Losing someone to suicide changes the way you understand time, memory, and responsibility. For me, grief arrived twice in a matter of months, when I lost two people who were not just cousins by blood, but siblings in my heart. Their absence reshaped my life in ways I am still learning to understand. We grew up close, argued like siblings, and reconciled the way family always does. No matter what conflicts existed, holidays brought us back together. Christmas and New Year’s were constants—times when differences were set aside and love took priority. That is why the loss still feels especially heavy during the holidays. Grief does not fade neatly with time; it resurfaces in moments meant for connection. When they passed, I was not emotionally equipped to process the pain. Instead of confronting grief, I avoided it. I turned inward, isolating myself from my family and numbing emotions rather than facing them. Addiction became a way to escape the overwhelming sense of helplessness and guilt I carried—guilt for not being more present, not being a better example, and not knowing how deeply they were struggling. Eventually, avoidance stopped working. Grief demands to be felt. Healing began only when I chose accountability and recovery over denial. Through that process, I learned that resilience does not mean being unaffected by tragedy—it means continuing forward while carrying loss with honesty and intention. Today, my grief has shaped the way I show up for others. I am more attentive to people who are struggling quietly. I understand that pain often hides behind humor, productivity, or silence. I now actively support others navigating addiction and mental health challenges, offering presence rather than solutions, listening rather than judgment. In honoring the lives I lost, I have committed to living differently. My educational journey is part of that commitment. I am pursuing higher education not to distance myself from my past, but to build a future rooted in service, stability, and impact. I want my success to reflect the love I still hold for them—not as a way to profit from their loss, but as a way to honor it through contribution and growth. This scholarship represents more than financial support. It acknowledges the complexity of surviving suicide loss and the strength it takes to continue building a meaningful life afterward. Receiving it would help me stay focused on my education while affirming that resilience and hope can exist alongside grief. I carry my loved ones with me in everything I do. My goal is to live in a way that reflects compassion, responsibility, and perseverance—values shaped by loss, but guided by hope.

What I want to build is not just a career, but a life that turns struggle into service and knowledge into opportunity for others. I am currently studying software development, and through my education, I am working to build systems, tools, and programs that make technology more accessible, ethical, and human-centered—especially for people who are often overlooked or underserved. For much of my life, I believed success was something meant for other people. Financial hardship, personal loss, and mental health challenges made it difficult to see a clear path forward. Education changed that. It gave me structure when life felt chaotic, purpose when I felt lost, and a way to transform lived experience into practical problem-solving skills. What I want to build now is a future where technology is used not just for profit, but for impact. Through my studies in software development, I aim to build applications and systems that improve access to essential resources such as education, healthcare information, and community support services. I am particularly interested in creating tools that help people navigate complex systems—whether that means simplifying access to mental health resources, improving digital literacy, or designing platforms that connect people to opportunities they may not otherwise reach. Beyond the technical side, I am also building personal commitments: resilience, accountability, and service. I am learning how to show up consistently, collaborate with others, and lead with empathy. These are skills that extend far beyond code. They shape how I engage with classmates, support peers, and contribute to my community. In the future, I hope to work in a role where I can combine software development with public service, education, or community-focused innovation. I want to help build digital solutions that reduce barriers instead of creating them, and systems that serve people with dignity and fairness. As someone who understands what it feels like to struggle, I am motivated to design solutions with compassion at their core. Receiving this scholarship would help ease the financial burden of pursuing higher education and allow me to stay focused on building the skills and knowledge necessary to make a meaningful difference. More importantly, it would support my goal of building a future that gives back—to my community, to those still finding their footing, and to the next generation of students who are aiming higher, just as I am now.

To me, legacy is not defined by wealth, titles, or recognition, but by the values we pass forward and the impact we leave behind through our choices. Legacy is the quiet accumulation of integrity, perseverance, and service that continues to shape lives long after we are gone. It is not only what we inherit, but what we intentionally transform and build for those who come after us. My upbringing deeply influenced my understanding of legacy. I grew up navigating instability, loss, and challenges that were often cyclical in nature. Addiction, mental health struggles, and limited access to opportunity shaped much of my environment. For a long time, I believed that these circumstances defined my ceiling. Without clear examples of academic or professional pathways in STEM, the idea of higher education felt distant and uncertain. However, those same experiences also gave me a unique awareness of how systems, environments, and access shape outcomes in people’s lives. As I grew older, I began to recognize that breaking cycles requires both personal accountability and structural understanding. Choosing recovery, stability, and education was not a single decision, but a series of deliberate steps toward a different future. My path into STEM, specifically software development, reflects my desire to understand systems deeply and contribute to building ones that are more ethical, accessible, and human centered. Technology, like geography and urban planning, has the power to influence how communities function, how resources are distributed, and how people experience opportunity. Legacy, for me, also means choosing responsibility over resignation. I do not want to simply survive my circumstances; I want to redefine what is possible within them. Pursuing higher education as a non traditional, first generation student is part of that commitment. Making the Dean’s List recently affirmed that growth is achievable when perseverance meets support. It reinforced my belief that cycles can be interrupted, not by denying the past, but by learning from it. I plan to continue this legacy by using my education to contribute outwardly. Whether through developing technology that improves access to services, supports vulnerable populations, or increases transparency and fairness, I want my work to reflect intentional care for people and communities. I also hope to serve as an example to others who feel defined by their starting point, showing that resilience and education can coexist with compassion and humility. At the same time, I am breaking cycles that no longer serve future generations. I am choosing stability over chaos, accountability over avoidance, and long term impact over short term relief. Legacy is not about perfection, but about direction. It is about leaving behind systems, relationships, and opportunities that are stronger than the ones we inherited. Legacy matters to me because it is ongoing. It is shaped daily through choices, effort, and service. Through my education and career in STEM, I aim to honor the idea that knowledge, when guided by ethics and empathy, can become a powerful force for positive change. That is the legacy I am committed to building.

