a towing company from the ground up in a male-dominated industry. Watching her work long hours, overcome challenges, and turn the business into something successful taught me the value of hard work, determination, and perseverance. No matter how difficult things became, she continued pushing forward for our family, and her strength inspired me to pursue a future in the automotive industry and continue building on the foundation she created. I am graduating this June and plan to attend De Anza College to pursue an Auto Repair Technology degree while also taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and learning how things work, especially when it comes to vehicles. Some of my favorite memories are spending time at my mom’s shop, watching repairs being done, riding in tow trucks, and learning about the business from the ground up. My goal is to use my education and technical training to help grow our family towing company by expanding into automotive repair services. In the future, I also hope to start my own related business that complements the company my mom worked so hard to build. Outside of school and work, I have spent the last 11 years playing competitive roller derby with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms through the US Junior Roller Derby Association. Roller derby has given me the opportunity to travel across the country, compete at a high level, and meet people from many different backgrounds. The sport has taught me the importance of teamwork, discipline, leadership, and commitment. It has also helped me become more confident, resilient, and able to stay calm under pressure, skills that I know will help me in both my education and future career. I also volunteer with Tails for Redwood Trails, a local equine rescue that offers riding lessons and programs for children. I help care for the horses, clean stalls, and assist with camps, lessons, and community events. Volunteering there has taught me patience, responsibility, and the importance of giving back to the community. In addition, I am certified in American Red Cross Deep Water Rescue and CPR. I currently work as a lifeguard for the City of Santa Cruz and also work shifts with IHSS, providing in-home support for disabled individuals in our community. These experiences have strengthened my communication skills and shown me how rewarding it is to help others. In my free time, I enjoy spending as much time as possible at my mom’s shop working on my project truck, a 1985 Chevrolet K20 that I have been restoring. Working on that truck has strengthened my passion for the automotive field and motivated me to continue learning new skills. Through my education, work experience, athletics, and volunteer service, I hope to build a successful future while continuing to support my family, contribute to my community, and carry on the legacy my mom worked so hard to create.

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to my mom and the example she set for me. After losing my father when I was 12, she raised my sister and me as a single parent while building a towing company from the ground up in a male-dominated industry. Watching her work long hours, overcome challenges, and turn the business into something successful taught me the value of hard work, determination, and perseverance. No matter how difficult things became, she continued pushing forward for our family, and her strength inspired me to pursue a future in the automotive industry and continue building on the foundation she created. I am graduating this June and plan to attend De Anza College to pursue an Auto Repair Technology degree while also taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and learning how things work, especially when it comes to vehicles. Some of my favorite memories are spending time at my mom’s shop, watching repairs being done, riding in tow trucks, and learning about the business from the ground up. My goal is to use my education and technical training to help grow our family towing company by expanding into automotive repair services. In the future, I also hope to start my own related business that complements the company my mom worked so hard to build. Outside of school and work, I have spent the last 11 years playing competitive roller derby with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms through the US Junior Roller Derby Association. Roller derby has given me the opportunity to travel across the country, compete at a high level, and meet people from many different backgrounds. The sport has taught me the importance of teamwork, discipline, leadership, and commitment. It has also helped me become more confident, resilient, and able to stay calm under pressure, skills that I know will help me in both my education and future career. I also volunteer with Tails for Redwood Trails, a local equine rescue that offers riding lessons and programs for children. I help care for the horses, clean stalls, and assist with camps, lessons, and community events. Volunteering there has taught me patience, responsibility, and the importance of giving back to the community. In addition, I am certified in American Red Cross Deep Water Rescue and CPR. I currently work as a lifeguard for the City of Santa Cruz and also work shifts with IHSS, providing in-home support for disabled individuals in our community. These experiences have strengthened my communication skills and shown me how rewarding it is to help others. In my free time, I enjoy spending as much time as possible at my mom’s shop working on my project truck, a 1985 Chevrolet K20 that I have been restoring. Working on that truck has strengthened my passion for the automotive field and motivated me to continue learning new skills. Through my education, work experience, athletics, and volunteer service, I hope to build a successful future while continuing to support my family, contribute to my community, and carry on the legacy my mom worked so hard to create.

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to my mom and the example she set for me. After losing my father when I was 12, she raised my sister and me as a single parent while building a towing company from the ground up in a male-dominated industry. Watching her work long hours, overcome challenges, and turn the business into something successful taught me the value of hard work, determination, and perseverance. No matter how difficult things became, she continued pushing forward for our family, and her strength inspired me to pursue a future in the automotive industry and continue building on the foundation she created. I am graduating this June and plan to attend De Anza College to pursue an Auto Repair Technology degree while also taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and learning how things work, especially when it comes to vehicles. Some of my favorite memories are spending time at my mom’s shop, watching repairs being done, riding in tow trucks, and learning about the business from the ground up. My goal is to use my education and technical training to help grow our family towing company by expanding into automotive repair services. In the future, I also hope to start my own related business that complements the company my mom worked so hard to build. Outside of school and work, I have spent the last 11 years playing competitive roller derby with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms through the US Junior Roller Derby Association. Roller derby has given me the opportunity to travel across the country, compete at a high level, and meet people from many different backgrounds. The sport has taught me the importance of teamwork, discipline, leadership, and commitment. It has also helped me become more confident, resilient, and able to stay calm under pressure, skills that I know will help me in both my education and future career. I also volunteer with Tails for Redwood Trails, a local equine rescue that offers riding lessons and programs for children. I help care for the horses, clean stalls, and assist with camps, lessons, and community events. Volunteering there has taught me patience, responsibility, and the importance of giving back to the community. In addition, I am certified in American Red Cross Deep Water Rescue and CPR. I currently work as a lifeguard for the City of Santa Cruz and also work shifts with IHSS, providing in-home support for disabled individuals in our community. These experiences have strengthened my communication skills and shown me how rewarding it is to help others. In my free time, I enjoy spending as much time as possible at my mom’s shop working on my project truck, a 1985 Chevrolet K20 that I have been restoring. Working on that truck has strengthened my passion for the automotive field and motivated me to continue learning new skills. Through my education, work experience, athletics, and volunteer service, I hope to build a successful future while continuing to support my family, contribute to my community, and carry on the legacy my mom worked so hard to create.

