I grew up in a family where both my brothers had disabilities. Watching them navigate a world that often did not accommodate their needs was challenging. When my younger brother passed away, I felt a strong desire to make the world more inclusive for people with disabilities. This personal experience inspired me to study Neuroscience. I want to understand more about the human brain and development to help others. My passion for science stems from my desire to make a difference. Neuroscience at the University of Texas Austin (UT) will provide me with the knowledge and skills to contribute meaningfully to the field. I aim to use my education to discover new ways to support individuals with disabilities, improve their quality of life, and foster a more inclusive society. I want to help improve human health. My interest in Neuroscience drives me to explore the connections between mental health and physical well-being. Mental health is often overlooked, yet it plays a critical role in overall health. By studying the brain and behavior, I hope to develop interventions that can alleviate human suffering caused by mental health disorders. This is especially important for individuals with disabilities, who may face unique mental health challenges. My background as a Black and Latino woman also shapes my perspective. I understand the importance of diversity. Diverse perspectives lead to innovative solutions and better outcomes. I am committed to advocating for underrepresented groups and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to be heard. I plan to engage in research of neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism, microcephaly, and cerebral palsy, and make a career out of that. These conditions affect many individuals and their families, and there is still much to learn about their causes and treatments. By understanding the underlying mechanisms of these disorders, we can develop better therapies and support systems for those affected. Moreover, I believe that technology can play a significant role in improving the lives of people with disabilities. Advances in assistive technology, such as brain-computer interfaces and neuroprosthetics, can potentially enhance mobility, communication, and independence. By combining my knowledge of Neuroscience with technological innovations, I hope to contribute to developing these life-changing tools. In conclusion, my passion for STEM is deeply rooted in my desire to help others and make the world more inclusive. Studying Neuroscience at UT will equip me with the knowledge and skills to address critical issues such as biodiversity preservation, human health, and disability inclusion. My unique background and experiences drive me to advocate for diversity in STEM and contribute to meaningful scientific advancements. I am committed to using my education to alleviate human suffering and improve the health of our planet.

I grew up in a family where both my brothers had disabilities. Watching them navigate a world that often did not accommodate their needs was challenging. When my younger brother passed away, I felt a strong desire to make the world more inclusive for people with disabilities. This personal experience inspired me to study Neuroscience. I want to understand more about the human brain and development to help others. My passion for science stems from my desire to make a difference. Neuroscience at the University of Texas Austin (UT) will provide me with the knowledge and skills to contribute meaningfully to the field. I aim to use my education to discover new ways to support individuals with disabilities, improve their quality of life, and foster a more inclusive society. I want to help improve human health. My interest in Neuroscience drives me to explore the connections between mental health and physical well-being. Mental health is often overlooked, yet it plays a critical role in overall health. By studying the brain and behavior, I hope to develop interventions that can alleviate human suffering caused by mental health disorders. This is especially important for individuals with disabilities, who may face unique mental health challenges. My background as a Black and Latino woman also shapes my perspective. I understand the importance of diversity. Diverse perspectives lead to innovative solutions and better outcomes. I am committed to advocating for underrepresented groups and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to be heard. At UT, I plan to engage in research of neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism, microcephaly, and cerebral palsy. These conditions affect many individuals and their families, and there is still much to learn about their causes and treatments. By understanding the underlying mechanisms of these disorders, we can develop better therapies and support systems for those affected. Moreover, I believe that technology can play a significant role in improving the lives of people with disabilities. Advances in assistive technology, such as brain-computer interfaces and neuroprosthetics, have the potential to enhance mobility, communication, and independence. By combining my knowledge of Neuroscience with technological innovations, I hope to contribute to the development of these life-changing tools. In conclusion, my passion for STEM is deeply rooted in my desire to help others and make the world a more inclusive place. Studying Neuroscience at UT will equip me with the knowledge and skills to address critical issues such as biodiversity preservation, human health, and disability inclusion. My unique background and experiences drive me to advocate for diversity in STEM and contribute to meaningful scientific advancements. I am committed to using my education to alleviate human suffering and improve the health of our planet.

