Hello, my name is Seth Rivas, and I am applying for this scholarship because it represents a critical step toward achieving my dream of becoming a skilled auto mechanic. Ever since I was little, I used to work with my grandfather on his Chevrolet Avalanche which required heavy maintenance. I was also raised in a household which helped with fueling my aspirations of going to college; however, college is not inexpensive. The financial support provided by this scholarship will alleviate the burden of tuition and other educational expenses, allowing me to focus on my studies and hands-on training. From a young age, I have been captivated by the intricate workings of automobiles. My fascination began in my grandfather's garage, where I spent countless hours learning the basics of car maintenance and repair. These early experiences not only ignited my passion for the field but also instilled in me a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship and technical expertise required to be a successful auto mechanic. My decision to pursue a career in automotive mechanics is driven by my desire to work in a field that combines technical skills with problem-solving. I am particularly interested in the emerging technologies that are revolutionizing the automotive industry. The shift towards electric and hybrid vehicles presents a unique opportunity to specialize in eco-friendly automotive technologies. I believe that by becoming an expert in these areas, I can play a crucial role in promoting sustainable transportation solutions. This scholarship will enable me to access the advanced training and certifications necessary to excel in this rapidly evolving industry. In addition to my technical aspirations, I am deeply committed to making a positive impact in my community. I have witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by individuals from underrepresented communities in accessing quality education and career opportunities. As an auto mechanic, I plan to mentor and support young aspiring mechanics, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. By sharing my knowledge and experiences, I hope to inspire and empower them to pursue their dreams in the automotive field. My goal is to create a supportive and inclusive environment that encourages diversity and innovation within the industry. Furthermore, I am passionate about advocating for the importance of skilled trades in our society. There is often a misconception that careers in the trades are less prestigious or valuable than those requiring a college degree. I want to challenge this stigma by demonstrating the critical role that skilled tradespeople play in maintaining and advancing our infrastructure and technology. By excelling in my field and actively promoting the value of vocational education, I hope to inspire others to consider careers in the trades and contribute to a more balanced and diverse workforce. In conclusion, this scholarship is not just financial aid; it is an investment in my future and the future of the automotive industry. With the support of this scholarship, I am confident that I can achieve my goal of becoming a skilled auto mechanic, specializing in eco-friendly technologies, and making a meaningful impact in my community. I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and am committed to using my skills and knowledge to drive positive change within the industry and beyond.

My curiosity in STEM was ignited in me 10 years ago when my Grandfather asked me to help him with regular maintenance on his truck. I was there to pass tools to help him, but I was also given the chance to shadow what he did on his truck to make it run again. At the time, I was already fascinated with the STEM field, as it required a lot of creative thinking and teamwork, considering that I was and still am thriving in those aspects of life, STEM still fits me. In particular, the engineering aspect sticks out to me the most as it requires much more knowledge based on the principles of how things work and why they work that way. One of the major challenges I wish to tackle is the access to automobiles in underserved communities. Although people in these communities do have access to a car, those vehicles are usually older and may be considered unsafe and unreliable by today's standards. My goal and vision is to create an automobile that is accessible, reliable, affordable, and offers a fun yet practical driving experience. I would also like to address the issues caused by the climate crisis in the world, as nations such as the United States and China are major contributors. My goal is to contribute to and share the innovations made within the renewable energy field and help combat the issues with the climate. I envision my career in STEM making a significant contribution to the world by the uses and developments in sustainable technologies. As mentioned before, I would like to help fight the climate crisis. However, it is up to the people to figure out ways in which we can contribute. This does not exclude large corporations. We should all invest in technological advancements which better our society and our health. I aspire for future generations to live in a world in which the climate crisis is no longer an issue, all due to the world coming together to stop it. Although the books I read are not STEM specific, they do contain its qualities and principles. One such book is The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. Although this book does not specifically mention anything about STEM, it contains its qualities by going into the human thought process by connecting yourself to the world. I connect this to the field of STEM because it is heavily reliant on the resources available in the world. Coelho’s ability to describe a human-to-nature relationship is very similar to a human-to-human relationship, both of which are necessary in order to make strong innovations in the field. My educational roadmap is reliant on my past, present and future. I wish to gain a strong foundation in both practical skills and innovative thinking. I plan to pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering, and focus on the automotive industry, a field in which opportunities are vast. The Code Breakers & Changemakers Scholarships will provide me with the financial resources necessary in order to pursue my future goals, along with my present academic endeavors. Furthermore, the scholarship will enable me to access cutting-edge laboratories and equipment, essential for conducting innovative research. It will also provide opportunities for networking with professionals in the field, opening doors to potential mentorship and career opportunities. Ultimately, this scholarship will equip me with the knowledge, skills, and connections necessary to turn my passion for STEM into a reality and make a meaningful impact on the world. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to share my passion and vision for a career in STEM. I'm excited about the possibilities and eager to contribute to a sustainable future.

