I've learned the power of giving back to my community throughout my time in foster care. In addition to improving the lives of others, I have learned priceless lessons from participating in philopatric activities that will help me in my future endeavors. As an adolescent in foster care, I resisted letting my situation define me. I understood that the foster care system needed to change, and I felt strongly obligated to fight for the rights and welfare of other foster children. This prompted me to interact with a range of prominent individuals, including mayors, local officials, and even governors. I have gained insight into the significance of using my voice to promote change as a result of these interactions. Fair Futures, a government agency devoted to empowering foster youth and amplifying their voices, is one significant platform that has supported my advocacy efforts. I have been able to address important issues like child welfare, access to mental health services, and educational opportunities by working with them. My resolve has been further bolstered by working with others who share my passion for improving conditions in foster care. In the future, I intend to carry out my mission of combating the oppressive forces that impede the development and wellbeing of foster children. I've come to understand psychology's enormous potential as a tool for comprehending and resolving the psychological and emotional difficulties people in the foster care system experience. I want to help people who have gone through similar struggles by studying psychology and practicing it. I also want to help people who are struggling myself. In addition, I've come to understand that resilience is a collective force that can bring about long-lasting change rather than just a personal trait. I want to use the resilience that foster kids have to give them the tools they need to stand up for themselves. By telling my story, hosting workshops, and collaborating with organizations, I hope to give foster youth the skills they need to overcome their obstacles and grow into independent adults. In conclusion, I have learned the value of speech and resilience from my psychotherapeutic work in foster care. They have demonstrated to me how the lives of foster children can significantly improve when my voice is combined with the power of a community. I'm determined to pursue psychology as I move forward, to raise the voices of foster youth, and to confront the oppressive structures that contribute to their suffering.

Krismarie Rivera was my eldest sister and quite frankly my heart in human form. Kris was born 2 years before me to our teenage mother living in one of the poorest neighbors in the country, The Bronx. Though our lives were seemingly doomed at the start, Kris always had a smile and shined light even in the darkest moments. Kris enjoyed music and trying new foods. She was the coolest sister ever. I admired her strength and resilience. Krismarie ended her life at the young age of 16 in the worse way possible, by using a semi-automatic pistol. My brother and I were in foster care and she lived miles away in Texas. She died before we could even be reunited and before I can hug her for the last time. Krismarie fought a long, excruciating battle of depression and sexual abuse from our family members who were supposed to guide and protect her. The day Krismarie died was single-handily the worst day of my life. My education is what got me through my sister's death. Kris died when I was entering high school, so I did everything possible to make her proud. I maintained a 97 average, went to college simultaneously, and part took in over 10 extracurriculars a week. I did these things so that when I graduate, she will walk across the stage alongside me. My sister dreamt of becoming a detective and her dreams were snatched away from her, so through education, I will do everything in my power to achieve my goal of practicing clinical psychology. I aspire to break the stigmas of mental health by opening my private practice in marginalized neighborhoods like my own here, in The Bronx, so that youth and adults have equal access for little to no cost. Advocacy is another means of my perseverance through my sister's death. I currently work alongside Fair Futures, a non-profit organization aimed at improving child welfare in foster care. Through Fair Futures, I get to share my sister's story and save hundreds of at-risk youth from committing suicide and self-harm. Utilizing my sister's tragic story of sexual abuse and depression, I can design and implement mental health programs that prevent youth from experiencing sexual trauma and depression as well as offer them therapy to assist in coping with their traumas. Soul Care is a youth-informed, public-private partnership between ACS, and the Mayor's Office of Mental Health that I helped pilot. Soul Care focuses on improving access to mental health treatment and giving youth across New York therapeutic services. Soul Care will officially be launching soon and it is only the beginning of utilizing my education to continue the fight against suicide and above all, showcasing my beautiful sister's life. For people experiencing a sibling loss to suicide, I advise you to reach out to trusted family members, friends, or mental health professionals who can offer a compassionate ear and understanding. There is no "right" or "wrong" way to grieve. Permit yourself to experience a range of emotions, whether it's sadness, anger, guilt, or confusion. It's okay to seek professional help, such as therapy or counseling, to navigate through these complex emotions. Remember to love yourself and put yourself first. You DESERVE the right to live and you will get through this, I love and believe in you. Lastly, honor your sibling by possibly creating a memory box, or participating in suicide prevention or mental health advocacy efforts. Remember, your sibling is living through you! When you feel like giving up, just remember the reason why you held on for so long.

