My Asian American background holds a deep significance in my life, shaping my identity and influencing my aspirations. Growing up in a household that values tradition and education, I have learned the importance of resilience and cultural heritage. My parents adopted me into this country with dreams of better opportunities for me, instilling in me a strong work ethic and a commitment to my studies. My mom’s experiences, filled with challenges and triumphs, have inspired me to embrace my heritage while also striving for success in a diverse society. Even though I may not know my biological family, I can sense their influence on me everyday. Being Asian American means navigating the delicate balance between two cultures. I cherish the rich traditions and values of my heritage, but I also find joy in the multifaceted experiences of being part of a broader American landscape. This duality has cultivated my ability to adapt, appreciate diversity, and foster inclusivity. I have come to realize that my background provides me with a unique perspective, equipping me to engage thoughtfully with different viewpoints and communities. Pursuing higher education is a natural extension of my background. I view it as an opportunity to expand my knowledge, challenge my boundaries, and ultimately give back to my community. I aspire to be a voice and helping hand for those who have the inspiration to achieve great things in a limited environment, using my education as a platform to advocate for equity and understanding. Higher education represents empowerment. It is a chance to deepen my understanding of the world, engage in meaningful discussions, and develop solutions to the issues that affect us all. I hope to pursue an education in Computer science and Business. I will use the time and experience gained to launch myself into the world and my career. I will start my own company and create the best solutions for people's lives. I want to specialize in using computers, engineering, and business to prioritize making life safer, easier, and more productive. I will formulate a great team in which we will create our products and services. With our skills we will change the world to make it a better place. In essence, my Asian American background is a source of strength and motivation that fuels my desire for higher education. I am committed to learning, growing, and contributing positively to society while honoring the people that have shaped me into who I am today.

As I reflect on my academic and professional goals, I realize they are deeply intertwined with my values and commitment to the community. My primary academic goal is to pursue a degree in Computer science and business. This field not only fascinates me but also aligns with my desire to address issues such as disaster recovery and work inefficiencies. By acquiring a solid foundation in software development, hardware design, and entrepreneurship, I aim to contribute to innovative solutions that can mitigate the challenges humanity faces. Professionally, I aspire to work for organizations that focus on creating innovative solutions, whether they are non-profits, governmental agencies, or private sector firms that prioritize providing the best service. I hope to take on roles that will allow me to influence project management or lead community-based initiatives, ensuring that solving problems with the best solutions is a core consideration in development projects. My long-term vision includes establishing a nonprofit dedicated to STEM education and empowering local communities with the knowledge and resources they need to explore the latest advancements in STEM. Giving back to my community has always been a priority for me. I have volunteered regularly with local environmental groups, participating in feeding in-need members of my community for 6 years and serving those who served our country for 12. These experiences not only helped beautify my community but also educated children and adults alike about the importance of giving back. These community engagements have profoundly inspired me. They solidified my belief that change begins with ordinary people like me who do extraordinary things that make a significant difference when they come together with a common purpose. I've witnessed firsthand how small actions lead to monumental changes; for example, giving food at my church was not just a meal but also fostered a sense of pride and responsibility among participants and gave a sense of community to people who may not have that. Moreover, these experiences have taught me about resilience. Working on community projects often involves facing challenges—limited resources, and differing opinions. However, overcoming these hurdles has shown me the importance of perseverance and adaptability, qualities I consider essential in making a meaningful difference in our world. Through both my academic and professional pursuits, I aim to create a ripple effect of positive change. By engaging with my community and promoting social awareness, I believe I can inspire others to take action, leading to a collective effort that addresses some of our most pressing issues. In a world that often feels overwhelming, I find motivation in the belief that even incremental changes can contribute significantly to a healthier people and a more just society. In this way, my goals are not solely personal; they are a commitment to making a lasting impact on the world around me.

