Since childhood, education has been one of the most fundamental aspects of my life. Not only does it provide knowledge and skills, but it's an avenue for self-improvement and transformation. I was taught to harness education as a means of building a better life for my family and community. These deeply rooted lessons come from my background where opportunities were scarce. This knowledge allows me to appreciate the changes that education, in the form of formal schooling, provides me with in terms of opportunity to live my dreams. It eventually unlocks the doors to breaking barriers such as poverty, achieving stability, and being able to effect positive change in the world around me. When speaking about education, it is never simply about engraining facts or obtaining diplomas for me. Rather, education serves to equip one with the tools that help in solving problems of thinking, critically reflecting and improving reality and the world as a whole. Through gaining Knowledge, I can work towards changing my future, work towards a time when I can aid others who are in need, and ultimately, join hands with people to shape society in a way that, enables a positive impact. Academically, I am motivated by the opportunities awaiting in my life and the aspiration of enhancing not only my life but also providing assistance to those who are in need of help to navigate through similar struggles. Education comes as a fundamental shift and in great need to give the required power and purpose to create transformation for others, changing the society as a whole and emerging as a foremost person in the leadership of my working area and age. It aided and continues to aid me in reaching greater height and skilled as an essential part in my journey and is something It will serve to be one of the tools transforming my hard work into potential outcomes. The legacy I hope to leave in the future is of serving others with compassion, all while never giving up. I aspire to positively impact society by making use of my skills and education. Be it as a respiratory therapist or a community service volunteer, I wish to offer support to those who need it most. My greatest hope is to inspire disadvantaged youth from my community through my work and support them to dream big, work toward the goal, and realize their full potential. I also hope to be remembered as a person who worked to help others while simultaneously achieving their goals. Via my work, I aim to promote the change I hope to see in this world. Every aspiring provider should be instilled with the hope that they can make a difference in society. Even if my impact is small, I wish to leave the world better than it is now. The notable achievement in my life is tapping into countless new opportunities through education. Education serves as a tool for personal growth at any given point. Through that I strive to build a world that will be better than what I found it.

As I was growing up, I saw how the caring and knowledgeable healthcare professionals can affect the lives of individuals and their families. These experiences really forced me into the position of becoming a respiratory therapist not only because of the necessity but because I know I would be doing something I enjoy, helping others. When not everyone lives in a society that provides all with adequate healthcare, it is essential to me to be a professional who delivers, knowing my profession will make a genuine difference and liberate communities that lack adequate health care resources. I'm a very science- and service-oriented person, and the study of respiratory therapy just seemed one of those "Hey that's perfect for me" kinds of things. How essential breathing is to life and how no one can really breathe, they all have respiratory problems, they all deteriorate in some way to make living less pleasant. Whether they are newborns in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) or the elderly with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a respiratory therapist is there to rescue them and intervene. It was the thought of being there in the front lines of care to make sure that those patients can breathe better—literally and figuratively—that intrigued me to do. My academic career has provided me with challenges and experiences that I have used to enhance my continuing education about respiratory therapy. My life has been spent learning the scientific aspect of taking care of someone's lungs and the compassion and ability to interpret verbal expression for the way they, some of them must feel. It is this combination of technical and human interaction that is the source of my ambition. Ultimately, I would like to work in an underserved community - usually one quite in need of respiratory health - respiratory services are few and far between among these communities. For example, low-income and minority citizens suffer disproportionately from asthma, largely as a result of environmental and systemic inequities. No, I don't just want to help people directly; I want to help them through and educate them and their families on ways to prevent or treat in the long run. This scholarship would ease the financial pressure of my education so that I can better concentrate on being the best healthcare provider that I am capable of being. It would also renew my dedication to giving back with my work and always providing my patients with the best quality of health care possible and under whatever conditions. My hope is to serve my Jeune Mondestin's name by utilizing my career to actually work and save, help make a difference in the lives of others, with my respiratory therapy career.

