My name is Naomi Mendoza and being a first-generation, Mexican-American college student means more than just earning an education or a degree, it’s about breaking barriers, rewriting history, and creating a future that once felt impossible in my community. I carry more than my braind when I walk onto campus, I also carry my mother’s hopes, sacrifices, and dreams she once had too. That’s more than enough to fuel my passion every single day. Growing up, I watched my mother work tirelessly, often putting her needs aside so my brother and I could have opportunities she never had. My mother, like many immigrants, believed in the promise of a better future, even when it wasn’t promised to them. She taught me the value of hard work, resilience, and humility. Moreover, teaching me that education was the key to unlocking doors our community had been shut out from for generations. I was more motivated. As a Mexican-American, I’ve seen firsthand how systemic barriers can limit access to healthcare, education, and basic resources in our neighborhoods. I’ve lived in communities where going to college is considered rare, where dreams are often set aside for survival, and going to straight to work is routine. That is why my journey isn’t just for me, it’s for every little girl who feels unseen, for every family who wonders if the sacrifices are worth it. I’m here to show them that they are. My passion comes from knowing that I am proof of what is possible. I’m not just earning a degree in Information Systems, I’m creating a ripple effect for those coming behind me. I want to be the reason someone else believes they can do it too. I want to be a role model. I want to inspire other young women that going to college is worth it. Every late night studying, every challenge I’ve overcome, and every doubt is only a reminder of how far I’ve come. Being first-generation means I’ve had to learn everything on my own, with no guidance, from navigating financial aid to balancing school, work, and family responsibilities. However, those struggles gave me strength. They made me adaptable, resourceful, and deeply committed to success, not just for myself, but for my community. I want to use my education to drive meaningful change, especially for underserved communities. Whether it’s through data analytics, technology, or social impact work, my goal is to make systems more equitable and inclusive. I want to bridge the gap between where we are and where we deserve to be. At the heart of it all, my passion comes from love, for my culture, my family, and the future I’m building. I’m proud of my roots and everything they represent. Being Mexican-American means carrying the warmth, strength, and spirit of my heritage and culture into every space I enter. Being first-generation means I get to honor that legacy by paving a new path with guidance. So yes, I’m passionate about being a first-generation, Mexican-American college graduate because it’s a symbol of possibility. It’s a declaration that we belong in every room, every board meeting, every leadership role. It fuels my passion even more if my journey can inspire just one person to believe in themselves, then every step has been worth it. Thank you for considering me.

My name is Naomi Mendoza, and I am a first-generation college student pursuing a bachelor's degree in Information Systems at the University of Texas at Arlington. Growing up in an immigrant household where Spanish was the only language spoken at home and financial challenges were a constant obstacle, I quickly learned that education was not just an opportunity, but a responsibility for my family. My single mother worked tirelessly to keep her children at school, often sacrificing her own needs to ensure I had a chance for a better future. I remember one time she sold all her jewelry to be able to purchase dinner and make sure we were fed. Witnessing her overcome obstacles instilled in me a strong sense of resilience and a desire to create lasting change, not only for myself but for others in similar situations like mine. As an Information Systems student, I have developed a passion for leveraging data and technology to address real-world challenges. My goal is to become a data analyst after graduation and eventually work in roles that combine technology with social good. I am not just tied down to data analyst, as the field is constantly growing to other roles. I am particularly interested in using analytics to support organizations focused on community development, and education access. I believe that every number tells a story, and with the right tools and people, we can harness data to uncover insights that lead to smarter decisions and better outcomes, especially for communities that are often overlooked. What drives me most is the opportunity to give back. I have witnessed how limited access to technology and digital skills can hinder progress for many in my community, particularly low-income and immigrant families. I want to change that. I remember being one of those kids in school who felt behind. One of my long-term aspirations is to launch a program offering free tech and digital literacy workshops to students and families in underserved areas. Even financial literacy, due to growing up watching my mother in debt. Additionally, I hope to mentor high school students who may not see a clear path to college, especially young Latinas who may feel underrepresented in the tech industry. For me, success is not solely about personal achievements; it’s about how many people I can uplift along the way. I have come this far because others believed in me, and now I want to extend that support to others. Whether through sharing my story, volunteering my time, or using my future skills to help nonprofits expand their impact, I am dedicated to being a positive force in my community. All that I do, I carry my roots with me. My culture, my mother's sacrifices, and the challenges I have faced have shaped who I am and who I aspire to be. I am excited about the journey ahead and even more eager to use what I learn to create meaningful change where it is needed most. Thank you for considering me.