Loss has been one of the most defining forces in my life, shaping not only who I am today but also how I move through the world with intention and empathy. I have experienced the loss of two cousins, Colin and Sierra, who were as close to me as siblings. Their absence altered my sense of stability and forced me to confront grief in ways I was not prepared for. Colin was like a brother to me. We grew up close, shared everyday moments, disagreements, and laughter that made life feel familiar and grounded. Sierra was someone I trusted deeply and spoke with often. No matter what conflicts existed or how much distance had grown between us, our family always came together during the holidays. Christmas and New Year’s were times when differences were set aside and connection was restored. Losing both of them within a short period of time made those seasons especially painful, as the traditions that once brought comfort became reminders of what was gone. At the time of their deaths, I was struggling personally and emotionally. I did not have the tools or maturity to process grief in a healthy way. Instead of facing the pain, I avoided it, which deepened my sense of isolation. I felt guilt over conversations left unfinished and regret over not being the person I wished I had been during their final months. For a long time, grief felt paralyzing, and I withdrew from my family because I did not know how to carry the weight of loss. Over time, I learned that grief does not disappear when ignored. Healing began when I chose honesty and accountability and allowed myself to feel the loss rather than run from it. Through recovery, faith, and self reflection, I discovered that grief can either harden someone or soften them. I chose the latter. Losing Colin and Sierra taught me how fragile life is and how important it is to show up fully, even when it is uncomfortable. This experience reshaped my outlook on life. I no longer take relationships for granted, and I am more intentional with how I spend my time and energy. I value presence, integrity, and compassion in ways I did not before. Loss taught me that success is not measured only by personal achievement, but by the impact we have on others and the way we carry ourselves through hardship. My goals have been influenced by this understanding. I am pursuing higher education with a commitment to building a stable, purpose driven future that allows me to contribute positively to others. I want to create systems, whether through technology, service, or mentorship, that are grounded in empathy and responsibility. The loss I experienced motivates me to live deliberately, to support people who are struggling, and to honor those I have lost by becoming someone they would be proud of. Though grief changed my life, it also clarified it. The people I lost continue to shape my values, my goals, and the way I choose to live. Carrying their memory forward has taught me resilience, perspective, and the quiet strength required to keep going when life no longer looks the same.

Living with mental health challenges has profoundly shaped who I am, how I relate to others, and the direction I am choosing for my future. As a first generation college student, my journey into higher education has not followed a straight path. My experiences with mental health, particularly Bipolar I disorder and addiction recovery, have influenced my beliefs about resilience, deepened my relationships, and clarified my desire to build a career rooted in empathy and responsibility. For much of my life, I believed that mental health struggles were something to hide. I equated asking for help with weakness and felt pressure to appear “fine,” even when I was not. This belief kept me isolated and delayed my growth. Over time, I learned that mental health is not a personal failure, but a part of the human experience that deserves understanding and care. Recovery taught me that accountability and compassion can exist together, and that progress is often measured in honesty rather than perfection. Today, I believe strongly in reducing stigma and creating spaces where people can be open about their struggles without fear of judgment. My mental health journey has also reshaped my relationships. Addiction and unmanaged mental illness strained connections with my family and distanced me from people who cared about me. Through treatment, recovery, and faith, I began rebuilding trust by showing consistency and humility. I learned how to listen rather than withdraw, how to communicate instead of shutting down, and how to take responsibility for my actions. These lessons have allowed me to form healthier, more authentic relationships based on honesty and mutual respect. I am now deeply involved in a recovery community, where peer support has shown me the power of shared experience and human connection. Academically and professionally, my experiences have given me a strong sense of purpose. I am pursuing a degree in software development, and while this field may seem unrelated to mental health at first glance, my lived experience shapes how I approach it. I want to work on systems that are ethical, accessible, and designed with people in mind. Whether through technology that improves access to services, supports vulnerable populations, or increases fairness and transparency, I want my work to reduce harm rather than contribute to it. Mental health has taught me that systems matter, and poorly designed ones can deepen inequality and suffering. Being a first generation college student while managing mental health challenges has required perseverance. There were moments when continuing my education felt overwhelming, but choosing stability, structure, and long-term goals became part of my healing. Making the Dean’s List recently affirmed that growth is possible when support and self commitment align. My mental health experiences did not limit my aspirations; they refined them. They have shaped my beliefs, strengthened my relationships, and guided me toward a career where empathy and responsibility are central. This scholarship represents not just financial support, but recognition that growth through struggle has value. I intend to carry that understanding forward by contributing to a more compassionate and inclusive world.

