To me, "paying it forward" is about creating a chain of kindness that doesn’t just stop with you. When someone does something good for you, instead of just repaying them, you take that goodness and extend it to someone else who might need it. It’s like tossing a pebble into a pond—one small gesture can create waves that touch countless others. What I find so special about this idea is that it’s not about expecting anything back; it’s about doing good simply because you can. One experience where someone paid it forward to me that I’ll never forget happened during my first semester of college. Honestly, I was drowning in stress. Being the first person in my family to go to college and having to figure out how to pay for it on my own created this intense pressure. I was balancing part-time work and a full course load, and it felt like I was constantly one step away from falling apart. I started wondering if I’d be able to handle it all. Then, out of nowhere, I heard from a mentor I had back in high school. We hadn’t kept in touch regularly, so her message was unexpected. She had been in a similar situation when she went to college—working, managing finances, and trying to stay on top of everything. She told me that during her time, someone had stepped up to help her, and now she wanted to pass that on to me. She didn’t owe me anything, but she went out of her way to support me in so many ways. She offered me advice on how to juggle my schedule, helped me navigate financial aid options I didn’t even know about, and even introduced me to some internship opportunities that could help me down the road. She became this unexpected lifeline during a time when I felt like I was sinking. And it wasn’t just practical help—she’d check in on me emotionally, reminding me to take care of myself, which was something I wasn’t doing very well at the time. One memory that really stands out was just before finals week. She sent me this long, thoughtful email filled with advice on how to study effectively, what kinds of snacks would help me stay energized, and just a lot of encouragement. It was a small act of kindness, but it made a huge impact on me. Knowing that someone was looking out for me, even from a distance, gave me the motivation to push through when I wasn’t sure if I could. The part that struck me the most was that she wasn’t helping me because she wanted something in return. She did it because she remembered how it felt to be in my shoes, and she wanted to lighten my load, just like someone had done for her. That experience changed how I think about supporting others. I realized that paying it forward isn’t always about big, grand gestures. Sometimes it’s about the small things—listening when someone needs to vent, offering advice, or simply being there for someone when they’re struggling. What that mentor did for me will always be a part of my story. It’s a reminder that the little things we do for each other can have a huge impact, even if we don’t always see it. Now, whenever I get the chance, I try to do for others what she did for me—paying it forward in the hope that it will inspire others to do the same.

Why am I a fan of LeBron James? Well, for starters, it’s like being a fan of the entire Marvel universe, except all the superheroes are wrapped into one 6'9" basketball machine. The man can play any position on the court, and he does so with the grace of a ballerina and the power of a freight train. Watching LeBron is like watching a basketball symphony unfold—he’s the conductor, the soloist, and the entire orchestra rolled into one. You never quite know whether he’s about to throw down a thunderous dunk, thread the needle with a perfect pass, or pull up from 30 feet like it’s just another Tuesday. But it’s not just about his physical dominance—LeBron’s basketball IQ is practically off the charts. He’s like the Sherlock Holmes of the NBA, seeing plays develop before they even exist. He could probably run a film session while blindfolded and still point out every defensive lapse. And let’s not forget, he’s been doing this for two decades, which is practically unheard of. At this point, I half expect him to keep dominating until he's eligible for AARP membership. Now, on to the big question: Is LeBron the greatest basketball player of all time? The infamous GOAT debate is like arguing whether chocolate or vanilla is better—it depends on your taste. Michael Jordan fans will never let go of those six rings, and I get it. Jordan was pure basketball poetry, clutch and iconic in a way that’s untouchable. But LeBron? LeBron is rewriting the entire playbook on what it means to be a basketball legend. He’s got the most points in NBA history, four championships, MVPs galore, and he’s done it all while seamlessly transitioning from one era of basketball to the next. What makes LeBron unique, though, is that he’s more than just a player—he’s an institution. He’s won championships with multiple teams, carried franchises on his back, and still found time to build schools, make movies, and perfect his taco recipes on Instagram. He’s basically a walking, dunking empire at this point. So, is he the GOAT? You could make a strong case for it. And even if you don’t think he’s the greatest, you’ve got to admit—LeBron has completely redefined what greatness in basketball looks like. In short, whether you’re Team MJ or Team LeBron, I think we can all agree on one thing: It’s been a privilege to witness LeBron’s greatness on the court, and the debate is all part of the fun. Besides, LeBron might just be around long enough to settle it once and for all—possibly while dropping 30 points at the age of 50.

