1. In addition to my focus on academics and golf, I have put effort into finding other activities to stay grounded and connected. For me, being outside is very important. I love being outside in nature, whether it is finding new places to go, exploring around Houston, or taking time by myself for peace and quiet to recharge. Growing up in San Jose, California, I loved being outside, so I enjoy the opportunity to explore new parts of a big city. I also spend time coaching at the First Tee of Greater Houston at FM Law Park with beginner golfers, leading classes for kids aged 7 to 9. While coaching is directly related to golf, for me, the true investment is in the children I teach: I get to see their confidence grow, they learn the value of First Tee, and I become a positive role model for them. In trying to balance all of these activities while fulfilling my obligations both athletically and academically, I have learned to be intentional with my time and to protect the moments that allow me to maintain a healthy mental and emotional state. 2. I'm majoring in Finance at Texas Southern University, where I currently have a 3.7 GPA. I've also achieved Dean's List and President's List honors. I chose Finance because of my commitment to golf and my long-term goal of creating positive change in the golf industry. The business side of golf, from product investment to brand partnerships and sponsorships, interests me, and I would like to learn how financial decisions shape the game's future. Once I finish my undergraduate degree, I plan to obtain my Master of Business Administration (MBA) while working as a graduate assistant; this will provide me with an opportunity to remain involved in college golf and enhance my business education. Ultimately, I want to work for a major golf company, such as TaylorMade, Ping, or Titleist, in Business Operations, helping grow the game from the corporate side. Studying Finance enables me to combine analytical thinking with my passion for golf and drive positive change in the industry. 3. Since I started playing golf, giving back has been very important to me. In the past two years, I've been working part-time, coaching 7-9-year-old golfers through First Tee of Greater Houston at FM Law Park, where I teach the fundamentals of the game and the core values of First Tee. It has been incredibly rewarding to watch these young golfers develop and grow into amazing kids! I've also volunteered at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, helping on the driving range with some of the greatest pro golfers in the world, and at Pebble Beach, assisting with many clinics to develop the next generation of junior golfers. I intend to continue my coaching with First Tee until I graduate from college. After college, I plan to pursue internships with organizations such as the USGA, the PGA Tour, or local junior golf tours to learn how to develop golf at the highest levels. Long term, I want to create opportunities for kids from underrepresented backgrounds to play golf because I get so much out of it and would like to give others the same opportunity. 4. The HCGS Scholarship would make a tremendous difference in many aspects of my college life. Receiving this financial assistance would reduce some of the stress of balancing tuition and expenses as a Student-Athlete, enabling me to devote my full focus to my studies in Finance. Furthermore, I would be able to continue my pursuit of academic excellence as evidenced by my 3.7 CGPA, two Dean's List recognitions, and a President's List recognition. Receiving this scholarship will provide me with additional time and energy to enhance my development as a member of the TSU Men's Golf Team; specifically, through training and tournament prep, as well as building the discipline and perseverance required to compete at a high level in golf. I am especially excited about the mentorship component associated with this scholarship program. At this point in my life, I am developing a career in golf. I am at a crossroads, needing to decide on internship opportunities, Graduate School, and what my work life will look like if I decide to go into business in the golf industry. Many of those who will be mentoring me through this program have traveled this same path, and having access to that type of guidance will be extremely valuable to me. Not only would the HCGS Scholarship assist me, but it would also prepare me to serve others more effectively in their communities and as young golfers through service activities. 5. So far in my life, I have experienced various struggles; however, one experience has significantly impacted me. In my first year at Texas Southern University, I played in the Bridgestone Collegiate Invitational held in Napa, California. This event was special because I was so close to home and because my family was able to support me there. I wanted to show them how much I have grown as an athlete since moving from San Jose, CA, to Houston, TX. Instead of playing well, I shot my worst score of the season. I felt a combination of disappointment, sadness, and anger. The pressure of having family present, along with the expectations I placed on myself, made it difficult for me to perform at my best. After the tournament, I contemplated what the experience was supposed to teach me about pressure. I learned that pressure is real and won't go away just because you want it to; you have to learn how to cope with it. From that moment forward, I was committed to working on my practice routines, developing my mental game, and clearing my mind of distractions before arriving at the golf course. That experience humbled me and reminded me that the rounds you try to forget often show you who you must become.