Growing up as a mixed minority woman has shaped my identity in profound ways, giving me a unique perspective on life and a deep appreciation for diversity. My heritage, a blend of different cultures, has been both a source of pride and a challenge. Navigating the complexities of belonging to multiple communities has taught me resilience, empathy, and the importance of representation. My love for track has been a constant in my life, providing an outlet for my energy and a platform to showcase my dedication and hard work. Track has always been more than just a sport for me; it has been a sanctuary where I can push my limits and strive for excellence. The discipline, perseverance, and teamwork required in track have mirrored the qualities I need in my academic and personal life. However, the journey has not been without its challenges. Last year, I faced one of the most difficult moments of my life when I lost my father just before my senior year. His passing left a void that seemed impossible to fill, and the grief was overwhelming. Despite the immense pain, I found solace in the lessons my father had imparted to me. He always encouraged me to pursue my passions with unwavering determination and to never give up, no matter the obstacles. His words became my guiding light, and I channeled my grief into my love for track and my academic pursuits. The track became a place where I could connect with his memory, and each race was a tribute to his enduring spirit. In addition to my dedication to track, I have always had a profound love for math. Numbers and equations have always fascinated me, and I found joy in solving complex problems. My passion for math naturally led me to the field of electrical engineering. The idea of harnessing the power of electricity to create innovative solutions and improve lives captivated me. Electrical engineering, with its blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, seemed like the perfect fit for my skills and interests. Attending Seattle University as a student-athlete has provided me with the opportunity to pursue my dreams in both track and electrical engineering. Balancing the demands of being a student-athlete is challenging, but it has taught me invaluable time management and prioritization skills. The support of my coaches, teammates, and professors has been instrumental in my success, and I am grateful for the community that has embraced me. In my future career as an electrical engineer, I am committed to making a meaningful impact. I aspire to work on projects that address pressing global challenges, such as renewable energy, sustainable technology, and accessible healthcare solutions. My diverse background and experiences have given me a unique perspective that I believe will be an asset in the field of engineering. I am passionate about using my skills to create innovative solutions that benefit society and contribute to a more equitable world. In the field of electrical engineering, there have been many influential individuals who have made significant contributions. From pioneers like Nikola Tesla and Thomas Edison to modern innovators like Elon Musk and Sheryl Sandberg, these figures have paved the way for future generations of engineers to make a difference in the world. Their groundbreaking work and dedication to their craft have inspired me to strive for excellence and push the boundaries of what is possible in the field of electrical engineering. Moreover, I am dedicated to inspiring and mentoring the next generation of minority women in STEM. Representation matters, and I want to be a role model for young girls who may not see themselves reflected in traditional STEM fields. By sharing my journey and successes, I hope to encourage them to pursue their passions and believe in their potential. Overcoming the challenges I have faced has strengthened my resolve and deepened my commitment to my goals. The loss of my father, while devastating, has also been a source of motivation. His belief in me and his dreams for my future continue to drive me forward. I carry his memory with me in everything I do, and I strive to honor him through my achievements. In conclusion, my journey as a mixed minority woman, a track athlete, and an aspiring electrical engineer has been shaped by a blend of cultural influences, personal challenges, and unwavering determination. My love for track has provided me with a sense of purpose and a platform to excel. My passion for math and engineering has guided my academic pursuits and career aspirations. Despite the hardships, including the loss of my father, I have found strength in his memory and the lessons he taught me. As I continue my education at Seattle University and beyond, I am committed to making a positive impact through my work in electrical engineering and inspiring others to follow their dreams.

My parents have always been my biggest supporters, especially when it came to my educational goals and my passion for sports. From a young age, they instilled in me the importance of balancing academics with extracurricular activities, particularly track, which I love. Their unwavering support has been a cornerstone in my journey towards achieving my dreams. My dad, in particular, was a huge advocate for my involvement in sports. He believed that participating in track would not only keep me physically fit but also teach me valuable life skills such as discipline, time management, and teamwork. He would often say, "Success in sports and academics go hand in hand; each teaches you something valuable for the other." His words always resonated with me, and I strived to excel in both areas to make him proud. My mom, on the other hand, was the backbone of my academic success. She would spend countless hours helping me with homework, projects, and studying for exams. Her dedication to my education was unparalleled. She made sure that I had a quiet and conducive environment for studying and would often sit with me late into the night to ensure I understood my lessons. Her belief in my potential was unwavering, and she constantly encouraged me to aim high and never settle for less. Balancing sports and academics was not always easy. There were times when I felt overwhelmed with the demands of both. However, my parents were always there to provide the necessary guidance and support. They helped me create a schedule that allowed me to allocate sufficient time for both track practice and my studies. They taught me the importance of prioritizing tasks and managing my time effectively. Their support made it possible for me to excel in both areas without feeling burnt out. Last year, my dad passed away, and it was one of the most challenging times of my life. His absence left a void that was hard to fill. However, his memory and the lessons he imparted to me continue to drive me forward. I remember how proud he was of my achievements in both academics and sports, and I use that as my motivation to keep pushing myself. Every time I step onto the track or sit down to study, I think of him and the immense pride he had in my accomplishments. His legacy serves as a constant reminder to strive for excellence in everything I do. My mom has also been incredibly strong and supportive during this difficult time. She has taken on the role of both parents and continues to encourage me to pursue my dreams. Her resilience and strength have been a source of inspiration for me. She often reminds me that my dad is watching over me and would want me to continue working hard towards my goals. In conclusion, my parents have played a pivotal role in my journey towards achieving my educational goals while also pursuing my passion for sports. Their unwavering support, guidance, and belief in my potential have been instrumental in my success. My dad's memory continues to drive me, and my mom's strength and encouragement keep me going. I am grateful for everything they have done for me and strive to make them proud every day.