Losing my grandmother felt like losing the cornerstone of our family’s strength, wisdom, and spirit. She wasn’t just a guiding light; she was a force of nature, someone who embodied resilience, faith, and perseverance in ways that still inspire me every day. My Jewish grandmother emigrated from Poland to Argentina after surviving the unimaginable horrors of war. She arrived in a new country with nothing but her willpower and her faith. Despite having to rebuild her entire life from scratch, she never let her circumstances define her. Instead, she used them to deepen her connection to her faith and family, creating a life filled with love, tradition, and resilience. Growing up, I saw my grandmother’s devotion to her faith as more than just a religious practice; it was the anchor that kept her grounded through all of life’s challenges. Her story of survival and reinvention, rooted in her unwavering belief in something greater than herself, has shaped my own perspective on life and spirituality. Watching her embrace her faith, even after enduring so much, made me realize the importance of connecting to my own religious roots. In many ways, her strength and faith have inspired me to deepen my own relationship with Judaism. I want to be more religious because of her—to honor the legacy she left behind and to find the same sense of peace and purpose. When I face my own challenges, whether it’s the pressure of balancing school, internships, and finances, I think of her journey. Her legacy is a constant reminder that no challenge is too great when you have faith—both in yourself and in something bigger. She taught me that resilience is not just about pushing through adversity; it’s about finding strength in your beliefs, and allowing those beliefs to guide you forward. I hear her voice in my head whenever things get tough, encouraging me to stay grounded in my faith, just as she did. Her influence has also shaped my approach to giving back and contributing to my community. Her life taught me that true strength is found not only in personal achievements but in the way we uplift others along the way. She never hesitated to help those around her, and that sense of responsibility to the community has become a central part of who I am. I see my own educational journey not just as a path to personal success, but as an opportunity to give back, to help others find their own resilience and faith, just as she did. Continuing with my education has been a challenge, but I do it in part to honor her memory and continue her legacy. Every step I take towards my goals feels like a continuation of her story—a tribute to her strength, her faith, and her perseverance. She laid the foundation for our family’s future, and it’s up to me to build on that foundation with the same resilience and faith that she demonstrated throughout her life. My grandmother’s story taught me that faith isn’t just a practice; it’s a source of strength and guidance that helps us navigate the challenges of life. Her unwavering devotion to her beliefs, even in the face of unimaginable hardship, has inspired me to explore my own spirituality more deeply. Because of her, I want to be more religious, to connect with the traditions that sustained her and to carry her legacy forward in my own life. Her life was a testament to the power of faith, resilience, and love, and I am determined to honor her by embracing those same values in everything I do.

