Mental health has never been a topic of discussion within my family and even less within my culture. As a Vietnamese woman, it has been a difficult upbringing, not fully understanding or being fully aware of the impacts of not expressing my feelings or thoughts. This suppression not only affects the individual but also extends to every aspect of life, influencing our beliefs, behaviors, relationships, and career prospects. This isn't an essay about self-pity, nor is it an attempt to reiterate common themes often found in college essays by Asian Americans. Mental health is a universal issue that transcends cultural boundaries and deserves attention and action. Mental health has never been a topic of discussion within my family and even less within my culture. As a Vietnamese woman, it has been a difficult upbringing, not fully understanding or being fully aware of the impacts of not expressing my feelings or thoughts. This suppression not only affects the individual but also extends to every aspect of life, influencing our beliefs, behaviors, relationships, and career prospects. This isn't an essay about self-pity, nor is it an attempt to reiterate common themes often found in college essays by Asian Americans. Mental health is a universal issue that transcends cultural boundaries and deserves attention and action. Growing up in a culture where mental health is often stigmatized, I found it challenging to navigate my own emotions and mental well-being. There were no open conversations about feelings, no safe spaces to discuss struggles, and certainly no acknowledgment of mental health issues. This silence led to a profound sense of isolation, as if I were carrying an invisible burden that no one could see or understand. Despite these challenges, my experiences with mental health have shaped my beliefs in powerful ways. I believe in the importance of vulnerability and the strength it takes to seek help. I have learned that acknowledging our struggles is the first step toward healing. This belief has fostered deeper connections in my relationships, as I strive to create an environment where open and honest communication is encouraged. My career aspirations have also been profoundly influenced by my mental health journey. As someone deeply passionate about fashion and styling, I now aim to incorporate mental health advocacy into my work. Fashion is not just about clothing; it's a form of self-expression and identity. Being on this journey has allowed me to pursue creative freedom in my career aspirations, rather than focusing on what is the highest paying job, which would slowly deteriorate me. By promoting mental health awareness within the fashion industry, I hope to create a space where individuals feel seen, heard, and valued. Working or volunteering at organizations that increase mental health awareness and provide support has further solidified my commitment to this cause. These experiences have shown me the impact of community and the power of collective efforts in addressing mental health issues. Being able to share with others the importance of mental health awareness, and showing them there are resources and people there for them make a bigger difference than one might realize. I am inspired to continue this work, not only to honor my own journey but to contribute to a broader movement that brings light to the darkness many people face. In conclusion, my experiences with mental health have been a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. They have influenced my beliefs, strengthened my relationships, and shaped my career aspirations. I am dedicated to breaking the silence surrounding mental health, especially within my culture, and to advocating for innovative solutions that support those in need. Through the Elevate Mental Health Awareness Scholarship, I hope to further my mission of fostering a more compassionate and understanding world.

My favorite athlete to cheer for on Team USA is Suni Lee. Her story is one of incredible determination and resilience. Suni's journey to Olympic gold is particularly inspiring; despite facing numerous challenges, including a major injury and the global pandemic, she displayed unparalleled dedication and focus. What makes Suni Lee stand out to me is not only her athletic prowess but also her remarkable character. Her performance at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where she won the gold medal in the all-around gymnastics competition, was a testament to her hard work and perseverance. She captivated the world with her grace, strength, and poise under immense pressure. Suni's ability to overcome adversity and achieve her dreams inspires me to strive for excellence in my own life. Her story reminds me that with passion and dedication, it is possible to turn challenges into opportunities and achieve greatness. Her contributions to Team USA go beyond her athletic achievements; she represents the spirit of perseverance and excellence that defines the team. Cheering for Suni Lee has not only been a source of pride but also a source of motivation in my personal journey. Her achievements and unwavering determination have profoundly impacted me and continue to inspire me every day.

