I faced obstacles that could have defined me, but instead, they fueled my determination. These experiences shaped my resilience and inspired my dream to become an educator who empowers others to rise above their challenges. These obstacles, like living in a low-income and single-parent household, have been significant obstacles that have shaped my mindset. These experiences have cultivated a gritty mindset, characterized by resilience and determination. In my journey, these obstacles have been burdensome but also transformative. These obstacles have ultimately fueled my ambitions. Living in a rural area added another layer of difficulty to my journey. Limited access to resources meant I often had to work twice as hard to seize opportunities many take for granted. These struggles taught me the importance of adaptability and creativity in overcoming barriers, because of this I took every opportunity my school gave me, becoming a part of FFA, National Honors Society, Interact Club, Student Council, and Speech and Debate. Growing up as a first-generation Filipino American often feels like standing in the middle of a bridge, caught between two worlds that don’t quite feel like home. My Filipino heritage’s colorful culture is on one side, full of traditions, expectations, and strong family ties. On the other hand, I am surrounded by the American culture where individuality is celebrated. However, fitting in means leaving parts of myself behind. This balancing act is my life. It has shaped me in ways that I never expected. Despite these obstacles, my desire to become an educator has been unwavering. For me, education was my refuge, providing me with a sense of purpose and empowerment. I witnessed first-hand the transformative impact a dedicated teacher can have on a student. The teachers who have cared about my success and future have served as a source of inspiration and guidance. I am determined to pay that experience forward, to become the kind of educator who sees the potential in every student and helps them find their passion and reach for their dreams. Joining the FFA my freshman year of high school was a pivotal moment in my life. Through FFA I learned how to embrace who I am while following what I am passionate about. This organization gave me a chance to explore topics I was unfamiliar with. Ultimately this organization made me who I am today. This has pushed me to become an agricultural educator and FFA advisor. To give a student the same opportunities that FFA gave to me is the ultimate dream. To teach the future of agriculture and the selfless leaders that the organization creates inspires me to keep working towards my goals. My journey to one day becoming a teacher is not about overcoming obstacles and facing challenges; it's about embracing them as opportunities for growth and learning. It is about recognizing the value of each and every experience, no matter how challenging it may be and realizing that each of these experiences has helped build me into the person I am today. I will use these experiences as fuel for my passion for education. As I walk down this long path to becoming a teacher, I carry the lessons I have learned with me. I carry the importance of resilience, the power of perseverance and the value of grit. I am not defined by my circumstances but how I rise above them. As a teacher I hope to inspire my students to do the same- to embrace challenges with a gritty personality, to pursue their passions, and never stop believing.

"I hate science!" was a common phrase I used throughout middle school and into the first part of my freshman year of high school. I disliked making graphs, following the scientific method to experiment, calculating different equations, and learning about mitosis. It was boring! I disliked every bit of my science classes. That was until I found myself learning about science through a new lens, an agricultural lens. From the agricultural-based courses I took as an active FFA member, I was intrigued by everything I learned. From learning the digestive tract of a chicken to teaching 4th graders the by-products of a cow, I was consumed by agri-science knowledge. The following year, I took the Agri-Science Project class my school offered. I had to create a science fair project, type a paper for it, make a poster displaying my work, and present it to multiple science fairs. This sounded like my 7th-grade self's worst nightmare. I decided to work with another classmate on one project. Using the scientific method, we designed an experiment. Social Media vs. Sleep Quality and Quantity in Teenagers. We gathered data on the hours our peers spent on their phones and had them report how many hours of sleep they got that night, how rested they felt the following day, and various other questions to get an accurate result. If you want to know the result, more social media leads to less and worse sleep. The following year, I did a different project with the same student. We tested how nitrogen-fixating plants affected the growth of surrounding plants. We found that if a plant in our experiment, Kentucky bluegrass, was near a nitrogen-fixating plant, soybeans, they would grow bigger and faster. Between taking this Agri-Science Project course, I took Chemistry in a dual credit course through the University of Montana and Anatomy and Physiology. How could I have gone from hating science to taking four different science classes and formulating two science projects in just a year? My ag teacher. She showed me that science and hands-on learning could be fun. I found topics I cared about and made research experiments based on them. This tiny spark she had lit within me led me to an appreciation of science, not a hatred. Now, dissecting a chicken to see the digestive tract, going to a cadaver lab in anatomy, or using the scientific method was fun. I even found small joys in learning orbitals of elements while taking chemistry. I have decided to major in Agricultural Education to inspire students. Learning hands-on creates a fun learning environment that provides a deeper understanding of the topics being taught. Learning science that is helpful and practical in my real life, such as safe temperatures to store meat and the growth of bacteria, which I learned in my Food Science course, or how my science fair project could lead to more sustainable farming practices, is what created my love for science. The science I discovered in ag classes fuels my desire to teach ag, where I can shape students' futures, encouraging them to innovate, lead, and contribute to the ever-evolving world of science and agriculture. I want to help students uncover their passions and realize their potential to make meaningful discoveries. I dream of lighting that spark in a kid who says, "I hate science!." because I was once in their shoes.

