Translating disconnection notices for my parents, calling their boss to explain they were sick, or asking a teacher to excuse me from class because it was my quinceañera were all rites of passage. Right? Well, let me clarify: for first-generation kids, this is the norm. I was always aware that I didn’t have the latest gadgets, clothes, or school supplies like some of my classmates, and that awareness taught me early on the value of hard work and making the most of every opportunity. I know all too well the struggles of navigating two cultures, constantly balancing assimilation with pride in my heritage. But when it came time to navigate college, I was on my own. My parents couldn’t help me because the system was new to them too. Still, even as foreigners in both language and land, they became my strongest supporters. Through this journey, I learned two things: the value of discipline and the power of a support system. Discipline was vital not only for affording college but also for succeeding in it. When motivation sleeps in, discipline shows up every time. After long shifts delivering packages for Amazon, discipline pushed me to squeeze in a few DoorDash runs before sunset. When Netflix tempted me to watch another episode, discipline whispered, “Do just one problem.” Those extra delivery shifts allowed me to pay for several classes out of pocket, and those small, consistent study sessions kept me from pulling all-nighters. Step by step, discipline turned an overwhelming journey into something I could manage. But discipline wasn’t the only thing that carried me. My parents couldn’t guide me through FAFSA forms or course schedules, but they gave me encouragement, and that mattered more than I realized. We underestimate the power of words. A simple “You got this!” can make all the difference. Before one of my hardest exams (hello, Dynamics), my best friend told me, “You have all the weapons you need. Now fight.” That single sentence eased my anxiety, quieted my imposter syndrome, and gave me the courage to keep going. Some first-gens may not have a built-in support system, but my advice is this: build one. It doesn’t matter if it’s a classmate, a teacher, or even your local gas clerk, just have someone in your corner. College may be an individual pursuit, but community is what makes us stronger. The path of a first-generation student is rarely smooth. While others sprint forward with college funds and insider knowledge, we face hurdles from the start. We carry not only our own dreams but also the weight of the sacrifices made by those who came before us. If we stay disciplined in our goals and lean on a support system that believes in us, there is no doubt we will achieve everything we dream. We may face more obstacles than some, but with hard work and the encouragement of those around us, we are fully equipped to reach our goals.

As I wove through the sea of faces in my high school graduation crowd after the ceremony, my eyes were drawn to my father's face, beaming with pride and joy. When he enveloped me in an embrace, I felt his happiness reverberate through generations—his warmth was not only his own but a culmination of the hopes and dreams of those who came before him. That moment wasn't just about reaching an important milestone; it marked the threshold of a unique journey, one exclusively mine, as I stood poised to be the first to go to college in our family. About three decades ago, our family's journey began in Monterrey, Mexico. Seeking brighter prospects, my parents set out on a voyage that required adapting to a new culture, language, and way of life. They faced challenges with a determined spirit, not just surviving, but thriving. Despite being non-citizens, they worked hard, often juggling two jobs each, a testament to their dedication. I was exposed very early on that to be able to reach success, I needed to be educated. My parents wanted more for me and wanted to spare me the monotony of long and grueling work and relish the fruits of my labor. The way to do this was through education. For my parents, higher positions remained out of reach due to educational requirements (not to mention their non-citizen status) emphasizing the value of learning. The lesson was clear: education could be the catalyst to elevate us beyond our current circumstances. This understanding became an integral part of our family ethos, highlighting the potential of education to break down barriers and create opportunities that would otherwise remain elusive. This journey from Monterrey to the platform of my high school graduation ceremony has been a testament to the indomitable spirit of resilience and tenacity. The sacrifices my parents made, the obstacles they overcame, and the dreams they clung to—they all converged in a moment of jubilation and promise. But this is not the final destination. At the crossroads of my future, I'm enveloped by a profound sense of duty. Being a first-generation college student isn't just about personal triumph; it's the intersection of history and potential, of adversity and advancement. I bear the weight of my family's aspirations and the gravity of their sacrifices, motivating me to seize this opportunity to its fullest extent. Yet, choosing a path was far from easy. Due to my own non-citizen status, university right after high school was financially out of reach. Initially devastating, this turned out to be a blessing in disguise. At 18, I was unsure of my direction until a pivotal conversation. Starting as a dental assistant and working in the profession for years, disillusionment and burnout crept in. Routine actions felt automatic, waking up to go to work was a chore, and the facade of a happy dental assistant was beginning to crack. Until a conversation with a patient altered my perspective. He was a mechanical engineer, and the particular headlight we were using was his design. The passion in his voice and enthusiasm for his work was incredibly captivating. At that very moment, I felt a strong conviction that I wanted to experience that same kind of passion. While my experience in dentistry had left me unfulfilled, the prospect of engineering seemed to hold the promise of a more rewarding and exciting path. My attraction to engineering was further stoked by an innate curiosity and an unquenchable thirst for challenges. Mathematics, my personal favorite, motioned me to approach problems from diverse angles, often uncovering inventive solutions. In my prior work, I consistently fashioned new ways to become more efficient, for myself and the patients. Given this background, though unconventional, transitioning to engineering felt like a seamless progression. The pursuit of an engineering degree transcends personal zeal; it resonates with the ripple effect of impact I can effectuate in the world. Advanced education furnishes individuals with the tools to craft solutions that metamorphose lives, industries, and entire societies. The potency of this impact is amplified for a first-generation college student, as it endows me with the capacity to chase aspirations and inscribe myself as an exemplar for those who follow. As I stand on the precipice of a new chapter, my ambition is stoked by the yearning to immortalize my family's odyssey, shatter barriers that once seemed impervious, and contribute to a world that hungers for innovative visionaries and adept problem solvers. The pursuit of my engineering degree is more than a solitary endeavor; it's a living tribute to the sacrifices of the past and a luminous beacon of optimism for the future. With steadfast determination and an enduring dedication to education, my aspiration is to carve a pathway for the generations that will follow, mirroring the trail that my family bravely forged for me.