I have always been drawn to STEM since I was young, feeling a spark that connected me to this field. My goal is to create innovative software and hardware solutions that enhance people's lives. Throughout my life, I have faced various challenges, including my parents' separation due to an unhealthy relationship and overcoming Asian stereotypes. Instead of fully accepting or rejecting these stereotypes, I have chosen to redefine them by becoming an example of breaking the mold. Additionally, I have grown mentally stronger as a result of navigating the difficulties surrounding my parents' separation. Growing up, I was often told that I was expected to excel in math and science because of my Asian heritage. While this expectation may have been well-intentioned, it also created a sense of pressure and limited my perceived potential when I was young. I was seen as an individual only assumed to succeed in a narrow range of fields. However, I refused to be confined by these stereotypes. I chose to explore my passions and interests, and I discovered that my true strengths lay in my creativity, problem-solving skills, and ability to think outside the box. My experiences have taught me the importance of perseverance and resilience. When my parents separated, I was forced to adapt to a new and challenging environment. I had to navigate the complexities of a broken family and find ways to cope with the emotional turmoil that came with it. However, I refused to let my circumstances define me. Instead, I used them as an opportunity to grow and learn. I developed a strong sense of self-reliance and resourcefulness, which has served me well in my academic and professional pursuits. My passion for STEM is not just about creating innovative solutions; it's also about using my skills to make a positive impact on society. I believe that technology has the power to transform lives and communities, and I want to be a part of that transformation. I envision a future where technology is used to bridge the gap between different communities, to provide access to education and healthcare, and to create opportunities for economic growth and development. Throughout my journey, I have been inspired by the stories of others who have broken down barriers and achieved greatness in the face of adversity. I am motivated by the desire to be a role model for others, to show them that they too can overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams. I believe that my unique perspective and experiences bring a valuable asset to the STEM community, and I am excited to contribute to the next generation of innovators and leaders. Ultimately, my goal is to create a lasting impact in the world of STEM. I want to be remembered not just for my achievements, but for the positive difference I made in the lives of others. I am confident that my passion, perseverance, and creativity will enable me to achieve my goals and make a meaningful contribution to society.

STEM has always been a gateway into the future for me. From a young age, I knew that STEM was the specialty in which I belonged. My passion for STEM extends beyond mere interest; it is fueled by a strong ambition and an unwavering drive to make a difference in the world. Throughout my academic journey, I have engaged in numerous projects that challenge my intellect and allow me to apply my skills in practical ways. Each project serves as a stepping stone, reinforcing my commitment to using technology and science to solve real-world problems. One of the most impactful projects I undertook involved developing a sanitizing tool designed to help serve medical aid in a variety of situations and could be deployed quickly anywhere in the world. Observing the challenges faced by traditional sanitizing methods during the pandemic, I saw an opportunity to create a platform that would quickly clean skin and other surfaces without touching them to not disturb the area, ensuring that cleaned skin areas could heal without interruption. This experience demonstrated not only my capability to innovate but also the tangible effects of applying STEM principles to improve people's lives. Moreover, my determination to achieve is driven by an understanding that education in STEM is foundational for addressing the pressing issues of our time—be it climate change, healthcare disparities, or technological inequalities. I actively seek out challenges that push the boundaries of my knowledge, whether it's participating in science fairs, collaborating on research projects, or engaging in coding collaborations. Each experience adds to my understanding of how STEM fields interconnect and how, together, they can create solutions that matter. I believe that my future education in STEM will equip me with the advanced tools and knowledge necessary to pursue my dreams. I am eager to explore areas such as artificial intelligence and biotechnology, fields that hold incredible potential for innovation and problem-solving. I envision a future where I can contribute to breakthroughs that enhance quality of life, empower communities, and promote sustainability. It is this vision, fueled by my ambition and drive, that motivates me to embrace the challenges that lie ahead. In essence, my passion for STEM is not just about personal achievement; it is deeply rooted in a genuine desire to improve lives and address global challenges. I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead, and I am committed to pursuing an education that will allow me to turn my aspirations into reality. Together, I believe we can harness the power of STEM to create a brighter and more equitable future.

My goals in computer science center around using my skills in software programming to create impactful educational tools for children. I am passionate about helping them engage with subjects like math, finance, and engineering through interactive and fun projects. I believe that by making learning enjoyable, we can inspire a new generation of thinkers and problem solvers. In terms of my non-computer science goals, I am focused on community development and education equity. I want to ensure that all children, regardless of their background, have access to the best resources they need to succeed. As a lead programmer and designer on my robotics team, I realized my potential in computer science and engineering. By combining my interests in education and technology, I hope to develop applications that can empower kids to take charge of their learning and build essential life skills. I also have a strong connection to engineering as my talent for solving problems by building solutions has powered me my whole life. In 2023, I competed with my school's SkillsUSA team in the engineering challenge. In this, we designed a prototype medical device that allowed surfaces and deep wounds to be sanitized without physical contact. We won third place in the competition and that was when I realized the extent of my skills and how close I was to making a creation that could solve real-world problems. Our prototype was aimed to be able to be easily replicated and shipped to support rescue missions around the world. I believe that my solutions will have the ability to impact people's everyday lives for the better. Looking to the future, I envision starting my own software company dedicated to funding and supporting community education projects. By creating engaging software solutions that captivate young minds, I aim to generate profits that can be reinvested in programs that promote learning and development in underserved areas. This synergy of computer science and community impact drives my ambition and defines my career path, ultimately helping to create a brighter future for children everywhere. I also see myself working with a team to create other life-changing equipment to improve many people's lives. These experiences have greatly shaped my knowledge and understanding of computer software and its potential impact on people. I can see my work creating an impact on everyday lives and making profound improvements. I hope to use my skills to empower the next generation and create a smarter future planet.

