When I was 12, I experienced one of the most heartbreaking moments of my life. In 2018, my grandfather was diagnosed with skin cancer, and as the disease progressed, it changed him in ways I never could have imagined. His once familiar and comforting presence faded as his condition worsened. His face became covered in painful bumps, making it impossible for him to speak. He could no longer eat on his own and had to be fed through a tube connected to his stomach. Watching him go through so much pain was devastating. It felt unreal to see someone I loved deteriorate before my eyes, knowing there was nothing I could do to ease his suffering. During this difficult time, my respect for my mother grew immensely. I watched her devote every waking moment to taking care of him, never once complaining despite her exhaustion. She stayed up through the night, helping him to the restroom, preparing special meals, and making sure he was as comfortable as possible. Even on the hardest days, she never wavered. Her strength, patience, and love were unwavering, and it was through her that I saw the true meaning of selflessness and sacrifice. She was his rock, and in many ways, she became mine as well. Every day, I prayed for a miracle. I held onto hope, believing that somehow he would get better. But as time went on, it became harder to ignore the reality of his condition. He was slipping away, and no amount of wishing or praying could change that. I tried to prepare myself, but when the moment finally came in January 2019, I wasn’t ready. His passing caught me off guard, leaving me feeling lost and broken. It was as if a part of me had been taken away, and the grief that followed was overwhelming. Losing my grandfather was one of the most painful experiences of my life, but through that pain, I learned some of the most valuable lessons. I realized how important it is to cherish every moment with the people we love because time is never guaranteed. His passing also strengthened my faith, teaching me that even in loss, there is a deeper meaning to the love we share with others. Most of all, it deepened my appreciation for my mother, who showed me what true resilience and devotion look like. Though the grief never fully goes away, I carry my grandfather’s memory with me, honoring his life by embracing the love, strength, and sacrifices that he and my mother exemplified.

When I was 12, I experienced one of the most heartbreaking moments of my life. In 2018, my grandfather was diagnosed with skin cancer, and as the disease progressed, it changed him in ways I never could have imagined. His once familiar and comforting presence faded as his condition worsened. His face became covered in painful bumps, making it impossible for him to speak. He could no longer eat on his own and had to be fed through a tube connected to his stomach. Watching him go through so much pain was devastating. It felt unreal to see someone I loved deteriorate before my eyes, knowing there was nothing I could do to ease his suffering. During this difficult time, my respect for my mother grew immensely. I watched her devote every waking moment to taking care of him, never once complaining despite her exhaustion. She stayed up through the night, helping him to the restroom, preparing special meals, and making sure he was as comfortable as possible. Even on the hardest days, she never wavered. Her strength, patience, and love were unwavering, and it was through her that I saw the true meaning of selflessness and sacrifice. She was his rock, and in many ways, she became mine as well. Every day, I prayed for a miracle. I held onto hope, believing that somehow he would get better. But as time went on, it became harder to ignore the reality of his condition. He was slipping away, and no amount of wishing or praying could change that. I tried to prepare myself, but when the moment finally came in January 2019, I wasn’t ready. His passing caught me off guard, leaving me feeling lost and broken. It was as if a part of me had been taken away, and the grief that followed was overwhelming. Losing my grandfather was one of the most painful experiences of my life, but through that pain, I learned some of the most valuable lessons. I realized how important it is to cherish every moment with the people we love because time is never guaranteed. His passing also strengthened my faith, teaching me that even in loss, there is a deeper meaning to the love we share with others. Most of all, it deepened my appreciation for my mother, who showed me what true resilience and devotion look like. Though the grief never fully goes away, I carry my grandfather’s memory with me, honoring his life by embracing the love, strength, and sacrifices that he and my mother exemplified.