Hardship is a universal experience, but how we respond to it is what truly defines us. For me, hardship came in the form of uprooting my entire life in Colombia and moving to the United States alone in pursuit of education. It wasn’t just the big things that made it challenging—the culture shock, language barrier, and the sheer distance from everything familiar—but also the little things that compounded over time: navigating a new academic system, balancing work and school, and learning how to survive in a country that I had to make my own without a support system. When I arrived, everything felt foreign. I remember the anxiety of trying to fit in, both academically and socially, while also trying to figure out basic things like banking or even understanding the nuances of casual conversation. It was overwhelming. Yet, in the midst of that whirlwind, I realized that I had a choice. I could let these challenges weigh me down, or I could embrace them as opportunities for growth. I chose the latter. It wasn’t easy—there were plenty of nights where homesickness felt unbearable and the pressure of managing everything on my own felt insurmountable—but I found strength in perseverance. I sought out mentors and friends who could help guide me, learned to ask for help when I needed it, and took every setback as a lesson in resilience. Instead of letting obstacles defeat me, I used them as motivation to push forward. Every challenge became a stepping stone. I started to thrive academically, secure internships, and build a network of support. I learned that hardship, when faced with determination, can be the catalyst for incredible growth. But overcoming personal hardship also gave me a deeper understanding of what it means to embody Agape love—unconditional, selfless love for others. My own experiences of struggle have made me more empathetic, and I’ve found that giving back to my community is not just something I do, but something I feel called to. I’ve been the recipient of kindness from others during difficult times, and it’s only right that I pay it forward. In embodying Agape love, I believe in the power of showing up for people, especially when they’re facing their own hardships. Whether it’s mentoring younger students who are new to the U.S. and facing the same struggles I did, volunteering to help with initiatives aimed at supporting immigrant communities, or even just being there for a friend who’s going through a rough time, I try to approach every interaction with a spirit of generosity and compassion. I’ve seen how small acts of kindness can ripple outwards and make a big impact. One of the ways I give back is through mentorship, especially for fellow international students. I know firsthand how isolating it can feel to navigate an unfamiliar system, and I want to help others avoid some of the pitfalls I faced. I’ve helped students with everything from navigating complex visa issues to offering guidance on how to balance work and study life. It’s fulfilling to see someone grow and succeed with just a bit of encouragement and advice, and I feel honored to be a part of their journey. Agape love isn’t just about grand gestures; it’s about being present, showing kindness, and using your own experiences to uplift others. I know that my journey is far from over, but I am committed to continuing to give back in any way I can. This is how I embody Agape love—by showing up, without condition, for the people who need it most, just as others have shown up for me.

As a first-generation immigrant from Colombia, the path to higher education has been a winding one, filled with obstacles that, in retrospect, have become defining moments in my life. I’ve learned that navigating this road requires more than just academic intelligence—it takes resilience, resourcefulness, and, perhaps most importantly, an unwavering belief in your ability to create opportunities even when they seem scarce. Moving to the United States on my own wasn’t just a leap of faith; it was a full cannonball into the unknown. I had no safety net, no financial support system, and no idea how to navigate a new culture, much less tackle the complexities of a foreign education system. But in each of these challenges, I found something surprising: the more adversity I faced, the stronger and more determined I became. When I first arrived in the U.S., it felt like the world was moving at a thousand miles per hour, and I was just trying to keep up. The culture shock was real. The language barrier was a steep climb. And filing taxes for the first time? Let’s just say that was an educational experience in itself. But rather than letting these challenges overwhelm me, I embraced them. I saw each obstacle as an opportunity to learn, adapt, and grow—skills that have become foundational to who I am today. I’ve had to get creative, not just in finding solutions to the problems in front of me but in imagining a future where I could thrive, even when the odds were stacked against me. In the process of adapting to life in a new country, I’ve managed to excel in areas that demand both intellectual rigor and emotional intelligence. I’m currently pursuing a degree in business with a minor in psychology because, frankly, I believe that numbers and people should be on speaking terms. It’s been an exciting mix—learning how to read balance sheets while also decoding the psychology behind human behavior. This combination has shaped me into someone who doesn’t just strategize but also understands the human side of decision-making. My goal is to blend these disciplines in a way that allows me to create meaningful change, both in business and in the broader world. What’s been particularly rewarding about this journey is the way it has sharpened my sense of purpose. I’ve always been driven by a desire to not only achieve success for myself but to help others along the way. My experiences have taught me that success isn’t just about individual achievements—it’s about lifting others up with you. This belief has guided my career aspirations and shaped the opportunities I’ve pursued. For example, my internships at McKinsey and BlackRock weren’t just about building a resume; they were about understanding how large-scale organizations can influence positive social change. At McKinsey, I was