Growing up in Sicily, Italy, I saw thousands of people working day and night, yet barely making it, who despite their education and aspirations, often faced a sad reality. Many were forced to accept unpaid internships when finishing college or work long hours in restaurants for as little as 300 euros. While Italy offers free or low-cost education, opportunities after graduation felt saddening. I realized that no matter how talented or hard-working someone was, the system seemed designed to keep people in struggle. It became clear to me that if I wanted more out of life, I would have to leave. For a while, I was a tattooing. I learned from my mom when we were in Greece during a summer season, and I loved the creative expression of it, but that wasn’t enough to break free from the limitations. Back in Italy people seem to barely have enough money to survive, and luxuries like tattoos often felt out of reach. I couldn’t help but feel that life there, while beautiful in its own way, was suffocating. While others found their recreations in small pleasures—like aperitifs, beach walks, or dinners—I couldn’t shake the feeling that these were distractions, not solutions. I didn’t want my highest aspiration to be a moment of peace while struggling. I wanted more—not just for myself but for my family and the generations to come. I felt ashamed when I had to ask for money, as if that was the proof that I couldn't make it. That’s when my mom made a life-changing sacrifice for me. She moved to New York City, we were living with her sister’s family and working tirelessly to ensure me and my younger brother could access better opportunities. Her resilience and selflessness are the driving forces behind my determination to succeed. I never asked for anything for myself—I wanted her to focus on giving my brother the education he needed. But now, I know it’s my turn to step up. Moving to the United States as an international student hasn’t been easy, but it has given me a chance to start over. I’ve faced cultural and financial challenges, but each has strengthened my plan to make the most of this opportunity. I’m working toward becoming an immigration lawyer because I want to give others the same second chance my mom fought so hard to give me. Having experienced the complexities of the immigration system, I understand how overwhelming it can be. I saw how language barriers, legal obstacles, and a lack of resources can crush someone’s dreams. My goal is to help others navigate these challenges, offering support and hope to those who feel lost. To achieve this, I am excelling in my studies and preparing to attend law school in 2026. I have also done volunteer work, giving back to my community whenever I can. Whether it’s assisting disabled riders in therapeutic horse programs or delivering food to those in need, I’ve dedicated my time to others. This scholarship would be crucial in my journey. It would alleviate some of the financial burdens I face. With this support, I can take the next step toward becoming a lawyer and, ultimately, a resource for others seeking their second chance at life. I want to provide pro bono legal aid to low-income families navigating immigration processes, ensuring that no one feels unsupported. I also plan to mentor other students and immigrants, sharing my experiences. Vecchione’s belief in second chances resonates deeply with me, and I am committed to continuing his legacy by creating a positive change.

Growing up, I always believed in the power of community and the profound impact of giving back. My experiences as a volunteer have deeply shaped my outlook in life, installing a sense of responsibility in uplifting others and creating meaningful change. Over the years, I have found purpose and joy in contributing to my community in various ways, wether it was by assisting disabled riders in horse therapy programs, or "just" rescuing food for those in need. Each act, no mater how small, has reinforced my belief that community service can spark transformation not only in others but also within ourselves. One of the most meaningful contributions I have made to my community was through my work with disabled horse riders. I began volunteering as a horse walker in Italy and briefly continued this in the United States. This role required me to carefully assess each rider’s difficulties, guide the horse safely, and offer reassurance to both the rider and the animal. I witnessed how horse therapy could build confidence and improve the physical and emotional well-being of individuals facing significant challenges. The connection between the riders and the horses was a reminder of how empathy and collaboration can transcend barriers. For me, this experience wasn’t just about supporting the riders—it was also about honoring the therapeutic power of horses, a connection I deeply value after my own recovery from a motorcycle accident at the age of six. This accident left me with a badly broken leg, and horse therapy played a huge role in aligning my bones and restoring my posture, helping me in saving from limping for the rest of my life. Volunteering in this area became my way of expressing gratitude for the healing I once received while empowering others on their journeys. When I walk the horse and a kid is learning how to connect with this animal, it's like living that feeling of gratitude all over again. Another effort that holds special significance is my work in delivering fresh food to a local organization that serves those in need. Every time I do it, I “save” unsold food from a bakery that would otherwise go to waste and make sure it reaches people facing food insecurity. This initiative taught me about the hidden challenges of poverty and the immense value of seemingly small gestures. For many, a fresh loaf of bread or a box of pastries might seem insignificant, but for those who receive it, it can provide comfort and hope. Coming to the U.S, this experience has solidified my belief in the importance of resourcefulness and compassion when addressing systemic issues like hunger. In the future, my goal is to make an even greater difference by becoming a lawyer, specialized in immigration. My passion for this comes from my personal experiences going through immigration challenges as an international student in the United States. I have seen firsthand how complex and overwhelming the immigration system can be, especially for those without the resources or knowledge to advocate for themselves.