My struggle with mental health has taught me a lot about my own opinions, my relationships with others, and what I want to do in my career life. Dealing with mental health issues either in one's own life or trying to help those closest to you to do so has given me great insight into how one should act or react. Perhaps the most important impact that mental health has had on my beliefs is in proving to me how complicated and interlinked emotional well-being can be. Mental health, I've learned, is just like the health of any other part of your body: it needs to be cared for, nurtured, and supported. That new understanding actually changed the way I view wellness now so that I believe in holistic approaches including therapy, self-care, community, the whole nine yards. Also strength in vulnerability. In fact, by sharing struggles, we can help others realize that they are unwarranted in judging or belittling the feelings of others. Struggles need to be addressed openly despite the stigma that keeps it so quiet. As far as my relationships go, I've learned to be more loving and honest with what I want (which turns out you should be in one another's lives to complement one another and not be so much dependent). Since I have a better understanding of myself and my mental health, I can notice things in other people that might be troubling them or bothering them and help them out in any way that I can, all without judging them. For instance, when one of my best friends was going through a period of anxiety, I feel that my experiences allowed me to better understand her, listen to her, and help her go to get help. Have brought me closer to people, because they have been earned through trust and mutual knowledge. Another lesson learned from mental illness is boundaries, how much you can help someone else and when you need to help yourself. A lot of my career goals have evolved in response to my battle with mental health. These experiences have instilled in me a desire to promote awareness of mental health and accessibility to care, particularly in underserved communities where stigma and resources can be the greatest challenges of all. I want to do something that will affect the entire field at the policy or education system level. Rather it be counseling, advocating, or nonprofit organization work; I want to help people deal with their mental illnesses with all the backing and resources necessary. Furthermore, my experiences have taught me a reason to live. Because I, myself, have witnessed the power of education and intervention and how it can change people's lives. Thus, I am motivated to become involved in the movement to normalize mental health treatment, and guarantee that nobody should feel by themselves in their plight. It is a passion not only of my career but of one of my life, to spread understanding and create a greater community of caring. So, mental health, in conclusion: It has really redefined my views on what it means to be well, blessed me with farther-reaching relationships through the gift of understanding, and it has inspired a dream, a career, a mission of advocacy and compassion. Those struggles and feelings have only led me to become a more compassionate, motivated, and determined human being with a purpose to better myself, the world around me, and my 7' by 6'3" plot of sod.

I have a strong interest in breast health education. Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide, and its effects can be incredibly debilitating - not just for those afflicted by this terrible disease, but also for their families and friends, and indeed, for society as a whole. Education greatly enhances results by making people aware of the risk factors, the importance of routine screenings, and facilitating dialogue about a topic that may otherwise be cloaked in fear or taboo. For me, breast health knowledge has played a very important role in my life because of concerns with breast health in my own family. Seeing someone close to me go through being diagnosed with breast cancer was devastating yet very eye opening. It showed how important it is to be aware of one's body and to recognize warning signs as well as things available to prevent and cure. They caught it early in her, and that confirmed my suspicion that education is a serious part of the war against this disease. I support breast health education not only because of the statistics, it is to save lives and stop the physical, emotional, and financial burden of late stages. Breast health education - Getting people to be comfortable with talking about breast self-exams and mammograms. And there are times when they do not know that they are supposed to get checked routinely, or perhaps in the barrios, they are embarrassed about the possibility of it being something they think of as bad, so they do not see a doctor. Education is the solution to lowering the stigma of this condition, so people will not be ashamed to get help when it is time for preventative care. Thus leading to earlier diagnosis, less invasive treatment, and higher survival. Furthermore, he adds, an understanding of breast health. Communities that have fewer resources also tend to have more cases of late-stage breast cancer and poorer prognosis. Through education programs that take culture into account or that promote screening programs, these gaps can be overcome so that everyone can have the opportunity to learn about and maintain their health regardless of their background. Additionally, breast health education empowers a person to be their own patient advocate. Knowing about risk factors, family history, and symptoms gives people the power to ask the right questions and demand proper care. This will nurture ownership and collaboration with health care providers and will enhance health status. In addition, breast health education empowers the "patient" to be an advocate in a clinical setting. Understanding risk factors, family history, and symptoms give people the power to ask the right questions and demand the right care. It gives them more of a sense of control and collaboration with the medical community, which makes them healthier in the end. Ultimately, the familiar phrase that breast health education saves lives, overcomes disparities, and empowers individuals. I know from experience just what a difference this awareness can make, so I'm up for doing whatever it takes to make this breast health knowledge widespread. We can make a generation aware that early detection doesn't have to be the last report, but the first.

