As I prepare to enter the next phase of my life, I’ve set several academic and professional goals that reflect my passion for creating a positive impact on my community and beyond. One of my primary goals is to pursue a career in architecture, a field that has fascinated me for years due to its ability to shape and influence the environments we live in. Through architecture, I aim to design spaces that are not only functional and aesthetically pleasing but also inclusive and sustainable. I am particularly passionate about creating affordable housing and public spaces that foster a sense of community, accessibility, and well-being. I believe that architecture has the power to bridge gaps, connect people, and contribute to healthier, more vibrant communities. Academically, my goal is to attend the University of Texas at Austin School of Architecture, where I plan to study architecture and gain the skills and knowledge necessary to design and build spaces that can improve lives. I am committed to furthering my education by taking part in hands-on internships, design workshops, and study abroad programs that will expose me to different architectural styles, cultural perspectives, and innovative design methods. By taking advantage of these opportunities, I hope to expand my creative and technical abilities, ultimately preparing myself for a career where I can make a tangible difference in the world. Beyond my academic and professional goals, I am deeply committed to giving back to my community. One of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had is founding The Little Library, a literacy initiative aimed at promoting reading and education in under-resourced communities. I started the project by organizing book drives and distributing free books to children in low-income neighborhoods. The project has not only provided access to books but also hosted reading workshops to encourage children to develop a love for learning. This initiative has inspired me to continue pursuing projects that give others access to resources they may not otherwise have. The positive impact I’ve seen in the lives of these children has fueled my desire to continue making a difference, both in my community and on a larger scale. This experience has also shaped my professional aspirations, particularly in the field of architecture. I’ve realized that architecture is not only about designing buildings but also about creating environments that serve people and promote growth. I want to use my future career to address pressing issues in my community, such as affordable housing, environmental sustainability, and the need for accessible public spaces. Through architecture, I hope to provide communities with spaces that foster both individual and collective growth, just as The Little Library has fostered literacy and a love for learning in children. In conclusion, my academic and professional goals center around pursuing architecture with a focus on inclusivity and sustainability. Through initiatives like The Little Library, I have been able to give back to my community by providing access to educational resources and encouraging young minds to develop a passion for learning. These experiences have inspired me to pursue a career where I can create environments that not only support individuals but also strengthen communities. The lessons I’ve learned from my community involvement will guide me as I continue to work toward making a meaningful difference in the world, one project at a time.

Jack Terry’s story is a profound example of resilience, strength, and the ability to overcome the most unimaginable adversity. Despite the overwhelming trauma he experienced, Jack rebuilt his life in the United States, learning English, obtaining an education, and eventually becoming both a successful geological engineer and a psychoanalyst. His journey serves as an inspiration to me, reminding me that no matter the obstacles life places in our way, it is possible to rise above them with determination and hard work. What inspires me most about Jack’s story is the sheer resilience he demonstrated. At just 15 years old, with no formal education and no language skills, he could have easily been swallowed by the weight of his past. Yet, he chose to fight for a better future, overcoming his hardships and dedicating himself to learning and growth. His story resonates deeply with me because, like Jack, I have faced struggles in my own life. My family has encountered financial difficulties, and I have had to balance academic pressures with caregiving responsibilities for my aging grandfather. At times, I have felt overwhelmed by the weight of it all, but Jack’s story reminds me that with resilience and perseverance, I too can push through challenges and come out stronger on the other side. Through my own adversity, I have learned the importance of embracing hard work and the value of education. Jack’s success despite such significant obstacles has shown me that no matter where we start, education is a powerful tool to change our lives and our futures. As I continue my education, I am committed to using the knowledge I gain to make a difference in the world. Jack’s dedication to his studies, even after losing so much, has inspired me to pursue my dreams in architecture. I want to design spaces that not only provide shelter but foster well-being and community, just as Jack devoted his life to sharing his story with others and spreading hope. What excites me most about my future is the potential to use my studies to give back to society. Just as Jack found ways to impact those around him, I plan to use my education in architecture to create spaces that are inclusive, sustainable, and designed with empathy for the people who use them. I’ve seen firsthand how physical environments can shape the way people experience the world, and I believe that thoughtful design can improve lives. My grandfather’s struggle with mobility, for example, has sparked my desire to design spaces that are accessible to people with disabilities or limited mobility. In this way, I hope to follow Jack’s example of using what I’ve learned to help others and make the world a better place. Ultimately, Jack Terry’s story has reinforced my belief that resilience, education, and the desire to help others can lead to incredible transformation. His life teaches me that even after the most challenging of experiences, it is possible to find meaning and purpose. As I continue my own journey toward a career in architecture, I am inspired to create spaces that improve lives, foster inclusivity, and offer a sense of hope, just as Jack’s story has done for me and countless others.