Life is about passing the baton to a new version of yourself every year, with each version getting better with age. This concept is much like track relays, where each runner hands off the baton to the next, striving for improved performance with every leg of the race. Each year, we have the opportunity to reflect on our experiences, learn from them, and make conscious decisions to enhance our future selves. This continuous process of growth and self-improvement is essential for leading a fulfilling and successful life. To ensure that my future self thrives, I promise to commit to three key areas. First, I will prioritize lifelong learning. This means not only excelling in my formal education but also seeking knowledge through various other means, such as reading, attending workshops, and engaging with mentors. By continually expanding my horizons, I will remain adaptable and open to new opportunities, which will be invaluable in an ever-changing world. Second, I will focus on maintaining my physical and mental health. Track has taught me the importance of physical fitness, and I will continue to stay active and eat well. Additionally, I will practice mindfulness and seek balance to ensure my mental well-being. Lastly, I will invest in building strong relationships. By nurturing connections with family, friends, and professional networks, I will create a support system that will provide joy, collaboration, and growth opportunities throughout my life. The BIPOC Scholars in STEM scholarship is a critical component of this vision for a better life. With the support of this scholarship, I can focus on my studies, engage in research, and participate in extracurricular activities that will enrich my academic experience. The scholarship will also connect me with a community of like-minded individuals who share my commitment to excellence and social justice, providing additional support and inspiration. Seattle University, known for its dedication to social justice and academic excellence, offers a nurturing environment that aligns with my goals. However, the financial circumstances can be challenging, with tuition and living expenses being significant. The BIPOC Scholars in STEM scholarship will alleviate some of these financial pressures, making it possible for me to fully immerse myself in my education and take advantage of all the opportunities Seattle University has to offer. This support will help me achieve my higher education goals and set a strong foundation for a successful and fulfilling career. By passing the baton to a well-prepared and supported future self, I am confident that I will continue to grow and thrive with each passing year.

Track has been a cornerstone of my life from the age of 11 to 18, shaping my character and providing a sense of purpose. Starting as a young athlete, I quickly learned the importance of discipline, dedication, and hard work. From the moment I first stepped onto the track, I was captivated by the thrill of competition and the satisfaction of personal improvement. The discipline required to train consistently and the perseverance needed to overcome obstacles have become ingrained in my daily routine. Each race taught me valuable lessons in setting goals, working hard, and pushing through pain and fatigue. The friendships I formed with my teammates have been a source of support and motivation, making the journey even more rewarding. Losing my father during my senior year was an incredibly challenging experience that tested my resilience and strength. Track became my refuge during this difficult time, offering a sense of stability and a way to channel my grief. The support from my teammates and coaches was invaluable, helping me to stay focused and continue striving for my goals. Competing in track events gave me a way to honor my father's memory and the lessons he taught me about perseverance and determination. His loss deepened my appreciation for the sport and reinforced my commitment to making the most of every opportunity. As team captain, I have the chance to make a meaningful impact on my teammates and the broader track community. Leading by example, I can demonstrate the importance of hard work, dedication, and maintaining a positive attitude, even in the face of personal challenges. My experiences have given me a unique perspective that I can share with my teammates, helping them navigate their own struggles and triumphs. By fostering a supportive and inclusive team environment, I can ensure that every member feels valued and motivated to reach their full potential. Ultimately, my goal as team captain is to inspire and uplift my teammates, helping them achieve both personal and collective success. I want to create a legacy of perseverance, unity, and mutual support that will endure long after I have left the team. By mentoring younger athletes and encouraging a culture of continuous improvement, I hope to leave a lasting impact that will benefit the team for years to come. Track has given me so much, and now, as a leader, I am committed to giving back and helping others realize their potential.