Grief has shaped me in ways I never anticipated. Although I did not lose a biological sibling, I lost two cousins, Colin and Sierra, who were as close to me as brother and sister. Learning to live without them has profoundly influenced who I am today and the direction I am choosing for my life. Colin was like a brother to me. We grew up close, shared laughter, disagreements, and years of memories that made life feel familiar and safe. Sierra was someone I trusted and cared about deeply. No matter what disagreements existed or how much distance had grown between us, there was one constant. We always came together as a family during Christmas and New Year’s. Those moments were sacred to us. We would set aside our differences, reconnect, and remind one another that family mattered above everything else. That is why the holidays are especially difficult now. Losing both Colin and Sierra within a short period of time still feels unreal, even years later. I had seen Colin just weeks before he passed away from an overdose. I spoke with Sierra only days before she died. During that time in my life, I was struggling with addiction myself. Instead of facing my grief, I tried to numb it. I felt helpless and ashamed, knowing I was not setting the example I wished I had for either of them. After their deaths, I could not face my family for months. The weight of grief combined with guilt and addiction made me withdraw from the people who loved me most. Eventually, I learned that avoiding grief only deepens it. Healing began when I chose honesty, accountability, and support. Through recovery and faith, I learned that grief does not disappear, but it can be transformed. I began to understand that love does not end with loss and that honoring someone’s memory means living in a way that reflects care, responsibility, and compassion. Today, my grief has shaped my desire to help others. I am active in a recovery community and work closely with people navigating addiction, mental health struggles, and loss. Because I know what it feels like to be overwhelmed and disconnected, I try to meet others with empathy and patience. I listen without judgment and offer encouragement when hope feels distant. My career path has also been influenced by these experiences. I am pursuing education in software development with the intention of contributing to systems that serve people ethically and responsibly. I want to build tools that reduce harm, improve access, and support vulnerable communities. I believe technology should center humanity, not overlook it. I want to be clear that I do not view this scholarship as a way to benefit from loss. I carry Colin and Sierra with me not as stories of tragedy, but as reminders of responsibility. My goal is not to gain from their deaths, but to honor their lives by becoming someone who gives back, who shows up for others, and who chooses growth instead of despair. This scholarship would help me continue my education and stability at a critical point in my journey, allowing me to focus on learning and service rather than survival. Any success I achieve is something I intend to use outwardly to support people struggling with grief, addiction, and the weight of life’s challenges. In that way, Colin and Sierra are remembered not through loss, but through impact, compassion, and forward motion. Their lives mattered, and the best way I know to honor them is to live mine with purpose.

This opportunity is deeply meaningful to me because it represents more than financial assistance—it reflects the kind of support that makes perseverance possible. As a financially underprivileged student of faith, I have learned that education is not just a personal achievement but a calling that requires resilience, humility, and trust in God through every challenge. My journey to higher education has not been linear. I returned to school later in life after navigating significant personal hardships, including financial instability and periods of deep uncertainty. There were moments when continuing my education felt overwhelming, and times when giving up seemed easier than pressing forward. What sustained me through those moments was my faith. My relationship with God gave me clarity when I felt lost, strength when I felt weak, and hope when circumstances suggested otherwise. Faith has been the foundation that allowed me to rebuild my life with intention and purpose. I am actively involved in my church community, attend weekly services, and participate in faith-based fellowship that keeps me accountable and grounded. In addition, I work a twelve-step recovery program with a sponsor and now have the privilege of helping support others who are walking a similar path. Through service, prayer, and discipline, I have learned that true growth happens when faith is paired with action. Academically, my faith has motivated me to strive for excellence even when resources are limited. I recently earned a place on the Dean’s List, achieving all A’s while balancing financial pressure, coursework, and personal responsibilities. That achievement was not simply the result of effort—it was the fruit of consistency, prayer, and trusting that God would meet me where I showed up faithfully each day. Looking ahead, I plan to continue using my faith as a guiding force in both my education and career. I am pursuing a degree in software development, with the long-term goal of working in areas where technology can be used responsibly and ethically to support communities, improve access, and create systems that serve people rather than exploit them. My faith shapes how I view success—not just in terms of income or status, but in impact, integrity, and service. The Jim Maxwell Memorial Scholarship resonates with me because it honors a legacy of nurturing the whole person—spiritually, emotionally, mentally, and physically. That holistic support mirrors the role faith has played in my own life. Receiving this scholarship would not only ease financial strain, but would reaffirm that perseverance rooted in faith is seen, valued, and worth investing in. With God as my foundation, I am committed to continuing forward—overcoming obstacles, serving others, and reaching greater heights with humility and purpose.