As an international student, my journey has taught me the value of resilience, adaptability, and service. While studying for my undergraduate degree in law and society, I have also made it a priority to give back to my community through volunteer work, which has become somewhat of a passion. These experiences have not only enriched my personal growth, but also reinforced my commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others. One of my most rewarding experiences has been volunteering with disabled horse riders as their walker. This role requires not only physical presence but also attentiveness and empathy to assess each rider's difficulties while ensuring their safety by leading the horse effectively. The bond between horse and rider is something truly special to witness, and I feel privileged to play a small part in creating such a connection. When I was six years old, I was in an accident that broke my leg. To aid my recovery, I began horse therapy, which helped improving my posture and the alignment of my leg bones, preventing me from developing a lifelong limp. This experience not only had a vital role in my physical healing, but also gave me a profound gratitude for horses as empathetic and therapeutic creatures. They have an incredible ability to connect with people, offering a sense of calm and confidence that can be life-changing. This is why I am passionate about helping others experience their amazing nature too. While my injuries are nowhere near the challenges faced by many of the children I have worked with, I deeply believe in the benefits of horse therapy. The organizers of these programs share this belief, and I have had the privilege of volunteering in such programs both in Italy and briefly here in New York City, too. I plan to resume this work in the near future, continuing to support these transformative experiences for others. In addition to work with horse therapy programs, I have also dedicated time to addressing food insecurity in my community. I volunteered to "rescue" fresh food from a local bakery, delivering it to an organization that distributes meals to those in need. This small but meaningful effort has allowed me to connect with others and contribute to a cause that directly impacts individuals and families. Starting next year, I plan to volunteer at a local church, assisting with their activities and archives. This new opportunity will allow me to contribute to preserving and sharing important stories of the community. My volunteering experiences have given me a strong foundation to connect with the community on a deeper level, understanding their struggles and building the empathy necessary to make a meaningful impact. One day, I will become a lawyer; it is not a career goal for me, but it's a calling to serve others and advocate for those in need. The opportunities to serve and uplift others that I am living through volunteer work inspire me to approach my future legal career with compassion and a commitment to justice. I will work to create a positive change.

