My mother and father have always had a rough marriage. It has never been easy on them or me and my siblings. They had lots of many fights that resulted in high tensions around the house. Because of this, I learned to diffuse situations, and to keep my emotions under control when others do not. However, I also have a hard time committing to relationships, and if my needs are not met, I shut down.

I will be pursuing a degree in forensic science. Women in criminal justice and STEM are vitally important-- not only for the pursuit of equality in the workforce but also because diversity means new ideas, new ways of efficiency, and different perspectives and insights. I have always been interested in law enforcement, but I know being a woman is especially dangerous. Science has always been a passion of mine. Mystery novels have always been my favorite. These three facts together have brought me to forensic science. Growing up, my parents and I would watch reality television about fake crime shows, and I would always pride myself on solving the case before the detectives-- who just so happened to be, for the majority, old white men-- could do so. Now, I am aware television is widely different compared to real life, but what remains the same? The number of white men that dominate the labor industry in this country. It would be refreshing to get other people in on the action. That is why workplace diversity is important to me.

Five... Four... Three... Two... One... Vivid Everything is vivid Touch I can feel every touch that once was real Your hands, your stubble, your breath stirring the hair on my neck Taste I can still taste the mint chapstick, applied through the contact of your lips on mine Sight If I close my eyes, I still see your own, staring back at mine Hearing If I concentrate hard enough, I can hear the steady rhythm of our heartbeats nearly simultaneous Smell The aromas of authentic you still float about It envelops me Dull-- Something that it isn't Not the feelings not the memories None of it

1,000 cyclists are killed each year. Instead of bicycle riders worrying about their heart rate or hydration levels, they are worried about getting hit by a vehicle. This is not how it should be. Bikes should be able to be safe means of transportation. I love riding my bike around my neighborhood; not only is it good for my physical well-being, but my mental health as well. This is why we should improve road quality. Not just for fun or safety, but for better community all around.