The "Island Treasure Hunt" challenge aims to test the couples' communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. Each couple will embark on a thrilling adventure around the villa and its surroundings to find hidden treasures. These treasures will hold keys to exclusive rewards and power-ups that can influence their standing in the game. Rules and Structure: 1. Challenge Announcement: The challenge will be announced during a special morning briefing by the host. The host will explain the rules and objectives, creating excitement and anticipation among the Islanders. 2. Pairing Up: Each couple will receive a personalized map and a list of clues. The clues will be a mix of riddles, puzzles, and physical challenges that need to be completed in a specific order to find the treasures. 3. Time Limit: Couples will have a set time limit of 90 minutes to find as many treasures as possible. This time constraint will add urgency and pressure, ensuring that couples need to stay focused and work efficiently together. 4. Clue Stations: There will be various clue stations set up around the villa and its surroundings. Each station will present a new challenge, such as: Riddle Solving: Couples must solve a riddle to receive the next clue. Physical Task: Complete a physical challenge like a mini-obstacle course or a balance beam. Memory Test: Recall details from past events in the villa to unlock the next hint. Teamwork Puzzle: Work together to complete a puzzle or a task that requires coordination and cooperation. 5. Hidden Treasures: The treasures will be hidden in different locations, each marked with a small flag. Each treasure chest will contain a key, and some will hold special items like: Date Night: An exclusive, romantic date night for the couple. Immunity: Immunity from the next elimination. Power Couple: Temporary control over villa decisions, such as choosing which couples get to go on dates. Luxury Item: A special gift or luxury item for the couple to enjoy. 6. Returning to Base: Once the time limit is up, all couples must return to the base (the main villa area) with their collected treasures. The host will then reveal the contents of each treasure chest and announce the rewards. 7. Winners: The couple with the most treasures and/or the most valuable rewards will be declared the winners of the "Island Treasure Hunt." They will receive additional perks, such as a special dinner or an overnight stay in a luxurious hideaway. Excitement Factor: The "Island Treasure Hunt" challenge adds excitement to "Love Island" by combining elements of adventure, strategy, and romance. It allows viewers to see their favorite couples working together in high-pressure situations, revealing their true dynamics and compatibility. The variety of tasks and the suspense of uncovering the hidden treasures keep both the Islanders and the audience engaged. The rewards add an extra layer of competition, as couples vie for advantages that could significantly impact their journey on the show. By testing the couples' communication, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork, the "Island Treasure Hunt" brings a fresh and dynamic element to "Love Island," showcasing the strengths and weaknesses of each relationship in a fun and exhilarating way.

Interests in the Polynesian Community and Culture My interests in the Polynesian community and culture stem from a deep appreciation for its rich traditions, vibrant arts, and the spirit of community that defines it. I have always been fascinated by the Polynesian way of life, which places a strong emphasis on family, respect for nature, and the importance of storytelling through various art forms. This cultural tapestry has not only enriched my understanding of the world but has also inspired my own creative journey. The Polynesian community’s emphasis on oral history, dance, music, and visual arts resonates with my passion for creative expression. I have been particularly drawn to the art of Polynesian dance and tattooing, which serve as powerful mediums for conveying stories, values, and cultural heritage. Through my studies and participation in community events, I have learned about the symbolism and significance behind these art forms, deepening my respect and admiration for the culture. One of my most memorable experiences was attending a Polynesian cultural festival, where I had the opportunity to witness traditional dances, listen to ancestral chants, and engage with artisans. This experience not only broadened my knowledge but also fueled my desire to incorporate elements of Polynesian art and philosophy into my own creative projects. By celebrating and sharing the beauty of Polynesian culture, I hope to contribute to its preservation and appreciation within a broader audience. What "Aloha Happens" Means to Me and How I Make It Happen The term "Aloha Happens" encapsulates the essence of the aloha spirit, which is characterized by love, compassion, and mutual respect. To me, "Aloha Happens" means creating moments of genuine connection and kindness, fostering a sense of community, and spreading positivity in everyday life. It is about embracing the values of aloha—such as empathy, generosity, and humility—and manifesting them in our actions and interactions. I strive to make "Aloha Happens" in my daily life by practicing these values and encouraging others to do the same. In my community, I have volunteered with local arts organizations to bring creative workshops to underprivileged youth. These workshops not only provide a platform for artistic expression but also create a supportive environment where participants can build confidence and form meaningful connections. By sharing my passion for the arts and nurturing the talents of young individuals, I aim to inspire them to pursue their dreams and contribute to the cultural vibrancy of our community. Moreover, I believe that small acts of kindness can have a profound impact. Whether it’s offering a helping hand to a neighbor, sharing a smile with a stranger, or simply listening to someone in need, I make a conscious effort to embody the aloha spirit in my interactions. These actions, though seemingly minor, collectively contribute to a more compassionate and connected world, where "Aloha Happens" naturally and effortlessly. Conclusion In conclusion, my interests in the Polynesian community and culture are driven by a deep appreciation for its artistic and philosophical richness. The term "Aloha Happens" resonates with me as a call to embody the values of love, compassion, and respect in our daily lives. By incorporating these principles into my creative endeavors and community engagements, I strive to honor the legacy of "Aunty" Geri Kuhla and contribute to a more connected and harmonious world.