Being raised in a single-parent household has profoundly shaped my identity and aspirations. My mother’s strength and determination were foundational in teaching me the value of resilience. The way she managed my family's social lives with hers and kept her finances flawless while still being an attentive parent instilled in me a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for the sacrifices that come with raising a family alone. I learned early on the importance of self-sufficiency and the power of connection. Watching her overcome challenges inspired me to face my hurdles with determination and hope. These upbringing experiences have shaped my future goals in significant ways. In exploring the computer science field deeper, I envision a life dedicated to serving others and giving back to my community. Even though I don’t have a specific job title in mind yet, I am motivated by the desire to uplift those around me, particularly underprivileged children. I see myself channeling my talent for art and writing into meaningful moments that spark creativity. Imagine a future where I establish an organization focused on providing educational resources and creative opportunities for children who may not have access to such programs. I see myself organizing art workshops, storytelling sessions, and mentorship initiatives, creating spaces where kids can explore their talents. I hope to also use my skills in the computer science field to increase the speed, range, and effectiveness of education through software. My goal is to empower them to find their voices and realize their potential through math, engineering, art, and creativity. In this envisioned future, I can create a community model rocket launch station that can allow children to share their stories visually—transforming their challenges into powerful expressions of hope and resilience. I imagine working with schools to integrate healthy finance practices into the curriculum, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to improve their situation in the best way. By building a supportive environment, I hope to spark a love for learning that transcends barriers just like I did. Ultimately, the values instilled in me through my upbringing—ambition, perseverance, and a commitment to community—will guide my journey. As I navigate my future, I am driven by the belief that even small actions can create ripples of change. Whether through math, writing, or outreach programs, I aspire to inspire others, just as my family and community had inspired me. Though the details of my path are still unfolding, I am confident it will be anchored in my desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others.

I have made many innovative and self-initiated projects over my high school career. One time I teamed with some of my friends for an engineering project. In school, I am a part of the SkillsUSA club and competed in one of the engineering challenges with a team of my friends. We started by thinking of something to make that has a real-world use that can solve a problem. As we were researching, we found some interesting data about how non-destructive sanitation can significantly increase the health of people in medical emergencies. This could also reduce the recovery time of patients. So we decided at the beginning of the school year that we wanted to make a Cold Plasma Torch (CPT). We wanted to do this because we realized this tool could be very useful in medical emergencies where surfaces or deep wounds need to be cleaned without touching the object to cause more damage. Our tool was also intended to be able to be built and set up anywhere in the world using local materials or an easily shippable version. We also wanted to make our design accessible to anyone by simplifying every part. We did this by making a prototype of the device using only easily obtainable store-bought tools and materials. This solution is better than UV light because the CPT can clean an area much faster than waiting for light to reach every spot for a long enough time on the surface. The CPT is different than normal plasma because it is significantly lower temperature than other ways of making plasma. Our CPT works by electrifying a gas that is then pressured out of the chamber onto the surface. This means that the gas carries the energy of the electricity and oxygen to the bacteria to then react with their bodies and stop them from spreading and causing damage. We gathered more information about our design and compared it to other products. This would eventually take our prototype to the competition and win third place. My friends and I are working on releasing the designs to the public so that this life-saving technology can be used where people need it most. We want this device to be deployed promptly to serve as rescue aid in natural disasters, battlefield operations, and hospitals. We also want to refine the final design to be more portable and easier to operate. I hope that this device will be available soon to save lives.