Each morning, as I prepare for school, I reflect on the sacrifices my parents have made to support my education. My dad works tirelessly in another city, while my mother remains the steady foundation of our home, ensuring I have the tools I need to succeed. Their unwavering commitment has inspired me to dedicate myself fully to my studies and future aspirations. My family’s story is one of resilience and hard work, deeply rooted in our proud Mexican heritage. My parents both earned college degrees in Mexico but never had the chance to study in the United States. Determined to give my brothers and me opportunities they never had, they’ve made countless sacrifices to support our education. My father, an engineer, works long hours far from home in another city, often going weeks without seeing us, while my mother holds our family together, ensuring we stay focused on our goals. Their unwavering commitment inspires me every day to make the most of the opportunities they’ve worked so hard to provide and to honor their efforts through my own dedication and success. When My family moved from Piedras Negras to Eagle Pass, I left behind everything familiar and faced a challenging transition. I didn’t know what Pre-AP or AP classes were, and neither did my parents, so I didn’t take them that year. I also had no idea what NHS or other extracurriculars were. Everything changed when my history teacher, Ms. Hernandez took the time to guide me. Ms. Hernandez explained how to stand out in high school and introduced me to the many opportunities at EPHS. With their support, I started taking Pre-AP and AP classes, joined NHS, and became more involved in my school community, setting the foundation for my academic success. One of the most memorable moments in NHS was volunteering at the Maverick Food Pantry to distribute food supplies to elderly community members. It was a drive-thru event, and our task was to load groceries into their cars. I remember one man in particular; it was his first time visiting the pantry, and he expressed how much he needed the help. He was so genuinely grateful that it deeply touched my heart. Initially, I regretted volunteering because of all the heavy lifting, but that moment changed my perspective. I realized the importance of giving back to my community and supporting those in need. Eagle Pass has given so much to me, and I am committed to giving back. I’m excited to pursue an accounting degree at UT Austin’s McCombs School of Business and eventually start my own firm. With a passion for numbers and problem-solving, I want to use my education to support local and help small businesses thrive, fostering economic growth in Eagle Pass and inspire others to pursue their dreams. Without a scholarship, attending college would place a significant financial strain on my family, especially with my older brother already in college. My parents work hard to support us, but managing tuition and expenses is challenging. I’m truly grateful to be considered for a scholarship, as it would ease this burden and allow me to focus on earning my accounting degree and giving back to my community.

I believe I am a positive force in society both now and in the future by using my voice, actions, and aspirations to uplift others and create meaningful change. This belief is deeply personal—it stems from the moments when I've witnessed how a simple gesture can touch someone’s heart. Currently, I strive to make an impact by volunteering at an immigrant shelter, where I distribute essentials like food and clothing, organize activities for children, and engage in heartfelt conversations with adults about their journeys. I’ve seen the relief on a mother’s face when she receives a warm meal for her child, and the quiet gratitude in a father's eyes when offered a clean set of clothes. These moments have taught me empathy, compassion, and the importance of community support. They remind me that even small acts of kindness can spark hope and make a lasting difference in someone’s life. As a leader in ECyD, a Catholic youth group, I mentor younger girls, helping them build self-confidence, embrace their authenticity, and develop strong moral foundations. It’s more than just giving advice—it’s about creating a space where they feel safe and heard. I remember a twelve-year-old girl confiding in me about her struggles with self-esteem. Watching her slowly open up and grow more confident over time made me realize that leadership isn’t about being in charge; it’s about lifting others up. These experiences have shaped me into someone who values service and recognizes the ripple effect that encouragement and support can have on a community. Looking to the future, I aim to extend this positive impact by pursuing a degree in accounting and starting my own accounting firm. While this may seem like a path rooted in numbers and finance, my vision goes beyond spreadsheets and profit margins. I want to use my knowledge to help small business owners; especially those from marginalized communities—achieve financial stability and growth. I’ve seen how financial stress can weigh heavily on families, and I want to be someone who offers not just solutions, but also reassurance and hope. By guiding others through budgeting, taxes, and investments, I hope to empower them to build sustainable businesses, create jobs, and contribute to the overall economic health of their communities. Financial literacy is more than just a skill, it’s a lifeline, and I want to bridge the gap between complex financial systems and the people who need support the most. The parameters of current social norms also influence how I perceive my role in society. Today’s world places a strong emphasis on social responsibility, inclusivity, and mental health awareness. These values push me to constantly reflect on how my actions impact others. The rise of social media, for example, has taught me the importance of using my platform responsibly; spreading positivity, advocating for causes I believe in, and standing against injustice. At the same time, societal conversations about mental health have encouraged me to prioritize my well-being, understanding that I can only uplift others if I first take care of myself. I’ve learned that being a positive force doesn’t mean always having it together; it means showing up, even when it’s hard, and leading with empathy. Ultimately, I see myself as a positive force by balancing my personal growth with a genuine commitment to serving others. Whether through volunteer work, mentorship, or future business endeavors, my goal is to create spaces where people feel supported, heard, and empowered. Social norms may evolve, but the core values of kindness, empathy, and community will always guide me in making a meaningful difference—today and in the years to come.