Faith as the Foundation of My Life and Career My faith has been the foundation that carried me through some of the most challenging seasons of my life and continues to guide how I live, learn, and work today. I am a practicing Christian who attends church weekly and actively seeks spiritual growth through worship, service, and accountability. Faith is not something I turn to only when life is easy; it has been most present in moments when I had to confront my own limitations and rely fully on God’s guidance rather than my own strength. One of the most meaningful ways my faith has shaped my life is through my participation in a twelve-step recovery program. Working the steps with a sponsor taught me humility, honesty, and surrender—values deeply rooted in Christian teachings. Through this process, I learned that real growth begins when we admit we cannot do everything on our own and trust God to lead us forward. Today, I have the privilege of helping sponsor others, walking alongside them as they navigate their own journeys. This responsibility has strengthened my faith and reinforced the importance of compassion, patience, and service. My church community has also played an important role in grounding my spiritual life. Attending weekly services and participating in meaningful moments of worship, including a Christmas Eve vigil, reminds me that faith is not just personal but communal. It is about showing up consistently, encouraging others, and living with integrity even when no one is watching. These experiences continually call me to live out my values in everyday actions. As an undergraduate student pursuing a career in software development, I believe my faith will be a guiding force in how I approach my professional life. The technology field moves quickly and often emphasizes results over ethics, but my faith reminds me that success is hollow without integrity. I strive to be someone who builds responsibly, treats others fairly, and remains accountable for the impact of my work. The discipline I have developed through faith and recovery translates directly into perseverance, problem-solving, and resilience—qualities essential to entrepreneurship and long-term career success. This scholarship honors immigrants who built success through hard work, faith, and moral conduct. Their story resonates with me deeply. Like them, I aim to build a meaningful life not just through ambition, but through character. My faith teaches me that true success comes from serving others, stewarding opportunities responsibly, and staying grounded in purpose. God has transformed my challenges into sources of strength and clarity. As I continue my education and prepare for a future career, my faith will remain my compass—guiding my decisions, shaping my work ethic, and reminding me to lead with integrity in all that I pursue.

Service as a Commitment to Others and the Future Giving back has never felt optional to me. It has been a guiding principle shaped by my experiences, challenges, and the support I have received along the way. As an undergraduate student pursuing a degree in software development, I see service not only as something I do, but as something I am preparing to embed into my future career. The values that defined Priscilla Shireen Luke’s life—hope, service, and devotion to others—deeply resonate with how I strive to live and contribute. Currently, I give back through volunteering, peer support, and community involvement, particularly with individuals navigating academic, financial, or mental health challenges. Having faced my own obstacles, I understand how transformative it can be when someone takes the time to listen, encourage, or guide another person forward. Whether helping classmates understand coursework, supporting peers through stressful transitions, or volunteering time to community-based efforts, I aim to be present and dependable. Service, to me, is often quiet and relational, built through consistency rather than recognition. My volunteer experiences have taught me that impact does not always come from grand gestures. Sometimes it comes from showing up when it matters most. I have seen how access to resources, knowledge, or simply reassurance can change someone’s trajectory. These moments reinforce my belief that service-oriented individuals are essential to building stronger, more compassionate communities. Looking toward the future, I plan to expand my impact by combining service with technology. My long-term goal is to work in software development with a focus on systems that improve access, equity, and public wellbeing. I am especially interested in building tools that support underserved populations, such as applications that improve access to education, healthcare resources, or mental health support. Technology has immense power to either widen or close gaps, and I am committed to ensuring it is used to uplift rather than exclude. Beyond my career, I plan to continue volunteering and collaborating with nonprofit organizations that address systemic barriers. I want to use my technical skills to support mission-driven organizations that may lack the resources to build or maintain effective digital systems. Whether through pro bono development work, mentorship, or community partnerships, I intend to remain actively engaged in service throughout my life. This scholarship would support my educational journey and allow me to dedicate more time to both academic growth and service. By easing financial pressures related to tuition, textbooks, and technology, it would enable me to focus more fully on developing the skills needed to make a meaningful difference. Priscilla Shireen Luke’s legacy reminds us that hope is something we create through action. I strive to honor that legacy by living with empathy, commitment, and purpose. Through service today and intentional impact in the future, I am dedicated to helping build a world that is more compassionate, equitable, and hopeful for generations to come.