As a first-generation American, navigating the complex web of cultural expectations presents a unique set of challenges. I didn’t notice that I was different from any other kid in primary school. I only started noticing when other kids started noticing, and it was just me and my mom. When other kids came over, they found the food was “different,” and my mom was always “too loud” on the phone with her family. Finding a way to handle the pressures of society and assimilate with those around me, with the desire to discover more about my background and culture, can quickly become intimidating. Moments of isolation have impacted my personal path; at times, I feel not Filipino enough to connect with my peers at the annual Christmas celebrations, but I am also too different in my experiences to find my place with those I go to school with. Despite these challenges, these experiences have taught me invaluable lessons in resilience and adaptability. They have enabled me to embrace my cultural identity while carving out my path. My mom’s story is a cornerstone of my educational journey. She immigrated from a small village on the island of Leyte in the Eastern Visayas in the early 2000s, bringing her dreams of a brighter future. Her opportunities for higher education were limited, but her vision for my life was boundless. As a single mother since 2017, she has embodied what it means to work tirelessly and live through adversities, ensuring I have the opportunities she never had. Her sacrifices and unwavering support have instilled a sense of responsibility and gratitude. My mother works endlessly to pay for a trip with the school or staying up late to chauffeur me to an FFA meeting. Attending college is not just a personal achievement for me; it is a testament to her hard work and dedication. It represents the fulfillment of her dreams through my successes. Being able to pursue higher education would not only honor my mother’s sacrifices but also encourage me to give back to my community. The community I was raised in is built on values of hard work and a deep sense of communal responsibility. My academic journey is fueled by the desire to uplift others, to create opportunities where there are none, and to be a source of support and inspiration for those who follow. This scholarship would play a crucial role in turning these aspirations into reality. Financial support would alleviate the burden on my family, allowing me to focus on my studies and community service. My Filipino American heritage shapes my educational journey every step of the way, and I desire to make the world a better place for others. The challenges and triumphs I have experienced as a first-generation American have instilled resilience, adaptability, and a sense of gratitude in me. As I move closer to my goal of becoming a teacher, I carry the lessons I have learned with me. I carry the importance of resilience, the power of perseverance and the value of grit. As a teacher I hope to inspire my students to do the same- to embrace challenges with a gritty personality, to pursue their passions, and never stop believing. My mother’s story of perseverance and sacrifice is a constant source of inspiration, motivating me to succeed and serve others. Through education, I strive to honor my heritage, fulfill my mother’s dreams, and create a brighter future for those who come after me.

As a first-generation American, navigating the difficult web of cultural expectations presents a unique set of challenges. In primary school I didn’t really notice that I was different from any other kid. I only started noticing when other kids started to notice and it was just me and my mom. When other kids came over they found the food was “different” and my mom was always “too loud” on the phone with her family. Finding a way to handle the pressures of society to assimilate with those around me, with the want to discover more about my background and culture can easily become intimidating. Moments of isolation have impacted my personal path, at times I feel not Filipino enough to connect with my peers at the annual Christmas celebrations, but I am also too different in my experiences to find my place with those I go to school with. Despite these challenges, these experiences have taught me invaluable lessons in resilience and adaptability. They have enabled me to embrace my cultural identity while also carving out my own path. My mom’s story is a cornerstone of my educational journey. She immigrated from a small village on the island of Leyte in the Eastern Visayas in the early 2000s, bringing with her dreams of a brighter future. Her opportunities for higher education were limited, but her vision for my own life was boundless. As a single mother since 2017, she has embodied what it means to work tirelessly and live through adversities, ensuring that I have the opportunities she never had. Her sacrifices and unwavering support have instilled in me a sense of responsibility and gratitude. My mother works endlessly to pay for a trip with the school or staying up late to chauffeur me to an FFA meeting. Attending college is not just a personal achievement for me; it is a testament to her hard work and dedication. It represents the fulfillment of her dreams through my successes. Being able to pursue higher education would not only honor my mother’s sacrifices but also encourage me to give back to my community. The Filipino community that I was raised in is built on values of hard work and a deep sense of communal responsibility. These values have shaped my viewpoint and my commitment to making a positive One of my favorite times of the year is making balikbayan boxes to send back to the Philippines. My academic journey is fueled by the desire to uplift others, to create opportunities where there are none, and to be a source of support and inspiration for those who follow. In conclusion, my Filipino American heritage shapes my educational journey every step of the way and my desire to make the world a better place for others. The challenges and triumphs I have experienced as a first-generation American have instilled in me resilience, adaptability, and a sense of gratitude. My journey to one day becoming a teacher isn't about overcoming obstacles and facing challenges; it's about embracing them as opportunities for growth and learning. It is about recognizing the value of each and every experience, no matter how challenging it may be and realizing that each of these experiences has helped build me into the person I am today. I will use these experiences as a fuel for my passion for education. My mother’s story of perseverance and sacrifice is a constant source of inspiration, motivating me to succeed and serve others. Through education, I strive to honor my heritage, fulfill my mother’s dreams, and create a brighter future for those who come after me.