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to my mom and the example she set for me. After losing my father when I was 12, she raised my sister and me as a single parent while building a towing company from the ground up in a male-dominated industry. Watching her work long hours, overcome challenges, and turn the business into something successful taught me the value of hard work, determination, and perseverance. No matter how difficult things became, she continued pushing forward for our family, and her strength inspired me to pursue a future in the automotive industry and continue building on the foundation she created. I am graduating this June and plan to attend De Anza College to pursue an Auto Repair Technology degree while also taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and learning how things work, especially when it comes to vehicles. Some of my favorite memories are spending time at my mom’s shop, watching repairs being done, riding in tow trucks, and learning about the business from the ground up. My goal is to use my education and technical training to help grow our family towing company by expanding into automotive repair services. In the future, I also hope to start my own related business that complements the company my mom worked so hard to build. Outside of school and work, I have spent the last 11 years playing competitive roller derby with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms through the US Junior Roller Derby Association. Roller derby has given me the opportunity to travel across the country, compete at a high level, and meet people from many different backgrounds. The sport has taught me the importance of teamwork, discipline, leadership, and commitment. It has also helped me become more confident, resilient, and able to stay calm under pressure, skills that I know will help me in both my education and future career. I also volunteer with Tails for Redwood Trails, a local equine rescue that offers riding lessons and programs for children. I help care for the horses, clean stalls, and assist with camps, lessons, and community events. Volunteering there has taught me patience, responsibility, and the importance of giving back to the community. In addition, I am certified in American Red Cross Deep Water Rescue and CPR. I currently work as a lifeguard for the City of Santa Cruz and also work shifts with IHSS, providing in-home support for disabled individuals in our community. These experiences have strengthened my communication skills and shown me how rewarding it is to help others. In my free time, I enjoy spending as much time as possible at my mom’s shop working on my project truck, a 1985 Chevrolet K20 that I have been restoring. Working on that truck has strengthened my passion for the automotive field and motivated me to continue learning new skills. Through my education, work experience, athletics, and volunteer service, I hope to build a successful future while continuing to support my family, contribute to my community, and carry on the legacy my mom worked so hard to create.

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to my mom and the example she set for me. After losing my father when I was 12, she raised my sister and me as a single parent while building a towing company from the ground up in a male-dominated industry. Watching her work long hours, overcome challenges, and turn the business into something successful taught me the value of hard work, determination, and perseverance. No matter how difficult things became, she continued pushing forward for our family, and her strength inspired me to pursue a future in the automotive industry and continue building on the foundation she created. I am graduating this June and plan to attend De Anza College to pursue an Auto Repair Technology degree while also taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and learning how things work, especially when it comes to vehicles. Some of my favorite memories are spending time at my mom’s shop, watching repairs being done, riding in tow trucks, and learning about the business from the ground up. My goal is to use my education and technical training to help grow our family towing company by expanding into automotive repair services. In the future, I also hope to start my own related business that complements the company my mom worked so hard to build. Outside of school and work, I have spent the last 11 years playing competitive roller derby with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms through the US Junior Roller Derby Association. Roller derby has given me the opportunity to travel across the country, compete at a high level, and meet people from many different backgrounds. The sport has taught me the importance of teamwork, discipline, leadership, and commitment. It has also helped me become more confident, resilient, and able to stay calm under pressure, skills that I know will help me in both my education and future career. I also volunteer with Tails for Redwood Trails, a local equine rescue that offers riding lessons and programs for children. I help care for the horses, clean stalls, and assist with camps, lessons, and community events. Volunteering there has taught me patience, responsibility, and the importance of giving back to the community. In addition, I am certified in American Red Cross Deep Water Rescue and CPR. I currently work as a lifeguard for the City of Santa Cruz and also work shifts with IHSS, providing in-home support for disabled individuals in our community. These experiences have strengthened my communication skills and shown me how rewarding it is to help others. In my free time, I enjoy spending as much time as possible at my mom’s shop working on my project truck, a 1985 Chevrolet K20 that I have been restoring. Working on that truck has strengthened my passion for the automotive field and motivated me to continue learning new skills. Through my education, work experience, athletics, and volunteer service, I hope to build a successful future while continuing to support my family, contribute to my community, and carry on the legacy my mom worked so hard to create.