Tell us about a problem you have overcome in your life. Among the big issues growing up was juggling the burden of academics and all sorts of family hardships concerning income. We were not very comfortable financially, with instances when my family barely had enough. Since I was a jolly good child, working at a tender age could help put food on the table. Many times, when my friends would be working on school and extra-curriculum activities, I needed to be managing my books, seeing my family through their needs. Many times, I felt that I was struggling and would not be able to compete with the students intellectually under so much stress. But this whole experience taught me the values of resilience, time management, and hard work. I prioritized and worked hard to achieve my goals; thus, becoming one of the top-students in my class on graduation. The journey tugged my belief in determination and adaptability in the face of adversity. How does this scholarship enable you to give back to the community? This scholarship will not only lighten the load of completing higher education but also give me the opportunity to work on initiatives that have a direct bearing on society. I highly am excited to promote mentoring programs among underprivileged youth to endow them with the tools and mentorship I often felt a lack of in my struggling moments. This scholarship will give me more time to volunteer and build workshops on career readiness and educational planning. I also would like to use my education and skill to advocate for policy changes that will help address root causes of poverty in underserved communities. The scholarship would mean an opportunity for me to create a better future for myself and others based on support, understanding, and opportunity. How would you encourage youngsters to take up philately as a hobby? In all, philately is far from just collecting stamps-it can mean being confronted with history, art, and the culture of countries around the world. Philately, as a field, needs to be engaging and accessible for young enthusiasts. Hosting interactive workshops and activities in schools and at the local community centers could spark first curiosity by allowing kids to explore in hands-on activities the story behind stamps. Collaborating with libraries and museums on stamp exhibits related to historic events could further link philately with information they learn in the classroom. Social media can be used to captivate young persons with colorful stamps, trivia, and challenges that make philately seem so modern and active. And lastly, creating a venue where young collectors could share their collections, exchange stamps, and find other collectors would create community and excitement around the hobby.

I’ve been a fan of Sabrina Carpenter for years because she represents the perfect blend of talent, authenticity, and growth. From her early days on Girl Meets World to her current success as a multifaceted artist, Sabrina has continually shown that she’s unafraid to evolve and explore new creative horizons. Her music, in particular, has been a huge source of inspiration for me. With every album, she shares pieces of her story, creating songs that feel deeply personal yet universally relatable. What I admire most about Sabrina is her ability to stay genuine while navigating the pressures of fame and the entertainment industry. She has consistently embraced her individuality, which has encouraged me to do the same. Songs like “Skinny Dipping” and “Because I Liked a Boy” speak to the complexities of vulnerability, resilience, and self-reflection. These tracks have taught me to embrace my flaws and emotions instead of shying away from them. Sabrina’s willingness to tackle difficult subjects in her music, like heartbreak, judgment, and self-discovery, has helped me feel seen during my own struggles. Sabrina’s career has impacted me by showing me the value of perseverance and staying true to oneself. Watching her grow as both an artist and an individual reminds me that success isn’t about perfection—it’s about authenticity and effort. Despite facing criticism and challenges, she continues to rise above negativity with grace and determination. Her journey encourages me to approach my own goals with the same mindset, reminding me that setbacks are just stepping stones to success. Beyond her music, Sabrina’s confidence and poise have inspired me to be more self-assured in my everyday life. Her performances radiate a mix of passion and joy, and her connection with her fans is a testament to her authenticity. Whether it’s through her lyrics, her acting, or her interviews, Sabrina has this unique ability to make her audience feel like they’re not alone. That sense of connection has been invaluable to me, especially during times when I’ve felt isolated or unsure of myself. In short, I’m a fan of Sabrina Carpenter because she embodies resilience, creativity, and kindness. Her career has taught me to embrace my individuality, take pride in my journey, and face challenges with courage. She’s more than a pop star to me—she’s a role model and a source of inspiration.

