I want to be a first responder because I have seen firsthand what it means when they show up at the right moment. My mom lives with Complex PTSD, and there were times when EMS were needed to help stabilize the situations that felt overwhelming to me when I was little. In those moments, firefighters and EMTs didn't just respond; they brought a sense of calm, structure, and care to a situation that to me seemed endless. I did not fully understand what it was they were doing, but I understood that when they came things got better. These experiences have stayed with me and shaped the path I am choosing today. As I got older, those memories turned into motivation. I began to see the fire service as something I wanted to be a part of. I want to be the person who shows up when others need help the most and this mindset pushed me to take discipline and growth more seriously. That motivation led me to enroll in Seattle Public Schools Skill Center class, F.I.T.E (First-In Training and Education) led by Battalion Chief Jack Greaves. With FITE I have had the opportunity to learn under great instructors and experience the fire service in a well structured environment. At first, the program was challenging. Expectations were set very high and training requires physical and mental focus. But over time, I learned how to adapt, trust my company, and stay composed in these stressful environments. One of the most important lessons I have learned through FITE is that no one succeeds alone. Every drill, every scenario, every response, all depends on teamwork and leadership. I have had the opportunity to take a second year with FITE as a Second Year (teaching assistant) and have served as a Company Officer four times concurrently, the most in program history. I've been trusted to help lead that teamwork. In these roles, I have guided other students, reinforced safety rules, advanced communication. I have learned many things in these roles but the two that have stuck with me are the importance of humility and responsibility. Leadership in the fire service isn't about taking charge, its about being dependable and making sure everyone succeeds. When mistakes happen, it is your job as a leader to take accountability for these mistakes. When I am not in FITE, I am looking for ways to support my community. 6 months ago I joined Seattle Fire Cadets and with the cadet program I have supported numerous charity events and helped Seattle fire with outreach events and parades. In addition to Fire Cadets, I help volunteer at the YMCA and YWCA assisting with Food Bank activities and the YMCA's shower program to support houseless people. Participating in these programs has reinforced my desire for helping others and reminded me why I am dedicated to pursuing a career in EMS. What drives me most is the opportunity to give back in a meaningful way. I want to be the person to bring stability to whatever chaos someone in need is experiencing, just like the first responders who impacted me. I want to serve families who are going through difficult moments and provide the same sense of reassurance that I had.