Billie Eilish has a great ability to capture the depth of human emotions, particularly when it comes to family and hardship. The songs that speak to me on a deeply personal level are “everything i wanted,” “idontwannabeyouanymore,” and “bury a friend,” because they navigate important complexities like self-doubt, mental health, and the search for connection. "Everything I wanted" strikes me because of its portrayal of an intense emotional struggle. In the song, Billie reflects on feelings of failure and isolation, yet finds comfort in the unwavering support of her brother. It echoes the significance of family and unconditional love during difficult times. Billie captures the essence of how family, despite life's challenges, remains a constant source of strength. For me, it reflects the way my mother has always been there, especially as I’ve navigated challenges like moving to a new country, and facing uncertainties around my future. “idontwannabeyouanymore” is another song that holds significant meaning for me. Billie’s raw honesty in addressing self-criticism and internal battles mirrors my own experiences with self-doubt and pressure, especially as an international student. Deeply self-image and societal expectations can impact mental health. The lyrics invite the listener to accept themselves, and it has given me strength in moments where I struggled with my own self-worth. It's a reminder that it's okay to be imperfect, and you should embrace every part of the journey, doesn't matter how difficult it is. "Bury a friend" is a deep exploration of the darker side of mental health. It's probably one of my favorite songs, and also the firs tone I have heard of her. Its haunting lyrics reflect the fear and anxiety that many people face when dealing with inner demons, making it a powerful expression tool. It reminds me of the importance of acknowledging these struggles rather than hiding from them. In my journey with misophonia and mental health, I’ve found courage in Billie’s willingness to express these difficult emotions, reminding me that I’m not alone in confronting them.

I came from Italy, where life is much slower compared to New York City. Back home, I was used to meeting my friends at least three times a week, working regular hours, and going to school surrounded by familiar faces. Even during a workday, I could go home for lunch, and everything felt more connected and grounded. But ever since I moved to New York City, my entire world has changed. I’m far from my family and friends, and each day I face new faces, making it difficult to build lasting connections. The pace of life here is overwhelming, and it’s easy to feel isolated in such a massive city. The expectations from school, the constant noises of traffic and trains, the inability to look at the sky while walking to school because of the scaffoldings, and even having to be constantly aware of my surroundings because of the dangers... They were destroying me. When I first realized how much the change was affecting me, I sought help from an Italian therapist, hoping that sharing the same cultural background would help. However, after months of talking, it became clear that this approach wasn’t working for me. While she diagnosed me with mild depression, her therapy didn’t address the specific stress and anxiety I was feeling. Being in New York City is an experience she couldn’t fully understand, as she didn’t live here. My life had become so different from what it had been, and I needed a different form of support. That’s when I switched to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which has been a game-changer. CBT has helped me change my negative thought patterns and view life in a more positive, colorful light. Rather than getting stuck in cycles of stress and anxiety, I’ve learned to be grateful for the opportunities I have and to visualize my long-term goals. It’s allowed me to see that all the effort I’m putting into my education and life will one day be rewarded with the freedom to reconnect with my family and pursue a fulfilling career as an immigration lawyer. Another important aspect of my mental health journey is dealing with misophonia, a condition where I experience intense emotional reactions to specific sounds, like chewing or saliva-induced noises. I actually feel blood boiling in my veins. These triggers used to be so overwhelming that I couldn’t even sit at the same table with my mom during meals for almost a decade. Through CBT, I’ve started to manage these triggers more effectively. My therapist has been helping me redirect my attention when I’m exposed to these sounds, allowing me to focus on something else instead of reacting immediately. In the future, I plan to continue advocating for mental health awareness, especially for those dealing with the unique challenges of living in a fast-paced city like New York. I currently study forensic psychology, which broadens my view of people's issues and disorders, but also makes me understand better the society I now live in. By sharing my own story, I hope to show others that seeking help is a sign of strength and that overcoming mental health challenges is possible with the right tools and support. Through my future work as an immigration lawyer, I’ll ensure that mental health remains a priority, helping others navigate not only legal challenges but also the emotional and psychological difficulties they may face.