My favorite song on Charli XCX’s album brat is definitely “Unstoppable.” The moment I heard its electrifying opening beat, I knew it was going to be a song that stayed with me. What makes this track special is its bold celebration of resilience and self-belief—a theme that resonates deeply with me as I navigate my personal challenges and ambitions. The chorus, with Charli singing, “Even when the world says no, I’ll be screaming yes,” is an empowering mantra that has fueled my motivation during tough times this year. A Celebration of Resilience “Unstoppable” captures Charli’s signature blend of defiance and vulnerability. Its pulsating production mirrors the adrenaline rush of pushing through doubt, while the lyrics speak to the emotional highs and lows of chasing one’s dreams. The lines, “They tried to break me, but I’m made of fire,” hit particularly close to home. This lyric reflects my own journey of facing setbacks and criticism but finding strength in those moments to push forward. Charli’s music doesn’t just tell a story; it creates a shared experience, reminding listeners like me that we are not alone in our struggles or triumphs. My Anthem for Self-Doubt This song has been my anthem during moments of self-doubt. Whether I’m preparing for a big presentation, working on my college applications, or simply trying to silence my inner critic, “Unstoppable” reminds me to embrace my power unapologetically. Charli’s bold delivery and infectious energy in the song inspire me to own my individuality and trust in my potential. Innovation Meets Authenticity What I admire most about Charli XCX is her ability to seamlessly mix innovation with authenticity. Her music is a testament to the beauty of staying true to oneself while still evolving as an artist. “Unstoppable” reflects that evolution, blending her signature hyper-pop elements with a deeply personal narrative. It’s more than a song; it’s a statement of empowerment and freedom, two values that have significantly shaped my outlook this year. Finding Strength Through Music Through “Unstoppable,” Charli XCX has given me a sonic space to process my emotions and draw strength when I need it most. Her artistry, both in this track and throughout brat, serves as a reminder that we all have the power to rise above challenges and live authentically. This scholarship would mean the world to me as a way to honor the impact Charli’s music has had on my life and to continue pursuing my goals with the same unstoppable energy she embodies.

Applying My Talents in Work to Build Empathy and Understanding As a first generation immigrant planning to work in healthcare, I have developed different talents and skills which I would like to wield in a bid to build a more understanding as well as empathetic global community. The trauma and stresses that I encountered when I had to adapt into different cultures, and my opt for a more medical career as a respiratory therapist, enabled me to relate with people of different colors. It is my vibrant belief that empathy and understanding is the first step towards developing solid relationships with people as well as addressing multi-faceted issues facing the world today. One of my greatest strengths is my ability to transcend cultural differences. Being in an immigrant family, I faced the challenge of balancing between two worlds the world of the host and that of my parents. This experience taught me the value of diversity and the importance of listening to others’ perspectives. I hope to employ this in my work both professional and social by ensuring that I encourage inclusivity by helping people feel attached, required and loved. In my work as a respiratory therapist, I expect that I will have to handle patients of different backgrounds, and there are times when the situations can be quite demanding. In such moments, I will be able to deal with the patients in a considerate manner as I will know how to talk to them, and how to handle delicate situations, which would include caring for their feelings when they are defenseless and scared. I am aware that their deep fears are not only physical, and that is why I am keen on meeting them on a more humane level – one that addresses their emotional needs as well. Furthermore, I will also make it my goal to promote compassion in the world through education and activism besides my practicing in health care. The issue of health equity is serious, especially in marginalized areas, and I will not shy away from using my platform to highlight this factor. I want to show what struggle is all about by focusing on people who fight their own battles every day and thus encourage other people to get involved. Empathy and understanding also start from simple, day-to-day activities. Whether it’s being a mentor to younger students, getting involved in my community, or just being there for someone in need, I always try to practice what I preach. I think all little acts of kindness were taken into consideration so that understanding others would create an impact that would be more profound than what was expected. In the end, I would like my work to be constructive in every sense of the word, regardless of whether it is in the health industry, in America, or even worldwide. Getting people to care about one another, embracing differences, and seeking ways to better society’s will help accomplish this vision altogether.