Being a prospective college student who would like to major in Mechanical Engineering, there are a multitude of different challenges that I am currently facing. The main one being the overwhelming number of colleges that I have to choose from in order to make the most of my future. I understand that transitioning from high school to college is going to be a very big milestone in my life and should not be taken lightly, however it is marked by a number of decisions that are both exciting and daunting. There are a multitude of colleges that I have to choose from. Each institution that I look at is unique in its own way, whether that is the environment, extracurricular activities, or programs. I feel as though I would like to attend every college that I visit because I can visualize myself attending all of them. Moreover, the financial aspect of college adds another layer of complexity to the decision-making process. Looking at the costs of different schools, I have noticed that the expenses vary widely amongst these institutions. However, I understand that being able to perform well at school and attaining scholarships such as the Pete and Consuelo Hernandez Memorial Scholarship will help ease my worries about financial issues in college. Although I have figured out that I would like my area of study to be mechanical engineering. I feel as though each institution has its ups and downs regarding that area of study. However, being able to compare schools based on their engineering programs makes the decision-making process less daunting, and puts me in a position to make a more informed decision. The competitive nature of college admissions is also a challenge in itself. I want to be able to focus less on financial hurdles and more on making my college applications more presentable. However in order to do this, I would have to perform well on my standardized tests and attain strong letters of recommendation from my teachers and mentors. In conclusion, as a prospective college student, I am facing a multitude of challenges. This would involve me having to navigate through the financial and competitive admission processes. However, these challenges also give me the chance to grow as a person, equipping me with resilience and self-discovery. Lastly, it will provide me with the opportunity to show my younger siblings that going to and graduating from college of their choice is possible.

To me, success is a concept that encompasses personal growth, professional achievement, and the ability to make a lasting impact on my community. Being an Afro-Latino student, my vision of success is rooted in my family values, and the desire to break barriers and create opportunities for others in the same position as me. I have always been in a position where I have access to resources and support that enabled me to pursue my education and interests. However, I am aware of the challenges that people face as they do not have the same access to resources as me. This is especially true in the realms of education and professional advancement, the core of our modern-day society. My personal success means not only overcoming obstacles that present themselves to me but paving the way for my family and future generations to have an easier path. Academically, success involves excelling in my studies and applying my understanding of topics into my chosen field of work. I am deeply passionate about Automotive Engineering, and I believe that having the educational foundation is crucial for pursuing that career. Attaining this scholarship will put me one step closer to the resources, mentorship, and exposure necessary to thrive. Furthermore, having access to quality education and the chance to learn from experienced professionals will equip me with the knowledge needed to excel in my academic and professional career. Professionally, I would like to secure a position in the Automotive field where I can utilize my talents and make meaningful contributions to society by climbing the corporate ladder and then branching off to make my own car company. I aspire to become a leader and role model to many and demonstrate that people from a diverse background can achieve greatness. Having this scholarship will put me in the position to make strong professional connections, gain experience, and develop my leadership skills without having to worry about the financial aspect of college. On a more personal level, I would like to focus more on self-improvement and maintaining a balance between professional and personal life. I believe that true success does not lie in focusing only on the professional aspect, it also requires self-reflection and fulfillment. In order to self-reflect, you must be aware of shortcomings and devise a plan on how they will be overcome. I believe that reflecting on our lives is something that we tend to overlook, leading to unnecessary stress and leads to individuals not chasing their dreams. In conclusion, success is a concept that demonstrates an individual's excellence in academics, professionalism, personal growth, and community impact. Being an Afro-Latino student, I am driven to overcome challenges, dismantle stereotypes, and create meaningful opportunities for my family and others. This scholarship will help jump start my vision, as I will be able to acquire education, experience, and the support needed to thrive. I am thrilled to think about the possibilities that the future holds, and I am committed to making the most of today to achieve my goals.