Honoring Legacy Through Purpose, Service, and Determination I am an undergraduate student at Central New Mexico Community College pursuing a degree in software development, with plans to continue my education toward a bachelor’s degree in computer science. My academic journey is deeply shaped by resilience, service, and a commitment to excellence. I strive to live with purpose and integrity, values that strongly reflect the legacy of Kalia D. Davis. Returning to school as a nontraditional student required courage and discipline. Balancing academics with financial responsibilities and personal challenges has pushed me to develop a strong work ethic and unwavering focus. This dedication has paid off academically, including earning placement on the Dean’s List, but more importantly, it has reinforced my belief that persistence and consistency can create meaningful change. Community service has always been a central part of my life. Whether through volunteering, mentoring, or supporting those navigating difficult circumstances, I have seen firsthand how encouragement and presence can make a lasting difference. Like Kalia, I believe kindness is not separate from ambition. True success includes lifting others while striving toward your own goals. I try to embody that balance by giving my time, knowledge, and support whenever possible. While my athletic experience may not mirror traditional varsity sports, I have learned discipline, endurance, and teamwork through structured physical activity and personal fitness goals. These experiences taught me how to set long-term goals, push through discomfort, and remain accountable to myself, lessons that translate directly into academics and service. Athletics, in any form, build resilience and mental strength, qualities I carry into every area of my life. This scholarship would provide critical financial relief and allow me to remain focused on my education and community involvement. The cost of tuition, textbooks, software, and essential technology presents ongoing challenges. Receiving this support would ease those burdens and give me the freedom to invest more time in academic growth, skill development, and service opportunities that align with my long-term goals. More than financial assistance, this scholarship represents the continuation of a legacy. Kalia D. Davis lived with excellence, generosity, and joy, and her impact continues through opportunities like this. I am committed to honoring that legacy by living intentionally, pursuing my education with purpose, and using my skills to serve others. My goal is to build technology that supports fairness, access, and community wellbeing, ensuring that my career reflects both ambition and compassion. This scholarship would not only help me continue my education, but also strengthen my ability to create positive impact. I am grateful for the opportunity to apply and to be considered among students who share the values of drive, service, and legacy that Kalia exemplified so beautifully.

Building a More Empathetic Global Community Through Technology and Understanding Building a more empathetic and understanding global community requires more than good intentions. It requires systems, tools, and people who are willing to listen, learn, and design solutions that reflect real human experiences. My unique talents lie in combining technical problem-solving with lived experience, allowing me to approach challenges with both analytical rigor and empathy. As a software development student, I am trained to think in terms of systems, dependencies, and long-term outcomes. Every line of code affects something else, just as every policy or technological decision affects people in ways that are not always immediately visible. This perspective helps me recognize that empathy is not just an emotional response, but a design principle. When technology is built without understanding its users, it often deepens inequality rather than reducing it. My personal journey has taught me the importance of compassion, accountability, and access to support. Navigating significant life challenges required me to rely on community, structured systems, and people who believed in growth rather than punishment. Those experiences inform how I want to contribute to the world. I understand firsthand how easily individuals can be misunderstood or marginalized when systems fail to consider the full context of a person’s life. Through my career, I plan to build technology that increases transparency, fairness, and access. This includes tools that help people navigate healthcare systems, educational pathways, and public services more effectively. I am particularly interested in how data and software can be used to identify gaps in support, reduce bias in decision-making, and create feedback loops that allow systems to improve over time. Technology should amplify human dignity, not replace it. In addition to technical work, I am committed to mentorship and knowledge-sharing. Empathy grows when people feel seen and supported. By mentoring students, especially those from nontraditional or underserved backgrounds, I hope to help others recognize their potential and build confidence in their abilities. Representation and guidance matter, and I believe those who have navigated challenges have a responsibility to help light the path for others. On a global scale, empathy is built through connection and understanding across cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. Technology can play a powerful role in this by reducing barriers to information, collaboration, and opportunity. My goal is to contribute to systems that foster inclusion rather than division, and dialogue rather than assumption. By combining my technical skills with empathy shaped by real-world experience, I aim to help build a global community that values understanding as much as innovation. True progress happens when systems are designed not only to function efficiently, but to serve people with fairness, respect, and humanity.