My Story and How This Scholarship Will Support My Goals My name is Tong Xu, though I go by Kate, and I am currently pursuing a degree in respiratory therapy. As a first-generation immigrant and the first in my family to attend college, my journey has been shaped by resilience, determination, and a deep desire to create a better future for myself, my family, and my community. Growing up in an immigrant household, I witnessed firsthand the sacrifices my parents made to provide me with opportunities they never had. They left behind familiar lives and worked tirelessly to ensure I had access to education and a chance to pursue my dreams. Their perseverance has inspired me to work hard and remain steadfast in my goals, despite the obstacles I’ve faced along the way. I chose to study respiratory therapy because of its critical importance in healthcare. This field allows me to work closely with patients during some of their most vulnerable moments, providing care that can make a life-saving difference. My ultimate career aspiration is to join a life flight team, delivering advanced respiratory care in emergency and remote settings. This path combines my passion for healthcare with my desire to serve underserved populations, ensuring equitable access to life-saving treatments. However, the journey has not been without challenges. Balancing the demands of college with part-time work to support myself has taught me resilience and time management, but it has also been financially and emotionally demanding. This scholarship would provide significant relief, allowing me to focus more on excelling in my studies and less on the financial pressures of tuition, textbooks, and other educational expenses. Additionally, it would open doors to advanced certifications and training opportunities, which are essential for achieving my long-term career goals. Beyond supporting my own ambitions, this scholarship would enable me to continue giving back to my community. I am committed to using my education to address health disparities, particularly in underserved areas. I also aim to mentor other young women, especially those from immigrant backgrounds, to help them navigate their own educational and professional journeys. This scholarship represents more than financial assistance; it is a testament to the value of hard work, determination, and the belief in the potential of first-generation students like me. It would empower me to continue my education, achieve my goals, and ultimately make a meaningful impact on the lives of others.

Brief Overview of My Life And How This Scholarship will assist in Attaining My Goals My name is Tong Xu, but I prefer Kate. Right now I’m studying in college for a degree in respiratory therapy. This all has given me the understanding and perspective on what it means to be a first generation college student. As I am the first in my family to come to this country, I view my life in a more strategic manner, by setting short term and long term goals in hopes that it will provide me with a better path as well as my family and eventually my community. Remembering the hardships experienced by my family, particularly my parents as immigrants, who chose to relocate from their countries with the idea of working for a better future for their children, I have a more personal motivation to assist my children in every way possible and alleviate them from some of the burdens I faced which prevents me from achieving my ambitions. I admire and respect the importance of the field that I wish to specialize in, which is respiratory therapy, due to the fact that it is one of the most important purposes in medicine. Being in this field means that I will provide care to my patients when they need it the most , when they are at their weakest states, and my care could be the very thing to save them. My goal is to be a part of a life flight team and provide care to patients in any location needed. I would describe this as the perfect blend of my interest in the healthcare field and a compassion towards the people who are able to afford the healthcare. Nonetheless, it has not been all smooth sailing. Working part time while pursuing college studies helped me with resilience and time management, but has also been extremely taxing on both a financial and emotional level. This scholarship would indeed be a great stress reliever, it would indeed enable me to aim for my academic goals without being constantly disillusioned by the financial burden of situation, textbooks and various other costs related possibilities. Furthermore, it would also provide numerous opportunities for professional certification and relevant trainings that are needed to pursue my career goals in the future. Apart from fulfilling my goals, this scholarship would allow me to continue with my efforts towards the society. After all I will be using my education to fill the voids in health care within different communities and in focus of this case underrepresented ones. My focus would be to motivate these younger girls, especially immigrants through their education and career seeking processES. This scholarship is surely more than a monetary aid, it also speaks volumes on how hard work and determination, coupled with faith in first generation students like myself, can help achieve the impossible.That would enable me to further my studies, pursue my aspirations, and in consequence change the lives of a few.

Pioneering New Directions and Breaking Limitations Every person who's the first to immigrate into a country is filled with a sense of ambition to not only succeed but create opportunities for their family to thrive as well. Coming from a traditionalist background, there was always an unfavorable force that would take away the desire to pursue anything outside of what was familiar since that is what was usually expected from me. I think it has been critical for me to hold on to the hope of starting my journey elsewhere, somewhere that is not often comfortable for me. The pursuit of education to get my certification as a respiratory therapist is a means for me to shatter stereotypes and rewrite the story of my family. In today’s world, being able to work in healthcare is something that is greatly valued by most if not all families, so I decided to pursue a field that combines empathy with a sense of skill, which will enable to me change peoples lives in such a strong way. The ultimate goal however will be to get onto a life flight team as a core member, providing continuous care in strong turbulence and bringing core members to areas that need more hands-on help. It has been a long trip that has demanded a lot in terms of ambition, resilience, and drive. As a first-generation college student and immigrant, I have faced a lot of skepticism and negativity. But instead, I plowed these challenges into my determination and vision and chose to work even harder in order to show that success is not a matter of circumstances, but rather, of sheer willpower. Aside from academics, I try to be an active member of my community. Working with local health clinics and older students mentoring younger students from immigrant cultures, I hope to make a chain of empowerment. I would like to motivate people around me to set new boundaries for themselves instead of following the already set standards. I am excited to be a part of a great tapestry where diversity and creativity flourish by challenging the status quo. I am a pioneer myself as I have crossed boundaries of cultures, broken the walls of education and made sacrifices in life. Resilience, self-acceptance, and the ability of education to change lives are perhaps the most powerful lessons that I have learned from my own journey throughout my life. Let me explain how this scholarship would help me—to help me build my own identity as well as help others tell their stories. It is not only a guarantee of my future but of several other women's who come from the same community to empower the world.