The Impact of Caregiving on My Life and Future Caregiving is an experience that has profoundly shaped my life, teaching me valuable lessons in responsibility, patience, and compassion. As a high school senior, I balance my academic commitments with my role as a caregiver to my grandfather, who is a Cuban immigrant and survivor of imprisonment during the Bay of Pigs War in Cuba. Although he has always been a resilient, independent figure in our family, his health has declined in recent years, requiring me to step in and provide care during my free time, primarily after school and on weekends. My caregiving responsibilities are focused on ensuring my grandfather is comfortable, safe, and well taken care of. On a typical day, I help him with basic tasks such as preparing meals, assisting with mobility, and making sure he takes his medications on time. I also help him stay connected to his community by organizing visits or helping him maintain communication with family members. Additionally, I offer emotional support, sitting with him and listening to his stories, which remain a significant part of his life. These moments of shared reflection have become just as important as the physical care I provide. I am proud to be his caregiver, but I’ve learned that caregiving isn’t just about tasks, it's about being present for someone who has shaped your life in so many ways. Caregiving has shaped me as well, in ways I never expected. Managing this responsibility while also attending high school has taught me the value of time management and prioritization. I’ve had to find ways to balance my homework, extracurricular activities, and caregiving role, ensuring that I maintain focus on my academics while fulfilling my responsibilities at home. As demanding as it can be, caregiving has helped me develop a strong sense of discipline, as I’ve learned to juggle multiple responsibilities effectively. I also feel that caregiving has increased my empathy. Spending time with my grandfather has made me more aware of the challenges older adults face, from health issues to loneliness. It has shaped how I view people and their needs, and how I aim to care for others, not just in my personal life but in the world around me. This experience has also influenced my future goals. I’ve always been passionate about architecture, but my experiences caring for my grandfather have inspired me to focus on designing spaces that are accessible and functional for people with mobility issues or special needs. As an aspiring architect, I want to create environments that are not only beautiful but also empowering and inclusive for everyone, especially those who face physical challenges. The challenges I’ve witnessed in my grandfather’s life have fueled my desire to use architecture as a way to make a positive impact on people’s lives, particularly the elderly and disabled. The Cariloop Caregiver Scholarship is incredibly important to me because it would provide the financial support I need to pursue my higher education and future career goals. As I plan to attend the University of Texas at Austin School of Architecture, this scholarship would significantly ease the burden of tuition and living expenses. It would allow me to focus on my studies and internships, further my learning in the field of architecture, and explore opportunities like study abroad programs or design workshops that could enrich my academic and professional experience. Moreover, the scholarship would help me continue balancing my caregiving role with my academic and career aspirations. As a caregiver, I want to continue supporting my grandfather and family, but I also know that in order to build a future for myself, I must pursue higher education. The Cariloop Caregiver Scholarship would help me achieve both: it would enable me to focus on my studies while providing the flexibility to continue my caregiving responsibilities on weekends and after school. In conclusion, caregiving has shaped who I am today. It has taught me the importance of empathy, responsibility, and the value of hard work. The Cariloop Caregiver Scholarship would provide the financial support I need to pursue my dream of becoming an architect, and it would allow me to continue my caregiving role while working toward a better future. This scholarship will not only support my academic goals but will also enable me to contribute to the care and well-being of those I love, just as my grandfather has shaped my life.