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to my mom and the example she set for me. After losing my father when I was 12, she raised my sister and me as a single parent while building a towing company from the ground up in a male-dominated industry. Watching her work long hours, overcome challenges, and turn the business into something successful taught me the value of hard work, determination, and perseverance. No matter how difficult things became, she continued pushing forward for our family, and her strength inspired me to pursue a future in the automotive industry and continue building on the foundation she created. I am graduating this June and plan to attend De Anza College to pursue an Auto Repair Technology degree while also taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and learning how things work, especially when it comes to vehicles. Some of my favorite memories are spending time at my mom’s shop, watching repairs being done, riding in tow trucks, and learning about the business from the ground up. My goal is to use my education and technical training to help grow our family towing company by expanding into automotive repair services. In the future, I also hope to start my own related business that complements the company my mom worked so hard to build. Outside of school and work, I have spent the last 11 years playing competitive roller derby with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms through the US Junior Roller Derby Association. Roller derby has given me the opportunity to travel across the country, compete at a high level, and meet people from many different backgrounds. The sport has taught me the importance of teamwork, discipline, leadership, and commitment. It has also helped me become more confident, resilient, and able to stay calm under pressure, skills that I know will help me in both my education and future career. I also volunteer with Tails for Redwood Trails, a local equine rescue that offers riding lessons and programs for children. I help care for the horses, clean stalls, and assist with camps, lessons, and community events. Volunteering there has taught me patience, responsibility, and the importance of giving back to the community. In addition, I am certified in American Red Cross Deep Water Rescue and CPR. I currently work as a lifeguard for the City of Santa Cruz and also work shifts with IHSS, providing in-home support for disabled individuals in our community. These experiences have strengthened my communication skills and shown me how rewarding it is to help others. In my free time, I enjoy spending as much time as possible at my mom’s shop working on my project truck, a 1985 Chevrolet K20 that I have been restoring. Working on that truck has strengthened my passion for the automotive field and motivated me to continue learning new skills. Through my education, work experience, athletics, and volunteer service, I hope to build a successful future while continuing to support my family, contribute to my community, and carry on the legacy my mom worked so hard to create.

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to my mom and the example she set for me. After losing my father when I was 12, she raised my sister and me as a single parent while building a towing company from the ground up in a male-dominated industry. Watching her work long hours, overcome challenges, and turn the business into something successful taught me the value of hard work, determination, and perseverance. No matter how difficult things became, she continued pushing forward for our family, and her strength inspired me to pursue a future in the automotive industry and continue building on the foundation she created. I am graduating this June and plan to attend De Anza College to pursue an Auto Repair Technology degree while also taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and learning how things work, especially when it comes to vehicles. Some of my favorite memories are spending time at my mom’s shop, watching repairs being done, riding in tow trucks, and learning about the business from the ground up. My goal is to use my education and technical training to help grow our family towing company by expanding into automotive repair services. In the future, I also hope to start my own related business that complements the company my mom worked so hard to build. Outside of school and work, I have spent the last 11 years playing competitive roller derby with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms through the US Junior Roller Derby Association. Roller derby has given me the opportunity to travel across the country, compete at a high level, and meet people from many different backgrounds. The sport has taught me the importance of teamwork, discipline, leadership, and commitment. It has also helped me become more confident, resilient, and able to stay calm under pressure, skills that I know will help me in both my education and future career. I also volunteer with Tails for Redwood Trails, a local equine rescue that offers riding lessons and programs for children. I help care for the horses, clean stalls, and assist with camps, lessons, and community events. Volunteering there has taught me patience, responsibility, and the importance of giving back to the community. In addition, I am certified in American Red Cross Deep Water Rescue and CPR. I currently work as a lifeguard for the City of Santa Cruz and also work shifts with IHSS, providing in-home support for disabled individuals in our community. These experiences have strengthened my communication skills and shown me how rewarding it is to help others. In my free time, I enjoy spending as much time as possible at my mom’s shop working on my project truck, a 1985 Chevrolet K20 that I have been restoring. Working on that truck has strengthened my passion for the automotive field and motivated me to continue learning new skills. Through my education, work experience, athletics, and volunteer service, I hope to build a successful future while continuing to support my family, contribute to my community, and carry on the legacy my mom worked so hard to create.

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to my mom and the example she set for me. After losing my father when I was 12, she raised my sister and me as a single parent while building a towing company from the ground up in a male-dominated industry. Watching her work long hours, overcome challenges, and turn the business into something successful taught me the value of hard work, determination, and perseverance. No matter how difficult things became, she continued pushing forward for our family, and her strength inspired me to pursue a future in the automotive industry and continue building on the foundation she created. I am graduating this June and plan to attend De Anza College to pursue an Auto Repair Technology degree while also taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and learning how things work, especially when it comes to vehicles. Some of my favorite memories are spending time at my mom’s shop, watching repairs being done, riding in tow trucks, and learning about the business from the ground up. My goal is to use my education and technical training to help grow our family towing company by expanding into automotive repair services. In the future, I also hope to start my own related business that complements the company my mom worked so hard to build. Outside of school and work, I have spent the last 11 years playing competitive roller derby with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms through the US Junior Roller Derby Association. Roller derby has given me the opportunity to travel across the country, compete at a high level, and meet people from many different backgrounds. The sport has taught me the importance of teamwork, discipline, leadership, and commitment. It has also helped me become more confident, resilient, and able to stay calm under pressure, skills that I know will help me in both my education and future career. I also volunteer with Tails for Redwood Trails, a local equine rescue that offers riding lessons and programs for children. I help care for the horses, clean stalls, and assist with camps, lessons, and community events. Volunteering there has taught me patience, responsibility, and the importance of giving back to the community. In addition, I am certified in American Red Cross Deep Water Rescue and CPR. I currently work as a lifeguard for the City of Santa Cruz and also work shifts with IHSS, providing in-home support for disabled individuals in our community. These experiences have strengthened my communication skills and shown me how rewarding it is to help others. In my free time, I enjoy spending as much time as possible at my mom’s shop working on my project truck, a 1985 Chevrolet K20 that I have been restoring. Working on that truck has strengthened my passion for the automotive field and motivated me to continue learning new skills. Through my education, work experience, athletics, and volunteer service, I hope to build a successful future while continuing to support my family, contribute to my community, and carry on the legacy my mom worked so hard to create.