Growing up in the inner city, specifically in the Bronx, has shaped my character and resilience in profound ways. It has been a journey marked by numerous challenges, from racial stigma and prejudice to limited educational opportunities. However, through determination, education, and a commitment to advocacy, I have transcended the statistics and worked towards creating equal representation for Bronx children everywhere. As a child of immigrant parents from the Dominican Republic, I faced the complexities of navigating both my cultural identity and the racial stigmas associated with it. The stereotypes and biases surrounding immigrant families, particularly those from lower-income communities, cast a shadow of doubt on our potential. Many people assumed that because of my background, I would struggle academically and be limited in my aspirations. In addition to the racial stigma, growing up in the poorest section of the Bronx presented its own set of challenges. The lack of equal educational opportunities in our community meant that resources, quality teachers, and advanced courses were scarce. It was disheartening to witness the disparities firsthand, knowing that my peers and I were not being afforded the same chances as students in more affluent areas. Moreover, my Bronx identity was met with skepticism and mockery from those outside my community. People often doubted my intelligence and belittled my achievements, dismissing them as incongruous with their preconceived notions of what a Bronx student could accomplish. I faced prejudice not only based on my background but also on the assumptions associated with my geographical location. However, I refused to let these challenges define me. Education became my beacon of hope, my path to overcoming the limitations imposed by societal biases. I immersed myself in learning, pushing myself academically and taking advantage of any opportunities available to me. I sought out mentors who believed in my potential, and their support and guidance bolstered my confidence. Through education, I not only developed the knowledge and skills necessary to excel academically but also discovered the power of advocacy. I realized that I could challenge the systemic inequalities and fight for equal representation for Bronx children. I engaged in grassroots efforts, collaborating with local organizations to advocate for improved educational resources, mentorship programs, and access to opportunities that would level the playing field. By leveraging my own experiences, I raised awareness about the untapped potential within our community and fought against the narrative that we were limited by our circumstances. I worked to debunk stereotypes, celebrate our achievements, and create a platform for Bronx voices to be heard and recognized. Receiving this scholarship would not only provide financial support for my educational aspirations but also validate the importance of equal representation and advocacy for marginalized communities. It would further empower me to continue fighting for educational equity, breaking down barriers, and challenging the stereotypes that hinder the progress of Bronx children. In conclusion, growing up in the inner city, specifically in the Bronx, presented its share of challenges, including racial stigma, limited educational opportunities, and prejudices associated with my background. However, through education, determination, and advocacy, I have defied expectations, transcended statistics, and fought for equal representation. I am committed to ensuring that Bronx children have access to the same opportunities as their counterparts in more privileged areas. This scholarship would propel me forward on my journey of advocacy and inspire others to overcome their circumstances through education.