exposed to the power of strategy in driving impact, while at BlackRock, I saw firsthand how responsible investing can create sustainable, long-term benefits for both businesses and communities. These experiences reinforced my belief that business can be a force for good when approached with intention and empathy. My passion for business isn’t just about crunching numbers or climbing the corporate ladder—it’s about using those skills to make a difference. I’m particularly interested in the intersection of business, finance, and social impact, and how we can leverage these fields to create more inclusive and equitable environments. I’ve seen the impact that diversity can have on innovation, and I’m committed to championing that in whatever role I find myself in after graduation. I want to push for more inclusive practices that prioritize diversity, equity, and well-being as much as they do profits. I believe that by fostering environments where people from all backgrounds can thrive, we unlock the full potential of innovation and success. Education has always been the cornerstone of this vision. I’ve been fortunate enough to have access to higher education, but I know that this isn’t the case for everyone—particularly for those who come from backgrounds like mine. One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced as an international student is financing my education on my own. It’s been a constant balancing act—juggling academic pressures, work commitments, and financial responsibilities all at once. But this experience has also instilled in me a deep appreciation for the value of education and a drive to ensure that others have access to the same opportunities that have been so transformative for me. Once I graduate, my goal is to continue to be a catalyst for positive change, both in my field and in the communities I’m passionate about serving. I see myself stepping into leadership positions where I can drive meaningful change—not just in terms of business outcomes, but in terms of how companies approach diversity, inclusion, and corporate social responsibility. I’m particularly interested in exploring how we can create more equitable access to education and economic opportunities for underrepresented groups. Whether it’s through developing mentorship programs for first-generation students or advocating for more inclusive hiring practices, I’m committed to using my platform to create a more just and equitable world. In terms of the changes I want to drive, I’m focused on reshaping the way we think about success in the business world. Too often, success is measured solely in terms of financial performance, but I believe that true success is multidimensional. It’s about creating value for shareholders, yes, but also for employees, customers, and the broader community. I want to challenge outdated norms and push for a more holistic approach to business—one that recognizes the importance of social responsibility and the power of diversity. In essence, my immigrant experience has been a driving force behind my resilience, work ethic, and ambitions. It has shaped not only my identity but also my career aspirations. I’ve learned that the challenges we face often become the sources of our greatest strengths. Moving to the U.S. on my own was a daunting experience, but it taught me the value of perseverance, adaptability, and the importance of community. These lessons have not only guided me through my academic and professional journey but have also inspired me to use my education and experiences to create a lasting, positive impact on the world around me. This scholarship would be transformative for me. It would alleviate some of the financial pressures I currently face, allowing me to focus more deeply on my studies and extracurricular pursuits. More importantly, it would enable me to continue my journey with the same passion and determination that has brought me this far, while also providing me with the freedom to engage more fully in the work that matters most to me—helping others. Ultimately, I see education as a tool for change, not just for myself, but for the communities I hope to impact along the way. This scholarship would help me continue that journey and drive the changes I’m passionate about both in my field and in the world at large.

I like to think of myself as a bit of a bridge-builder. Having moved from Colombia to the U.S. for my education, I’ve had to learn how to navigate different worlds—academically, culturally, and personally. It hasn’t always been easy, but it’s given me a unique perspective on the power of education as a force for change, not just for myself, but for the communities around me. I’ve found that while knowledge can open doors, it’s how you use it to help others that truly makes a difference. My passion lies in the intersection of business, finance, and social impact. I’m the type of person who gets excited not just about numbers and strategies, but about how they can be leveraged to create opportunities for others. I’ve been fortunate to land internships at McKinsey and BlackRock, but what excites me the most isn’t just the prestige of these experiences—it’s the chance to use what I’ve learned to lift others up. Whether it’s mentoring a fellow student, advocating for diversity in business, or finding new ways to make a positive impact, helping others is what gives my work meaning. This scholarship would be a game-changer for me. As an international student financing my own education, I’ve had to balance the pressures of academics, work, and financial responsibilities. This scholarship would lighten that load, allowing me to dive even deeper into my studies and explore new opportunities to give back. It would also enable me to engage more with the things that really matter to me—like mentoring others and taking on leadership roles that push for greater inclusivity in the spaces I occupy. Ultimately, I’m driven by the belief that education is not just about personal success; it’s about building a better world. This scholarship would help me continue to bridge those worlds—connecting my passion for business with my commitment to helping others. And while it would certainly help me reach my own goals, more importantly, it would equip me to make a lasting impact on those around me.