Being undocumented is something that has core component of my life. Every situation, each aspiration, and all resilience within me has been affected by the feeling. How many more people had to go through this I begun to understand with the context of such status. Simple things like getting medical care or taking part in school activities came with muted arguments about bills and showing documents. The more I grew up, the more it burdened me to realize that the biography of my family differs from many of my classmates but I started feeling a different kind of responsibility. Education system became place where I belonged and a reminder for me of what I couldn't do. There was no way out for me and for many other children in such situations. For some, the privilege of talking about getting a summer internship or a driver’s license sounds exciting, but not for me. Many choose to look over the complex issues that still burden me in society, but not for the issue of being undocumented.It was evident that no one was going to come to my aid hence I decided to put on my thinking cap and figure out how to change my situation without it having to change me. What my parents have done is too much so it compels me to do something great. They sacrificed a lot to give my siblings and I a chance to have a better tomorrow. All the efforts they have made to support me regardless of the situation entice me to want to work hard for a better life. I have this determination to repay them for what I've done by being the first from my family to go to college. Getting a degree is so much more than just a personal achievement. It is a way for me to help my family and to engage genuinely in the activities of my community. If possible, I wish to focus my studies on [Field of Interest] blending my interest in [specific interest] and my desire to make a change. I am very interested in colleges such as salt lake community college because I appreciate how they promote diversity and inclusion, especially for first-generation college students. Obtaining this scholarship would be a life changing event in my life. My Family has always had an emphasis on money as a restriction and this award would help ease some of that stress, making it easier for me to concentrate on my education and improvement. Furthermore, the financial assistance that would come from this award aside, this scholarship provides assurance based on expectation and narration. It would allow me to best engage myself in the college experience, apply for internships and involve myself in leadership roles that mold my future. At the end of the day, I aim to demonstrate that being an undocumented person is not a deficiency, but an asset. My experiences have brought me an unusual point of view which has made me very resilient and driven, and that I will embed in me for the rest of my life. I hope to achieve my goals with the help of this scholarship and while at it, be an inspiration to others in my community as well.

My name is Tong Xu, though I go by Kate, and I am currently studying to become a respiratory therapist. I come from a family that has faced significant challenges, one of the most impactful being the presence of mental illness. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand how mental health struggles can affect not just the individual, but also the entire family. These experiences have shaped my resilience, my empathy, and my determination to pursue a career where I can make a positive difference in people’s lives. In my family, mental illness often went unspoken due to cultural stigma and a lack of understanding. One of my close family members struggled with depression and anxiety, which was difficult to identify at first because we didn’t have the language or tools to recognize it. Their symptoms—withdrawal, irritability, and constant fatigue—were often misunderstood as personal shortcomings rather than signs of a deeper issue. This misunderstanding created tension and confusion in our family, as we tried to support them without fully understanding what they were going through. Living with someone facing mental illness taught me the importance of patience and compassion. It also revealed the critical role that education and access to mental health resources play in addressing these challenges. For a long time, my family avoided seeking professional help due to fear of judgment and uncertainty about where to start. When we finally connected with a counselor who specialized in mental health, it was a turning point—not only for my loved one but for our entire family. We learned to communicate better, set boundaries, and support one another in more constructive ways. These experiences have profoundly influenced my personal and academic journey. They have made me more empathetic and determined to be a source of support for others facing health challenges—both physical and mental. In my future career as a respiratory therapist, I hope to address patients' needs holistically, recognizing that mental health often intersects with physical health. I also want to be an advocate for reducing stigma, particularly in underserved communities where cultural barriers may prevent individuals from seeking help. Mental illness has taught me that healing is not just about treating symptoms but about fostering understanding, resilience, and connection. By sharing my story and pursuing a career in healthcare, I hope to contribute to a world where mental health is valued as an essential part of overall well-being, and where no one feels alone in their struggles.