I faced obstacles that could have defined me—but instead, they fueled my determination. These experiences shaped my resilience and inspired my dream to become an educator who empowers others to rise above their own challenges. Living in a rural area, living in a low income and single parent household, and navigating the challenges of being a first-generation America have been significant obstacles that have shaped my mindset. These experiences have cultivated a gritty mindset, characterized by resilience and determination. In my journey these obstacles have been burdensome but also transformative. These obstacles have ultimately fueled my ambitions. Growing up in a rural environment, access and resources and opportunities have been limited. I have actively searched for ways to get better access to these resources, even if it wasn't always easy. A simple trip to the public library is 30 minutes away. Despite these challenges, I developed an appreciation for the few opportunities I did have and made the most of it. Part of taking in these opportunities means doing every extracurricular that has been presented to me. In highschool I have been a part of Student Council, Interact, National Honors Society, FFA, and Speech and Debate. These fostered a sense of resourcefulness and creativity that continues to serve me well as I come across other obstacles. As a first generation American, I face unique challenges navigating cultural expectations. Balancing learning about my culture in heritage along with the pressure of assimilation is daunting. Oftentimes it leads to isolation, not quite cultured enough to understand Filipinos my age, but also having experiences too different for my other peers. However, these experiences also taught me resilience and adaptability as I learned how to embrace my cultural identity while also carving out my own path. Despite these obstacles, my desire to become an educator has been unwavering. For me, education was my refuge, providing me with a sense of purpose and empowerment. I witnessed first-hand the transformative impact a dedicated teacher can have on a student. The teachers who have cared about my success and future have served as a source of inspiration and guidance. I am determined to pay that experience forward, to become the kind of educator who sees the potential in every student and helps them find their passion and reach for their dreams. Each of these experiences has contributed to my decision to major in agricultural education next year. By the end of my 4 year education I will have a Bachelor's of Science and a license to teach in Montana along with a semester of student teaching. My journey to one day becoming a teacher is not about overcoming obstacles and facing challenges; it's about embracing them as opportunities for growth and learning. It is about recognizing the value of each and every experience, no matter how challenging it may be and realizing that each of these experiences has helped build me into the person I am today. I will use these experiences as a fuel for my passion for education. As I walk down this long path to becoming a teacher, I carry the lessons I have learned with me. I carry the importance of resilience, the power of perseverance and the value of grit. I am not defined by my circumstances but how I rise above them. As a teacher I hope to inspire my students to do the same- to embrace challenges with a gritty personality, to pursue their passions, and never stop believing

I sit in my living room as Sesame Street is playing on the TV and I am playing with my toys. Coloring books and dolls litter the living room floor when I feel a grumbling in my tummy. I knock on my parent's bedroom door to ask my dad for lunch. I wake him up and he asks what time it is, "One, Two, dot dot, Two, Five." is my response because I don't know how to read a clock yet. My dad had only come out of his room once that day to feed me breakfast and had been in bed ever since. This is the routine day in and day out. I wake up, play with toys, wait for my dad to feed me, then I continue to look after myself, repeat. As I look back now, I realize that he was in a depressive episode- a result of his Bipolar Disorder. Quite a few years later, I sit in my bedroom on a colorful quilt, surrounded by my stuffed animals. It is here that I write a letter that outlines every hardship in my life and why those are my reasons to give up. This very letter is the last thing I will ever give to the world and it will serve as an explanation to whoever finds it. It is this quilt that soaks up my blood, sweat, and tears as I battle with my mental health. I pour my soul, my struggles, my hopes that will never come to be. Fortunately, nobody ever found that note because I did not leave it for somebody to find and I am walking around today. I have had plenty of experiences with mental health in my life, both myself and my loved ones. These experiences have shaped the person I am today. If somebody were to ask me what my goals were 3 years ago, I would have told you that it was to make it to see my senior year of high school. As I am starting my Senior year of high school, my goals and aspirations look different. I now dream of attending college and becoming a teacher. However, these goals are rooted in my struggles when I was struggling with mental health at home, school was an escape from me. At home, I felt that was never enough and always a disappointment, at school I was an excellent student and a pleasure to have in class. My teachers were always encouraging me to push myself and they created a space where I felt comfortable being myself. I want to be that teacher for someone who is struggling like I was. I want to be the teacher that creates a space for students to embrace their authentic selves. My relationships look very different today in comparison to when I was struggling. 4 years ago I shut myself off. I didn't have very many friends and I wasn't trying to make any more. I wasn't social or involved in my school or community. I didn't have any friends for two months when I started school, the only person I knew was the guidance counselor. Today I have an amazing support system that has been with me through the hard times. I also try to be more involved in my community through acts of service, investing my time and energy like people had done to me when I needed it most. Dealing with my mental health struggles has changed how I see the world. 5 years ago I thought the world was a hateful place. A place where there was no light and no hope. Somewhere there is no place or purpose for me in it. 5 years later, I no longer view the world through this lens. My battle and healing have shown me how feelings can be incredibly complex and how easily things can get tough. Going through all of this has made me much more understanding of what others can be going through. I am not as quick to see the downsides of every situation and I appreciate the opportunities I have more. I've learned to take better care of myself and to ask for help when I need it. My mental health struggles have profoundly influenced every aspect of my life, shaping my goals, relationships, and worldview. They've taught me to set goals and believe that I have a future, recognizing that progress is not only linear and that setbacks are just a part of the journey. Through my struggles, I've also cultivated deeper and more meaningful relationships that are built on trust, vulnerability, and support. My mental health journey has fundamentally altered my worldview, instilling in me a newfound appreciation for the human experience. I've come to recognize the importance of self-compassion and the value of seeking help when needed. My struggles have heightened my sensitivity to the struggles of others. While my mental health struggles have presented significant challenges, they have also been a source of profound growth and transformation. They have taught me about resilience, compassion, and the power of vulnerability. As I continue on my journey, I carry with me the lessons learned and the strength gained, knowing that I am capable of overcoming any obstacle that comes my way.