One seemingly ordinary morning, as ten-year-old me excitedly shares cherished memories of my native Mexico, an inquisitive teacher approaches me with a question that sparks a profound sense of curiosity about my identity: "Do you have papers?" It was then that I realized I was not like my classmates; I was not a U.S. citizen. From the carefree days of elementary school to facing the cumbersome reality of my non-U.S. citizenship, my journey to higher education has been filled with unexpected hurdles. This revelation marked the beginning of a series of challenges I would encounter on my path to higher education. I discovered that I was ineligible for FAFSA, scholarships, and grants that could have eased the financial burden. Moreover, I found myself navigating the arduous journey of applying to college alone, as my parents were unfamiliar with the process and my guidance counselors lacked the necessary knowledge to provide assistance. Despite these setbacks, I refused to let them define my future. While it may have slowed down my progress, it did not deter me from pursuing my dreams. Not being able to afford college immediately after high school, I embraced a brief hiatus, using the time to gain clarity on my aspirations. Had it not been for this transformative period of struggle and soul-searching, I would not have blossomed into the open-minded, creative, and resourceful woman I am today. Life is a creative teacher. Through diverse experiences in various industries, I finally found my calling in engineering, a field that perfectly intersects my desire to build and connect. I have embarked on a journey to pursue a bachelor's in civil engineering, a decision fueled by my relentless resolve to make a positive impact. Throughout my life, a common thread has woven itself, revealing my innate desire to be of service and be productively influential. This intrinsic characteristic has become my beacon, enabling me to perceive setbacks as opportunities for growth and transformation. Undaunted by challenges, I have consistently risen to the occasion, embracing each one with eagerness and courage. The setbacks I encountered forced me to become creative and resilient in finding alternative avenues to fund my education. My unique background as a non-U.S. citizen has equipped me with a perspective that is both diverse and profound. As I constantly navigate between two cultures, I am inspired to approach engineering challenges with innovative solutions, fostering a deeper understanding of the impact of infrastructure on diverse communities. I believe that by bridging the gap between different backgrounds, I can help create a more inclusive and equitable world. With each hurdle I overcome, I grow more determined to prove that adversity can be transformed into a source of strength. My journey is not just about obtaining a degree; it is about realizing my potential to make a lasting impact in the field of civil engineering. I am committed to utilizing my education, skills, and unique background to become a change agent, a bridge between dreams and reality, and a catalyst for positive transformation. As I continue on this transformative path, I carry with me the lessons learned from my past challenges, the inspiration drawn from my roots, and the unwavering belief that my journey, though unconventional, will pave the way for a brighter and more inclusive future. Through perseverance, resilience, and a deep passion for engineering, I am determined to make my mark and create a world where opportunities are accessible to all, regardless of their background.