Making a Positive Impact Through Technology and Service My name is Randall Rojas, and I am a software development student at Central New Mexico Community College with a strong interest in using technology to create meaningful, positive change. My path to higher education has not been linear, but it has shaped my sense of responsibility, empathy, and determination to use my career to improve systems that affect real people’s lives. I returned to school with a clear purpose after facing significant personal challenges that required resilience, accountability, and growth. Through that process, I learned how powerful stability, structure, and access to resources can be in helping someone move forward. These lessons directly influence how I approach my education and my long-term career goals. I recently earned placement on the Dean’s List, which reflects not only academic success but a commitment to consistency, discipline, and personal development. I am pursuing a degree in software development because technology sits at the intersection of nearly every major challenge facing society today. From healthcare access and education equity to public safety and data integrity, software systems increasingly shape how resources are distributed and decisions are made. I want to be part of building systems that are reliable, ethical, and designed with people in mind, not just efficiency or profit. In my coursework, I focus on understanding how systems interact rather than treating problems in isolation. This mindset drives my interest in areas such as health technology, public-sector software, and tools that support underserved communities. I am particularly interested in how data, automation, and system design can be used to identify risk earlier, reduce inefficiencies, and improve outcomes for individuals who may otherwise fall through the cracks. Beyond my technical goals, I plan to continue giving back through mentorship, service, and advocacy. I believe that lived experience, when paired with education, creates a powerful opportunity to guide and support others who are navigating difficult circumstances. Whether through mentoring students, contributing to community-focused tech projects, or working in environments where integrity and public impact matter, I want my career to reflect both skill and service. Ultimately, my goal is not only to succeed professionally but to contribute to systems that help people regain stability, dignity, and opportunity. I believe technology, when developed responsibly, can amplify human potential rather than replace it. By combining my education, resilience, and commitment to ethical problem-solving, I hope to make a lasting, positive impact on the world through my career.

Using Network Risk Propagation to Improve Chronic Disease Management One healthcare problem I want to help solve is the ineffective and inequitable management of chronic disease. Conditions such as diabetes, bipolar disorder, and cardiovascular disease are often treated as isolated medical issues, even though their outcomes are strongly shaped by interconnected factors like insurance stability, medication access, provider consistency, and social support. Traditional healthcare risk models tend to assign static risk scores to individuals, which fails to capture how risk evolves and propagates across a system over time. Inspired by iterative risk propagation and eigenvector-based methods, such as those described in Schlosser’s Healthcare Risk Equilibrium Theorem, I believe chronic disease management can be improved by modeling healthcare as a dynamic network rather than a linear process. In this approach, the healthcare system is represented as a weighted graph. Nodes represent patients, healthcare providers, medications, insurance coverage, transportation access, and social determinants of health. Edges represent the strength of influence between these nodes, allowing risk to flow through the network instead of remaining fixed at a single point. A patient’s overall health risk can be represented as a vector R, where each component captures biological, behavioral, financial, and access-based risk. Risk updates iteratively using a rule such as: R(t+1) = α · A · R(t) + (1 − α) · B Here, A is a normalized adjacency matrix describing how strongly different factors influence one another, B represents baseline individual risk, and α controls how much influence the network has over time. This method allows risk to stabilize into an equilibrium rather than fluctuate randomly. Eigenvector centrality plays a key role in identifying leverage points within the system. Factors with high centrality, such as consistent medication access or stable insurance coverage, disproportionately affect overall outcomes. Intervening at these nodes can reduce risk across many patients simultaneously, making care more efficient and more equitable. A simple graph prototype could visualize this concept clearly. A central patient node would connect to surrounding nodes such as “Medication Access,” “Insurance Stability,” “Provider Continuity,” and “Social Support.” Edge weights would represent influence strength, and node color intensity could reflect current risk levels. Over time, successful interventions would visibly reduce risk accumulation at high-centrality nodes, demonstrating system-wide improvement rather than isolated progress. I already apply this way of thinking in my computer science studies by analyzing how changes propagate through software systems, dependencies, and data structures. Combining this mindset with healthcare allows me to imagine tools that go beyond prediction and instead actively rebalance risk across networks. Ultimately, my goal is to help build healthcare technologies that recognize risk as a shared, evolving system. By applying iterative risk propagation and eigenvector methods, we can move toward earlier intervention, lower long-term costs, and fairer outcomes for underserved communities. Here’s a graph-theory fix I may have borrowed from Mario Schlosser’s brain, purely for the good of humanity.