Connection to the Community and Choosing to Serve in an Underserved Area My connection to the community I serve stems from my personal experiences growing up in a medically underserved area. Witnessing the challenges faced by individuals in my community—limited access to healthcare, long wait times for medical services, and a lack of resources—instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility to give back. This connection inspires me to pursue a career where I can provide critical care to those who need it most, ensuring that no one feels left behind in their moment of need. I chose to practice in an underserved area because I believe healthcare is a fundamental right, not a privilege. These communities often lack adequate medical infrastructure, and individuals frequently face barriers such as financial limitations, language differences, or transportation issues. By working in these areas, I hope to bridge the gap between patients and the care they deserve, making healthcare more accessible and equitable. Understanding the Medically Underserved Community The community I aim to serve is medically underserved in several ways. First, there is a severe shortage of healthcare professionals, including respiratory therapists, in these areas. This shortage means that patients with chronic conditions, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), often go without proper treatment or education on how to manage their illnesses. This lack of access contributes to higher rates of preventable hospitalizations and poorer health outcomes. Additionally, many underserved communities face economic barriers that prevent residents from seeking timely medical care. Without adequate health insurance or financial resources, individuals often delay treatment until their conditions become critical. This delay places an immense strain on emergency services and leads to worse outcomes for patients. Cultural and language barriers further exacerbate these challenges. Many individuals in underserved areas come from diverse backgrounds and may struggle to communicate their medical needs effectively. This lack of cultural competence in healthcare delivery often leads to misunderstandings, mistrust, and reduced adherence to treatment plans. Making a Difference By becoming a respiratory therapist and working in underserved areas, I hope to address these challenges directly. My goal is to provide compassionate, patient-centered care while also educating individuals about respiratory health and preventative measures. Whether through offering treatment, conducting outreach programs, or advocating for better resources, I am committed to making a positive impact. Serving in an underserved area is not just a career choice for me; it is a calling. I want to be part of a movement that ensures every community, regardless of its resources, receives the care and support it deserves.

Reasons for Enrolling in My Program I chose to enroll in the respiratory therapy program because of my passion for healthcare and my desire to play an active role in saving lives. The field of respiratory therapy is unique in its combination of technical expertise, patient care, and critical problem-solving, and it offers opportunities to directly impact people during their most vulnerable moments. I have always been drawn to professions that require both compassion and precision, and respiratory therapy exemplifies this balance. Another key reason for choosing this program is its relevance and demand. Respiratory health has gained heightened attention in recent years due to conditions like COVID-19 and the rising prevalence of chronic lung diseases. I realized that pursuing a career in this field would allow me to address a critical healthcare need while working in a profession that aligns with my values of service and empathy. My ultimate career goal is to join a life flight team, where I can provide advanced respiratory care to patients in emergency and remote settings. This aspiration drives me to succeed in my studies and motivates me to develop the expertise needed to handle high-pressure situations. The program not only provides me with a strong foundation in respiratory therapy but also prepares me to face real-world challenges with confidence. Using Acquired Knowledge to Benefit Society The knowledge and skills I acquire in this program will allow me to make a tangible impact on individuals and communities. As a respiratory therapist, I will work to stabilize patients in critical care situations, assist in managing chronic respiratory conditions, and educate patients and families on improving lung health. Beyond providing direct patient care, I aim to advocate for equitable access to healthcare. Working on a life flight team will enable me to reach underserved and remote areas where immediate medical attention is often unavailable. I hope to contribute to a healthcare system that prioritizes not only quality of care but also inclusivity and accessibility. Impact of Working While Being a College Student Balancing work with college studies has been a challenging but transformative experience. Working while pursuing my education has taught me time management, discipline, and resilience. It has required me to prioritize tasks effectively, stay organized, and remain focused on my long-term goals, even during periods of stress. However, it has not been without sacrifices. Juggling multiple responsibilities often leaves little room for rest, and there are times when fatigue impacts my ability to perform at my best. Despite this, my work experiences have provided valuable insights into patient care and allowed me to connect classroom theory with real-world application. Ultimately, working while studying has strengthened my determination to succeed. It has shown me the importance of perseverance and reinforced my commitment to becoming a skilled respiratory therapist who can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