My desire to become an educator has been unwavering. For me, education was a refuge, providing me with a sense of purpose and empowerment. I witnessed first-hand the transformative impact a dedicated teacher can have on a student. The teachers who have cared about my success and future have served as a source of inspiration and guidance. I am determined to pay that experience forward, to become the kind of educator who sees the potential in every student and helps them find their passion and reach for their dreams. These educators had unwavering support for me and my academic pursuits. Each of my teachers have taught me more than just the curriculum they needed to teach, but have taught me life lessons that have helped shape me into the person that I am today and it has greatly inspired me to do the same for my future students. My first memory of a teacher that made an impact on my life was Mr. Sax, my fourth grade teacher. He encouraged me to grow my vocabulary throughout the year. That year I set a goal to learn 25 new words, by the end of that school year I learned over 100 high level vocabulary words. I would have never thought that at the age of 10 it was possible for me to learn that many words. That small goal flourished into my love for learning and showed me that if I have a goal I can achieve it through hard work and determination. My sixth and seventh grade Math teacher, Ms. Bisel, always challenged my abilities and gave me the tools I needed to be successful for the future. She saw my potential and pushed me to reach my goals. She took the time to learn how her students learned best and always tried to be accommodating so that her students could succeed. She was the epitome of a dedicated teacher that cared about her students personal growth and success. Ms. Hammerstein, my Ag teacher and my advisor in FFA has portrayed the meaning of investing in others' success. She spends so much of her time dedicated to uplifting her students. She has instilled an environment for service within the school. Through FFA I have learned the true importance of selfless servic and shared the sentiment that to truly find yourself you must lose yourself in the service of others. Becoming a teacher gives me the opportunity to teach the future, I hope to teach my future students lessons that go beyond the curriculum. All the lessons I have learned, the confidence I have gained, the challenges I have overcome, the opportunities I have and much more would not have happened without my teachers. I hope to give to my students what my own teachers have given to me. I want to push students to find their passions and discover what success looks like for them. I want to be confident that I helped teach a bright future.

As a first-generation American, navigating the difficult web of cultural expectations presents a unique set of challenges. In primary school I didn’t really notice that I was different from any other kid. I only started noticing when other kids started to notice and it was just me and my mom. When other kids came over they found the food was “different” and my mom was always “too loud” on the phone with her family. Finding a way to handle the pressures of society to assimilate with those around me, with the want to discover more about my background and culture can easily become intimidating. Moments of isolation have impacted my personal path, at times I feel not Filipino enough to connect with my peers at the annual Christmas celebrations, but I am also too different in my experiences to find my place with those I go to school with. Despite these challenges, these experiences have taught me invaluable lessons in resilience and adaptability. They have enabled me to embrace my cultural identity while also carving out my own path. My mom’s story is a cornerstone of my educational journey. She immigrated from a small village on the island of Leyte in the Eastern Visayas in the early 2000s, bringing with her dreams of a brighter future. Her opportunities for higher education were limited, but her vision for my own life was boundless. As a single mother since 2017, she has embodied what it means to work tirelessly and live through adversities, ensuring that I have the opportunities she never had. Her sacrifices and unwavering support have instilled in me a sense of responsibility and gratitude. My mother works endlessly to pay for a trip with the school or staying up late to chauffeur me to an FFA meeting. Attending college is not just a personal achievement for me; it is a testament to her hard work and dedication. It represents the fulfillment of her dreams through my successes. Being able to pursue higher education would not only honor my mother’s sacrifices but also encourage me to give back to my community. The Filipino community that I was raised in is built on values of hard work and a deep sense of communal responsibility. These values have shaped my viewpoint and my commitment to making a positive One of my favorite times of the year is making balikbayan boxes to send back to the Philippines. My academic journey is fueled by the desire to uplift others, to create opportunities where there are none, and to be a source of support and inspiration for those who follow. This scholarship would play a crucial role in turning these aspirations into reality. Financial support would alleviate the burden on my family, allowing me to focus on my studies and community service. In conclusion, my Filipino American heritage shapes my educational journey every step of the way and my desire to make the world a better place for others. The challenges and triumphs I have experienced as a first-generation American have instilled in me resilience, adaptability, and a sense of gratitude. My mother’s story of perseverance and sacrifice is a constant source of inspiration, motivating me to succeed and serve others. Through education, I strive to honor my heritage, fulfill my mother’s dreams, and create a brighter future for those who come after me.

My desire to become an educator has been unwavering. For me, education was a refuge, providing me with a sense of purpose and empowerment. I witnessed first-hand the transformative impact a dedicated teacher can have on a student. The teachers who have cared about my success and future have served as a source of inspiration and guidance. I am determined to pay that experience forward, to become the kind of educator who sees the potential in every student and helps them find their passion and reach for their dreams. Throughout my life, teachers have been my biggest role models. These educators had unwavering support for me and my academic pursuits. Each of my teachers has taught me more than just the curriculum they needed to prepare, but have taught me life lessons that have helped shape me into the person that I am today and it has greatly inspired me to do the same for my future students. My first memory of a teacher who impacted my life was Mr. Sax, my fourth-grade teacher. He encouraged me to grow my vocabulary throughout the year. That year I set a goal to learn 25 new words, by the end of that school year I discovered over 100 high-level vocabulary words. I would have never thought that at the age of 10, I could learn that many words. That small goal flourished into my love for learning and showed me that if I have a goal I can achieve it through hard work and determination. My sixth and seventh-grade Math teacher, Ms. Bisel, always challenged my abilities and gave me the tools I needed to be successful in the future. She saw my potential and pushed me to reach my goals. She took the time to learn how her students learned best and always tried to be accommodating so that her students could succeed. She was the epitome of a dedicated teacher who cared about her student's personal growth and success. Ms. Hammerstein, my Ag teacher and my advisor in FFA has portrayed the meaning of investing in others' success. She spends so much of her time dedicated to uplifting her students. She has instilled an environment for service within the school. Through FFA I have learned the true importance of selfless service, to truly find yourself you must lose yourself in the service of others. I have volunteered at many local fundraisers, and pet shelters, and led many service projects through my FFA Chapter. From making Christmas cards for the retirement home to serving dinner at local fundraisers, I have invested over 250 hours in community service. I carry these sentiments with me every day. Becoming a teacher allows me to teach the future, I hope to teach my future students lessons that go beyond the curriculum. All the lessons I have learned, the confidence I have gained, the challenges I have overcome, the opportunities I have, and much more would not have happened without my teachers. I hope to give to my students what my teachers have given to me. I want to push students to find their passions and discover what success looks like for them. I want to be confident that I helped teach a bright future.