I chose to further my education in the STEAM fields, specifically in Web Design with minors in psychology and business management, because I am passionate about leveraging technology to create solutions that improve people's lives. Growing up, I witnessed the transformative power of technology firsthand when telemedicine greatly benefited my grandparents during their health crises. This experience highlighted the importance of accessible and user-friendly technological solutions, particularly in healthcare, and inspired me to pursue a career in STEAM where I could develop such impactful innovations. Technology has always fascinated me, not just for its capabilities, but for its potential to drive social change. The intersection of technology and human behavior, which I study through my psychology minor, allows me to design more intuitive and empathetic user experiences. My business management minor equips me with the skills to lead projects and initiatives that bring these technologies to life. Together, these fields enable me to approach problem-solving holistically, ensuring that the solutions I create are both effective and sustainable. Kayla Nicole Monk's legacy of resilience and ambition deeply resonates with me. Despite facing significant health challenges, she remained committed to her vision and goals, striving to be a positive force in the world. Similarly, I am determined to overcome obstacles and use my education to drive innovation and social change. Kayla's passion for helping others and her dream of seeing businesses flourish in her name inspire me to pursue my own dreams with the same dedication and purpose. Impact of the Scholarship Receiving the Kayla Nicole Monk Scholarship would have a profound impact on my educational journey and future aspirations. Financial support from this scholarship would alleviate the burden of tuition, allowing me to focus more on my studies and less on financial stress. This focus is crucial as I delve deeper into my field and undertake projects that align with my career goals. The scholarship would also enable me to engage more actively in community service initiatives, continuing Kayla's legacy of helping others. I plan to develop tech workshops for underrepresented youth, fostering diversity and inclusion in the tech industry. These workshops would provide mentorship and resources to young women and minorities, encouraging them to pursue careers in STEAM and helping to bridge the gender and diversity gap in technology. Furthermore, this scholarship would support my goal of creating telemedicine platforms that are accessible and user-friendly for diverse populations. By reducing the financial constraints on my education, I can dedicate more time to research and development in this area. My aim is to create solutions that not only address current healthcare accessibility issues but also anticipate future needs, ensuring that telemedicine continues to evolve and improve. In conclusion, my choice to pursue a STEAM education is driven by a desire to create impactful technological solutions and contribute to societal well-being. The Kayla Nicole Monk Scholarship will not only help me achieve my academic and career goals but also enable me to honor Kayla's legacy by empowering others and striving for excellence. With this scholarship, I am committed to making a positive difference in the world, much like Kayla envisioned.

One technology that profoundly inspires me is telemedicine, which uses telecommunication and information technologies to provide healthcare from a distance. This innovation has revolutionized the healthcare industry, particularly for those in underserved areas. Impact on Accessibility and Quality of Care Telemedicine bridges the gap in healthcare accessibility, allowing patients in remote and rural areas to receive timely medical advice and treatment without traveling long distances. It reduces barriers to quality healthcare, ensuring more people receive necessary medical attention regardless of their location. Personal Connection and Broader Implications My personal experience with telemedicine has shown its transformative power. When my grandparents suffered strokes in Vietnam, telemedicine allowed us to connect with specialists in other cities and abroad. This provided us peace of mind and ensured my grandparents received the best possible care. Telemedicine improves public health outcomes by facilitating continuous monitoring of chronic diseases, enabling early detection of health issues, and promoting preventative care. It reduces the burden on healthcare systems by decreasing the need for in-person visits, allowing healthcare providers to manage their time and resources more efficiently. Women in Technology and Telemedicine The intersection of women in technology and telemedicine is particularly exciting. Women, often the primary caregivers in their families, can greatly benefit from and contribute to advancements in telemedicine. By leading in this technology, women can drive innovations that make healthcare more inclusive and effective. As a student majoring in Web Design with a minor in psychology and business management, I am passionate about creating user-friendly telemedicine platforms for diverse populations. Women’s unique perspectives and experiences can lead to the development of more empathetic and accessible healthcare solutions. Conclusion Telemedicine exemplifies how technology can make the world a better place by improving healthcare accessibility and quality. As a future leader in tech, I am inspired to contribute to the evolution of telemedicine and ensure it continues to transform lives, particularly for those in underserved communities. Empowering more women to enter and lead in the tech sector, especially in telemedicine, is crucial for driving innovation and achieving better social and business outcomes.