I grew up in a Christian home, but my relationship with Jesus got deep when I was around 14. I went to a church camp where I was met with God’s love, and since then, I have grown a lot in my faith. I got involved in a local church by joining the media and worship teams. I gave my life up to Jesus, who guided me through the hardest circumstances I could ever go through. He was my rock when I lost my grandfather, when I moved to the United States without my parents, and when I lost my brother. I did not know how apparent His work was in my life until my graduation ceremony. I was honored with my school’s highest honor and got the Pastor’s Spirit Award, which is only awarded when the school sees someone who shows to have a deep relationship with Jesus through the way they interact with others. My relationship with Jesus has deeply affected my faith. It has given me a sense of purpose and a source of strength during tough times. When I lost my grandfather, I felt a deep sense of loss, but Jesus was there to comfort me. Moving to the United States without my parents was challenging, but I felt His presence guiding me and giving me the courage to adapt to a new environment. Losing my brother was one of the hardest things I have ever gone through, but my faith in Jesus helped me find peace and hope. As I begin my educational journey at the University of Texas at Austin, I plan to implement my faith in several ways. First, I aim to join a campus ministry or Christian group where I can continue to grow spiritually and find a community of like-minded individuals. Being part of such a group will provide me with the support and encouragement I need to stay strong in my faith. I also plan to apply the principles of my faith in my studies. As a Neuroscience major, I am fascinated by the complexity and beauty of God’s creation. I believe that studying this will deepen my appreciation for His work and inspire me to pursue a career that helps others. My faith teaches me to be compassionate, patient, and understanding, qualities that are essential in the field. Moreover, I want to serve others through volunteer work and community service. Jesus taught us to love our neighbors as ourselves, and I believe that serving others is a powerful way to live out my faith. Whether tutoring fellow students, participating in community outreach programs, or helping those in need, I am committed to making a positive impact. In conclusion, my relationship with Jesus has profoundly shaped my faith and given me strength and guidance during difficult times. As I embark on my educational journey at UT Austin, I plan to implement my faith by joining a Christian community, applying my faith principles in my studies, and serving others. I am grateful for the opportunity to apply for the God Hearted Girls Scholarship, and I am committed to living out my faith in all aspects of my life.

I want people to understand that people with special needs are regular people because that way, we can focus on making the world more inclusive and a better place for everybody. This belief has shaped my goals and aspirations, especially as I prepare to start my studies at the University of Texas Austin, majoring in Neuroscience. Growing up as a Black and Latina woman, I have seen firsthand how important it is to be inclusive and understand different backgrounds and abilities. Growing up with disabled brothers opened my eyes to the challenges faced by people with special needs. I also volunteered at local community centers and schools, where I helped students with disabilities. These experiences made me realize that they don’t get the same respect and opportunities as everyone else. One change I would make to the world is to promote greater understanding and acceptance of people with special needs. This change is important because it can lead to a more inclusive society where everyone feels valued and supported. When people see those with special needs as regular people, they are more likely to include them in everyday activities and opportunities. This can improve the quality of life for individuals with special needs and enrich the lives of everyone around them. As a future student of Neuroscience, I am particularly interested in studying the biological and psychological aspects of disabilities. I want to understand how different conditions affect the brain and body and how we can develop better support systems and treatments. I aim to use this knowledge to advocate for policies and programs promoting inclusion and accessibility. At UT Austin, I plan to join organizations and clubs that focus on disability advocacy and support. I want to connect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about making a difference. I believe that by working together, we can create a campus environment that is welcoming and supportive for all students, regardless of their abilities. In addition to my academic and extracurricular goals, I am committed to raising awareness about the importance of inclusion in my community. I want to organize events and workshops that educate people about the challenges individuals with special needs face and how they can help. We can break down barriers and create a more inclusive world by fostering a culture of understanding and acceptance. In conclusion, promoting greater understanding and acceptance of people with special needs is the one change I would make to the world. This change is crucial for creating a society where everyone feels valued and included. As I embark on my journey at UT Austin, I am dedicated to using my education and experiences to advocate for this cause and make a positive impact. Thank you for considering my application for the Kenyada Me'Chon Thomas Legacy Scholarship.