My desire to become an educator has been unwavering. For me, education was a refuge, providing me with a sense of purpose and empowerment. I witnessed first-hand the transformative impact a dedicated teacher can have on a student. The teachers who have cared about my success and future have served as a source of inspiration and guidance. I am determined to pay that experience forward, to become the kind of educator who sees the potential in every student and helps them find their passion and reach for their dreams. Throughout my life, teachers have been my biggest role models. These educators had unwavering support for me and my academic pursuits. Each of my teachers has taught me more than just the curriculum they needed to prepare, but have taught me life lessons that have helped shape me into the person that I am today and it has greatly inspired me to do the same for my future students. My first memory of a teacher who impacted my life was Mr. Sax, my fourth-grade teacher. He encouraged me to grow my vocabulary throughout the year. That year I set a goal to learn 25 new words, by the end of that school year I discovered over 100 high-level vocabulary words. I would have never thought that at the age of 10, I could learn that many words. That small goal flourished into my love for learning and showed me that if I have a goal I can achieve it through hard work and determination. My sixth and seventh-grade Math teacher, Ms. Bisel, always challenged my abilities and gave me the tools I needed to be successful in the future. She saw my potential and pushed me to reach my goals. She took the time to learn how her students learned best and always tried to be accommodating so that her students could succeed. She was the epitome of a dedicated teacher who cared about her student's personal growth and success. Ms. Hammerstein, my Ag teacher and my advisor in FFA has portrayed the meaning of investing in others' success. She spends so much of her time dedicated to uplifting her students. She has instilled an environment for service within the school. Through FFA I have learned the true importance of selfless service, to truly find yourself you must lose yourself in the service of others. I have volunteered at many local fundraisers, and pet shelters, and led many service projects through my FFA Chapter. From making Christmas cards for the retirement home to serving dinner at local fundraisers, I have invested over 250 hours in community service. I carry these sentiments with me every day. Becoming a teacher allows me to teach the future, I hope to teach my future students lessons that go beyond the curriculum. All the lessons I have learned, the confidence I have gained, the challenges I have overcome, the opportunities I have, and much more would not have happened without my teachers. I hope to give to my students what my teachers have given to me. I want to push students to find their passions and discover what success looks like for them. I want to be confident that I helped teach a bright future.

My desire to become an educator has been unwavering. For me, education was a refuge, providing me with a sense of purpose and empowerment. I witnessed first-hand the transformative impact a dedicated teacher can have on a student. The teachers who have cared about my success and future have served as a source of inspiration and guidance. I am determined to pay that experience forward, to become the kind of educator who sees the potential in every student and helps them find their passion and reach for their dreams. Throughout my life teachers have been my biggest role models. These educators had unwavering support for me and my academic pursuits. Each of my teachers have taught me more than just the curriculum they needed to teach, but have taught me life lessons that have helped shape me into the person that I am today and it has greatly inspired me to do the same for my future students. For example, Mr. Sax, my fourth grade teacher, encouraged me to grow my vocabulary through the year. That year I set a goal to learn 25 new words, by the end of that school year I learned over 100 words. I would have never thought that at the age of 10 it was possible for me to learn 100 high level vocabulary words. I was incredibly proud of myself after that school year and it showed me that if I have a goal, I can achieve it with hard work and determination. My sixth and seventh grade Math teacher, Ms. Bisel, always challenged my abilities and gave me the tools I needed to be successful for the future. She saw my potential and pushed me to reach my goals. She took the time to learn how her students learned best and always tried to be accommodating so that her students could succeed. She was the epitome of a dedicated teacher that cared about her students personal growth and success. Mrs. Purcell, my eighth grade English teacher, encouraged me to stand up for what I believe in, as well as giving me the opportunity to learn about things I am passionate about. She created a safe place for her classroom where students were able to discover their interests and gave them resources so they could learn. She was just as excited to learn more about new things and had a heart for adventure. Mrs. Purcell taught me what it looks like to be a life-long learner and how to integrate your passion into your professional life. Ms. Hammerstein, my Ag teacher and my advisor in FFA has constantly challenged me to try new things. She believed in me more than I did myself and pushed me to new heights through new competitions. She has provided so many opportunities to grow and develop my leadership skills and confidence. I would not be where I am today if she didn’t encourage me to step outside of my comfort zone. Becoming a teacher gives me the opportunity to teach the future, I hope to teach my future students lessons that go beyond the curriculum. All the lessons I have learned, the confidence I have gained, the challenges I have overcome, the opportunities I have and much more would not have happened without my teachers. I hope to give to my students what my own teachers have given to me. I want to push students to find their passions and discover what success looks like for them. I want to be confident that I helped teach a bright future.