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to my mom and the example she set for me. After losing my father when I was 12, she raised my sister and me as a single parent while building a towing company from the ground up in a male-dominated industry. Watching her work long hours, overcome challenges, and turn the business into something successful taught me the value of hard work, determination, and perseverance. No matter how difficult things became, she continued pushing forward for our family, and her strength inspired me to pursue a future in the automotive industry and continue building on the foundation she created. I am graduating this June and plan to attend De Anza College to pursue an Auto Repair Technology degree while also taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and learning how things work, especially when it comes to vehicles. Some of my favorite memories are spending time at my mom’s shop, watching repairs being done, riding in tow trucks, and learning about the business from the ground up. My goal is to use my education and technical training to help grow our family towing company by expanding into automotive repair services. In the future, I also hope to start my own related business that complements the company my mom worked so hard to build. Outside of school and work, I have spent the last 11 years playing competitive roller derby with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms through the US Junior Roller Derby Association. Roller derby has given me the opportunity to travel across the country, compete at a high level, and meet people from many different backgrounds. The sport has taught me the importance of teamwork, discipline, leadership, and commitment. It has also helped me become more confident, resilient, and able to stay calm under pressure, skills that I know will help me in both my education and future career. I also volunteer with Tails for Redwood Trails, a local equine rescue that offers riding lessons and programs for children. I help care for the horses, clean stalls, and assist with camps, lessons, and community events. Volunteering there has taught me patience, responsibility, and the importance of giving back to the community. In addition, I am certified in American Red Cross Deep Water Rescue and CPR. I currently work as a lifeguard for the City of Santa Cruz and also work shifts with IHSS, providing in-home support for disabled individuals in our community. These experiences have strengthened my communication skills and shown me how rewarding it is to help others. In my free time, I enjoy spending as much time as possible at my mom’s shop working on my project truck, a 1985 Chevrolet K20 that I have been restoring. Working on that truck has strengthened my passion for the automotive field and motivated me to continue learning new skills. Through my education, work experience, athletics, and volunteer service, I hope to build a successful future while continuing to support my family, contribute to my community, and carry on the legacy my mom worked so hard to create.

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to my mom and the example she set for me. After losing my father when I was 12, she raised my sister and me as a single parent while building a towing company from the ground up in a male-dominated industry. Watching her work long hours, overcome challenges, and turn the business into something successful taught me the value of hard work, determination, and perseverance. No matter how difficult things became, she continued pushing forward for our family, and her strength inspired me to pursue a future in the automotive industry and continue building on the foundation she created. I am graduating this June and plan to attend De Anza College to pursue an Auto Repair Technology degree while also taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and learning how things work, especially when it comes to vehicles. Some of my favorite memories are spending time at my mom’s shop, watching repairs being done, riding in tow trucks, and learning about the business from the ground up. My goal is to use my education and technical training to help grow our family towing company by expanding into automotive repair services. In the future, I also hope to start my own related business that complements the company my mom worked so hard to build. Outside of school and work, I have spent the last 11 years playing competitive roller derby with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms through the US Junior Roller Derby Association. Roller derby has given me the opportunity to travel across the country, compete at a high level, and meet people from many different backgrounds. The sport has taught me the importance of teamwork, discipline, leadership, and commitment. It has also helped me become more confident, resilient, and able to stay calm under pressure, skills that I know will help me in both my education and future career. I also volunteer with Tails for Redwood Trails, a local equine rescue that offers riding lessons and programs for children. I help care for the horses, clean stalls, and assist with camps, lessons, and community events. Volunteering there has taught me patience, responsibility, and the importance of giving back to the community. In addition, I am certified in American Red Cross Deep Water Rescue and CPR. I currently work as a lifeguard for the City of Santa Cruz and also work shifts with IHSS, providing in-home support for disabled individuals in our community. These experiences have strengthened my communication skills and shown me how rewarding it is to help others. In my free time, I enjoy spending as much time as possible at my mom’s shop working on my project truck, a 1985 Chevrolet K20 that I have been restoring. Working on that truck has strengthened my passion for the automotive field and motivated me to continue learning new skills. Through my education, work experience, athletics, and volunteer service, I hope to build a successful future while continuing to support my family, contribute to my community, and carry on the legacy my mom worked so hard to create.

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to my mom and the example she set for me. After losing my father when I was 12, she raised my sister and me as a single parent while building a towing company from the ground up in a male-dominated industry. Watching her work long hours, overcome challenges, and turn the business into something successful taught me the value of hard work, determination, and perseverance. No matter how difficult things became, she continued pushing forward for our family, and her strength inspired me to pursue a future in the automotive industry and continue building on the foundation she created. I am graduating this June and plan to attend De Anza College to pursue an Auto Repair Technology degree while also taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and learning how things work, especially when it comes to vehicles. Some of my favorite memories are spending time at my mom’s shop, watching repairs being done, riding in tow trucks, and learning about the business from the ground up. My goal is to use my education and technical training to help grow our family towing company by expanding into automotive repair services. In the future, I also hope to start my own related business that complements the company my mom worked so hard to build. Outside of school and work, I have spent the last 11 years playing competitive roller derby with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms through the US Junior Roller Derby Association. Roller derby has given me the opportunity to travel across the country, compete at a high level, and meet people from many different backgrounds. The sport has taught me the importance of teamwork, discipline, leadership, and commitment. It has also helped me become more confident, resilient, and able to stay calm under pressure, skills that I know will help me in both my education and future career. I also volunteer with Tails for Redwood Trails, a local equine rescue that offers riding lessons and programs for children. I help care for the horses, clean stalls, and assist with camps, lessons, and community events. Volunteering there has taught me patience, responsibility, and the importance of giving back to the community. In addition, I am certified in American Red Cross Deep Water Rescue and CPR. I currently work as a lifeguard for the City of Santa Cruz and also work shifts with IHSS, providing in-home support for disabled individuals in our community. These experiences have strengthened my communication skills and shown me how rewarding it is to help others. In my free time, I enjoy spending as much time as possible at my mom’s shop working on my project truck, a 1985 Chevrolet K20 that I have been restoring. Working on that truck has strengthened my passion for the automotive field and motivated me to continue learning new skills. Through my education, work experience, athletics, and volunteer service, I hope to build a successful future while continuing to support my family, contribute to my community, and carry on the legacy my mom worked so hard to create.

