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Marcus Valdespino

475

Bold Points

1x

Finalist

Bio

Hello, my name is Marcus V. I come from a background of resilience and determination, having grown up in a single-parent household and faced significant challenges from a young age. These experiences have fueled my passion for advocating for those facing similar obstacles and addressing systemic inequalities in my community. I am committed to creating a better future for myself and others, driven by a deep sense of empathy and a desire to effect positive change. My journey has instilled in me a strong determination to make a meaningful impact, and I am dedicated to utilizing my education and experiences to contribute positively to society. I aspire to pursue a career that allows me to advocate for those whose voices often go unheard and to make a tangible difference in the lives of others. My unique background and unwavering commitment to creating positive change set me apart as someone with the drive and passion to make a meaningful impact in my academic and professional pursuits

Education

James Monroe High School

High School
2023 - 2024

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

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

  • Majors of interest:

    • Civil Engineering
    • Construction Management
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Civil Engineering

    • Dream career goals:

      As a civil engineer, my long-term career goal is to contribute to the development of sustainable infrastructure that addresses societal needs and environmental concerns. I aim to specialize in designing and implementing innovative solutions for transportation systems, water resources, and urban development. By leveraging my expertise in civil engineering, I aspire to play a key role in creating resilient and efficient infrastructure that enhances the quality of life for communities while minimizing environmental impact. My ultimate goal is to leave a lasting legacy of positive change through my work in the field of civil engineering.

      Janean D. Watkins Overcoming Adversity Scholarship
      Growing up in a single-parent household from the age of two, I faced numerous challenges that shaped my resilience and determination. With my mother working tirelessly to make ends meet, my grandpa became a father figure, providing care and support while my mom struggled to secure employment due to her lack of documentation. These financial hardships were compounded by a false accusation that led to emotional and financial strain, followed by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these adversities, I remained steadfast in pursuing my goals and dreams, driven by the desire to overcome the obstacles that have defined my journey. The financial challenges my family faced took a toll on our daily lives. My mother's struggle to find stable employment, compounded by her lack of documentation, resulted in mistreatment and underpayment. This, in turn, affected my upbringing, as I witnessed the hardships she endured to provide for our family. The situation reached a critical point when a false accusation led to a prolonged period of hospital visits and meetings with social workers. The resulting financial strain and emotional turmoil tested our resilience, threatening our stability and my mother's livelihood. Despite these adversities, I persevered, determined to overcome the obstacles that hindered my focus on education. However, just as we began to emerge from these challenges, the COVID-19 pandemic struck, further exacerbating our financial struggles. With my mother's job prospects diminishing and support from others becoming essential, my family resorted to unconventional means to sustain ourselves. My grandpa sought any available construction work, while my mother and I relied on local food banks and conducted yard sales to make ends meet. Amidst this turmoil, my education often took a backseat, compounded by limited access to the internet and transportation. Despite these challenges, my determination to pursue my goals remained unwavering. The adversities I faced instilled in me a deep sense of resilience and an unyielding drive to overcome obstacles. My experiences have shaped my aspirations, fueling my commitment to create a better future for myself and my family. My goals extend beyond personal achievement; they are rooted in a desire to make a meaningful impact in my community. I aspire to pursue a career that allows me to advocate for individuals facing similar challenges, to effect positive change, and to provide support to those in need. My journey has fueled my passion to address systemic inequalities and advocate for those whose voices often go unheard. As I navigate the path ahead, I am committed to utilizing my education and experiences to contribute positively to society. The adversities I have overcome have strengthened my resolve, shaping my ambitions and propelling me towards a future where I can make a tangible difference.