Living in a rural area, living in a low income and single parent household, and navigating the challenges of being a first-generation America have been significant obstacles that have shaped my mindset. These experiences have cultivated a gritty mindset, characterized by resilience and determination. In my journey these obstacles have been burdensome but also transformative. These obstacles have ultimately fueled my ambitions. Growing up in a rural environment, access and resources and opportunities have been limited. I have actively searched for ways to get better access to these resources, even if it wasn't always easy. A simple trip to the public library is 30 minutes away. Despite these challenges, I developed an appreciation for the few opportunities I did have and made the most of it. These fostered a sense of resourcefulness and creativity that continues to serve me well as I come across other obstacles. Financial struggles were also a constant presence in my life. My mom and I lived paycheck to paycheck and we often had to give up some things for more important matters. Witnessing my mother work tirelessly to make ends meet for us instilled a strong sense of work ethic and a determination to break this cycle. Rather than letting this challenge get to me, I channeled my frustrations into my school work, taking every chance I could to seek out education as I knew it was the key to a better future. As a first generation American, I face unique challenges navigating cultural expectations. Balancing learning about my culture in heritage along with the pressure of assimilation is daunting. Often times it leads to isolation and alienation, not quite cultured enough to understand Filipinos my age, but also having experiences too different for my other peers. However, these experiences also taught me resilience and adaptability as I learned how to embrace my cultural identity while also carving out my own path. Despite these obstacles, my desire to become an educator has been unwavering. For me, education was my refuge, providing me with a sense of purpose and empowerment. I witnessed first-hand the transformative impact a dedicated teacher can have on a student. The teachers who have cared about my success and future have served as a source of inspiration and guidance. I am determined to pay that experience forward, to become the kind of educator who sees the potential in every student and helps them find their passion and reach for their dreams. My journey to one day, becoming a teacher is not about overcoming obstacles and facing challenges; its about embracing them as opportunities for growth and learning. It is about recognizing the value of each and every experience, no matter how challenging it may be and realizing that each of these experiences has helped build me into the person I am today. I will use these experiences as a fuel for my passion for education. As I walk down this long path to becoming a teacher, I carry the lessons I have learned with me. I carry the importance of resilience, the power of perseverance and the value of grit. I am not defined by my circumstances but how I rise above them. As a teacher I hope to inspire my students to do the same- to embrace challenges with a gritty personality, to pursue their passions, and never stop believing.

I sit in my living room as cartoons are playing on the TV and I am playing with my toys. Coloring books and dolls litter the living room floor when I start to feel a grumbling in my tummy. I knock on my parent's bedroom door to ask my dad for lunch. I wake him up and he asks what time it is, "One, Two, dot dot, Two, Five." is my response because I don't know how to read a clock yet. My dad has only come out of his room once that day to feed me breakfast and has been in bed ever since. As I look back now, I realize that he was in a depressive episode. Quite a few years later, I sit in my bedroom on a colorful quilt, surrounded by my stuffed animals. It is here that I write a letter that outlines every hardship in my life and why those are my reasons to give up on life. This letter is the last thing I will ever give to the world and it will serve as an explanation to whoever finds it. It is this quilt that soaks up my blood, sweat, and tears as I battle with mental health. Nobody ever found that note because fortunately, I did not leave it for somebody to find and I am walking around today. My relationships look very different today in comparison to when I was struggling. 4 years ago I shut myself off. I didn't have very many friends and I wasn't trying to make any more. I wasn't social or involved in my school or community. I didn't have any friends for two months when I started school, the only person I knew was the guidance counselor. Today I have an amazing support system that has been with me through the hard times. I also try to be more involved in my community through acts of service, investing my time and energy like people had done to me when I needed it most. Dealing with my mental health struggles has changed how I see the world. 5 years ago I thought the world was a hateful place. A place where there was no light and no hope. Somewhere there is no place or purpose for me in it. 5 years later, I no longer view the world through this lens. My battle and healing have shown me how feelings can be incredibly complex and how easily things get tough. Going through all of this has made me much more understanding of what others can be going through. I am not as quick to see the downsides of every situation and I appreciate the opportunities I have more. I've learned to take better care of myself and to ask for help when I need it. I have had plenty of experiences with mental health in my life, both myself and my loved ones. These experiences have shaped the person I am today. If somebody were to ask me what my goals were 3 years ago, I would have told you that it was to make it to see my senior year of high school. As I am finishing out my Junior year of high school, my goals and aspirations look different. I now dream of attending college and becoming a teacher. These goals are rooted in my struggles however, when I was struggling with mental health at home, school was an escape from me. At home I was never enough and always a disappointment, at school I was an excellent student and a pleasure to have in class. My teachers were always encouraging me to push myself and they created a space where I felt comfortable being myself. I want to be that teacher for someone who is struggling like I was. I want to be the teacher that creates a space for students to embrace their authentic selves. My goal as a future educator is to not only create a space for students struggling with mental health but also to advocate and be a voice for those struggling with mental health. My mental health struggles have profoundly influenced every aspect of my life, shaping my goals, relationships, and worldview. They've taught me to set goals and believe that I have a future, recognizing that progress is not only linear and that setbacks are just a part of the journey. Through my struggles, I've also cultivated deeper and more meaningful relationships that are built on trust, vulnerability, and support. My mental health journey has fundamentally altered my worldview, instilling in me a newfound appreciation for the human experience. I've come to recognize the importance of self-compassion and the value of seeking help when needed. My struggles have heightened my sensitivity to the struggles of others. While my mental health struggles have presented significant challenges, they have also been a source of profound growth and transformation. They have taught me about resilience, compassion, and the power of vulnerability. As I continue on my journey, I carry with me the lessons learned and the strength gained, knowing that I am capable of overcoming any obstacle that comes my way.