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to my mom and the example she set for me. After losing my father when I was 12, she raised my sister and me as a single parent while building a towing company from the ground up in a male-dominated industry. Watching her work long hours, overcome challenges, and turn the business into something successful taught me the value of hard work, determination, and perseverance. No matter how difficult things became, she continued pushing forward for our family, and her strength inspired me to pursue a future in the automotive industry and continue building on the foundation she created. I am graduating this June and plan to attend De Anza College to pursue an Auto Repair Technology degree while also taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and learning how things work, especially when it comes to vehicles. Some of my favorite memories are spending time at my mom’s shop, watching repairs being done, riding in tow trucks, and learning about the business from the ground up. My goal is to use my education and technical training to help grow our family towing company by expanding into automotive repair services. In the future, I also hope to start my own related business that complements the company my mom worked so hard to build. Outside of school and work, I have spent the last 11 years playing competitive roller derby with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms through the US Junior Roller Derby Association. Roller derby has given me the opportunity to travel across the country, compete at a high level, and meet people from many different backgrounds. The sport has taught me the importance of teamwork, discipline, leadership, and commitment. It has also helped me become more confident, resilient, and able to stay calm under pressure, skills that I know will help me in both my education and future career. I also volunteer with Tails for Redwood Trails, a local equine rescue that offers riding lessons and programs for children. I help care for the horses, clean stalls, and assist with camps, lessons, and community events. Volunteering there has taught me patience, responsibility, and the importance of giving back to the community. In addition, I am certified in American Red Cross Deep Water Rescue and CPR. I currently work as a lifeguard for the City of Santa Cruz and also work shifts with IHSS, providing in-home support for disabled individuals in our community. These experiences have strengthened my communication skills and shown me how rewarding it is to help others. In my free time, I enjoy spending as much time as possible at my mom’s shop working on my project truck, a 1985 Chevrolet K20 that I have been restoring. Working on that truck has strengthened my passion for the automotive field and motivated me to continue learning new skills. Through my education, work experience, athletics, and volunteer service, I hope to build a successful future while continuing to support my family, contribute to my community, and carry on the legacy my mom worked so hard to create.

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to my mom and the example she set for me. After losing my father when I was 12, she raised me and my sister as a single parent while building a towing company from the ground up in a male-dominated industry. Watching her work long hours, overcome challenges, and turn the business into something successful taught me the value of hard work, determination, and staying focused on your goals. I am graduating this June and plan to attend De Anza College to pursue an Auto Repair Technology degree while also taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and learning how things work, especially in the automotive field. My goal is to use my education and training to help grow our family towing company by adding more automotive repair services. In the future, I would also love to start my own business that complements the towing company my mom worked so hard to build. I want to continue the legacy she created while building a successful future for myself. I have been playing competitive roller derby for 11 years, which has given me the to opportunity to travel around the country to compete with my team, part of the Santa Cruz Derby Groms, in US Junior Roller Derby Association sanctioned tournaments. I also volunteer at a local non-profit, Tails for Redwood Trails, an equine rescue offering children’s riding lessons. I help muck stalls and care for the horses and also assist with lessons and group camps and events. I am American Red Cross Certified Deep Water Rescue and CPR, I work for the city of Santa Cruz as a lifeguard as well as working a few shifts with IHSS for the county, offering in home support to disabled individuals. In my spare time I try to spend as much time at my mom’s shop working on my project truck, a 1985 Chevrolet K20 that I have been restoring.

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to my mom and the example she set for me. After losing my father when I was 12, she raised my sister and me as a single parent while building a towing company from the ground up in a male-dominated industry. Watching her work long hours, overcome challenges, and turn the business into something successful taught me the value of hard work, determination, and perseverance. No matter how difficult things became, she continued pushing forward for our family, and her strength inspired me to pursue a future in the automotive industry and continue building on the foundation she created. I am graduating this June and plan to attend De Anza College to pursue an Auto Repair Technology degree while also taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and learning how things work, especially when it comes to vehicles. Some of my favorite memories are spending time at my mom’s shop, watching repairs being done, riding in tow trucks, and learning about the business from the ground up. My goal is to use my education and technical training to help grow our family towing company by expanding into automotive repair services. In the future, I also hope to start my own related business that complements the company my mom worked so hard to build. Outside of school and work, I have spent the last 11 years playing competitive roller derby with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms through the US Junior Roller Derby Association. Roller derby has given me the opportunity to travel across the country, compete at a high level, and meet people from many different backgrounds. The sport has taught me the importance of teamwork, discipline, leadership, and commitment. It has also helped me become more confident, resilient, and able to stay calm under pressure, skills that I know will help me in both my education and future career. I also volunteer with Tails for Redwood Trails, a local equine rescue that offers riding lessons and programs for children. I help care for the horses, clean stalls, and assist with camps, lessons, and community events. Volunteering there has taught me patience, responsibility, and the importance of giving back to the community. In addition, I am certified in American Red Cross Deep Water Rescue and CPR. I currently work as a lifeguard for the City of Santa Cruz and also work shifts with IHSS, providing in-home support for disabled individuals in our community. These experiences have strengthened my communication skills and shown me how rewarding it is to help others. In my free time, I enjoy spending as much time as possible at my mom’s shop working on my project truck, a 1985 Chevrolet K20 that I have been restoring. Working on that truck has strengthened my passion for the automotive field and motivated me to continue learning new skills. Through my education, work experience, athletics, and volunteer service, I hope to build a successful future while continuing to support my family, contribute to my community, and carry on the legacy my mom worked so hard to create.