After graduating, my main career goal is to work in the field of data analytics, helping organizations make better, smarter decisions through data. I’ve always been interested in the way data can tell a story—how numbers can reveal patterns, expose gaps, and drive real change. I want to be part of that process, using my skills to help companies not only grow, but also work more efficiently and build myself up. As a first-generation college student and a Latina in the tech industry, I’m especially motivated to bring a fresh perspective to the field. I do find myself having imposter syndrome but I know how important diverse voices are still underrepresented in data and technology, and I want to be part of the wave that’s changing that. Growing up, this career didn’t seem achievable because it is so male-dominated, that made it harder to dream. That is why representation matters, especially when it comes to how data is interpreted and used. I want to make sure that the systems and solutions being built are inclusive, and that people from all backgrounds are considered in the process without being left out of any ideas or projects. To reach my goals, I’ve been intentional about the experiences I’m gaining while in school. I chose to major in Information Systems because I wanted a balance between business knowledge and technical skills. I’ve taken courses in data visualization, database management, and analytics, and each one has confirmed that this is the right path for me. I’m also focusing on building up my technical skills in tools like SQL, Excel, and Python. I know that in this field, staying current with technology is essential, so I make time outside of class to learn and practice through tutorials, projects, and certifications. One resource I love to use is YouTube. Networking and mentorship are also important parts of my plan. I’ve been connecting with professionals through LinkedIn, attending career fairs, and talking with professors and advisors who can point me in the right direction. Moreover, I joined a program called Management Leadership for Tomorrow where it represents minorities in the career world. They separate it by segments and I am in corporate management which aligns with gaining professional skills as a first-generation. I believe that learning from others—especially those who have already navigated the path I’m on—is one of the smartest ways to grow. I’m also hoping to get an internship before I graduate, ideally with a company where I can apply what I’ve learned in class to real-world problems. Long-term, I’d like to work as a data analyst or any other analyst position, and eventually grow into a leadership role where I can mentor other young professionals, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds and women of color. I want to create a space where others like me can thrive in tech and analytics too without feeling out of place. I’m also open to industries that align with my values, such as human resources, sustainability, or public service. I want my work to have meaning. I know success isn’t just about making a good living—it’s also about doing work that makes a difference. Ultimately, I see my career as more than just a job—it’s a way to honor the sacrifices my single mother has made and to open doors for others. I’m proud of where I come from, and I’m excited about where I’m going. With hard work, continuous learning, and a strong sense of purpose, I know I can achieve the goals I’ve set for myself.

My name is Naomi Mendoza, and I’m a first-generation college student at the University of Texas at Arlington, majoring in Information Systems. Being part of a Hispanic immigrant family has deeply shaped the way I see the world, how I approach challenges, and what I value most in life. Growing up in a Mexican household, I was raised with strong values and morals about education. One of the biggest ways my background has influenced me is in how I view opportunity. I come from a family where hard work isn’t optional—it’s necessary. Hard work is all I know and quite frankly, it is what was recommended to me growing up. My mother taught me what sacrifice looks like. Growing up I watched her put her own needs aside for her two kids and that gave me a sense of determination that I carry with me every day. Once example was seeing her sell her own jewelry to be able to buy us food and make sure we are fed. We didn’t have a lot growing up, so most things were luxurious to us such as healthcare. But instead of seeing that as something to complain about, I see it as a foundation and where my pursuit for something bigger came. It gave me a deeper sense of appreciation for everything I have in life even the smallest things. Culturally, family is everything to me. Family to me was my mother. She is all in one. She is my mother, cousin, and tia. That collective sense of love and support that she gave me taught me the importance of helping others and staying connected to your roots. Thanks to her, I’ve learned to be resourceful and empathetic, because I know what it feels like to not have much and still find joy in the little things. That mindset has also helped me work better in teams and be more understanding of people from different walks of life. Being Hispanic has also opened my eyes to the inequalities that still exist. I’ve seen how language barriers, immigration status, and income can affect people’s access to basic needs. That awareness has pushed me to want more than just a good job—it’s made me want to make an impact. Not only that, it makes me want to help others. I’ve chosen to study Information Systems because I see how technology can be a tool for equity. For example even using data to solve real-world problems, I want to be part of solutions that help underserved communities move forward. Sometimes, being part of two cultures—Mexican at home and American outside—has felt like walking on a thin line. But now I see it as a strength. I’ve learned how to adapt, how to communicate across different worlds, and how to stay true to who I am while still growing in places where I never imagined myself. That duality has shaped me into someone who can navigate diverse environments and bring a unique perspective to any space I enter.