Malgorzata "Maggie" Kwiecien’s story strikes a chord with me, not just because I, too, moved to the United States on my own for my education, but because her life embodies the qualities I aspire to—courage, resilience, and an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. Like Maggie, I stepped into unfamiliar territory, leaving behind the familiar warmth of my home in Colombia for the vast unknown of the U.S. It was a leap of faith, equal parts terrifying and exhilarating, but one driven by a deep desire to learn, grow, and challenge myself. Maggie’s bravery in the face of physical and intellectual challenges reminds me of my own journey, where I’ve had to adapt, adjust, and thrive in new environments. I remember my first few months in the U.S., grappling with culture shock and the pressure of excelling academically, all while figuring out how to make it on my own. But just as Maggie embraced her challenges—whether skiing down mountains or mastering her field of engineering—I’ve found myself leaning into the obstacles that come my way, knowing that each one is an opportunity for growth. Whether it’s securing competitive internships at McKinsey and BlackRock or finding creative ways to finance my education, I’ve learned that true strength is found not in avoiding adversity, but in meeting it head-on. What I find particularly inspiring about Maggie is her love for learning, her intellectual boldness, and her refusal to settle for anything less than mastery. I, too, have a bit of that relentless curiosity. Whether I’m diving into the complexities of business strategy, exploring the nuances of psychology (now my minor), or debating the finer points of global economics with my peers, I’m never satisfied with just scratching the surface. Like Maggie, I believe that knowledge is power—and, if wielded correctly, it’s also a bit of fun. After all, who doesn’t enjoy the occasional intellectual sparring match? Maggie’s story serves as a beacon for those of us who are charting new paths in foreign lands, navigating the challenges of being a female immigrant in spaces that weren’t always built with us in mind. Her legacy reminds me that resilience isn’t just about surviving; it’s about thriving, growing, and making a difference in the world around us. I may not be climbing mountains or skiing down slopes like Maggie, but I like to think I’m climbing metaphorical ones—whether that’s by breaking into competitive industries, advocating for diversity and inclusion, or simply striving to be the best version of myself in a world that can sometimes feel unfamiliar. Receiving this scholarship would be an honor because Maggie’s story isn’t just a reminder of what’s possible; it’s a call to action. It inspires me to continue pushing forward, to face each challenge with grit and grace, and to carve out a future that reflects both the resilience of my past and the boundless possibilities ahead. Maggie’s life may have been cut short, but her spirit of courage and curiosity lives on in those of us who walk a similar path—and I’d be proud to carry that torch.

As a first-generation immigrant from Colombia, my journey has been one of resilience, adaptability, and ambition. The immigrant experience, by its very nature, is transformative. It’s an endless balancing act between two worlds: the culture you come from and the new world you must navigate. My move to the U.S. wasn’t just a geographical shift; it was an immersion into a culture, language, and environment that demanded rapid adjustment and unrelenting perseverance. Yet, for all the challenges that came with it—cultural adjustments, language barriers, and often feeling like I was walking a tightrope between two identities—this experience has also been my greatest strength. Growing up, I watched my parents work tirelessly to create a new life for us in a place that wasn’t always welcoming or easy to understand. Their resilience shaped me, as did the reality of being part of a family that had to fight for every opportunity. In a new country, success wasn’t handed to us—it had to be earned, often through long hours, financial sacrifices, and constant self-improvement. The lessons I learned from my parents’ persistence are foundational to who I am today. They instilled in me a fierce determination to not just survive in this new environment but to thrive and make a name for myself. When I started my academic journey in the U.S., the challenges felt daunting at times, particularly in environments where I was often the only person with my background. Whether it was navigating complex academic systems or adjusting to social dynamics in predominantly non-immigrant spaces, I constantly found myself needing to prove that I belonged. And yet, these experiences made me stronger, more adaptable, and ultimately more confident in my abilities. I became comfortable with discomfort, and that ability to thrive in high-pressure environments has been key to my success in securing internships at prestigious firms like McKinsey and BlackRock. Career-wise, my aspirations are big—because why shouldn’t they be? I’m deeply passionate about business and finance, industries that have the potential to shape the world on a global scale. My experience as an immigrant has given me a unique perspective on opportunity, equity, and the power of hard work, and I plan to carry that perspective with me as I continue to climb the corporate ladder. I