One lyric from Olivia Rodrigo’s GUTS that resonates deeply with my teenage experience comes from her song Brutal: “And they’d all be so disappointed ’Cause, who am I, if not exploited?” This line perfectly captures the overwhelming pressure to meet expectations while struggling to figure out who you really are. Adolescence is full of contradictions, we’re told to be independent but expected to follow rules, encouraged to dream big but warned about failure. There have been times when I felt like my worth depended on how much I could achieve, how much I could give, or how well I could make others happy. Like the lyric suggests, I’ve questioned if people valued me for who I was or just for what I could do for them. That pressure to constantly perform, to be a good student, a supportive friend, a responsible family member, can be exhausting. I remember a time when I felt stretched too thin, saying yes to everything because I thought that’s what I was supposed to do. I juggled school, extracurriculars, and friendships, convincing myself that I had to keep going, no matter how drained I felt. The fear of disappointing others kept me from setting boundaries, and in trying to be everything to everyone, I started to lose sight of myself. Rodrigo’s lyric speaks to this struggle, the feeling that we are measured by how much we give rather than simply being enough as we are. It also highlights the frustration of realizing that, despite our efforts, it sometimes still isn’t enough. As teenagers, we want to be liked and accepted, but that desire can turn into self-sacrifice. What makes Olivia Rodrigo’s music so powerful is her ability to put these emotions into words. Brutal isn’t just about teenage angst; it’s about the silent struggles of growing up, the unspoken fears, the pressure to succeed, and the uncertainty of who we are becoming. This lyric reminds me that I don’t have to constantly prove my worth. I am not defined by how much I achieve or how well I meet expectations. I am learning that my value comes from simply being myself. Ultimately, Rodrigo’s words have helped me reflect on my own experiences and recognize that part of growing up is learning to set boundaries and prioritize myself. The teenage years are messy, frustrating, and sometimes overwhelming, but they are also a time of self-discovery. And while I may not have all the answers yet, I know that who I am is more than just what I can give.

Insurance plays a vital role in my life and those around me by providing financial protection and peace of mind. Growing up, I saw how important health insurance was, especially when my younger brother needed emergency care. Without it, the medical bills would have been overwhelming. Whether it’s health, auto, home, or life insurance, these protections help families navigate uncertainties without the fear of financial ruin. One experience that truly made me understand the importance of insurance happened when I was twelve, staying at my grandmother’s house. My grandfather had passed away three years before, and she lived alone. That night, she woke me up at three in the morning, feeling very sick. She had diabetes and needed to be connected to a machine every night, but something felt different this time. Though I was too young to react quickly, she calmly told me to call my parents. When they arrived, she was rushed to the hospital and later transported by helicopter to San Antonio. Without insurance, that helicopter ride would have been financially devastating. This experience showed me how crucial insurance is; not just for financial relief but for access to life-saving care. Insurance agencies bridge the gap between individuals and the protection they need. I remember my parents meeting with an agent to discuss life insurance, ensuring my brothers and I would be taken care of if anything happened to them. It was a sobering but necessary conversation. Agencies do more than sell policies, they educate clients, tailor coverage to needs, and advocate during claims processes. Their role is built on trust, helping people adjust coverage as life changes. The positive impact of insurance is undeniable. It provides financial security, allowing families like mine to plan for the future. It empowers individuals to invest in homes, start businesses, and pursue education, knowing they have a safety net. It also prevents financial devastation from unexpected medical bills, natural disasters, or accidents. Without insurance, a single emergency, like my grandmother’s, could ruin a family financially. However, there are downsides. Insurance premiums can be expensive, making adequate coverage difficult to afford. Complicated policy language can confuse policyholders, leading to misunderstandings. I’ve seen my parents struggle with health insurance terms, which added stress during medical emergencies. There’s also the risk of denied claims, leaving individuals in financial distress. Despite these challenges, insurance remains essential. It protects individuals and families from life’s unpredictability. While costs and complexity exist, the overall benefits outweigh the drawbacks. For families like mine, insurance provides stability and support in crises. The experiences I’ve witnessed, from my brother’s medical emergency to my grandmother’s transport, prove that insurance isn’t just about policies; it’s about peace of mind, security, and focusing on what truly matters: health, family, and the future.