My name is Naomi Mendoza and I am a first-generation college student pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Information Systems at the University of Texas at Arlington. Aside from my educational background, I was raised my a single mother, one who in my eyes, is the strongest, kindest, most loving person in the world. My mother sacrificed everything to give me a chance of a life she never had. Growing up, I saw her face many challenges, struggling with language barrier in a country she is not from, working overtime, and doing whatever it took to provide for me. There is one moment that will always stick to me: the time she sold her jewelry just so she could buy me food. She never let me go without it, even if it meant she did. My mother doesn’t speak English and this made it difficult for her to understand the school system in America, but she still made sure I was in school and kept the highest grades. She believed in me. Her strength and love for my education is one of the main reasons I have came this far. Everything I have achieved and accomplished is hers too. Coming from this household has taught me the true meaning of resilience. The resilience that has been applied to me by applying for college, financial aid, scholarships, classes, networking events, etc. It has not been easy navigating these challenges but it has shaped me into a person that wants more. I plan to use my education and experiences to give back to my community. Being a Latina woman in a STEM field, is definitely isolating and I know that feeling where your the only one that looks different. Where you feel that you don’t belong. But that is not true. My goal is to become a mentor to other first- generation students and young women who are interested in the STEM field, specifically the tech industry. I want to prove that it is possible to break barriers and to overcome them. I want to create spaces where workshops and mentoring programs take place. A place of belongingness. My mother gave me that opportunity to keep dreaming and never stop reaching my goals. I plan to use that opportunity to uploft others in the same position as me. Real success comes from a struggle and being able to look back and helps others out of there. The impact I want to make is further than just my career— it is a change on my community. I believe in them as my mother did in me.

Being a first-generation and proud latina woman pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Information Systems, my journey in the STEM field has not been as easy. Often times Information Systems is overlooked in the STEM field, however, it is a degree that combines technology and business— which I am passionate about. Other than being overlooked, it faces many misconceptions which makes it difficult to receive the same support and recognition offered to other STEM majors. Throughout my college time, I have faced many challenges that have tested my resilience, patience, and determination. Not to mention, believing in myself. Being one of the few latin-american woman in my classes, it has been empowering yet isolating. I have experienced imposter syndrome, where I have questioned if I belong in the same room as others. I have questioned whether I should be reaching for this degree. However, at the same time, these moments of weakness and doubt have only strengthened my belief of breaking barriers and setting a standard for women as the same background as me. Financial challenges is another obstacle. As someone from an immigrant, low-income household, tuition fees have taken a toll on my family and I. This obstacle has left me in moments where I have to choose work over my education. I have had to turn down opportunities such as school activities due to working full-time. As a result, last fall semester, it took a huge toll on me and my grades reflected that. These sacrifices of working, have only made me stronger and I want to continue to pursue my career. Receiving this generous scholarship will be life-changing and help me tremendously. It will allow me to not work full- time and be able to have all my attention towards my education where I take 18 hours a semester. Moreover, receiving this scholarship will help me take opportunities and any internships in the near future— all essential steps to succeeding in my field. Other than my career goals, my personal goals align with my path. I am planning on always giving back to the community that have supported me and made me believe in myself. I plan to be a mentor for other first generation latinas in STEM, helping them navigate the same challenges I faced with confidence. Without being afraid to fail. Representation matters and I plan to do that. This scholarship is more than just financial relief— it is a step to my future and investment in it. With your support, I can continue growing and break barriers.

Growing up in a first-generation immigrant family, college was never considered a priority; working and earning a paycheck was more valuable than education. This mindset in my household was shaped by survival and sacrifice: you work hard, provide for your family, and don’t take risks. It was an ongoing cycle, one that is hard to see your in unless you are out. Going to college or pursuing something further than just a full-time job felt like a luxury we couldn’t afford, not just financially, but mentally and emotionally. I was trapped in self-limiting beliefs. Being a first-generation college student has completely shifted my perspective on what’s possible. It wasn't until my high school graduation where I saw my experience was different but not rare. I saw the cycle and decided to break it. Going to college wasn't just pursuing my career, it meant opportunities for growth, financial stability, and a stable home. My identity has made me more empathetic, more determined, and more aware of the barriers that exist for others like me. I realized taking that big step not only proves I can do it but it shows that other first-generation students can take it too. Navigating college with impostor syndrome has taught me resilience, resourcefulness, and the importance of a community. I see myself as someone ready to take the next steps and sit in places I never imagined myself to.