aspire to rise to leadership positions within the corporate world, using the skills and insights I’ve developed not just to succeed personally but to drive broader change within the industry. One of my biggest goals is to advocate for inclusivity and diversity within the corporate sector. Coming from a background that’s often underrepresented in these spaces, I want to use my platform to champion initiatives that open doors for other immigrants and people from diverse backgrounds. I believe that by creating more inclusive environments, companies can unlock a wealth of talent and innovation that would otherwise remain untapped. Responsible investing, corporate social responsibility, and mentorship are all areas where I see tremendous potential to make an impact—not just within my own career but within the broader industry. In essence, my immigrant experience has been the driving force behind my resilience, work ethic, and ambitions. It has shaped not just my identity but also my career aspirations. I’m determined to break barriers, both for myself and for others, while building a career that leaves a lasting, positive impact on the world around me.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has long fascinated me for its potential to revolutionize the world in ways both grand and subtle. While AI is often associated with automation and efficiency, what truly inspires me is its capacity to democratize access to education and healthcare, two of the most critical factors in improving global quality of life. The idea that a student in a remote part of the world can access personalized learning through an AI-driven platform, or that someone without easy access to medical professionals can receive a diagnosis through an AI tool, speaks to technology's ability to bridge gaps that have long seemed insurmountable. Take healthcare, for instance. AI-powered diagnostic tools are already making significant strides in early detection of diseases, such as cancer, where early intervention can be life-saving. These technologies can analyze vast amounts of data quickly and accurately, catching things that even experienced doctors might miss. The scalability of AI also means that these tools can be deployed in underserved communities where access to specialists is limited, making a tangible difference in healthcare equity. In education, AI can tailor learning experiences to individual needs, helping students who may struggle in traditional classroom settings. By providing customized resources and feedback, AI has the potential to make learning more accessible and effective for everyone, regardless of socioeconomic status or geographic location. What excites me most about AI is not just what it can do now, but what it can evolve to become—a force that makes the world more equitable by removing barriers to essential resources. With the right ethical frameworks and applications, AI has the power to make the world not just more efficient, but also more just.

Mental health is often a topic that exists in the background of our conversations—something we acknowledge as important but rarely treat with the same immediacy as physical health or professional achievements. For me, that all changed when I realized that mental health isn’t just an afterthought; it’s the foundation upon which everything else is built. My own journey with mental health has been anything but linear. I’ve navigated the highs and lows, learned hard lessons, and in the process, discovered just how crucial mental health is to every facet of life. This realization eventually led me to pursue a minor in psychology, as I wanted to deepen my understanding of the complexities of the mind and its connection to our overall well-being. What initially began as a personal exploration has since become a critical part of my academic and professional journey. As someone who thrives in high-pressure environments—whether during my time at McKinsey or while securing an internship at BlackRock—I quickly realized that mental health is more than just a buzzword; it’s a necessity. It’s one thing to push yourself to excel, but another entirely to do so without sacrificing your mental and emotional health in the process. I found that understanding the psychological frameworks behind stress, resilience, and motivation has not only improved my performance but has also allowed me to mentor others effectively. In terms of my beliefs, mental health has radically reshaped how I define success. I used to view success as a linear path: hit the right academic milestones, land the right internships, and everything else would fall into place. Now, I see success as a more holistic endeavor—one that encompasses emotional well-being, personal growth, and meaningful relationships, in addition to professional achievements. This shift in mindset has made me more empathetic, not only towards myself but also towards others. I’ve become more attuned to the struggles that people often face in silence, and I believe this has deepened my connections with friends, family, and colleagues. It’s easier to build genuine relationships when you recognize that everyone is grappling with their own mental health battles, whether they choose to talk about them or not. In my relationships, both personal and professional, I’ve found that an understanding of mental health has allowed me to communicate more effectively and to offer support in ways that