Being a non-U.S. citizen often feels like being a shadow, quietly existing on the periphery of the vibrant tapestry that is America. The poignant lyric "We are America's ghost writers" from the song "Immigrants: We Get the Job Done" in the Hamilton Mixtape resonates deeply with me, encapsulating the essence of our journey. We are citizens of nowhere, continually striving to carve our place in this land of opportunities. In my pursuit of higher education, I find myself entangled in the interplay of lights and shadows. Education, like a radiant light, represents hope and progress, illuminating the path to a brighter future. However, at times, it can cast shadows that seem to engulf me, as I grapple with the challenges unique to being a non-U.S. citizen. While others seem to effortlessly float along, I have often felt like I'm navigating through a vast sea, struggling to stay afloat. The inequalities in access to resources, financial aid, and opportunities cast these shadows, sometimes obscuring the path ahead. Yet, it is precisely within these shadows that my resilience and determination have been forged. I have learned to adapt, to find alternative ways to surmount the barriers before me. With each obstacle overcome, I emerge stronger, casting aside the weight of doubt and uncertainty. The shadows may sometimes be daunting, but they have also provided me with a distinct perspective. I have become acutely aware of the nuances and intricacies that shape the immigrant experience. This heightened awareness has ignited within me a desire to advocate for change, to shine a light on the plight of fellow non-U.S. citizens, and to create a more equitable and inclusive society. Through my unwavering pursuit of a civil engineering degree, I aspire to construct more than just physical bridges; I long to build a metaphorical bridge that not only enriches my community but also fosters a profound sense of connection among its diverse members. In the midst of these shadows, higher education becomes not just a distant light but a beacon of hope, a symbol of possibility and transformation. It is through education that I equip myself with the tools to craft my narrative and shape my destiny. I am determined to rise above the shadows, embrace the light of knowledge, and create a future that defies the limitations imposed by circumstances. As I continue on this path, I remember that shadows do not define us; they merely shape the contrast against which we shine our brightest. I am not a mere specter, but a force to be reckoned with—a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the unyielding pursuit of dreams. I embrace the challenges, knowing they have not drowned me, but rather, have fueled my resilience and determination. I am a non-U.S. citizen with a story to tell, a narrative that defies expectations and celebrates the unique blend of cultures that resides within me. And as I cast aside the shadows, I rise, like the sun breaking through the horizon, illuminating a path of possibilities, and reminding myself that my journey, though unconventional, is one of significance and purpose.

In the early hours of an April morning in 1992, my family and I arrived in Dallas, TX, on a crowded bus from the mountainous terrain of Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico. Even as mere babies, my sister and I embarked on a journey of hope and promise, carried by our parents' determination to create a better future. With boundless aspirations in their hearts, they left behind the comfort of our native home, venturing into the unknown with dreams of abundance and success. Starting anew in a country with a different language and culture was not easy. The challenges were immense, and the road ahead seemed daunting. But our parents instilled in us a vital lesson from the very beginning: growth and success are seldom found in comfort. We learned that embracing change and facing adversity head-on were essential ingredients for progress. Life handed us a set of cards, each bearing its own hardships, but it was the wisdom of our parents that guided us as we played them. Embracing their teachings, I've chosen to aim my vision high and far, fueled by the belief that settling for mediocrity is not an option. I yearn to be a valuable member of society, one who not only takes pride in her roots but also finds purpose and fulfillment in the journey ahead. As I navigate through life's challenges, my parents' words echo in my mind, reminding me of the power of resilience and determination. I refuse to succumb to obstacles; instead, I view them as stepping stones to growth and achievement. I know that every hardship I face is an opportunity to grow stronger and wiser, ready to take on the world with unwavering resolve. In the pursuit of my dreams, I have set my sights high, striving to become a beacon of inspiration for others. I am driven not only by personal ambition but also by the desire to contribute meaningfully to society. I want to be someone who leaves a lasting impact, someone who builds bridges of connection and understanding, transcending boundaries that divide us. Every step I take forward is a testament to the courage of my family, the sacrifices they made, and the belief they had in a brighter future for us. I hold their legacy within me, a constant flame igniting my spirit as I fearlessly embrace life's challenges and opportunities. As I embrace my heritage and embrace the work that lies ahead, I am reminded of the profound responsibility I have to honor the sacrifices of my family. I am determined to make them proud by being a source of positive change, and by using my skills and talents to uplift others and build a world that embraces diversity and empowers every individual to pursue their dreams. My journey may have started on a crowded bus from Monterrey, Mexico, but it continues with a sense of purpose and passion that drives me to make a difference. I am proud of where I came from, but I am even prouder of the work that lies ahead. With my family's support and guidance, I am confident that I will not only overcome any challenges that come my way but also thrive and make a lasting impact on the world.