Living with Bipolar I disorder has shaped how I experience the world, how I learn, and how I navigate both challenges and opportunities. For much of my life, I struggled to understand why my energy, focus, and emotions could fluctuate so dramatically. It affected my academic consistency, my confidence, and at times my belief in my own potential. However, receiving a proper diagnosis and committing to treatment, structure, and accountability marked a turning point. What once felt like an invisible obstacle has become a source of self-awareness, resilience, and purpose. As a neurodivergent individual, I have learned that success does not come from eliminating difference, but from understanding it. Managing Bipolar I disorder requires discipline, routine, and self-reflection. I rely on clear schedules, intentional time management, and strong support systems to remain stable and productive. These strategies have not only supported my mental health, but have also strengthened my academic performance. This past semester, I earned all A’s and was named to the Dean’s List, an achievement that reflects both my academic growth and my commitment to managing my disability responsibly. My educational goal is to earn a degree in Software Development and continue into Computer Science. I am drawn to the field because it rewards structured thinking, problem solving, and creativity—areas where my neurodivergent perspective can be a strength. At the same time, I am deeply aware of how inaccessible technology and education can be for individuals with disabilities, especially those involving mental health. Many systems are designed without considering fluctuating capacity, cognitive load, or the need for flexibility and accessibility. I plan to use my education to support underserved communities by contributing to technology that is inclusive, reliable, and human-centered. Whether through accessible software design, educational tools, or systems that support mental health resources, I want my work to reflect an understanding of diverse cognitive and emotional experiences. I am particularly interested in projects that support education, public service, or healthcare, where technology can directly improve quality of life and access to care. Beyond technical contributions, I also hope to serve as a mentor and advocate. Neurodivergent students often internalize the belief that they do not belong in rigorous academic or technical fields. By sharing my story, I want to help challenge that narrative. I believe representation matters, and seeing someone succeed while openly acknowledging a disability can be powerful for others who are still finding their footing. My experience with Bipolar I disorder has taught me perseverance, empathy, and responsibility. It has required me to work harder in some areas, but it has also given me insight into the importance of systems that support people as they are, not as they are expected to be. Through my education, I intend to combine technical skill with lived experience to help build a more inclusive and equitable future.

My primary academic goal is to earn my associate degree in Software Development and continue on to complete a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science. I am deeply interested in building reliable, secure, and impactful software systems, particularly those that serve public needs such as education, healthcare, and government or defense-related infrastructure. I enjoy problem solving, programming, and learning how systems work at a deeper level, from application logic to performance and security considerations. Computer science gives me the tools to turn ideas into real solutions, and I plan to use those tools responsibly and ethically. Beyond computer science, my non-technical goals are rooted in service, advocacy, and stability. I want to help create opportunities for people who face barriers similar to those I have encountered, including financial hardship, mental health challenges, and limited access to technology. I am passionate about mentorship, education, and giving back to my community. I also value long-term personal growth, sobriety, and mental wellness, and I strive to be a positive example of resilience and accountability for others who are working to rebuild their lives while pursuing education. I see my future as a combination of both my technical and non-technical goals. Through computer science, I can build software that supports accessibility, efficiency, and fairness. Through my personal experiences and community involvement, I can ensure that the technology I help create is human-centered and inclusive. For example, I am interested in developing applications that improve access to educational resources, mental health support tools, or secure systems used by public institutions. My background allows me to approach these challenges with empathy as well as technical skill. In the long term, I hope to work in a role where software development directly supports public service or national infrastructure, such as government technology, cybersecurity, or research-based institutions. At the same time, I plan to continue mentoring students, particularly those from underrepresented or nontraditional backgrounds, to show that success in STEM is possible even after setbacks. I believe that strong technical professionals should also be strong advocates, leaders, and community members. Computer science is not just a career path for me; it is a means to create stability, contribute meaningfully, and help others succeed. By combining my technical education with my commitment to service and personal growth, I aim to build a future where technology is used not only to innovate, but also to uplift and protect the communities it serves.