My Mexican heritage is a big part of who I am. It has shaped my values, my work ethic, and the way I see the world. Growing up, I watched my parents work hard to give my brothers and me a better future. They both earned college degrees in Mexico, but they never had the chance to study in the U.S. Even so, they always taught us that education is the key to a better life. Seeing their sacrifices has made me determined to take every opportunity I can and use my education to help others. Moving from Piedras Negras to Eagle Pass was a big adjustment. I didn’t know what Pre-AP or AP classes were, and since my parents weren’t familiar with the U.S. school system, they couldn’t guide me. I had to figure things out on my own. Luckily, teachers like Ms. Hernandez helped me find my way. She encouraged me to take harder classes, get involved in school, and believe in my potential. Thanks to her support, I joined NHS and pushed myself academically, which gave me the confidence to aim higher. I plan to study accounting at UT Austin’s McCombs School of Business and one day start my own firm. I love working with numbers and solving problems, but more than that, I want to help small businesses succeed. In communities like Eagle Pass, many hardworking people struggle to manage their finances, and I want to be someone who can guide them. By helping others build their dreams, I hope to give back to the community that has given so much to me. College is a huge financial challenge for my family. My dad works long hours away from home, and my mom keeps everything running while making sure we stay focused on school. With my older brother already in college, paying for tuition and expenses is difficult. A scholarship would mean everything to us. It would lift some of the burden off my parents and allow me to focus on my education. More than that, it would be a step toward achieving my dreams and making my family’s sacrifices worth it.

My goals for the future are to attend the University of Texas at Austin and major in accounting. After earning my degree, I dream of starting my own accounting firm to help small business owners grow and succeed. I’ve always been passionate about helping others, and I believe accounting is about more than just numbers—it’s about providing solutions that can truly make a difference in someone’s life. By helping businesses manage their finances, I want to give entrepreneurs the confidence to focus on what they love while knowing they have someone they trust handling the financial side. In doing so, I hope to make a positive impact on individuals, families, and entire communities. To work toward these goals, I’ve committed myself to excelling academically, developing leadership skills, and giving back to my community. In school, I’ve focused on maintaining strong grades because I know that a good education is the foundation for future success. Being part of the National Honor Society has taught me discipline, responsibility, and the importance of hard work. Through service projects with NHS, I’ve learned how meaningful it is to contribute to something greater than myself—an experience that reinforces my desire to help others succeed in their goals, both personally and professionally. Outside of academics, I’ve taken on leadership roles to grow as a person and prepare for the future. As a leader in ECyD, a Catholic youth group, I mentor 12-year-old girls, teaching them about self-respect, confidence, and building a strong moral foundation. In this role, I’ve learned the value of patience, empathy, and guiding others to see their own potential. I believe these skills will serve me well in my future accounting career, where trust and communication with clients will be essential. Helping young girls believe in themselves has been one of my most rewarding experiences, and it motivates me to carry that same mindset into my professional life—empowering others to succeed. I’ve also displayed my passion through my volunteer work at an immigrant shelter, where I assist families in difficult circumstances by distributing essentials, organizing activities for children, and providing a welcoming environment. This experience has taught me resilience, compassion, and the importance of supporting others when they need it most. Even though it’s not directly related to accounting, it’s shown me how small acts of service can have a big impact on someone’s life, which is exactly what I hope to achieve in my future career. Despite my hard work and determination, I know pursuing a college education will come with challenges. My family has faced financial hardships, and my father works in another city to provide for us. His sacrifices inspire me to stay focused and work harder, but they also create a sense of pressure to succeed. I know that balancing my studies, adjusting to college life, and being away from my family will be difficult. However, I am determined to push through these challenges because I want to make my parents proud and honor everything they have done for me. In the end, my goals are driven by a desire to help others while achieving success for myself. By staying committed to my education, developing my skills, and embracing challenges, I will accomplish my dream of becoming an accountant and making a meaningful difference in the lives of those I serve.