During my last quarter of High School, I proudly received my diploma and an associate's degree through the running start program. However, my pursuit of knowledge does not stop there. I am determined to continue my educational journey by enrolling in a bachelor's program in Apparel, Textiles, and Merchandising at CWU. This field allows me to combine my passion for fashion with my desire to create a positive impact in my community. I aspire to design inclusive clothing that not only recognizes marginalized communities but also advocates for their representation in the fashion industry. My goal is to challenge traditional beauty standards and promote body positivity, ensuring that every individual, regardless of gender identity, ethnicity, size, color, or disability, feels confident and comfortable in their own skin. Growing up as a transgender Chicano has not been without its challenges. I have struggled to find my place in society and to reconcile my identity with the expectations placed upon me. Yet, these challenges have fueled my motivation to pursue higher education and create a better future for myself and others like me. I firmly believe that education is the key to breaking barriers and transforming lives. It is my responsibility to pave the way for future generations by being an advocate for my community and proving that success is attainable for everyone, regardless of their background. During my college experience through the running start program, I faced emotional difficulties due to feeling alienated in in-person classes and lacking a supportive community outside of academics. Although it was difficult, I refused to surrender to these challenges. I am determined to succeed and become a role model for others facing similar struggles. If awarded the Ninja Transfers Entrepreneurship Scholarship, I promise to carry this legacy forward by providing unwavering support and encouragement to those in need. I understand the importance of having someone who believes in you and your dreams, and I want to be that guiding light for others. What sets me apart from other applicants is the unique blend of my identity, background, and passion for education. Being a first-generation college student and an LGBTQ+ individual from an underrepresented minority background has given me a perspective that few others can fully grasp. I am driven to use my talents and education to uplift marginalized communities, giving them a voice and representation in industries that have historically overlooked their needs. Moreover, my unwavering dedication to inclusivity and social change makes me a strong contender for the Ninja Transfers Entrepreneurship Scholarship. I believe that diversity enriches our society and that everyone should be celebrated and empowered for their uniqueness. In conclusion, I am honored to have the opportunity to apply for the Ninja Transfers Entrepreneurship Scholarship. This scholarship would not only change my life but also enable me to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others. I wholeheartedly embrace the responsibility that comes with this award and pledge to continue advocating for underrepresented communities throughout my educational journey and beyond. Your support would be a catalyst for positive change, allowing me to fulfill my dreams and inspire others to do the same. Sincerely, Meli Rivera Garcia

Dear Scholarship Committee, I am thrilled to submit my application for the VNutrition & Wellness Annual LGBTQ+ Vitality Scholarship. I believe that I possess qualities that your committee values and I am grateful for the chance to apply. As a high school senior who identifies as LGBTQ+ and belongs to an underrepresented minority, my pursuit of higher education has been shaped by distinctive experiences. During my last quarter of High School, I proudly received my diploma and an associate's degree through the running start program. However, my pursuit of knowledge does not stop there. I am determined to continue my educational journey by enrolling in a bachelor's program in Apparel, Textiles, and Merchandising at CWU. This field allows me to combine my passion for fashion with my desire to create a positive impact in my community. I aspire to design inclusive clothing that not only recognizes marginalized communities but also advocates for their representation in the fashion industry. My goal is to challenge traditional beauty standards and promote body positivity, ensuring that every individual, regardless of gender identity, ethnicity, size, color, or disability, feels confident and comfortable in their own skin. Growing up as a transgender Chicano has not been without its challenges. I have struggled to find my place in society and to reconcile my identity with the expectations placed upon me. Yet, these challenges have fueled my motivation to pursue higher education and create a better future for myself and others like me. I firmly believe that education is the key to breaking barriers and transforming lives. It is my responsibility to pave the way for future generations by being an advocate for my community and proving that success is attainable for everyone, regardless of their background. During my college experience through the running start program, I faced emotional difficulties due to feeling alienated in in-person classes and lacking a supportive community outside of academics. Although it was difficult, I refused to surrender to these challenges. I am determined to succeed and become a role model for others facing similar struggles. If awarded the VNutrition & Wellness Annual LGBTQ+ Vitality Scholarship, I promise to carry this legacy forward by providing unwavering support and encouragement to those in need. I understand the importance of having someone who believes in you and your dreams, and I want to be that guiding light for others. What sets me apart from other applicants is the unique blend of my identity, background, and passion for education. Being a first-generation college student and an LGBTQ+ individual from an underrepresented minority background has given me a perspective that few others can fully grasp. I am driven to use my talents and education to uplift marginalized communities, giving them a voice and representation in industries that have historically overlooked their needs. Moreover, my unwavering dedication to inclusivity and social change makes me a strong contender for the VNutrition & Wellness Annual LGBTQ+ Vitality Scholarship. I believe that diversity enriches our society and that everyone should be celebrated and empowered for their uniqueness. In conclusion, I am honored to have the opportunity to apply for the VNutrition & Wellness Annual LGBTQ+ Vitality Scholarship. This scholarship would not only change my life but also enable me to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others. I wholeheartedly embrace the responsibility that comes with this award and pledge to continue advocating for underrepresented communities throughout my educational journey and beyond. Your support would be a catalyst for positive change, allowing me to fulfill my dreams and inspire others to do the same. Sincerely, Meli Rivera Garcia