As an Afro-Latino student, my journey has been shaped by a blend of cultural immersion, academic pursuits, and personal growth. Being born in the United States, a country in which educational opportunities are vast, I feel as though the majority of these opportunities are not accessible to everyone. My decision to pursue a degree is currently driven by the desire to pave the way for the future generations of my family to attend college. While there are definitely alternative ways to earn a living, I believe that pursuing a degree holds a significant importance when choosing a career path. Having formal education provides the understanding of the field of choice. An environment that allows for critical thinking, problem-solving, and intellectual rigor are all important factors that come into play. Second, being in a country in which an extensive amount of networking opportunities are available, I will be able to create a reliable support system that will not only open doors for me but will also open doors for others as career opportunities that would be difficult to attain by one individual's efforts. Third, having a degree from an accredited institution is often needed for many professional roles. A college degree further validates one’s knowledge, skills, and dedication. Having a credential of this caliber will be especially crucial for me as I hope to establish myself in the competitive engineering job market. Lastly, being able to study at an accredited institution will allow for personal growth in a wide variety of aspects. It will challenge me to encounter new cultures and traditions, develop my independence, and build resilience. All of these are invaluable skills and contribute to a well-rounded personality, and will especially be beneficial in any career path.

Understanding the nature of our universe holds profound significance for both humanity as a whole and for me personally. My passion for exploring the cosmos stems from an inherent curiosity and a desire to contribute to the advancement of human knowledge. Since childhood, I've been captivated by the night sky, filled with countless stars and mysteries waiting to be uncovered. This fascination has driven me to pursue studies in physics and astronomy, where I've found joy in unraveling the complexities of the cosmos. For me, each discovery feels like a step closer to answering fundamental questions about our existence and the origins of everything around us. The quest to understand the universe fuels technological innovation. For instance, the challenges of space exploration have led to advancements such as GPS technology and medical imaging devices. By studying the universe, we develop new technologies that not only enhance our scientific capabilities but also improve everyday life on Earth. Delving into the nature of the universe also prompts us to consider deeper philosophical questions about life and existence. It encourages us to think about our responsibilities as stewards of our planet and how we interact with the broader cosmos. This pursuit nurtures a sense of humility and interconnectedness, fostering ethical growth and a more profound appreciation for life. Space exploration and astronomical research are inherently collaborative, often requiring the combined efforts of scientists and engineers from around the world. This global teamwork promotes peace and unity, as we work together toward common goals that transcend national boundaries and cultural differences. Understanding cosmic phenomena such as asteroid impacts and solar flares is critical for safeguarding our planet. Additionally, exploring the universe opens up possibilities for finding alternative habitats, ensuring humanity's long-term survival. To contribute to our understanding of the universe, I plan to focus on several key areas: Quantum Mechanics and General Relativity: Investigating the relationship between these fundamental theories to unlock new insights into the nature of reality. Dark Matter and Dark Energy: Researching these mysterious components of the universe to better understand its composition and fate. Astrobiology: Exploring the potential for life beyond Earth, which could revolutionize our understanding of life itself. My goal is to combine my passion for discovery with cutting-edge research to contribute to humanity's collective knowledge. By doing so, I hope to inspire others to look up at the stars and wonder, just as I did as a child. This scholarship would be instrumental in helping me achieve these aspirations, providing the support I need to continue my studies and make meaningful contributions to our understanding of the universe.