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to my mom and the example she set for me. After losing my father when I was 12, she raised my sister and me as a single parent while building a towing company from the ground up in a male-dominated industry. Watching her work long hours, overcome challenges, and turn the business into something successful taught me the value of hard work, determination, and perseverance. No matter how difficult things became, she continued pushing forward for our family, and her strength inspired me to pursue a future in the automotive industry and continue building on the foundation she created. I am graduating this June and plan to attend De Anza College to pursue an Auto Repair Technology degree while also taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and learning how things work, especially when it comes to vehicles. Some of my favorite memories are spending time at my mom’s shop, watching repairs being done, riding in tow trucks, and learning about the business from the ground up. My goal is to use my education and technical training to help grow our family towing company by expanding into automotive repair services. In the future, I also hope to start my own related business that complements the company my mom worked so hard to build. Outside of school and work, I have spent the last 11 years playing competitive roller derby with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms through the US Junior Roller Derby Association. Roller derby has given me the opportunity to travel across the country, compete at a high level, and meet people from many different backgrounds. The sport has taught me the importance of teamwork, discipline, leadership, and commitment. It has also helped me become more confident, resilient, and able to stay calm under pressure, skills that I know will help me in both my education and future career. I also volunteer with Tails for Redwood Trails, a local equine rescue that offers riding lessons and programs for children. I help care for the horses, clean stalls, and assist with camps, lessons, and community events. Volunteering there has taught me patience, responsibility, and the importance of giving back to the community. In addition, I am certified in American Red Cross Deep Water Rescue and CPR. I currently work as a lifeguard for the City of Santa Cruz and also work shifts with IHSS, providing in-home support for disabled individuals in our community. These experiences have strengthened my communication skills and shown me how rewarding it is to help others. In my free time, I enjoy spending as much time as possible at my mom’s shop working on my project truck, a 1985 Chevrolet K20 that I have been restoring. Working on that truck has strengthened my passion for the automotive field and motivated me to continue learning new skills. Through my education, work experience, athletics, and volunteer service, I hope to build a successful future while continuing to support my family, contribute to my community, and carry on the legacy my mom worked so hard to create.

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to my mom and the example she set for me. After losing my father when I was 12, she raised my sister and me as a single parent while building a towing company from the ground up in a male-dominated industry. Watching her work long hours, overcome challenges, and turn the business into something successful taught me the value of hard work, determination, and perseverance. No matter how difficult things became, she continued pushing forward for our family, and her strength inspired me to pursue a future in the automotive industry and continue building on the foundation she created. I am graduating this June and plan to attend De Anza College to pursue an Auto Repair Technology degree while also taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and learning how things work, especially when it comes to vehicles. Some of my favorite memories are spending time at my mom’s shop, watching repairs being done, riding in tow trucks, and learning about the business from the ground up. My goal is to use my education and technical training to help grow our family towing company by expanding into automotive repair services. In the future, I also hope to start my own related business that complements the company my mom worked so hard to build. Outside of school and work, I have spent the last 11 years playing competitive roller derby with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms through the US Junior Roller Derby Association. Roller derby has given me the opportunity to travel across the country, compete at a high level, and meet people from many different backgrounds. The sport has taught me the importance of teamwork, discipline, leadership, and commitment. It has also helped me become more confident, resilient, and able to stay calm under pressure, skills that I know will help me in both my education and future career. I also volunteer with Tails for Redwood Trails, a local equine rescue that offers riding lessons and programs for children. I help care for the horses, clean stalls, and assist with camps, lessons, and community events. Volunteering there has taught me patience, responsibility, and the importance of giving back to the community. In addition, I am certified in American Red Cross Deep Water Rescue and CPR. I currently work as a lifeguard for the City of Santa Cruz and also work shifts with IHSS, providing in-home support for disabled individuals in our community. These experiences have strengthened my communication skills and shown me how rewarding it is to help others. In my free time, I enjoy spending as much time as possible at my mom’s shop working on my project truck, a 1985 Chevrolet K20 that I have been restoring. Working on that truck has strengthened my passion for the automotive field and motivated me to continue learning new skills. Through my education, work experience, athletics, and volunteer service, I hope to build a successful future while continuing to support my family, contribute to my community, and carry on the legacy my mom worked so hard to create.