I am glad that I have been able to discover these amazing fields and skills at a young age to start making an impact faster and earlier. My grandpa has been a big inspiration for me as he has helped me become the person I am and showed me who I want to be like in the future. I have had a natural talent of being good at understanding locations and the space around me. I have always had a talent for recognizing geographical locations since I was a child. I remember always knowing where I was by taking a single look at a map and memorizing mental landmarks along the journey. I have also always exceled at geography quizzes in school. I've always enjoyed learning new things and new discoveries in my fields of interest. This is also part of why I love computer science and software development. I started to get into programming in 7th grade when I discovered a web editor that allowed me to use HTML, CSS, and JS. This was monumental for me it allowed me to show my ideas on a new medium almost like an art piece. This discovery lead me to self teach my self how to use these programming languages and be exposed to math that was advanced but interesting. This is also when I saw the beauty of math I didn't fully understand as I knew there was massive potential when I did understand it. I would later learn more about different languages and development software like Visual Studio, VS Code, unity, and others. I would later start to combine my engineering skills with my programming to make software empowered mechanics and video games. With this knowledge I continued in high school to dive into languages like python, C#, C++, x86ASM, solidity, java, flutter, etc. To me there is always something new to discover to use to make a better idea. I love to try new technologies and learn about how I can use them to make a more useful tool. I always want to make tools that allow people to make their lives easier, better, and faster. My grandpa is a Vietnam War veteran and has been an important figure in forming who I am today. He served in the army as an infantry operator and intelligence specialist. He was honorably discharged on May 16 1968 as a sergeant of the 5th battalion in the 6th infantry division at Fort Campbell. He is the man who instils the values of strength, endurance, and intellect. I am thankful to have my grandpa to guide me and serve his country. I am glad that I can use my skills to make new tools that will help people live better lives. I hope to always make progress and share my success with the world.

There were many times when my family or I needed to conserve and persevere through a challenge. I have learned to be able to self discipline myself to not get distracted or tempted to do anything other than the goal given. The ability to have the strength to stay on track is important in life and I see the significance of this skill in my life compared to those who don't. I plan on using my life experience of focusing on the goal to make a positive impact by creating an education plan for people to learn how to focus and operate effectively in a constrained environment. I have been able to make progress towards my goals by knowing enough about myself in order to create the best path for me to take so I don't get distracted. I have managed my time and made a way for me to measure my success to also help me reach my goals. Overall there are many methods I use in order to keep myself on track and always making progress to complete my goals.

I am a first-generation immigrant to the US as an adopted Chinese person. I was also born with a cleft lip which is a medical condition where the lip is underdeveloped after birth. Over time I have gained an interesting perspective on how people perceive physical abnormalities, being in a single-parent household, and being adopted across different ages of audiences. My mom has been an important part of my life by always being my support when I need it. She has given me the life lessons to grow up and make the best decisions. She was also the person to pushed me to pursue a major. My sister is one of the best people to things through with as she can help me understand new perspectives on issues. Some of my interests include computer programming, researching math theories, filmmaking and cinema, aerospace engineering, bowling, and 3D printing. In my free time, I enjoy learning about new technologies, writing my novel/ screenplay, programming, and creating solutions to problems I see in my life or many other people's lives. I think that I need the right amount of physical, mental, and social capital to find success in my goals. I also think that thriving in life means being satisfied with yourself and your accomplishments and being able to live your life comfortably. I believe that maintaining a balance of all aspects of myself is important to achieving my goals. I plan on studying web and software development or a computer science equivalent in college. I have loved the idea of being able to make anything I want on a computer with the skill of computer programming. I first started programming when I discovered a web tool that made it easy for me to start on my own in 7th grade. I hope that this scholarship will help propel me significantly in my academic career. This would reduce the entry barrier to knowledge that I will obtain through college.

I have experienced many situations where mental health has shaped my goals, relationships, and my understanding of the world. Its value has also become more apparent as I get older as well. I've now used my people skills to improve many people's mental health and state of mind. My experience with mental health has shaped my goals by making me look deeper within myself and analyze myself from my core characteristics onward. This has helped me significantly by allowing me to make smarter choices because of the level of detail I know myself. I've used this resource over time to prioritize my goals and combine its effects to achieve great outcomes. I have also had experience with mental health within my relationships with close relatives and new people I meet. I have used my knowledge about myself to guide my family members through tough emotional times. I have also sparked joy in people I meet when volunteering at a variety of events. I have used my positive energy to help many people I've come across. Finally, I have combined my knowledge over my whole life and used it to create the best impact I can to support those who need it most. My understanding of mental health has changed over time. Just a few years before, I did not think much about mental health and thought of it as a distraction, but now I know how powerful of a tool it can be to guide people through any situation. In the end, my journey with exploring mental health has helped me significantly by helping me achieve a grounded approach to situations and make the best decisions to achieve desired outcomes.