As I embark on my final year of high school, I'm dedicated to championing and uplifting kids who are seen as different by society. Every child deserves to be valued and celebrated for their awesome individuality and talents. Inspired by my own experiences and fueled by a passion for inclusivity, I'm wholeheartedly committed to nurturing the emotional well-being and meeting the needs of children who may face various challenges. Growing up in a family where my brothers faced disabilities, I've seen firsthand the obstacles and unfair treatment that people considered different often encounter. These experiences have deeply shaped my understanding of the struggles these kids face, and they've driven me to dedicate my life to helping individuals with diverse needs. My ultimate goal is to help create a society where everyone feels accepted, respected, and supported, regardless of their differences. To bring my aspirations to life, I've set my sights on studying neuroscience. By diving into the intricacies of the human brain and behavior, I want to gain a solid understanding of how diverse needs show up and how we can effectively address them. Armed with this knowledge, I plan to develop groundbreaking approaches and interventions that will revolutionize how we support kids who are viewed as different by society. But I'm not just about hitting the books and doing research. While pursuing my studies, I'm determined to roll up my sleeves and get involved in the community, working directly with children and families. By immersing myself in hands-on experiences, I'll gain invaluable insights into the unique needs and challenges these children face. This immersive approach will allow me to develop a well-rounded understanding and approach to addressing their emotional well-being and nurturing their intellectual growth. Through my involvement in community programs and organizations, I want to contribute to the creation of inclusive spaces where all children, no matter their differences, are valued and supported. Once I've completed my education, I dream of becoming a college professor. In this role, I want to share my knowledge, experiences, and passion with future generations of educators, researchers, and professionals. By teaching and mentoring others, I aim to inspire and support individuals dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of children who are considered different. Additionally, I plan to actively engage in research, aiming to develop groundbreaking ideas and interventions that tackle the challenges faced by these children, with a laser focus on promoting true inclusion and effecting meaningful societal change. My career goals are rooted in a deep desire to advocate for those who often go unnoticed and unheard. I'm fully aware that children who are viewed as different face unique challenges, both during their childhood and as they navigate the complexities of adulthood. By prioritizing their emotional well-being and addressing their intellectual needs, I want to contribute to the creation of a more inclusive society that recognizes and celebrates the incredible potential of every individual. Through my work, I strive to shift societal focus away from divisive issues and towards fostering empathy, understanding, and support for all children, regardless of their differences. In conclusion, my career goals stem from an unwavering commitment to supporting children who are seen as different by society. Through my pursuit of a neuroscience degree, active engagement in the community, and aspirations to become a college professor, I'm determined to nurture their emotional well-being and meet their needs head-on. I aim to be a tireless advocate for inclusivity, challenging societal norms, and highlighting the value of each child's unique qualities and potential. With these efforts, I want to play a part in creating a more compassionate and inclusive society that embraces and uplifts the diverse strengths of all its members.

Feminism is standing up for your rights as a woman and not letting anyone bring you down because you are a woman. If it weren't for the movement, women would still be "second-class citizens" without a right to make decisions for their country or themselves. The person who taught me everything about feminism and being a woman is my mother. She taught me that we need to fight for our spot and should never depend on other people to provide for us because, unfortunately, our world is not good for anybody, especially women. My mother has been a fighter all her life. She is extremely patient and smart. When she was only twenty-five years old, she had her second child, who was born with microcephaly, and at thirty-one, she had a baby with cerebral palsy. She continuously fought for her boys for years, trying to give them the best treatment they deserved for their disabilities. In 2021, we lost my brother Isaac, who had just turned seventeen. Earlier that year, my mom lost her father, one of her best friends. Even after losing her dad, she stayed strong and said goodbye to me, her youngest child, as I moved to another country because she knew it would be better for my future. I cannot describe how hard that year was for our family. I saw my mom go through the hardest things anyone could go through, but she made it. After moving to the U.S., I had to prove to others multiple times that girls are just as capable as boys. Another challenge I have faced is discrimination against Latin American women. There are so many stereotypes to be broken when it comes to being a woman and to being Latinx, but day by day, we can prove people wrong by never giving up and staying strong. I wish every girl knew they could do anything they set their mind to, regardless of what people say to them. There is so much beauty in being a woman, and I would never trade it for anything. I will never give up on achieving my dreams and sharing my story so that other girls can be motivated to go out there and live to their full potential. I want to be a neuroscience researcher and teach the generations to come about the importance of diversity as a professor. I know that any girl can have a spectacular future if given the opportunity.