The Devil is a Handsome Man is a comic from Webtoon that immediately grabbed my attention. It takes place in the era after Lucifer's fall from grace but before the creation of mankind. In this middle earth of sorts, the demons and angels live in a contemporary world similar to ours, barring some minor laws of physics differences. The artwork is captivating even though it is mainly black and white and the premise is so unique. What impacted me most about this comic is how it turns our societal norms and expectations on their head. It allows us to question just how black or white our morality can be while we explore the gray area where it may not be so certain. All the while following the protagonist on her journey as she tries to recover her lost memory. Lucifer has no face and it only adds to the mystique.

HAIM is a three-sister band from California that I fell in love with ever since I first saw a random youtube video of them performing their song "Go Slow" with the simplest instruments; a tambourine, a small drum, and what looks like a toy keyboard. A simple setup with the most intense performance and as I fell through a rabbit hole of their videos, they impressed me with their charisma and talent. They have since collaborated with other big artists and have branched their work into T.V and film. I always recommend seeing them live because their performances are unforgettable.

The pandemic provided a monumental shift in my focus. I struggled at the beginning because I was a person that led a very active social life. I lived for the weekends. But when everything closed, I was forced to slow down and look introspectively at my life choices at the time. I realized that I needed to focus my time and attention on different things if I wanted to achieve my goals. That was the best thing that happened to me. I realized that I was prioritizing the wrong things and the wrong people. It made no sense that I was complaining about my lack of upward mobility when I was not dedicating my time and money adequately to help me move forward. Once I took that hard look at myself and my situation, I decided I needed to make different decisions and break destructive habits. I started cultivating productive routines and I even went back to school. The pandemic was a great motivator to get out of my comfort zone and to focus on the goals I had set out long ago.

I am a daughter, sister, and an immigrant. I can spew out many more monikers but ultimately, I revert to these three. It defines my motivations and my aspirations. Coming from a lower income immigrant background, I was always taught that hard work is what gets you places. But that hard work should always balance out with the important people in my life. My family motivates me to go further and to reach beyond whatever cards we are dealt. If I could do anything with my life, I would use my knowledge and resources to give back to the community. A lot of the problems that permeate through lower income immigrant communities is that the knowledge simply isn’t there. There should be access to education at all levels. That is the first step in breaking the cycles of poverty. Advocacy is the next step. The out of sight, out of mind mentality is a frustratingly present truth that keeps the people from any upward mobility. By exposing the community to stories beyond the relative norm, they can see that the world is truly a big place, and that they belong. I would lift up my community with more access to knowledge and better development. Leveling the playing field makes better and exciting games. STEM is at the forefront of every new technology. The great thing is that it is a vital component of any field. That is what excites me! I can use the learned skills of STEM and apply it to many different things. It is not exclusive and gives everyone an opportunity to participate. I feel that my visibility in this field would garner a positive impact because they can see that I am just like them, and I made it. Working in information technology would also impact the tech literacy of those around me. As the world rapidly changes to newer and faster technologies, we don’t want our society’s divide between the have and have-nots to widen any more than it has. That includes those that can keep up with the advancements and those that struggle to accept them. I can help bridge that gap. My greatest challenge is a double edge sword of sorts: I am an undocumented immigrant. This is a part of my life that I had no control over, and it came rife with hurdles and struggles. I do not get to travel as freely as others, and access to education is much more expensive (if it’s even possible at all). Simple tasks like switching cell phone carriers or renewing a driver’s license carries extra steps and expenses. But even with a system designed to keep us down, I have managed to live an independent life and provide for my own education. Being an undocumented immigrant has toughened my skin and conditioned my viewpoint that nothing is impossible. It is a daily challenge, but it does not discourage me like it used to. On the contrary, it fuels my drive to achieve my goals and to be an advocate for change.