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to my mom and the example she set for me. After losing my father when I was 12, she raised my sister and me as a single parent while building a towing company from the ground up in a male-dominated industry. Watching her work long hours, overcome challenges, and turn the business into something successful taught me the value of hard work, determination, and perseverance. No matter how difficult things became, she continued pushing forward for our family, and her strength inspired me to pursue a future in the automotive industry and continue building on the foundation she created. I am graduating this June and plan to attend De Anza College to pursue an Auto Repair Technology degree while also taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and learning how things work, especially when it comes to vehicles. Some of my favorite memories are spending time at my mom’s shop, watching repairs being done, riding in tow trucks, and learning about the business from the ground up. My goal is to use my education and technical training to help grow our family towing company by expanding into automotive repair services. In the future, I also hope to start my own related business that complements the company my mom worked so hard to build. Outside of school and work, I have spent the last 11 years playing competitive roller derby with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms through the US Junior Roller Derby Association. Roller derby has given me the opportunity to travel across the country, compete at a high level, and meet people from many different backgrounds. The sport has taught me the importance of teamwork, discipline, leadership, and commitment. It has also helped me become more confident, resilient, and able to stay calm under pressure, skills that I know will help me in both my education and future career. I also volunteer with Tails for Redwood Trails, a local equine rescue that offers riding lessons and programs for children. I help care for the horses, clean stalls, and assist with camps, lessons, and community events. Volunteering there has taught me patience, responsibility, and the importance of giving back to the community. In addition, I am certified in American Red Cross Deep Water Rescue and CPR. I currently work as a lifeguard for the City of Santa Cruz and also work shifts with IHSS, providing in-home support for disabled individuals in our community. These experiences have strengthened my communication skills and shown me how rewarding it is to help others. In my free time, I enjoy spending as much time as possible at my mom’s shop working on my project truck, a 1985 Chevrolet K20 that I have been restoring. Working on that truck has strengthened my passion for the automotive field and motivated me to continue learning new skills. Through my education, work experience, athletics, and volunteer service, I hope to build a successful future while continuing to support my family, contribute to my community, and carry on the legacy my mom worked so hard to create.

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to my mom and the example she set for me. After losing my father when I was 12, she raised my sister and me as a single parent while building a towing company from the ground up in a male-dominated industry. Watching her work long hours, overcome challenges, and turn the business into something successful taught me the value of hard work, determination, and perseverance. Her strength inspired me to pursue a future in the automotive industry and continue building on the foundation she created for our family. I am graduating this June and plan to attend De Anza College to pursue an Auto Repair Technology degree while also taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and learning how things work, especially when it comes to vehicles. My goal is to use my education and technical training to help grow our family towing company by expanding into automotive repair services. In the future, I also hope to start my own related business that complements the company my mom worked so hard to build. Outside of school and work, I have spent the last 11 years playing competitive roller derby with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms through the US Junior Roller Derby Association. Roller derby has given me the opportunity to travel across the country, compete at a high level, and learn the importance of teamwork, discipline, and commitment. The sport has helped shape me into someone who is hardworking, resilient, and able to perform well under pressure. I also volunteer with Tails for Redwood Trails, a local equine rescue that offers riding lessons for children. I help care for the horses, clean stalls, and assist with camps and group events. In addition, I am certified in American Red Cross Deep Water Rescue and CPR. I currently work as a lifeguard for the City of Santa Cruz and also work shifts with IHSS, providing in-home support for disabled individuals in our community. In my free time, I enjoy spending time at my mom’s shop working on my project truck, a 1985 Chevrolet K20 that I have been restoring. Working on that truck has strengthened my passion for the automotive field and motivated me to continue learning new skills. Through my education, work experience, athletics, and volunteer service, I hope to build a successful future while continuing to support my family and community.

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to my mom and the example she set for me. After losing my father when I was 12, she raised my sister and me as a single parent while building a towing company from the ground up in a male-dominated industry. Watching her work long hours, overcome challenges, and turn the business into something successful taught me the value of hard work, determination, and perseverance. Her strength inspired me to pursue a future in the automotive industry and continue building on the foundation she created for our family. I am graduating this June and plan to attend De Anza College to pursue an Auto Repair Technology degree while also taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and learning how things work, especially when it comes to vehicles. My goal is to use my education and technical training to help grow our family towing company by expanding into automotive repair services. In the future, I also hope to start my own related business that complements the company my mom worked so hard to build. Outside of school and work, I have spent the last 11 years playing competitive roller derby with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms through the US Junior Roller Derby Association. Roller derby has given me the opportunity to travel across the country, compete at a high level, and learn the importance of teamwork, discipline, and commitment. The sport has helped shape me into someone who is hardworking, resilient, and able to perform well under pressure. I also volunteer with Tails for Redwood Trails, a local equine rescue that offers riding lessons for children. I help care for the horses, clean stalls, and assist with camps and group events. In addition, I am certified in American Red Cross Deep Water Rescue and CPR. I currently work as a lifeguard for the City of Santa Cruz and also work shifts with IHSS, providing in-home support for disabled individuals in our community. In my free time, I enjoy spending time at my mom’s shop working on my project truck, a 1985 Chevrolet K20 that I have been restoring. Working on that truck has strengthened my passion for the automotive field and motivated me to continue learning new skills. Through my education, work experience, athletics, and volunteer service, I hope to build a successful future while continuing to support my family and community.

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to my mom and the example she set for me. After losing my father when I was 12, she raised my sister and me as a single parent while building a towing company from the ground up in a male-dominated industry. Watching her work long hours, overcome challenges, and turn the business into something successful taught me the value of hard work, determination, and perseverance. Her strength inspired me to pursue a future in the automotive industry and continue building on the foundation she created for our family. I am graduating this June and plan to attend De Anza College to pursue an Auto Repair Technology degree while also taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and learning how things work, especially when it comes to vehicles. My goal is to use my education and technical training to help grow our family towing company by expanding into automotive repair services. In the future, I also hope to start my own related business that complements the company my mom worked so hard to build. Outside of school and work, I have spent the last 11 years playing competitive roller derby with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms through the US Junior Roller Derby Association. Roller derby has given me the opportunity to travel across the country, compete at a high level, and learn the importance of teamwork, discipline, and commitment. The sport has helped shape me into someone who is hardworking, resilient, and able to perform well under pressure. I also volunteer with Tails for Redwood Trails, a local equine rescue that offers riding lessons for children. I help care for the horses, clean stalls, and assist with camps and group events. In addition, I am certified in American Red Cross Deep Water Rescue and CPR. I currently work as a lifeguard for the City of Santa Cruz and also work shifts with IHSS, providing in-home support for disabled individuals in our community. In my free time, I enjoy spending time at my mom’s shop working on my project truck, a 1985 Chevrolet K20 that I have been restoring. Working on that truck has strengthened my passion for the automotive field and motivated me to continue learning new skills. Through my education, work experience, athletics, and volunteer service, I hope to build a successful future while continuing to support my family and community.