I come from a family with a rich and resilient cultural background that has profoundly influenced my motivations and goals. My father was born in Venezuela and immigrated to the United States as a child, while my mother was born and raised in Miami, Florida. On my mother's side, my grandparents are Cuban immigrants, and my grandfather was a survivor of imprisonment during the Bay of Pigs War in Cuba. Their stories of perseverance, struggle, and survival have always inspired me to stay determined and committed to my own dreams. Growing up with these experiences, I learned the value of hard work, resilience, and the importance of education in overcoming adversity. My father’s journey as an immigrant has taught me how powerful education can be, while my mother’s strong Miami roots have instilled in me the importance of staying grounded in my values while pursuing my passions. These influences have driven me to pursue a career in architecture, where I can use my creativity and problem-solving skills to make a difference in the world. I aim to focus on sustainable design and create spaces that benefit both the environment and the people who inhabit them. However, due to financial challenges, I will need to finance my college education independently. This motivates me even more to work hard and take full advantage of the opportunities available to me. A college education will equip me with the skills and knowledge needed to make a lasting impact, and I’m committed to using it not only to better my life but also to contribute positively to society through innovative, sustainable design.

I’m a passionate and driven individual with a strong interest in architecture, and I plan to use my career to make a positive impact on the world, particularly through sustainable design. Growing up, I always found solace in creativity and design, but it wasn’t until I started shadowing architects and studying architectural concepts that I realized the immense potential this field has to improve the world around us. I believe architecture isn’t just about creating beautiful spaces; it’s about creating environments that foster connection, enhance well-being, and promote sustainability. My goal is to design spaces that harmonize with the natural environment and contribute to building communities that are more sustainable and inclusive. Throughout my life, I’ve been passionate about nature and environmental protection, and these interests have influenced my career aspirations. I’m committed to pursuing a career in architecture that emphasizes eco-friendly design, renewable energy, and sustainable construction practices. I want to design buildings that reduce carbon footprints, utilize sustainable materials, and promote environmental consciousness. My long-term vision is to create spaces that not only serve their function but also leave a positive mark on the planet by reducing their environmental impact. One of the adversities I’ve had to overcome in my life was the financial strain my family experienced after the COVID-19 pandemic. My father’s business was significantly affected by the economic downturn, and for a time, we were unsure of how we would afford the resources I needed for school and my career ambitions. This uncertainty made me question whether I could pursue my passion for architecture and whether my dreams of attending a top university and working in the field were feasible. However, I refused to let this adversity deter me. I took it upon myself to seek out paid externships and internships, such as my time spent at Fanjul Architecture and SV Design, Inc., where I shadowed professionals and learned about blueprint design, site planning, and sustainable practices. These experiences not only provided me with valuable skills and insights into the field but also helped ease the financial burden by giving me hands-on experience. I also applied for scholarships and sought financial aid, which allowed me to continue my education without the overwhelming stress of financial worries. This experience taught me the importance of resilience, resourcefulness, and hard work. It showed me that challenges are an inevitable part of life, but they can also be opportunities for growth. Overcoming this adversity has strengthened my resolve to succeed in my chosen career and to contribute positively to society through architecture. It reinforced my belief that with determination and the willingness to seek out opportunities, I can overcome obstacles and achieve my goals. I plan to carry these lessons with me into my future career, using the same resilience and determination to navigate the challenges I will face in the architecture field. I am committed to pursuing my passion for sustainability and innovative design, with the hope of creating spaces that not only improve lives but also make the world a better place for future generations. I believe that architecture has the power to shape communities, and through my work, I aim to contribute to building a more sustainable, inclusive, and environmentally conscious world.

