I’ve been intrigued by science my whole life. At age seven, I recall attending science camp and exploring the principles of chemical reactions through the construction of canister rockets. Spending my summers delved into the biological indications of blood pressure as I mitigated the task of caring for my grandmother. Actions like monitoring her arterial pressure and administering medication responsible for maintaining her health ignited my dreams of becoming a nurse. I often found myself trapped in the ongoing algorithm of YouTube’s rare and unknown diseases, captured by the obscurity but also dissatisfied by how little I understood. Soon enough complex questions consumed my thoughts. Questions like, “What does high blood pressure truly mean?” Or “How do genes work and why do I look the way I do?” With minimal access to social media, these inquiries were often left unanswered but anatomy changed that. Anatomy and Physiology merged biological and chemical concepts allowing me to intuitively come to conclusions about the complex nature of the human body, only this time with the credibility of science. Furthermore, I found myself most drawn by the application of health sciences, holding a desire to carry out my passion for stem through hands-on work and interpersonal care. Thinking about the role of genetics and how our physical characteristics play a large role in shaping who we are. Aspects of my identity give away who I am. My mothers broken English and my complexion carrying a prominent set of bushy eyebrows are all representations of my Mexican identity. I take pride in my heritage, going through life challenging stereotypes made towards immigrants while simultaneously honoring the fact my life exists thanks to my parents' bravery when crossing the border. I grew up surrounded by traditional practices, learning to embrace the genetic roots of my ancestors while finding it difficult to comprehend why others refused to do the same. I’d always known my family, in a biological sense, was rooted in Mexico but never truly understood its repercussions until encountering the ICE raids in my community. Seeing the empty businesses in my primarily Hispanic neighborhood was extremely disheartening, and led me to realize how vital it was for me to advocate. I’ve spent my high school years advocating for Immigrant rights. Recognizing the privilege I hold as a United States citizen and employing my voice at both state and national levels. I have worked alongside Humanitarian Aid organizations, allowing me to confront the effects of unjust immigration policies. This past year, I led alongside The Kino Border initiative located at the border in Arizona. Here I accompanied migrants unable to advance in the legalization process. I presented to high school students across the nation about unjust immigration policies and its impending effects on the lives of those at the borders. Through my knowledge on immigration policy I’ve been a part of many political movements. Last year I attended the Ignatian Family Teach in for Justice located in Washington D.C. I was able to represent the state of California and lobby alongside other students to persuade congressional representatives to support policies which promoted a more just pathway to citizenship. Being public about my stance on immigration has allowed me to empower other youth in my community, especially those like me directly experiencing fear, that as the upcoming generation their voice has the ability to generate social change. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to attend Seattle University as the first generation in my family to pursue a career as a nurse. One able to draw connections between health and equity, intrigued by and adamant towards universal care.