I sit in my living room as cartoons are playing on the TV and I am playing with my toys. Coloring books and dolls litter the living room floor when I start to feel a grumbling in my tummy. I knock on my parent's bedroom door to ask my dad for lunch. I wake him up and he asks what time it is, "One, Two, dot dot, Two, Five." is my response because I don't know how to read a clock yet. My dad has only come out of his room once that day to feed me breakfast and has been in bed ever since. As I look back now, I realize that he was in a depressive episode. Quite a few years later, I sit in my bedroom on a colorful quilt, surrounded by my stuffed animals. It is here that I write a letter that outlines every hardship in my life and why those are my reasons to give up on life. This letter is the last thing I will ever give to the world and it will serve as an explanation to whoever finds it. It is this quilt that soaks up my blood, sweat, and tears as I battle with mental health. Nobody ever found that note because fortunately, I did not leave it for somebody to find and I am walking around today. I have had plenty of experiences with mental health in my life, both myself and my loved ones. These experiences have shaped the person I am today. If somebody were to ask me what my goals were 3 years ago, I would have told you that it was to make it to see my senior year of high school. As I am finishing out my Junior year of high school, my goals and aspirations look different. I now dream of attending college and becoming a teacher. These goals are rooted in my struggles however, when I was struggling with mental health at home, school was an escape from me. At home I was never enough and always a disappointment, at school I was an excellent student and a pleasure to have in class. My teachers were always encouraging me to push myself and they created a space where I felt comfortable being myself. I want to be that teacher for someone who is struggling like I was. I want to be the teacher that creates a space for students to embrace their authentic selves. My relationships look very different today in comparison to when I was struggling. 4 years ago I shut myself off. I didn't have very many friends and I wasn't trying to make any more. I wasn't social or involved in my school or community. I didn't have any friends for two months when I started school, the only person I knew was the guidance counselor. Today I have an amazing support system that has been with me through the hard times. I also try to be more involved in my community through acts of service, investing my time and energy like people had done to me when I needed it most. Dealing with my mental health struggles has changed how I see the world. 5 years ago I thought the world was a hateful place. A place where there was no light and no hope. Somewhere there is no place or purpose for me in it. 5 years later, I no longer view the world through this lens. My battle and healing have shown me how feelings can be incredibly complex and how easily things get tough. Going through all of this has made me much more understanding of what others can be going through. I am not as quick to see the downsides of every situation and I appreciate the opportunities I have more. I've learned to take better care of myself and to ask for help when I need it. My mental health struggles have profoundly influenced every aspect of my life, shaping my goals, relationships, and worldview. They've taught me to set goals and believe that I have a future, recognizing that progress is not only linear and that setbacks are just a part of the journey. Through my struggles, I've also cultivated deeper and more meaningful relationships that are built on trust, vulnerability, and support. My mental health journey has fundamentally altered my worldview, instilling in me a newfound appreciation for the human experience. I've come to recognize the importance of self-compassion and the value of seeking help when needed. My struggles have heightened my sensitivity to the struggles of others. While my mental health struggles have presented significant challenges, they have also been a source of profound growth and transformation. They have taught me about resilience, compassion, and the power of vulnerability. As I continue on my journey, I carry with me the lessons learned and the strength gained, knowing that I am capable of overcoming any obstacle that comes my way.

A booger green, a vomit green, a concerning color of green. That was the color of the welfare office walls. I sat for hours in that office with my mom in many stages of life, one that sticks out to me the most was when we were applying for food stamps after my parents got divorced. I sat on the weirdly stick and waxy floor playing with beaten-up puzzles and reading old books about a hedgehog family or maybe a family of bears. At the time I didn't know why we were there, I knew that the walls were a gross color and that all the toys were worn. I didn't even fully realize what food stamps were until I found out that almost every kid in that apartment complex got money to go grocery shopping on the same day. What a coincidence! As a child, I felt a sense of powerlessness in the face of our financial struggles. I watched as peers got to indulge in luxuries that were out of reach for my family, there was a feeling of shame and embarrassment that stung. The financial hardship seemed to take a toll on my mental health. It fostered feelings of insecurity, hopelessness, and despair. The constant stress of living in poverty eroded my confidence and undermined my belief in myself and my abilities. I struggled with feelings of shame and self-doubt and questioned whether I would be able to break free from the cycle of poverty that seemed to define my very existence. Despite the immense challenges we faced, my mom and I found support and solace in each other. We clung to the hope that our struggles would indeed lead to brighter days ahead. Together we weathered the storms of financial adversity, drawing strength from determination to overcome the obstacles in our path. We saved every extra cent we had, besides quarters because we needed those for laundry, and together made a better life for both of us. Looking back at those difficult times, I am filled with gratitude for the lessons learned and the resilience gained. Our journey through that hardship taught me the value of perseverance, empathy, and resilience in the face of adversity. It reinforced the importance of family, community, and solidarity in times of struggle. Every day I am grateful for the opportunities that have come to me now. I would tell the next kid who is sitting on the gross and waxy floor of the welfare office that while my journey has been marked by hardships, it has also been defined by resilience, love, and the belief that better days are ahead. As we continue to navigate life's challenges, I carry with me these lessons learned from the journey through hardships. Knowing that our struggles have only strengthened our resolve to create a brighter future for ourselves and those we love. I would tell that kid that it is not always going to feel like you are less than your peers and that one day you will never have to look at the booger green walls.