Disney holds a special place in my heart, and its magic has influenced me in countless ways. From the captivating storytelling to the enchanting characters, my favorite thing about Disney is its ability to ignite imagination and inspire dreams. Disney creates immersive worlds that transport me to a realm where anything is possible. The meticulously crafted stories, vibrant animations, and memorable characters combine to create a captivating experience that transcends age and time. Whether it's the timeless classics like "The Lion King" and "Beauty and the Beast," or the modern masterpieces like "Frozen" and "Moana," each Disney film carries a unique blend of heart, humor, and profound life lessons. As a child, Disney films served as a gateway to a world of endless imagination. They sparked my creativity, allowed me to dream beyond the confines of reality, and nurtured my belief in the extraordinary. Through the colorful characters and their transformative journeys, I learned the importance of resilience, courage, and the power of love and friendship. Disney has also instilled in me a deep appreciation for the art of storytelling. From the meticulous attention to detail in the animation to the carefully crafted narratives, Disney films exemplify the power of storytelling to touch hearts, provoke emotions, and ignite change. It has taught me the impact that well-crafted narratives can have on individuals and societies, inspiring me to explore storytelling as a means of communication and connection. Beyond the films, Disney theme parks are a testament to the company's commitment to creating immersive and magical experiences. Stepping into a Disney park is like entering a realm where dreams come true. The attention to detail, the immersive environments, and the unwavering dedication to customer service create an atmosphere where worries fade away, and pure joy takes center stage. It's a place where people of all ages can let their inner child roam free and experience the magic firsthand. To me, Disney represents more than just entertainment; it embodies values that resonate with my own. Disney teaches the importance of kindness, compassion, and staying true to oneself. It celebrates diversity, encourages individuality, and emphasizes the power of embracing one's unique qualities. Disney films and characters have become a source of inspiration and encouragement, reminding me to believe in myself and to pursue my dreams with unwavering determination. Receiving this scholarship would not only help me achieve my educational goals but also allow me to continue immersing myself in the magic of Disney. I aspire to contribute to the world of storytelling, using the lessons and inspiration I've gleaned from Disney to create meaningful and impactful narratives. Whether it's through filmmaking, writing, or other artistic endeavors, I want to share the joy, wonder, and important life lessons that Disney has imparted to me. In conclusion, my favorite thing about Disney is its ability to ignite imagination, inspire dreams, and provide a refuge from the challenges of everyday life. It represents a world where anything is possible and teaches important values that resonate with me deeply. Through this scholarship, I hope to continue embracing the magic of Disney, using it as a catalyst to create meaningful and transformative experiences for others. Thank you for considering my application.

Let me tell you about Ms. Gusti, a remarkable high school teacher who had an immeasurable impact on my life and completely transformed my perspective. Ms. Gusti was not just an ordinary teacher; she was my beacon of hope, my unwavering support, and my guiding light during some of the most challenging times in my life. As a special education teacher, Ms. Gusti's role extended far beyond the classroom. She became my confidante, my advocate, and my pillar of strength. She saw beyond my struggles with poverty, my mother's drug abuse, and the battles I fought with my mental health. With compassion and understanding, she provided a safe space for me to express my fears and frustrations. Amid an abusive period in foster care, Ms. Gusti taught me the true value of life. She showed me that even in the darkest moments, there is strength within us to rise above the circumstances and fight for a better future. Through her unwavering belief in me, she instilled in me a profound sense of self-worth and resilience. Ms. Gusti taught me the power of self-belief. She reminded me that no matter what others may think or say, I can define my worth and shape my destiny. She encouraged me to embrace my strengths and passions, nurturing my talents and reminding me that I had the power to achieve my dreams. Beyond the academic lessons, Ms. Gusti taught me life skills that continue to guide me to this day. She taught me the importance of perseverance, empathy, and compassion. Through her actions, she showed me what it truly means to be a caring and dedicated individual, not only for oneself but for others as well. Ms. Gusti's impact on my life is immeasurable. She helped me find my voice, my purpose, and the strength to overcome the seemingly insurmountable obstacles that life threw at me. Her belief in me when no one else did changed the trajectory of my life and gave me the courage to pursue my dreams. Today, as I navigate my journey, I carry the invaluable lessons Ms. Gusti taught me. I fight for the right to live, and I believe in myself even when nobody else does. Her unwavering support and belief in me have become the foundation on which I build my life, and for that, I am forever grateful. Ms. Gusti, thank you for being my guiding star and teaching me the power of resilience and self-belief.