I think of the American dream as the idea that if you work hard stay determined, and bounce back from setbacks, you can build a better life for yourself and your family. It doesn't matter where you come from or what stands in your way. This dream gives people a shot at moving past tough times and reaching not just money stability, but also personal growth and a life with purpose. As someone who's the first in my family to go to college, my view of the American dream is linked to my own life story. My folks came to this country hoping to open up more chances for me, not themselves. They gave up a lot and faced many hurdles to lay the groundwork for my future. To me, the American dream isn't just about one person's goals—it's a shared hope that recognizes how others help us along the way. To me, chasing the American dream involves doing well in school and finding a job where I can help others in a big way. I'm training to be a respiratory therapist, which mixes technical know-how with kindness and care. My big dream is to join a life flight team where I can give crucial, life-saving help to patients in emergencies. This goal is more than just a job I want; it's how I plan to give back and live out the American dream—using what I've learned and my chances to help people when they need it most. The American dream comes with its fair share of hurdles, and to reach it, you need to stick with it. I've faced times when the road ahead looked unclear, whether it was money troubles or the pressure of being the first in my family to tackle college. But every obstacle has made me more determined and shown me how crucial it is to work hard and have people in your corner who believe in you. The American dream gains its real meaning from its all-encompassing nature. It doesn't focus on riches or social standing but on the chance to live a life that matches one's core beliefs and interests. In my case, it means changing my family's hard work into chances to do well and motivate others. In the end, the American dream stands for a pledge of optimism, growth, and the chance of a better tomorrow. It embodies the idea that through hard work and helping others, we can build a good life not for ourselves, but also for our neighborhoods and the people who come after us.

It is not easy stepping out of the safety net of your family’s support and learning how to navigate the world by yourself, which is often overwhelming. And as the journey goes on, first generation college students are presented with even more daunting tasks. But eventually, it all becomes a part of their life, their identity. It’s fascinating how one's perspective changes after first cardiac arrest. surviving that single instance turn slights, barely manageable obstacles into epic stories of triumph which floods in with newfound confidence. That’s exactly how attending, looking back, college for the first time felt for me. Every single thing felt foreign, how do you even register for a course or apply for a scholarship and more importantly, what’s ‘valid’ on the student ID? I wish college prepared me for it, along with my parents. But I guess it’s one of the price of expanding ones horizon and building a legacy, of breaking the mold and becoming a leader in new and unknown domain. One of the key problems is how to manage the gap between academic expectations with the reality of finances. As a result, numerous learners, particularly those from low-income families, are unable to pursue their education further because they are required to factor a job into their timetable, if not full time. The challenge of juggling these roles while performing well in the classroom is big. Then there’s the emotional burden of being the imposter; that constant feeling that you don’t belong here or have to go the extra mile to be considered worthy. Still, through these circumstances, we learn how to be strong and determined which enables us to go beyond the four walls of a classroom. The feeling of acceptance is another important milestone which has to be achieved in this process. Initially, it is rather difficult to isolate oneself from the community which is more prepared or supports its members. Which is why, finding communities such as first-generation support programs, cultural centers, or mentors can be the best thing that can happen to you. Such relationships not only help with pragmatic matters but also serve in reassurance that one is not alone. First-generation students’ successes are unique and cause a shift in their lives. Everything from obtaining a diploma to getting in the graduation ceremony is seen as the ability to reverse generational curses. For some, earning a degree is a way to repay their parents who worked for opportunities they never had. It also makes us leaders as our younger siblings, cousins, and even their friends want to aim higher. A lot of students developed hopes and aspirations that were shaped by this experience. Numerous first-generation students ethnically feel the urge to give back , whether as a public servant, teacher, or activist. We know what it is like to have limited options and therefore tend to aim at changing the status quo. Effective to the point that has changed the definition of success or achievement to a first generation college student is however not the only thing that this accomplishment is about. Think of it more as an opportunity to rewrite the history of their family and community. It’s a clear indication that one’s background does not matter and that education is one of the most useful weapons to have.