Receiving this scholarship is incredibly important to me because it represents an opportunity to pursue my dream of becoming an architect, which has been a goal of mine for as long as I can remember. Growing up, I’ve always been passionate about design, architecture, and the power of creativity to shape the world around us. Throughout my high school years, I’ve dedicated myself to learning everything I can about the field, shadowing professionals, taking relevant courses, and immersing myself in architectural concepts. However, I know that in order to fully reach my potential, I need the opportunity to receive the best education possible, and that’s why this scholarship is so crucial to my journey. The cost of a college education, particularly for a field like architecture, can be overwhelming. Between tuition, materials, and the need for hands-on experience, the financial burden can feel like an insurmountable obstacle. This scholarship would allow me to focus entirely on my studies, without the constant worry about how I’ll afford my education or what sacrifices I might have to make in order to pursue my career. Having this financial support would allow me to dedicate more time to developing my skills, both in the classroom and through practical, real-world experiences, without the stress that comes with managing educational expenses. This scholarship would also provide me with the opportunity to attend a university where I can deepen my knowledge, work alongside like-minded individuals, and learn from the best professionals in the field. Architecture is a constantly evolving field that requires both creativity and technical expertise. To truly grow as a designer, I need to be exposed to diverse perspectives and advanced techniques. Being able to attend a top-tier school for architecture would allow me to do just that and gain a world-class education, explore innovative design strategies, and collaborate with students and professors who are just as passionate about architecture as I am. Furthermore, this scholarship represents an investment not just in my education, but in my future as an architect who can make a meaningful impact on the world. My long-term goal is to contribute to the field of architecture in a way that is not only innovative and sustainable but also culturally sensitive and socially responsible. I want to design spaces that are both functional and beautiful, places that evoke emotion and help create a stronger sense of community. I believe architecture has the power to bring people together, elevate lives, and protect our environment. In order to do this, I need the proper education and the opportunity to learn from the best mentors in the field. But the importance of this scholarship goes beyond my own personal aspirations. I come from a background where opportunities like this are not always readily available, and I know the impact that receiving this scholarship would have not only on me but also on my family and my community. It would allow me to be a role model for others who might not see architecture or higher education as an attainable goal. It would demonstrate that hard work, passion, and dedication can lead to incredible opportunities, no matter where you come from. In the future, I hope to pay it forward by mentoring younger students, supporting causes that promote education and sustainability, and using my skills to create spaces that contribute positively to society. This scholarship is not just an investment in my future; it’s an investment in the future I hope to build; one where architecture, creativity, and compassion intersect to make the world a better place for everyone.

My name is Mia Varona, and being a student-athlete has played a defining role in shaping not only who I am today, but also the future I envision for myself. Swimming has been a constant in my life throughout high school, and the discipline, commitment, and resilience it requires have influenced every aspect of my growth, personally, academically, and professionally. As a Varsity swimmer for all four years of high school, I’ve dedicated countless early mornings, afternoons, and weekends to the sport I love. From being named Rookie Swimmer of the Year to leading my team as captain, I’ve learned what it truly means to show up, not just for myself, but for my team. Swimming has taught me how to manage my time efficiently, balance a rigorous academic schedule, and stay focused under pressure. I’ve learned to set goals, work through setbacks, and keep pushing forward even when the finish line feels far away. These lessons have directly shaped the way I approach challenges in every area of my life. More than anything, being a student-athlete has shown me the value of perseverance and leadership. As team captain, I learned how to lead by example and support my teammates through both victories and defeats. I found joy in building camaraderie, encouraging others, and creating a team environment where everyone felt valued. These experiences helped me discover a part of myself that thrives on collaboration, structure, and meaningful purpose, all of which deeply align with my future career goal of becoming an architect. My interest in architecture stems from my love of design and creativity, but swimming gave me the mindset to turn that interest into a tangible goal. Architecture is a field that demands precision, time management, and the ability to think critically under pressure, skills I’ve honed through sports. In the same way that swimmers must pay attention to technique, flow, and form, architects must be detail-oriented and thoughtful in the way they design spaces. I’m drawn to the idea of using my creativity to solve real-world problems, improve communities, and bring people together through intentional design. Outside of sports and academics, I’m passionate about the arts, nature, and advocacy. I find peace and joy in taking care of my plants, watching them thrive and grow under my care, it’s a small but meaningful way I connect with nature and recharge mentally. I also advocate for animal protection and deeply care about environmental sustainability. These interests have inspired me to think about how I can integrate eco-consciousness into my future work as an architect creating sustainable spaces that honor both people and the planet. Art has also played a huge role in my life. Whether I’m sketching architectural ideas or simply drawing for fun, art has always been my outlet for self-expression. I also enjoy journaling, listening to music, and finding inspiration through social media platforms like Pinterest and Instagram, where I follow architecture, interior design, and travel pages. These platforms feed my creativity and keep me connected to new trends and global perspectives. Ultimately, I see my future as a blend of everything I love: discipline, creativity, leadership, and purpose. Being a student-athlete has given me the confidence and drive to pursue a path in architecture, and my interests beyond sports continue to shape the kind of designer and leader I hope to become. I want to create spaces that reflect culture, foster community, and make a lasting impact. I’m excited for the journey ahead, and I’m ready to keep growing, learning, and building - one step, one design, and one stroke at a time.