"UNLESS someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get any better.", this is a quote from "The Lorax". This film illustrates how each individual can create a chain of positive change in the world. This movie has been one of my all-time favorites for a very long time and many reasons, the animation is amazing and the songs are incredible. However, this movie is so important to me for the theme of the whole movie. At its core, this movie teaches that change begins with one person, one action, and one decision. As I watch the Once-ler's journey from an excited entrepreneur to a hermit, I understand that this serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences that come from inaction and apathy. "The Lorax" emphasizes the importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity. Despite separate challenges, both Ted and the Once-ler demonstrate unwavering determination in their journeys for a better world. These pursuits serve as a testament to the power of resilience and the capacity for personal growth and development. Furthermore, it underscores the idea that every individual has the power to be a catalyst for positive change. Whether the action is planting a seed, like Ted; speaking out against injustice, or standing up for what you believe in, every person possesses the ability to make a difference. In the movie, Once-ler highlights the importance of individual agency and taking accountability, his story inspired me to take action and become an agent of change in my community. I have always sought out ways to help my community, whether that be volunteering my time at a local fundraiser or doing a highway cleanup. Not only do I live for service but also for advocacy, I use every platform I have to advocate for what I believe in. I use my social media to post and share stories that are important to me. I started a podcast to help advocate for the importance of agriculture. This movie has inspired me to always be true to myself and to always think about ways to spark change. When I make the one decision to take action I think of "The Lorax" and how Ted chose to seek out the Once-ler and plant the seed in the middle of town. In conclusion, "The Lorax" is a timeless reminder of the importance of initiating positive change. Through the compelling narrative, vivid characters, and catchy music, this story has inspired me to recognize my ability to make a difference. It has made me want to take proactive steps towards creating a bright future for not only myself but for my community. As we navigate the complexities of the world around us, remember to heed the Lorax's call to be the start of positive change. Every day I make one decision, one action, to do what is right and to "plant seeds" of change within my community because I know that unless someone like me cares an awful lot, nothing is going to get any better.

Picture this, you walk into a large dining hall. There is a delicious smell of food wafting towards you from the rows of tables you are walking between. Candles are floating above the sea of students ready to greet first years. A great table filled with some of the best wizards is straight in front of you. One by one the students in front of you get called up to the Sorting Hat. The hat yelling out; "GRYFFINDOR!", "HUFFLEPUFF!" "RAVENCLAW!", "SLYTHERIN!". It is finally your turn, you step up towards the hat and sit on the stool. The weight of the sorting hat is placed on your head. You wait anxiously to hear what house you will be sorted in. After what feels like hours the hat shouts out... "HUFFLEPUFF!!". Imagining myself in moments like these is what made Harry Potter and the Wizarding World so magical for me. Seeing what Hogwarts house I would have been placed in was one of many personal magical moments. After taking the Pottermore test, several times, I was sorted into Hufflepuff every time. Traits of Hufflepuffs include a strong sense of justice, loyalty, passion, and an inclination for hard work and are almost nice to a fault. I find that these describe me incredibly well. There are many times that I display these traits in my day-to-day life. An example of my loyalty is that I'm loyal to my friends and family. I give my unwavering support to those in my life in all of their pursuits. I stick by their side no matter what. My strong sense of justice comes in when there is a disagreement, between myself and others, or even between two other people. I try to look at the facts and make sure whatever the outcome may be, that it is fair. My passions shine when I talk about my interests and my plans. I am passionate about going to college and becoming a teacher, I am passionate about making school a welcoming environment for others, and I am passionate about encouraging and uplifting others. I believe that hard work is important to achieve goals and accomplish things that you have been working toward. Being a Hufflepuff is something I am proud of through and through. Even down to the mascot, a badger. Badgers are small, but they can take down animals three times their size and that is something I believe I can do. If I set a large goal for myself, even if they seem much bigger than me, if I work towards it I can do it. I take pride in being friendly, hardworking, passionate and loyal. I remind myself that I am a Hufflepuff and I do have great traits that can help me become the best version of myself there can be. That is why I love being a Hufflepuff and why it is the Hogwarts house that fits me best.

Many things about me are different, even something as basic as my first name. Throughout my life, it has been a struggle for my teachers and peers to pronounce my name and for a long time, I disliked my name. That was because it wasn't like other kids' names. Until I started school I didn't realize that I had a unique name. Tangia, it's only six letters, why was it so hard for people? There were times when I was made fun of because of my name, although I was never sure why. Whatever the reasons may be, I still disliked my name because it reminded me I was different. I'm Filipino, which has also made me stand out among my peers. Coming from a home with a parent of color contributed to me being different from my peers. My friends had an adverse reaction to foods I would bring for lunch or the accent my mom had. It was hard for people to understand some things we did in my household because it wasn't familiar to them. I saw it as embarrassing when I was younger. I was ashamed to show my heritage. Another unique attribute I have noticed about myself is my personality. I have been told multiple times that my energy and loud personality are special. I speak my mind and stand for what I believe in. I enjoy being enthusiastic about things I am interested in even if I tend to be loud from time to time. People don't normally do that though, and noticed that quickly. When I tell people I want to pursue a career in education that seems to stand out to them. However, I see it as a way of giving back I want to teach my future students that it's okay to be different. Being unique is not a weakness but a strength. Several teachers of mine have taught me valuable lessons including being confident and understanding my self-worth. I want to pass down these learnings to the future generations. I have seen people my age discouraged because they are different or don't fit the standard. That is why I want to teach my students that it's important to celebrate diversity. Experiences become more valuable when they aren't filled with the worry of fitting in. I believe I have gained more because I appreciate the unique aspects of myself. My name is beautiful, it means angel. Over time I have realized that all parts of my culture are special and shouldn't be hidden away. I now embrace my personality instead of trying to change myself to fit in better with my peers. Whether it be the home I come from, my loud personality, my plans, or even my name that reminds me every day of my differences, I recognize that in many ways I am unique and I am proud of that.