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to my mom and the example she set for me. After losing my father when I was 12, she raised my sister and me as a single parent while building a towing company from the ground up in a male-dominated industry. Watching her work long hours, overcome challenges, and turn the business into something successful taught me the value of hard work, determination, and perseverance. Her strength inspired me to pursue a future in the automotive industry and continue building on the foundation she created for our family. I am graduating this June and plan to attend De Anza College to pursue an Auto Repair Technology degree while also taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and learning how things work, especially when it comes to vehicles. My goal is to use my education and technical training to help grow our family towing company by expanding into automotive repair services. In the future, I also hope to start my own related business that complements the company my mom worked so hard to build. Outside of school and work, I have spent the last 11 years playing competitive roller derby with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms through the US Junior Roller Derby Association. Roller derby has given me the opportunity to travel across the country, compete at a high level, and learn the importance of teamwork, discipline, and commitment. The sport has helped shape me into someone who is hardworking, resilient, and able to perform well under pressure. I also volunteer with Tails for Redwood Trails, a local equine rescue that offers riding lessons for children. I help care for the horses, clean stalls, and assist with camps and group events. In addition, I am certified in American Red Cross Deep Water Rescue and CPR. I currently work as a lifeguard for the City of Santa Cruz and also work shifts with IHSS, providing in-home support for disabled individuals in our community. In my free time, I enjoy spending time at my mom’s shop working on my project truck, a 1985 Chevrolet K20 that I have been restoring. Working on that truck has strengthened my passion for the automotive field and motivated me to continue learning new skills. Through my education, work experience, athletics, and volunteer service, I hope to build a successful future while continuing to support my family and community.

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to my mom and the example she set for me. After losing my father when I was 12, she raised my sister and me as a single parent while building a towing company from the ground up in a male-dominated industry. Watching her work long hours, overcome challenges, and turn the business into something successful taught me the value of hard work, determination, and perseverance. Her strength inspired me to pursue a future in the automotive industry and continue building on the foundation she created for our family. I am graduating this June and plan to attend De Anza College to pursue an Auto Repair Technology degree while also taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and learning how things work, especially when it comes to vehicles. My goal is to use my education and technical training to help grow our family towing company by expanding into automotive repair services. In the future, I also hope to start my own related business that complements the company my mom worked so hard to build. Outside of school and work, I have spent the last 11 years playing competitive roller derby with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms through the US Junior Roller Derby Association. Roller derby has given me the opportunity to travel across the country, compete at a high level, and learn the importance of teamwork, discipline, and commitment. The sport has helped shape me into someone who is hardworking, resilient, and able to perform well under pressure. I also volunteer with Tails for Redwood Trails, a local equine rescue that offers riding lessons for children. I help care for the horses, clean stalls, and assist with camps and group events. In addition, I am certified in American Red Cross Deep Water Rescue and CPR. I currently work as a lifeguard for the City of Santa Cruz and also work shifts with IHSS, providing in-home support for disabled individuals in our community. In my free time, I enjoy spending time at my mom’s shop working on my project truck, a 1985 Chevrolet K20 that I have been restoring. Working on that truck has strengthened my passion for the automotive field and motivated me to continue learning new skills. Through my education, work experience, athletics, and volunteer service, I hope to build a successful future while continuing to support my family and community.

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to my mom and the example she set for me. After losing my father when I was 12, she raised my sister and me as a single parent while building a towing company from the ground up in a male-dominated industry. Watching her work long hours, overcome challenges, and turn the business into something successful taught me the value of hard work, determination, and perseverance. Her strength inspired me to pursue a future in the automotive industry and continue building on the foundation she created for our family. I am graduating this June and plan to attend De Anza College to pursue an Auto Repair Technology degree while also taking welding and EMT classes at Cabrillo College. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and learning how things work, especially when it comes to vehicles. My goal is to use my education and technical training to help grow our family towing company by expanding into automotive repair services. In the future, I also hope to start my own related business that complements the company my mom worked so hard to build. Outside of school and work, I have spent the last 11 years playing competitive roller derby with the Santa Cruz Derby Groms through the US Junior Roller Derby Association. Roller derby has given me the opportunity to travel across the country, compete at a high level, and learn the importance of teamwork, discipline, and commitment. The sport has helped shape me into someone who is hardworking, resilient, and able to perform well under pressure. I also volunteer with Tails for Redwood Trails, a local equine rescue that offers riding lessons for children. I help care for the horses, clean stalls, and assist with camps and group events. In addition, I am certified in American Red Cross Deep Water Rescue and CPR. I currently work as a lifeguard for the City of Santa Cruz and also work shifts with IHSS, providing in-home support for disabled individuals in our community. In my free time, I enjoy spending time at my mom’s shop working on my project truck, a 1985 Chevrolet K20 that I have been restoring. Working on that truck has strengthened my passion for the automotive field and motivated me to continue learning new skills. Through my education, work experience, athletics, and volunteer service, I hope to build a successful future while continuing to support my family and community.