My name is Mia Varona, and creativity has always been a core part of who I am. Whether I’m sketching architectural concepts, listening to music, or exploring new styles of visual art, I find joy and purpose in creative expression. Art, music, and design allow me to process the world around me, tell stories without words, and connect with people on a deeper level. They’re not just hobbies, but they’re a part of how I think, feel, and dream. Growing up in Miami, a city filled with vibrant color, sound, and culture, I’ve been constantly surrounded by inspiration. My Cuban heritage plays a big role in my creativity while the rhythm of the language, the warmth of the people, and the richness of the traditions all influence the way I see and create. I’ve always gravitated toward activities that allow me to express myself, and over time, I realized that my passion for creativity was more than a pastime, it was a calling. I discovered my love for architecture through a mix of sketching, curiosity about buildings and spaces, and hands-on experience through externships. I had the incredible opportunity to work alongside professionals in the field, participating in blueprint design and site visits. Those experiences gave me a real sense of how art and structure come together to shape people’s everyday lives. It’s where my creative side met my academic and problem-solving side and I haven’t looked back since. At the same time, I’ve never let go of my love for music and the visual arts. Whether it’s through playlists that match my mood or painting to unwind, music and art help me feel balanced. They’re a source of comfort, motivation, and identity. I believe that staying connected to these creative outlets makes me not only a better artist and student but a more thoughtful and inspired person. After high school, I plan to pursue a degree in architecture, with the long-term goal of becoming a licensed architect who designs spaces that make a difference. I’m particularly interested in sustainable design and projects that serve the needs of underrepresented communities. I want to create buildings that are not only functional and beautiful but also meaningful places where people feel safe, seen, and inspired. I also hope to continue exploring the arts throughout my college years and beyond. Whether it’s through student organizations, creative collaborations, or simply personal exploration, I never want to lose that connection to what makes me feel alive. Art, music, and architecture are different forms of the same language for me, its a language that helps me express who I am and imagine the kind of future I want to help build. In everything I do, I strive to bring creativity, passion, and purpose. I’m excited for what comes next, and I’m ready to keep learning, growing, and creating every step of the way.

Growing up in a Cuban American household in Miami, I learned early on that financial stability doesn’t come easily but it’s something that must be worked for, planned for, and often sacrificed for. My family, like many others in immigrant communities, worked tirelessly to provide opportunities that they themselves never had. While money was always a concern, I was taught to value education, hard work, and gratitude above all. My parents made it clear that while we may not have had every luxury, we had what mattered most: opportunity, and the power to build a better future. One of my earliest lessons in financial awareness came from watching my parents navigate the complexities of budgeting, saving, and prioritizing our needs. I saw the stress they endured during times of uncertainty and the discipline it took to make sure we never went without the essentials. I remember being curious about how things worked and why certain choices had to be made, or how my parents managed to stretch every dollar. These observations taught me that being financially responsible isn’t just about making money but it’s about making smart decisions with it. Though formal financial education wasn’t something I received in school, I’ve made it a point to seek out knowledge independently. I’ve started exploring topics like budgeting, credit, investing, and student loans so I can enter adulthood with a solid foundation. Being awarded the Family Empowerment Scholarship was another turning point. It didn’t just alleviate some of the financial burden of attending a private school but it also showed me how critical scholarships and financial planning can be in accessing quality education. That moment sparked my desire to learn more, not only for myself but for others in similar situations. Looking ahead, I plan to pursue higher education with the same mindset: eager to learn, willing to grow, and committed to financial responsibility. I want to take advantage of any financial literacy resources available in college so I can graduate not only with a degree, but with the tools to manage my future wisely. As someone who aspires to be an architect and a community leader, I know that understanding finances will help me build a sustainable, independent life and eventually, help others do the same. Ultimately, I see financial education as empowerment. The more I understand, the more control I have over my future. And one day, I hope to pass that knowledge on to others, especially within my Hispanic community, to help break cycles of financial hardship and build a future rooted in opportunity, security, and success.

