My name is Matias and my nick name is Matigol! I live with Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) and a learning disability has been one of the most challenging parts of my life, but it has also shaped who I am today. When I was younger, my parents were advised not to teach me a second language because it might be too confusing due to my learning disability. I was also discouraged from riding a bike because people believed I wouldn’t be able to do it safely or successfully. Hearing these limitations at such a young age was difficult, but it shaped me into a person who is not afraid to try, ask questions, and be part of something bigger. These early experiences taught me perseverance and resilience. I learned that challenges do not define a person; attitude, effort, and willingness to try do. I have carried this mindset into my education, and I love pursuing my Geography degree. One day, I hope to attend graduate school, travel the world, and encourage others to dream big, no matter the obstacles they face. I am motivated, determined, and friendly, and I believe higher education will give me the knowledge and opportunities to reach my long-term goals, including working internationally and learning new ways of doing things. Soccer is another important part of my life. I am a true Liverpool fan, and my love for the sport has taught me teamwork, dedication, and discipline. I also dream of pursuing a master’s degree in the UK or Spain one day. While my parents worry it will be difficult, I want to take on the challenge and prove that I can succeed. It is also important to me to experience and learn about other cultures. I also hope to learn how to dance, despite my coordination not being perfect, because I believe growth happens when we push beyond our comfort zones. Although I may have a slight physical impediment, I firmly believe that attitude and willingness are what matter most. I want to build a family, make my parents proud, and positively impact my community while achieving my dreams. Even though I work part-time during the summer and over winter break, I still rely on the financial support of scholarships to continue my college education. Scholarships not only help me pursue my academic and career goals but also allow me to focus on developing my skills, exploring my passions, and becoming the best version of myself.