Dear Scholarship Committee, I am thrilled to submit my application for the Adam Montes Scholarship. I believe that I possess qualities that your committee values and I am grateful for the chance to apply. As a high school senior who identifies as LGBTQ+ and belongs to an underrepresented minority my pursuit of higher education has been shaped by distinctive experiences. During my last quarter of High School, I proudly received my diploma and an associate's degree through the running start program. However, my pursuit of knowledge does not stop there. I am determined to continue my educational journey by enrolling in a bachelor's program in Apparel, Textiles, and Merchandising at CWU. This field allows me to combine my passion for fashion with my desire to create a positive impact in my community. I aspire to design inclusive clothing that not only recognizes marginalized communities but also advocates for their representation in the fashion industry. My goal is to challenge traditional beauty standards and promote body positivity, ensuring that every individual, regardless of gender identity, ethnicity, size, color, or disability, feels confident and comfortable in their own skin. Growing up as a transgender Chicano has not been without its challenges. I have struggled to find my place in society and to reconcile my identity with the expectations placed upon me. Yet, these challenges have fueled my motivation to pursue higher education and create a better future for myself and others like me. I firmly believe that education is the key to breaking barriers and transforming lives. It is my responsibility to pave the way for future generations by being an advocate for my community and proving that success is attainable for everyone, regardless of their background. During my college experience through the running start program, I faced emotional difficulties due to feeling alienated in in-person classes and lacking a supportive community outside of academics. Although it was difficult, I refused to surrender to these challenges. I am determined to succeed and become a role model for others facing similar struggles. If awarded the Adam Montes Scholarship, I promise to carry this legacy forward by providing unwavering support and encouragement to those in need. I understand the importance of having someone who believes in you and your dreams, and I want to be that guiding light for others. What sets me apart from other applicants is the unique blend of my identity, background, and passion for education. Being a first-generation college student and an LGBTQ+ individual from an underrepresented minority background has given me a perspective that few others can fully grasp. I am driven to use my talents and education to uplift marginalized communities, giving them a voice and representation in industries that have historically overlooked their needs. Moreover, my unwavering dedication to inclusivity and social change makes me a strong contender for the Adam Montes Scholarship. I believe that diversity enriches our society and that everyone should be empowered for their uniqueness. In conclusion, I am honored to have the opportunity to apply for the Adam Montes Scholarship and potentially contribute to the legacy of a remarkable LGBTQ+ educator and community leader. This scholarship would not only change my life but also enable me to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others. I wholeheartedly embrace the responsibility that comes with this award and pledge to continue advocating for underrepresented communities throughout my educational journey and beyond. Thank you for considering my application. Your support would be a catalyst for positive change, allowing me to fulfill my dreams and inspire others to do the same. Sincerely, Meli Rivera Garcia

Mental health is an integral aspect of our lives, influencing our daily functioning, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life. When we prioritize mental wellness, we empower ourselves to navigate challenges with greater resilience and creativity. As someone who has personally experienced the impact of mental health struggles, particularly during school time, I understand the significance of maintaining a healthy state of mind. One of the cornerstones of maintaining my mental wellness is cultivating a reliable support system. Whether it's a close friend, a family member, or a mentor, having someone to confide in can alleviate feelings of isolation and provide emotional support. Sharing my feelings and experiences with those I trust lessens the burden and strengthens the bond between us. My support system personally is my few friends, who make a significant difference in my mental wellness. Self-care activities tailored to my preferences help recharge and rejuvenate my mind and body. Whether it's spending time outdoors, pursuing a hobby such as sewing and drawing, or simply relaxing, By taking time to relax and unwind, spending time in nature, and tapping into creative ideas, I prioritize my well-being. As I navigate the challenges of daily life, I've learned the importance of striking a balance between academic responsibilities, personal life, and leisure activities. Setting realistic goals and managing time efficiently helps me avoid overwhelming myself, reducing stress and anxiety. Recognizing that mental health is a journey, I am not hesitant to seek professional help when needed. Speaking with therapists or counselors provides me with valuable insights, coping mechanisms, and tools to address my mental health concerns effectively. Maintaining mental well-being is an ongoing and growing effort. Knowing the value of mental health and using various techniques to promote well-being is an essential part of my life. Accepting personal problems, developing a support structure, practicing mindfulness, and getting professional help are all critical to sustaining my mental health. We can create a more supportive and understanding environment for ourselves and others by continuing to emphasize mental well-being and encouraging open dialogues about mental health. I am devoted to cultivating a healthy state of mind through resilience, commitment, and compassionate self-care to accept life's difficulties. I recognize that sustaining mental well-being is an ongoing process that requires effort and dedication. It is critical for me to regularly check in with myself. Evaluate my needs and make any required changes to my self-care routine. Furthermore, I believe in the power of education and promoting mental health awareness to remove stigma and increase empathy in our culture.