Adversity is an inevitable part of life, presenting itself in various forms such as personal loss, professional setbacks, or societal challenges. How we respond to these adversities defines our growth and resilience. Reflecting on the journey of overcoming adversity and envisioning ways to help the community in the future reveals a deep connection between personal experiences and collective well-being. I have been able to overcome adversity through the cultivation of personal resilience. This process mainly consists of maintaining a positive attitude, which is very helpful in changing your perspective of future hardships. A positive attitude allows for more creative ways to find solutions rather than focusing solely on the problem. Furthermore, I also understand that adaptability is necessary to overcome adversity, as it is what makes transitioning into the solution much easier. I also look to create strong support systems in times of adversity. These systems consist of friends and family, and we all provide emotional and practical support which creates a safe environment when it is needed. However, my support system does not only stop within my family, it could also be seen by getting help from a counselor. Having a support system allows for new perspectives to be shared and guidance to be offered, making challenging situations less stressful. My desire to help my community in the future is rooted in my personal experiences. I believe that giving back to the community is very important because it lays the foundation for future generations to create better lives for themselves. I believe that education and mentorship are the best ways to give back because it allows everyone in the community to educate themselves and possibly tackle situations within the community that need to be addressed. Advocacy and awareness are something else that I would like to assist my community with primarily because they are crucial for driving collective action and change. Being able to raise awareness about situations such as mental health, and social justice, along with environmental awareness and sustainability is crucial to creating a better community. Seeing that my future goal is to attend a prestigious university and major in mechanical engineering, I understand that acquiring the funds needed to attend college takes work. This leads me to my last point, entrepreneurship and innovation. These two factors would be crucial in laying the foundation for future generations to better themselves through attaining a higher education. Having the ability to start workshops, and offer internships to the people would be very effective because it can offer the opportunity to educate and help finance the college education of many within my community. The journey of overcoming adversity is deeply personal to me, yet it inspires me to envision the impact that I can have on my community. By leveraging my personal resilience and support systems, I believe that anyone can navigate through challenges. My journey has fueled my desire to give back to my community, whether that be through education, advocacy, or innovation.

I am applying for this scholarship because I have a great interest in the automotive industry. Ever since I was little, I always enjoyed looking at cars, identifying which brand they were, what kind of engine they had, and what kind of parts they had. This is because of my Grandfather, and my uncle because they usually worked on his car when I was around, and I was there to help them fix it, and I always felt happy while I was doing so. I tend to believe that being an auto mechanic is a very overlooked field of work, and being able to work in this field will allow me to leave a positive impact on people's lives. This is because cars are practically tied to our lives. After all, they offer a fast and easy source of transportation, and when they break down, it can cause stress and financial issues. To prevent these issues, I would like to be the person that people trust with their cars to get them back to their peak performance and reliability while also educating them about what exactly is going on with their cars, and how it can be prevented in the future. By becoming an auto mechanic, I will be able to save people money, time, and stress along with safely and efficiently getting people and cars back onto the road, which I believe should be the ultimate goal for all auto mechanics. In terms of my plans for the future, I plan on educating myself along with others on new technologies that cars will be equipped with and how to maintain them, along with attending meetings that will discuss the purpose of these new technologies and how they add to the overall reliability, and safety of the car. I would also like to contribute to the automotive industry by engaging and promoting eco-friendly practices. I would also like to aim for the promotion of sustainable practices while performing maintenance on vehicles. This in turn may lead other auto mechanics to follow in those steps leading to a greener future for all. Overall, I have a deep-rooted passion for the field of auto mechanics, and I am committed to learning more about this field of work and how I can contribute to it. This scholarship will be extremely beneficial for acquiring my future goals and aspirations within the automotive industry and I will be very happy to work towards them.