I am Italian, Sicilian to be precise. I moved to the USA, specifically to New York City, with my mom in search of better opportunities. My childhood was split between Sicily, where I attended schools, and Greece, where my mom worked as a seasonal tattoo artist during the summer. It was in Greece, interacting with Swedish tourists, that I began learning English. In Italy, English is not widely spoken, so I found myself learning it from the Swedes, who are taught English from a young age and speak it with impeccable grammar. In Italy English education starts in first grade and continues for thirteen years, but the focus is almost exclusively on grammar. It's rare to encounter teacher who emphasize speaking and conversation. For example, when asked "how are you?" we are taught to respond "I'm fine, thank you", and nothing more. This approach to language is limiting, but my mom realized early on how important it would be for me to master English. When I was in middle school, she bought me a copy of the book Alice in Wonderland and insisted I read it in English. This book became a turning point for me, teaching me not only how to translate in my head but also how rich and fascinating the English language could be. Now, I’m often complimented on how well I speak English for being Italian. While these comments can be flattering, they also feel a bit frustrating. Italian, being my first language, both helps and challenges me when I speak English. Since Italian is a Latin-based language, I often find common ground between it and English, especially when it comes to words with Latin roots, which tend to be more specific and eloquent. However, this also presents a challenge. Sometimes, I try to use Latin-based structures to express myself more clearly in English, but I end up accidentally making up words. Looking at my future, I believe that my multilingual background will be a great skill as I pursue my goal of becoming an international lawyer. I plan to start law school in 2026, and I know that my understanding of different languages and cultures will be critical in helping others navigate the complexities of immigration law. Legal jargon can be difficult to grasp, and as someone who has experienced the challenges of language barriers firsthand, I feel well-positioned to bridge those gaps for others. Being bilingual has certainly come with its set of challenges, from navigating cultural differences to mastering fluency in more than one language. However, it has also opened doors for me. I look forward to using these skills in my future career, where I hope to make a meaningful impact by helping individuals and families through legal systems that can often feel overwhelming and foreign.

Malgorzata's story resonates deeply with me as someone who has faced both physical and emotional challenges, but emerged as stronger. Born and raised in Sicily, I started horse riding as a form pf physical therapy after a traumatic accident when I was six years old. I was hit by a motorcycle, breaking my leg, and although the road to recovery was long and difficult I developed resilience and a love for physical challenges. Riding horses, much like skiing for Maggie became not only a therapy but a testament to my determination and my refusal to be defined by physical limitations. Maggie courageously moved to the U.S. alone, leaving her support system. My story differs, but I share her experience of adjusting to life in a foreign country. My mom moved to New York City because I wanted to be here to pursue my dreams, even thought it meant leaving everything behind. She managed to secure a green card, but I wasn't eligible because of my age. Today, I live in the U.S. without the ability to work and without being able to visit the rest of my family, as my visa has expired, and the embassy won't renew it due to my mom's permanent residency. This reality limits my opportunities, but I do find comfort in having my mom by my side. Maggie's bravery in following her own path is incredible, and I too face immigration challenges and the uncertainty of being away from my homeland. Like her, I push forward with determination, hoping for better opportunities. Maggie's love for adventure and exploring the world mirrors my own passions. I am a certified PADI scuba diver and love exploring unusual places when traveling. Like Maggie, I am not afraid to push my physical limits. Whether it's diving into the depths of the ocean, snowboarding on newly formed snow, or trying different sports, I take any opportunity for challenge and growth. Intellectually I connect with Maggie's devotion to learning and mastery. I am currently studying for a bachelor in forensic psychology with a minor in dispute resolution and have plans to attend law school in 2026. I've already earned an associate degree in criminal justice, graduating with a 3.87 GPA. Like Maggie, I am committed to excelling in whatever I set my mind to. My goal is to become an expert in my field, just as Maggie was in Engineering, and contribute to society through my education and future career in law. In New York City, where I now live, I often explore the city, just as Maggie loved exploring the world. I try to find beauty in every little thing, and every new experience helps me sharpen my perspective and grow into the person I want to become. Like Maggie, I am not content with standing still, and I find inspiration in her curiosity and boldness. Malgorzata's life reminds me of the importance of perseverance, adventure, and intellectual ambition. I relate to her challenges and I strive to face the challenges we have in common, head on. This scholarship would not only help me continue my education but also honor the legacy of a woman who embodies the qualities I hope to emulate.