The inspiration for this piece came from my deep fascination with the way nature organizes itself, not through rigid symmetry, but through complex, layered systems that are at once chaotic and intentional. While studying the tangled forms of branches, roots, and stems, I became captivated by the hidden order within what first appears as disorder. In “Flower Roots,” I wanted to capture this contrast, the tension between density and openness, between rigid lines and organic softness, by using fine-line pen work to guide the viewer’s eye through overlapping, dynamic structures, all leading to a moment of clarity: a bloom emerging from the chaos. This central flower represents more than beauty; it stands for growth through adversity, balance through struggle, and the quiet power of perseverance. In many ways, it reflects my own journey through high school. These past four years have been filled with moments of challenge and transformation, both academically and personally. As I developed my artistic identity, I also learned to navigate a demanding schedule of advanced classes, extracurriculars, and community involvement. The process of creating this piece was meticulous, time-consuming, and reflective, yet mirrored that journey. Every mark of the pen felt like a step through the “roots” of my own growth. My passion for visual arts has always been a guiding force. From my early days in Studio Art I to the more advanced challenges of Studio Art III Honors and A.P. Art History, I’ve learned how to think critically about aesthetics, composition, symbolism, and the historical power of visual storytelling. Beyond the classroom, I sought out opportunities to develop my technique and creativity. At The Learning Tree of Arts, I participated in the Accelerated Art Program, where I was encouraged to explore various media and refine my voice as an artist. Over the past two summers, I completed externships at Fanjul Architecture and SV Design, Inc., where I observed real-world applications of design, structure, and problem-solving. From blueprint reviews and master planning to site visits and renovations, I discovered how artistic thinking and architectural precision can come together to shape environments that serve and inspire. These experiences expanded my understanding of how art and architecture reflect the human experience and how they can create spaces for growth, connection, and healing. This theme of growth is something I carry with me in every aspect of my life. As a Cuban-American and a high school student living in Miami, I’m deeply connected to my cultural roots and to the vibrant, natural world that surrounds me. I find comfort and inspiration in tending to my plants, watching them thrive under my care. It’s a small but powerful reminder that beauty and balance often come from slow, patient effort. I also find meaning in advocating for animal protection and nurturing living things, a passion that fuels both my artistic voice and my broader aspirations. “Flower Roots” is ultimately a portrait of becoming. The interwoven lines reflect the layers of my identity as an artist, a student, an emerging designer, and a young woman grounded in her heritage. Each line tells part of the story: the discipline I’ve built as a swimmer on the Varsity team, where I’ve competed and led with focus and resilience; the pride I feel in my academic and creative accomplishments; and the dreams I carry forward into a future where I hope to design spaces that uplift, educate, and connect people, especially children. This piece, like my journey, is not simple. It’s intricate, intentional, and rooted in love for nature, for growth, and for the transformative power of art.