Growing up in a household where my parents are immigrants and have no college education has deeply influenced my educational journey. As a first-generation college student, I've encountered unique challenges and opportunities that have shaped my path toward higher education and career aspirations. Culturally, my Vietnamese heritage instilled in me values of perseverance, determination, and the belief that education is the key to creating a better future. Despite my parents' lack of formal education, their sacrifices and aspirations for me have been powerful motivators to excel academically and pursue my passions. On an emotional level, navigating the college application process and academic environment without my parents' guidance or firsthand experience has been daunting at times. However, these experiences have also fostered independence, resilience, and a strong sense of self-reliance as I navigate through the educational system. Financially, being a first-generation college student from an immigrant background has meant facing additional financial constraints and uncertainties. However, I've been fortunate to find resources and support systems, such as scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs, that have helped alleviate some of these burdens and make higher education more accessible. My educational journey, majoring in Web Design and minoring in psychology and business management, reflects my diverse interests and aspirations. By pursuing these fields of study, I'm not only expanding my knowledge and skill set but also positioning myself for future success in industries that value creativity, critical thinking, and innovation. However, things that have an emotional burden on me are not being able to see my grandparents, they have been sick and had strokes, all happening in Vietnam, not having the ability to travel there whenever I can, or not even being able to call whenever since we are in different time zones adds an overwhelming amount of stress. They were once in the states, but made the executive decision to go back to their home, where they were welcomed and treated equally. Last summer, I had the privilege to visit my motherland. Having the opportunity showed me how much it changed, and how much I felt like I missed, I wanted to be able to be a part of it. Having a job that does not require in-person office hours allows the flexibility of being able to visit Vietnam, to see my grandma, and my cousins, to enjoy its city life and its beautiful natural wonders. Ultimately, my background as a first-generation college student from an immigrant family adds depth and richness to my educational journey. Embracing my cultural heritage and familial experiences while pursuing my academic and career goals is a source of strength and inspiration, propelling me toward a future filled with opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Throughout high school, I took it upon myself to run for President of an organization called, Students For A Better Society. The name itself does explain what our mission was, but it became much more than that. It was our goal to inspire students to help their local community, to do so, I hosted donation drives, including school supply drives, thanksgiving food drives, women's shelter drives, homeless shelter drives, and a beach clean up. Not only did we give back to our community physically, but we also educated the students and even the staff about the importance of helping our community. It is easy to forget how to connect or how easy it is to help but what a big difference it makes. For my future, I see myself being a creative director, having a vision and direction for how and where a company/brand goes, setting a clear pathway for their overall aesthetic and creative direction. This would involve understanding the brand's values, and target audience, and being able to translate that into compelling visual narratives. Another requirement is to continuously inspire your team, including the designers, photographers, stylists, and other collaborators. Which means fostering a collaborative workspace and providing guidance and feedback. Fostering innovation and creativity is essential to driving the brand forward. It requires a visionary approach, constantly pushing boundaries and thinking outside the box to deliver fresh and relevant creative concepts that resonate with our audience. Staying attuned to industry trends, consumer insights, and cultural shifts allows for the translation of these insights into innovative ideas. Additionally, effective leadership involves promoting open communication and collaboration across all departments, ensuring alignment and cohesion throughout the organization. By fostering a culture of collaboration and creativity, we can truly elevate the brand experience and achieve our goals. I am eternally grateful for having the opportunity of being President of such an influential club, these skills will pass down to my future endeavors, allowing me to bring leadership skills as a Creative Director of a well-known company/brand. I aspire to achieve several key objectives. Firstly, I aim to drive brand growth and innovation by spearheading innovative and impactful creative initiatives that propel the brand forward. Secondly, I seek to cultivate a nurturing and empowering environment within my team, fostering the development of talent and enabling individuals to realize their full potential while contributing meaningfully to the brand's success. I strive to establish myself as a thought leader and influencer within the fashion industry, leveraging my expertise to shape trends and lead conversations around important topics such as creativity, inclusivity, and sustainability. Moreover, I am committed to using my platform and influence to champion causes and initiatives that align with the brand's values, making a positive impact on society. Ultimately, I aim to find personal fulfillment and satisfaction in knowing that my leadership contributions have not only driven the success and growth of the brand but also positively impacted the professional development and well-being of my team members.