truly matter. For instance, during group projects or team meetings, I’ve noticed that being aware of others’ emotional states can drastically improve collaboration. It’s not just about being a good listener, though that’s certainly part of it. It’s about fostering an environment where people feel safe enough to express concerns and vulnerabilities without fear of judgment or dismissal. This awareness has translated into stronger, more trusting relationships—ones that are built on mutual respect and understanding. From a career perspective, my focus on mental health has opened up new avenues for exploration. While my primary focus remains in business and finance, my minor in psychology has broadened my scope of interest, particularly in areas where these two fields intersect. The idea of mental wellness in corporate environments fascinates me, as does the potential for creating workplaces that prioritize both productivity and emotional well-being. After all, what good is a thriving business if its employees are mentally and emotionally drained? I see an exciting future in the possibility of blending psychology with business strategy, perhaps by working towards developing corporate policies or initiatives that promote mental health as a key component of organizational success. Ultimately, my experience with mental health has been transformative. It has changed the way I approach my life, my relationships, and my aspirations. I’ve come to realize that success isn’t just about what you achieve, but also about how you achieve it—and whether you’re able to maintain a sense of balance and fulfillment along the way. It’s why my minor in psychology feels less like an academic checkbox and more like a calling. Understanding mental health has not only made me more resilient but also more attuned to the needs of those around me. And in a world that’s constantly changing and throwing new challenges our way, I believe that’s a perspective that will serve me well in whatever path I choose to pursue.

Education is often regarded as a mere stepping stone to career success, but in truth, it is the foundation upon which we build our understanding of the world, our identities, and our potential to influence change. It stretches far beyond rote memorization of facts; education is the mechanism by which we learn to think critically, challenge assumptions, and develop a deeper appreciation for diverse perspectives. It equips us not only with knowledge but also with the skills to apply that knowledge effectively—whether in solving real-world problems, driving innovation, or fostering positive societal impact. Education doesn’t just prepare us for the future; it prepares us to shape it. For me, education has been a transformative force in many aspects of my life. Coming from a Colombian background, I have been exposed to various cultural and societal viewpoints that have enriched my understanding of global dynamics. Education has played a crucial role in bridging my local experiences with the broader, international landscape. From navigating complex issues in global business to understanding the intricate relationships between economic policies and social welfare, education has helped me to develop a more comprehensive view of the world. And as someone who is financing my own college education, the value of what I’m learning feels especially personal—I’m investing in my future, both literally and figuratively. What makes education truly invaluable, though, is not just the knowledge gained but the confidence and agency it inspires. It has allowed me to seize opportunities I might never have pursued otherwise, from securing competitive internships at McKinsey and BlackRock to positioning myself as a candidate for prestigious scholarships. These experiences have reinforced my belief that education is a lifelong endeavor, one that doesn’t end when the classroom lights dim or when a diploma is handed over. Instead, it evolves as we continue to engage with new ideas, adapt to new environments, and refine our ambitions. The skills I’ve acquired through my education have had tangible impacts on my personal and professional life. Whether it's helping others prepare for major exams like the SAT or tackling complex business problems in my co-op work, I’ve learned to approach challenges with both creativity and analytical precision. This duality is essential in an increasingly complex and interconnected world. Education has taught me that the ability to think flexibly and solve problems efficiently is as important as having expertise in any one subject. Perhaps most importantly, education has provided me with a mindset of resilience and adaptability. It has encouraged me to embrace failure as a stepping stone to growth, rather than a reflection of my capabilities. This outlook has been especially valuable as I’ve juggled academic pressures, career development, and personal responsibilities. While education may not provide all the answers, it equips us with the tools to ask better questions and pursue more thoughtful solutions. In essence, education is more than a means to an end—it is the catalyst for continuous growth and exploration. It has not only shaped my understanding of the world but has also empowered me to take an active role in shaping my own future. The value it brings is immeasurable, as it touches every facet of life, from professional achievement to personal fulfillment.