In a 2022 TedTalk, Von Ryan Abrantes shines light on Filipino resilience. With Cebuano phrases like “padayon” (“carry on”) and “puhon puhon” (“we wish/let us pray”), resilience is baked into our language, attitudes, and history. Filipinos smile and support each other amidst typhoon floodwaters. We retain a sense of unique cultural identity despite centuries of colonial imprinting. He introduces a tension as well- a flip side to being globally perceived as resilient. “People become resilient as a byproduct of surviving catastrophes… they should not be expected to be resilient every time there is a catastrophe.” The talk calls us to, yes, take deep pride in our strength, but also recognize that the situations we’ve had to adapt to can be improved on a socio-political level. The first paragraph is an excerpt from a page I wrote in a student-led zine. Titled “The Balikbayan Project,” it aimed to quell our lack of representation in academic spaces. Now, In October 2025, it will be published in the Filipino American National Historical Society Journal. My history of Filipino-American activism did not begin with this zine, but it certainly continues because of it. Mutual aid plays a large role in our ability to bounce back. It also helps improve our quality of life. Through the power of grouping together, I have protested against textbook censorship in the Philippines and critically low Jollibee wages in Newark. At my church, I found mental health support in weekly discussions. We once held an impromptu food drive, turning “five loaves and two fish” into over one hundred cans for the hungry. College is an amazing place for organizations like this to continue. Winning this scholarship will allow me to distribute more energy towards giving back. I want to create or expand the Filipino club at my future college, and volunteer my time outside of school. Hours that would’ve been spent at work gaining money for myself can become hours organizing events that give ten times that value to a broader community. Resilience is also baked into the topics I will research. Whether I pursue civil, architectural, or materials engineering, I aim to build infrastructure that lasts. Urban areas The additional fee for engineering college entrance can be covered with just a portion of this scholarship. Winning ensures that the influence of immigrants will always be weaved into American infrastructure. And when the water gets deep- looking at you, finals week- I know to lock arms with those around me. By co-studying and sharing support, we can advance to the next levels of our education. I believe that Filipino resilience is a product of individual perseverance and mutual aid. I have exemplified these throughout my high school career, and will continue to in college, because dedication to our families runs high. I know that personal success means success for the communities I am dedicated to.