My name is Randall Rojas, and I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity to apply for this scholarship. My journey toward higher education has been far from traditional, but every step has strengthened my resilience, sharpened my focus, and deepened my commitment to pursuing a meaningful career. Today, I am a Software Development major at CNM with plans to transfer to UNM to earn my bachelor’s degree in Computer Science. My long-term goal is to work in the technology sector, ideally securing an internship with SpaceX as I advance into my bachelor-level coursework. Reaching these goals requires determination, discipline, and support, and this scholarship would play an important role in helping me continue on this path. In 2022, my life shifted dramatically when I was diagnosed with Bipolar I Disorder. At the time, I was working as an operations manager for a major fuel company, responsible for coordinating logistics, overseeing personnel, and ensuring day-to-day operations ran smoothly. While I was proud of my work, my diagnosis forced me to confront difficult decisions about my health, my lifestyle, and my future. Leaving my position was not easy, but it was necessary for me to prioritize long-term stability. I decided to return to school, hoping not only to gain new skills but also to rebuild my confidence and find a career that matched my strengths and passions. I originally enrolled at CNM in the Culinary Arts program, believing that a hands-on creative field might be a good fit. While I enjoyed learning new techniques, I quickly realized that software, problem-solving, and technology were where my motivation naturally gravitated. I have always loved building things, whether it is systems, programs, or complex structures, and I thrive on finding ways to optimize processes. That passion led me to switch my major to Software Development, a decision that has transformed my educational experience. Programming has challenged me in ways that feel motivating and engaging. Whether I am debugging a Python project, building advanced Pygame applications, experimenting with graphical interfaces, or learning web development through frameworks such as Flask and Django, I feel a sense of progress and excitement that pushes me to keep growing. Since returning to school, I have dedicated myself fully to academic success. I recently completed the summer term at CNM with all A’s, and I am working hard to maintain that level of achievement throughout the fall semester. For me, these grades represent much more than a letter. They symbolize perseverance after facing significant mental health challenges, a commitment to personal improvement, and a belief in the value of education. I want to prove to myself that setbacks do not define a person’s future and that determination can overcome obstacles. Community service is also an important part of my life. I volunteer regularly at the Heights Club in Albuquerque, supporting individuals who are participating in its twelve-step recovery program. Through this volunteer work, I have seen firsthand how meaningful encouragement and compassion can be for people who are trying to rebuild their lives. I also completed a service-learning project at Albuquerque Behavioral Health for my public speaking course, where I worked with young adults, encouraged them to return to school, and led activities focused on stress reduction. These experiences have taught me the importance of being a positive influence and offering support to those who are struggling. This scholarship would significantly reduce the financial strain of pursuing my degree. As a full-time student who is no longer working in my previous management role, covering the cost of tuition, books, and essential materials can be challenging. Financial support would allow me to concentrate fully on my coursework without the constant worry of how to manage educational expenses. More importantly, receiving this scholarship would reinforce that my hard work, growth, and dedication are recognized. Looking ahead, I am determined to graduate with my associate degree by the summer of 2026 and transition into a bachelor’s program at UNM. From there, I hope to contribute to advancements in the technology world. Working for a company like SpaceX, where innovation, precision, and bold ideas drive progress, would be a dream opportunity. I want to be part of something greater than myself, something that challenges me to think creatively and push boundaries. I believe I deserve this scholarship not because my journey has been simple, but because I have shown resilience, perseverance, and a strong desire to turn difficulties into opportunities. My diagnosis taught me the importance of stability and courage. Returning to school taught me discipline and commitment. My volunteer work taught me that success is not measured only by personal achievements but by the ways we uplift others. These experiences have shaped me into someone who is determined to work hard, give back, and strive for excellence in both education and community involvement. Thank you for taking the time to review my application. My Business Professionalism professor can speak to my dedication, reliability, and positive attitude. I am grateful for this opportunity, and I hope to be selected as a recipient of this scholarship. Sincerely, Randall Rojas

Hello, My name is Randall Rojas, and I am honored to be considered for this scholarship. My educational journey has not been easy, but every challenge I have faced has strengthened my determination to build a meaningful future. In 2022, I was diagnosed with Bipolar I Disorder. This turning point forced me to reevaluate my priorities, step away from my position as an operations manager at a major fuel company, and fully commit myself to improving my health and pursuing a long-term career path that inspires me. That decision ultimately led me back to school, where I have rediscovered my passion for technology, creativity, and personal growth. I began my studies at CNM in the Culinary Arts program, but as I continued learning, I realized my true interests were in software development. I have always enjoyed solving complex problems, building projects from the ground up, and using technology to make life better for others. Switching my major to Software Development has been one of the best decisions of my life, and I now plan to complete my associate degree at CNM and transfer to UNM to pursue a bachelor’s degree in computer science. My long-term goal is to apply for a highly competitive internship at SpaceX, where I hope to apply my skills in a mission-driven environment that pushes the boundaries of innovation. Academically, I am fully committed to success. I completed my summer term at CNM with all A’s, and I am dedicated to maintaining this level of performance throughout the fall semester and beyond. Returning to school as an adult student, while managing a disability, has required discipline, focus, and perseverance, but I am proud of how far I have come and motivated to continue excelling. In addition to my academic goals, I believe strongly in giving back to my community. I volunteer at the Heights Club in Albuquerque, supporting individuals participating in its twelve-step program. I also completed a service-learning project at Albuquerque Behavioral Health, where I worked with young adults, encouraged them to return to school, and led activities focused on stress reduction. These experiences have shown me the impact that support and compassion can have on people who are struggling, and they have motivated me to make service a consistent part of my life. Receiving this scholarship would have a profound impact on my educational journey. It would reduce the financial burden of tuition and materials, allowing me to fully concentrate on my courses and my long-term academic goals. Most importantly, it would reinforce my belief that hard work, resilience, and a commitment to growth truly matter. I am determined to graduate by the summer term of 2026 and use my education to contribute to the fields of technology and innovation. Thank you for considering my application. My Business Professionalism professor can speak to my dedication, work ethic, and desire to help others. I appreciate your time and the opportunity to apply for this scholarship. Sincerely, Randall Rojas