Creating a legacy is about more than personal success—it's about building something that will continue to uplift others long after you're gone. As a first-generation, Mexican-American college student and a New Mexico Air National Guard member, I've always believed that how I live today should lay the foundation for those who come after me. My goal is to become an electrical business owner and use that platform to make a lasting impact on my community. I was drawn to hands-on work from a young age—solving problems, building things, and learning how systems function. Over time, I realized that electrical work isn't just a trade—it's a profession that keeps the world running. I dream of taking what I learn through school, military training, and personal experience and eventually starting my own electrical business. I want to create something that offers reliable, high-quality services and a space for training, mentorship, and opportunity. My long-term vision is to run a business that hires and trains young people, especially those from working-class or minority backgrounds who often don't see a clear path to skilled trades. I want to give them what I didn't have early on: guidance, access, and someone who believes in their potential. By creating jobs, offering apprenticeships, and helping others build valuable skills, I can leave behind something that lives on in every home we wire and every career we help launch. I shine my light by showing up with consistency, discipline, and heart. Whether it's waking up at 5 a.m. to stay on track with work and classes or mentoring new airmen in the Guard, I try to lead by example. I'm not the loudest voice in the room, but I work hard, stay humble, and ensure my actions speak louder than my words. I believe leadership is found in the small decisions you make every day—being honest, dependable, and lifting the people around you. My faith is also a massive part of how I live and lead. It keeps me grounded, strengthens me in tough times, and reminds me that everything I do should serve a greater purpose. I strive to treat people with respect, live with integrity, and use my blessings to bless others. In the end, I don't want to just own a business—I want to build a legacy—one that empowers others, opens doors, and shows what's possible when hard work meets purpose. That's the kind of light I want to shine, and that's the future I'm working toward every day.

Being a first-generation, Mexican-American college student means more to me than just earning a degree—it represents a breakthrough. It’s about breaking cycles, proving to myself and my family that our sacrifices matter, and creating a future that wasn’t always guaranteed. My parents came to this country with hope and hard work, but without many of the opportunities I have now. That’s something I carry with me every single day, and it’s a big reason why I take my education so seriously. Growing up, I didn’t have family members who could tell me what college would be like or how to prepare for it. No stories about internships, student loans, or how to study for finals were passed down. I had a strong work ethic and a sense of responsibility to make something out of the chances I’ve been given. My family worked long hours, sacrificed their comfort, and stayed strong during tough times. Their effort taught me that while I may be the first in my family to do this, I won’t be the last. Being Mexican-American has shaped my values, especially when it comes to family, faith, and community. I was raised to be humble and respectful and to never forget where I come from. Those roots drive me. I want to graduate not just for myself but also for my parents, siblings, and every young person who thinks college is too far out of reach. I want to be living proof that it’s possible. Education is a way to honor my culture while building a stronger future. I don’t want just to survive—I want to lead, contribute, and open doors for others like me. Whether it’s helping other first-gen students through mentorship or just being someone younger kids in my community can look up to, I want to be a part of that change. I believe that when one of us succeeds, we all rise together. I’m also passionate about this because I know that representation matters. Seeing someone with your background succeed can be powerful. I want to be that example, especially in aviation and engineering fields where Latinos are often underrepresented. I want to bring my voice, perspective, and work ethic into those spaces—not just to fit in, but to stand out and make a difference. Graduating from college as a first-generation, Mexican-American student is more than a personal achievement—it’s a legacy. I’m building something that will last beyond me. And that’s something I’ll never take for granted.

My name is Adan Veleta Hernandez, and I've always had a deep respect for aircraft and the people who keep them in the air. Growing up, I was fascinated by how planes could fly—how something that massive could lift off the ground with such precision. I didn't grow up around aviation, which interested me even more. I was the kind of kid who would stop and watch jets fly overhead, wondering what it takes to make something like that possible. That curiosity has stayed with me and eventually became a clear goal: I want to become an aircraft technician. My passion for aviation grew stronger after I joined the New Mexico Air National Guard. Being in the military exposed me to aviation and showed me just how complex and vital aircraft maintenance is. I also quickly realized that leadership plays a huge role in this environment. Strong leadership is essential, whether preparing for a mission, maintaining standards, or helping others succeed. I've had the opportunity to mentor new airmen, especially in physical training. I take pride in assisting others to meet their goals, and I've learned that leading by example speaks louder than anything else. Leadership, to me, isn't about titles or ranks. It's about consistency, discipline, and integrity. It's waking up at 5 a.m. every day because I said I would. It's ensuring others are ready for their fitness tests because I know how important it is to their success. It's holding myself accountable in school, even when I'm tired from work, because I have long-term goals that matter. I believe in doing the right thing—even when it's hard—because that's what real leaders do. I try to stay focused, organized, and driven in my military and academic life. I see every task, no matter how small, as a chance to get better. I don't take shortcuts because I know that in aviation, every detail matters. Whether it's torquing a bolt or running diagnostics, the most minor oversight can have the most significant consequences. That's why I want to be someone others can count on—someone who takes pride in doing the job right every time. I aim to work as an aircraft technician in the military and civilian sectors and continue growing in this field. I'm passionate about aviation, but I'm also passionate about becoming a leader who uplifts others, works hard, and stays grounded in purpose. That's who I am, and that's who I strive to be every day.