To me, empowerment means having the tools, confidence, and support to take control of your future and uplift others along the way. It is the ability to believe in yourself even when the odds are stacked against you. Empowerment is not just about achieving personal success, it is about using that success to make a difference, create opportunities for others, and challenge limitations placed by society. It is a mindset rooted in resilience, service, and purpose. As a Cuban American born and raised in Miami, I’ve been deeply influenced by my cultural heritage and my family’s story. I’ve heard firsthand accounts of my relatives leaving behind everything they knew in Cuba in search of freedom and opportunity. Their journey was not easy, and their sacrifices are the foundation upon which my future is built. Watching their determination taught me the value of hard work, perseverance, and education. From a young age, I understood that I carry their hopes with me and I’ve used that as fuel to pursue my goals with passion and integrity. Education has always been my gateway to growth. Despite facing the challenges of transitioning from a public to a private archdiocesan school, I’ve never allowed obstacles to define me. Instead, I’ve leaned into every opportunity to better myself, academically, personally, and emotionally. I’ve enrolled in rigorous coursework, from Honors to AP classes, and consistently pushed myself to meet high expectations. I’ve developed leadership skills through my involvement in clubs like Key Club, DECA, and HOSA, eventually earning leadership roles and contributing to community service projects that taught me the importance of giving back. As a four-year varsity swimmer, I learned time management, discipline, and teamwork, skills that have carried over into every area of my life. The support I’ve received along the way, from my family to scholarships like the Family Empowerment Scholarship, has shaped my understanding of empowerment. These resources didn’t just help me succeed, they helped me realize that I could be a source of support for others as well. That realization has shaped my purpose: to use my education, my voice, and my experiences to open doors for others in my community. That purpose is what drives my dream of becoming an architect. I want to design more than just buildings; I want to create spaces that empower people. Whether it’s through designing sustainable, community-centered housing or restoring underfunded public spaces, I see architecture as a way to solve real-world problems while honoring culture and identity. My goal is to be a change maker in my field and a mentor to young Hispanic students, especially girls, who may not always see themselves reflected in leadership roles or professional careers. Empowerment is not a one-time moment, it’s a continuous journey. It’s about stepping into your own potential while also helping others recognize theirs. I believe in the future where Hispanic students are not just educated, but empowered to lead, innovate, and shape a stronger American society. I am committed to that vision because I am living proof of its importance. With every goal I achieve, I hope to inspire someone else to believe that they can too. In the future, I will continue to serve, lead, and advocate for opportunities that elevate my community. Whether I’m designing meaningful spaces or mentoring the next generation, I will carry forward the same drive and purpose that brought me here, empowering others, just as I have been empowered.

An innovative, self-initiated project I developed to support marginalized and underserved populations is The Little Library, a service organization I founded to combat the low literacy rates among young students in low-income communities in Miami-Dade County. The project was born out of my passion for reading and a growing concern after discovering that in 2023, 48% of third graders in the county were reading below proficiency. Research shows that children who do not read at grade level by third grade are four times more likely to drop out of high school. I felt a strong responsibility to act. I started by organizing a Book Drive at Our Lady of Lourdes Academy, encouraging students, faculty, and families to donate new or gently used books for children from pre-K through middle school. To expand my reach, I promoted the initiative through a social media page I created, @thelittlelibrary.olla. Over several months, I collected hundreds of books, which I then sorted by reading level and prepared for distribution. To ensure the books would reach the children who needed them most, I researched local school performance data and discovered that Mater Prep Academy had only a 26% reading proficiency rate. I contacted the school’s administration, shared my mission, and proposed donating books directly to classrooms. The school welcomed the idea, and I coordinated a visit where I delivered crates of books, helped establish mini libraries in multiple classrooms, and read to students during a special literacy event. One of the most rewarding moments was seeing the genuine excitement and joy on the students’ faces—some of whom said they had never owned a book before. To build on the project’s success and secure additional resources, I applied for the Lead4Change Leadership Program and was awarded a $1,500 grant to fund more literacy materials. With this support, I was able to purchase leveled readers, bookmarks, book bins, and classroom supplies that made the libraries more engaging and sustainable. Through The Little Library, I learned how to take initiative, lead a project from the ground up, and engage others in a cause I deeply care about. Most importantly, I witnessed how a simple idea—giving children access to books—can have a profound impact. My goal was not only to provide reading material, but to cultivate a love for reading and help children feel empowered through education. I plan to expand the organization by passing it on to underclassmen at my high school so that its mission can continue to grow. At Virginia Tech, I hope to either join or create a student organization focused on literacy outreach, working with schools and libraries to provide underserved children with the tools they need to succeed. The Little Library showed me that meaningful change begins with a single idea—and the courage to act on it.